20 Unique Things To Do In Princeton New Jersey

1. Tour Princeton University

One of the undeniable things to do in Princeton New Jersey is take a tour of Princeton University. Founded in 1746, it is one of the oldest and most reputable Ivy League universities in the US.

The university is not only a research institution but also an art center. There is the Princeton University Art Museum, which contains a great number of items of world art. A physical tour provides tourists with an insight into the history of the university as well as the beautiful landscape architecture and sculptures.

It is advisable to take a guided tour to learn about some of the rich traditions and outstanding personalities. The campus is also ideal for photography, with the background limitless, particularly during the rainy season.

2. Enjoy A Vast Collection of Art At Princeton University Art Museum

Once you finish the Princeton University tour, stop by the Princeton University Art Museum to enjoy diverse art collections. It is located within the campus, near the university’s entrance on Nassau Street.

This is a renowned museum, established in 1882, that has had the opportunity to collect over one hundred thousand living pieces of art from different cultures around the world and from different times. In its collections, the museum encompasses artists from ancient to contemporary.

The strongest areas contain American, Asian, European, and Latin American paintings, photographs, and decorative arts. The museum is usually accessible to the public and free of charge.

3. Walk Around Palmer Square

Palmer Square is a downtown district of Princeton, that is recognized for its historical atmosphere and shopping places. It was founded during the early years of the twentieth century, and it was named after Edgar Palmer.

He was a rich Princeton alumnus who expected this region to be central for both university and town inhabitants. It has a remarkable blend of Colonial Revival architecture, which creates that neotenic and highly picturesque outlook.

Apart from shopping in small shops and eating different cuisines in restaurants, guests can also take part in events that are conducted during different seasons, festivals, celebrations, etc., in the Palmer Square facilities.

4. Explore Princeton Battlefield State Park

Another important historical landmark is Princeton Battlefield State Park, which is situated in Princeton Mercer. This park was established to honor the Battle of Princeton, which was a significant fight during the American War of Independence on January 3, 1777.

Spanning over 200 acres, the park features the Clarke House Museum, which served as a field hospital during the battle. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the museum and delve into the significance of the battle and its era.

While visiting the sites, guests should wear footwear, as there is quite a bit of ground to cover. It features different tracks and is a perfect venue for a barbecue.

5. Study At Princeton Public Library

Not just a place for borrowing books, the Princeton Public Library, included among things to do in Princeton NJ, is much more. It is a historic building that is home to various events and fixtures. Founded in 1909 by the Carnegie Foundation, it is now a modern library providing diverse services and programs.

It is very beautiful and has large lounging areas, a separate children’s section, and enclosed offices where the community organizes meetings, seminars, and workshops, among others.

There is also a certain merger of classical and modern architectural design in the construction of the library, indicating the historical date of its functioning and desire for innovations.

6. Attend A Show At The McCarter Theatre Center

McCarter Theatre Center is a famous performing arts venue established in 1970. It includes theatre, dance, and music performances, attracting the attention of people within the region and beyond.

The center features three distinct performance spaces: the Matthews Theatre, the Berlind Theatre, and the Nelle G. Johnson Theater, which presents different impressions. The theater aims to enhance the quality of life of its spectators by delivering notable theater performances.

Also, the theater is located near other Princeton NJ activities, such as exploring the nearby Princeton University campus or dining at local restaurants.

7. Relax At Marquand Park

It is a beautiful and historic park with a deep botanical history and cultural importance. This park was started in 1889 and has many species of trees, many of which are rare and exotic.

The place provides an environment where people can be at par with nature. It has beautiful walkways, flowered areas, and patches of open fields.

These facilities are well suited for merely taking a walk, having a snack, or having a lazy afternoon amidst nature’s beauty.  While discovering the possibilities of the activities in Princeton NJ, one can visit this beautiful and quiet spot in the town.

8. Discover The Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park is one of the important places of interest among Princeton NJ attractions that has natural appeal and historical importance. The park runs for over 70 miles, crossing the Delaware River and the Raritan River, and was initiated in the nineteenth century as a transportation and commerce route.

It contains a preserved towpath that used to be used by mule-drawn boats used in modern canal construction. Tourists in the area can watch and do acts such as hiking, biking, and fishing, among others. Yet, perhaps it is the large greenery and tranquil waterscapes that make this park famous.

9. Tour The Grounds for Sculpture

The Grounds for Sculpture is an interesting site that brings out sculpted art and natural scenery. Established in 1992 by Seward Johnson, this park comprises more than 300 sculptures sculpted over 42 acres of remarkably designed gardens.

The park is a dialogue between art and nature, so people can visit the place in solitude and see various sculptures from the classic period to modern times. The grounds are created with inherent curiosity through ongoing exhibitions, workshops, and activities.

In summary, Grounds for Sculpture is one of the most captivating Princeton NJ attractions that will attract anyone interested in art and natural beauty.

10. Taste An Ice Cream At Thomas Sweet

When exploring things to do Princeton NJ, a visit to Thomas Sweet is a must for ice cream enthusiasts. It was established in 1983 and, since then, has taken an important place in the community. It is well-known for its homemade ice cream and for offering its guests extraordinary sorts of it.

