Take a Day Trip to This Beautiful and Historic New Jersey Town

With charming streets to wander, a beautiful university campus to explore, and a rich colonial-era history to uncover, the town of Princeton, New Jersey, is a picture-perfect day trip. From strolling the grounds of Princeton University to stopping by iconic shops and restaurants in the heart of downtown, there are so many things to do in Princeton, NJ, that you'll likely find a single day isn't enough to do it all, but it's a good start.

Start your adventure in Princeton, New Jersey, at Nassau Street. Known as the heart of the town, the lively street serves as the boundary between Princeton and the university campus, offering a spectacular variety of restaurants and shops. From all-day breakfast to seafood, the Princeton, New Jersey, restaurants promise something for every taste. For a caffeinated pick-me-up on Nassau Street, stop by Small World Coffee to indulge in a sweet specialty latte, or try the signature house blend.

If you're a bookworm like me, head over to Labyrinth Books, a community bookstore that boasts an eclectic selection of new, used, and rare books, and even has a small selection of gifts. Become a part of the community by purchasing a membership to the popular bookshop in New Jersey. Membership comes with such benefits as a 10 percent discount on purchases, Members Only days, and a holiday gift.

Across from Nassau Street and the university, Palmer Square, with dining, entertainment, and shopping, is another must-visit. Meander in and out of the quaint shops, where you'll find an eclectic selection of items, including jewelry, home decor, and clothing.

On nearby Witherspoon Street, you’ll find The Alchemist & Barrister, a popular restaurant and pub. It’s been consistently named one of the best restaurants in Princeton, New Jersey. Treat yourself to such favorites as chicken pot pie, fish and chips, vegetable lasagna, or a burger and fries.

And, of course, a visit to Princeton University belongs at the top of your bucket list. If you've been wondering, "Can you walk around Princeton, New Jersey?" you sure can. Visitors are generally welcome to stroll the grounds and admire the historic architecture. During the Revolutionary War, this was a battleground. In fact, there’s still a scar visible from a cannonball that hit Nassau Hall.

Built in 1756, Nassau Hall is the oldest building on Princeton University’s campus and served as both a barracks during the Revolutionary War, and as the capitol building of the United States between June and November of 1783.

The Princeton University Chapel is a newer construction, having been completed in 1928 after its predecessor, the Marquand Chapel, burned down. It welcomes people of all faiths and is stunning with its beautiful stained glass windows and soaring Gothic architecture. The public is generally welcome to go inside the University Chapel.

For a sweet way to end your trip, head back to Palmer Square and visit Thomas Sweet Chocolate. This charming chocolate shop always has unique window decorations for every season, and its hand-crafted, decadent chocolates make for a mouthwatering souvenir.

What are your favorite things to do in Princeton, NJ? Let us know. Nominate your favorite attractions, restaurants, and hikes in Princeton, New Jersey, and we might feature your nominee(s) in a future article.

Looking for more things to do in Princeton, NJ? Check out the Billie Johnson Mountain Lakes Preserve, a sprawling nature preserve in Princeton. Or use our Travel Planner to discover more historic adventures in New Jersey!