Princeton University Tours and Activities

Princeton University showing heritage elements and a park
Princeton University
Princeton University
Princeton University which includes a square or plaza and heritage elements as well as a couple
Princeton University which includes wild flowers


Explore the famous Ivy League university that educated numerous prestigious graduates, including Woodrow Wilson, Michelle Obama, John Nash and more.  

Princeton University is one of the prestigious Ivy League universities. As you walk around the campus, you will quickly discover that it is literally covered in ivy. Behind these leaves, discover centuries of history. Princeton University was established in 1746, before the United States had even gained its independence. Its graduates have included U.S. presidents, Nobel Prize recipients, Supreme Court justices and Pulitzer Prize winners. Clearly there is something remarkable about this Ivy League school.

Stroll around campus on a self-guided tour or join a student-led tour, which originates at the Office of Admissions. Stop at FitzRandolph Gate, which serves as the elaborate entrance to Princeton’s campus from Nassau Street. The wrought iron structure was erected in 1905 and restored for its centennial in 2005.

Near the northeastern side of campus, find Nassau Hall and Maclean House. The buildings, which were completed in 1756, are the oldest and only remaining original buildings on campus. Each has a place in early American history. George Washington stayed in Maclean House in 1777 during the Battle of Princeton and again in 1783 while Congress convened in Nassau Hall.

See a performance in Alexander Hall. The Richardsonian Romanesque architecture of the hall is as impressive as the acoustics within. A short walk away, see events encompassing theater, music, dance and more in the McCarter Theatre Center.

In the Princeton University Art Museum, see highlights from the university’s global collections. Browse through more than a dozen exhibits or attend a public lecture. Stop at Prospect House and Garden. The Italianate home was the residence of the Princeton University president for 90 years, including Woodrow Wilson during his tenure.

Admire the imposing Gothic architecture of Cleveland Tower, which was built in 1913 in honor of university trustee and U.S. President Grover Cleveland. See a bust of the former president inside the tower.

It’s no surprise that Princeton University, with nearly three centuries of history, has a lot to see and do. Give yourself plenty of time to explore its historic buildings, see a performance, watch an athletic game or just enjoy the beautiful campus.

Plan a trip to see Princeton University

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Wyndham Garden North Bergen Near Secaucus
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Jersey City
DoubleTree by Hilton Newark Penn Station

Popular places to visit


Top Princeton University Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hyatt Regency Princeton

Hyatt Regency Princeton

4 out of 5
102 Carnegie Ctr, Princeton, NJ
Hyatt Regency Princeton
The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village

The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village

4 out of 5
201 Village Blvd, Princeton, NJ
The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village
Homewood Suites by Hilton Princeton

Homewood Suites by Hilton Princeton

3 out of 5
3819 U.S. 1 South, Princeton, NJ
Homewood Suites by Hilton Princeton
Hampton Inn Princeton

Hampton Inn Princeton

2.5 out of 5
4385 Us Highway 1, Princeton, NJ
Hampton Inn Princeton
Holiday Inn Princeton by IHG

Holiday Inn Princeton by IHG

3 out of 5
100 Independence Way, Princeton, NJ
Holiday Inn Princeton by IHG
Candlewood Suites Lawrenceville Princeton by IHG

Candlewood Suites Lawrenceville Princeton by IHG

2.5 out of 5
3000 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ
Candlewood Suites Lawrenceville Princeton by IHG
Staybridge Suites Cranbury by IHG

Staybridge Suites Cranbury by IHG

3 out of 5
1272 South River Rd, Cranbury, NJ
Staybridge Suites Cranbury by IHG
La Mirage Motor Inn

La Mirage Motor Inn

2.5 out of 5
3775 US Highway 1, Kendall Park, NJ
La Mirage Motor Inn
Doubletree by Hilton Monroe Township Cranbury

Doubletree by Hilton Monroe Township Cranbury

3.5 out of 5
390 Forsgate Dr, Monroe Township, NJ
Doubletree by Hilton Monroe Township Cranbury
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Princeton University

Princeton University offers a range of activities for visitors, including sports like football and golf. While exploring the campus, take advantage of local attractions and eateries in the charming town of Princeton. Remember to plan your travel in advance, considering public transport options and parking availability, to make the most of your time in this historic university setting.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Princeton University, visit Palmer Square, only 805m away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. University Square Shopping Center is 3.2km away, perfect for families. If you're up for a drive, explore Blue Moon Acres, located 11.3km away, for a unique local market experience.

Recreation

At Princeton University Stadium, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports, just 322m away. Enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Princeton Country Club, located 4.8km away, or find tranquility at Hobler Park, 8.0km away, where you can unwind in nature.

Adventure

The Delaware River Heritage Trail at Lake Carnegie offers a scenic hiking experience, perfect for nature lovers, located 1.6km from Princeton University. For tennis enthusiasts, the Lenz Tennis Center, merely 644m away, provides thrilling adventure vibes. Explore the Rocky Hill Trailhead, 6.4km distant, for more outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at McCarter Theatre, just 644m away, for captivating performances. For a cinematic experience, visit AMC MarketFair 10, 3.2km from campus. Don’t miss the Princeton Garden Theatre, 483m away, showcasing a mix of films and cultural events.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Princeton University

Princeton University offers a rich blend of historic sites, including civic buildings and charming houses, alongside beautiful urban parks. Visitors can enjoy a cultural experience while exploring the stunning Princeton campus and its surroundings, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the unique atmosphere of this renowned institution while discovering local attractions that highlight its vibrant history.

  • Princeton University Art Museum: Located a mere 483m from Princeton University, this art museum boasts a diverse collection that spans cultures and centuries, offering a serene space to appreciate art in a culturally rich environment.
  • Rider University: Situated 9.7km away, Rider University presents a vibrant, modern campus atmosphere. Engage with the dynamic student life and explore the contemporary facilities that reflect the energy of city living.
  • Morven Museum & Garden: Just 1.1km from Princeton University, this historic house and garden provide a glimpse into New Jersey's past. Enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens and the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Best time to go to Princeton University

The best time to visit Princeton University can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Princeton University falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Princeton University falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February33.8°F (1.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Princeton University

To save on your trip to Princeton University, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices drop. Opt for a Monday stay for the best rates, as Saturdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options, and sort results by price. Bundling your hotel with flights and activities can also lead to significant savings. Look out for instant deals and great rates to make your visit more affordable while enjoying the local attractions and rich campus history for free.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Princeton University are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Princeton University is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Princeton University is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can easily arrange your search results from the lowest to the highest prices, ensuring you spot the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near Princeton University with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.