There are a variety of signature tastes, such as general and those that may come with a seasonal option. Thomas Sweet serves ice cream and also has other specialties like toppings, milkshakes, and other sweet delights.

Coupled with nostalgia, the friendliness of the staff working at this eatery makes it a venue worth frequenting in Princeton.

11. Participate In Richardson Auditorium Concert

Richardson Auditorium, situated in Alexander Hall at Princeton University, is classified by the historical society and offers outstanding sound quality and architecture. Constructed in 1896, the venue carries out Romanesque Revival architecture with an addition of carved wooden work and stained glasswork.

The auditorium is a hub, for events like dances, concerts, operas, symphonies, speeches, and university functions. It hosts the Princeton University Concerts series, featuring performers and a variety of orchestras, musicians, and choirs.

Catching a concert at the Richardson Auditorium is a must-do experience, if you're seeking fun things to do Princeton.

12. Stroll By Drumthwacket

Drumthwacket is a known residence that serves as the home of the governor of New Jersey. Built in 1835 by C.S. Olden, a governor of the state, this estate holds historical importance.

The name Drumthwacket originates from Scottish Gaelic, signifying a dwelling amidst thorns. The house features federal-style architecture both inside and out, complemented by gardens.

Besides serving as an office, the place also invites guests for tours and different activities that provide a glimpse into the history of New Jersey and the experiences of its governors.

13. Explore The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a research facility dedicated to the study of plasma physics and nuclear fusion situated in Princeton, New Jersey, USA. It is a national laboratory affiliated with the U.S. Department of Energy and managed by Princeton University.

Its main purpose is to support research in plasma science and help create technologies that can result in the creation of a practical nuclear fusion energy plant. The research conducted at PPPL plays an important role in attempts to obtain power from clean, sustainable energy sources.

The lab has made significant advances in the fields of magnetic containment and plasma behavior.

14. Walk Through The Institute Woods

The Institute Woods is a wonderful and vast piece of productive land that borders the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) in Princeton, New Jersey. Founded early in the 20th century, several principles of the institute’s architecture were planned for the faculty and scholars of the IAS.

The woods measure about 585 acres and have a good trail system appropriate for hiking and nature trail exploration. Some of these trails provide beautiful vistas of various plants and animals, forests, and trees.

The place is unique in that it offers a serene landscape, which makes it conducive for people to seek refuge from the busy Princeton schedule.

15. See The Princeton Cemetery

The Princeton Cemetery is about 260 years old and is located near the university campus. Some of the founding fathers of America and several other pioneers are buried here, and in many cases, their tombstones are inscriptions written in marble.

It is easily distinguished by its well-tended garden, antique tombstones, and rich history that invites locals and visitors to explore the legacy of those who influenced the region.

Guests can walk around the territory of the cemetery, observing the sculptures, obelisks, and writing, which are the architectural and artistic phantoms of various periods.

16. Go To The Nassau Hall

This historic building is situated in the territory of Princeton University, and it is considered to be noteworthy evidence of the American historical past. Nassau Hall was the scene of a brief meeting of the Congress in 1783 when it served as the nation’s Capitol during the American Revolutionary War.

In quick summary, this makes it a locus of early American history. The construction is highly regarded as a traditional Georgian style of building and was, in fact, much restored in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Currently, Nassau Hall passengers can take a walk through the building itself, the historic main hall, and the library with magnificent decorations.

17. Browse At The Princeton Farmers Market

The Princeton Farmers Market is a very active community market that comes and goes with the seasons. The busiest season is during the spring, summer, and early fall, from May to November.

Local and foreign tourists have frequented this market for essential and some necessary commodities and goods. It targets suppliers and growers in a way that serves as a marketplace for them to directly sell to customers.

There are so many stalls, and you will find a range of fresh organic vegetables and fruits, baked products, cheese, and hand-made products.

18. Visit The Cotsen Children's Library

Set up in 1997 through grants from Lloyd E. Cotsen, it is a library to increase children’s reading and collect and preserve special and unusual books for this purpose.

It contains more than one hundred thousand items, including books, manuscripts, and illustrations of the works of different centuries. One can visit these bookstores to browse a large collection of children’s literature, fairy tales, and educational books.

Children and families can also benefit from other interesting events, which are implemented in the sphere of narrative and educational programs, exhibitions, etc.

19. Enjoy A Meal At A Local Cafe or Restaurant

Princeton's dining options feature a range of delights that reflect the lively and varied community. From dining spots to cafes, there is something for everyone's tastes.

The Nassau Inn exudes a vibe in its historic ambiance, while Olives and The Bent Spoon offer a more modern or artisanal feel. Many eateries focus on using sourced ingredients, highlighting the freshness and flavors of New Jersey.

To add a bit of flair, consider dropping by one of Princeton's food festivals or farmers markets for a peek into the scene of the town.

20. Attend Performances At The American Boychoir School

The American Boychoir School was established in 1937 and is well known globally for its outstanding choral music department. The school has a rich performing arts history that has trained many young male choral crews that have sung across the country and even beyond.

Its choir is recognized for its unique sound and participates in performances with such major companies as the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera.

While the school that the American Boychoir was a part of closed its doors in 2017, the impact of the Boychoir persists through the singers and the continuation of the choir programs.