Hotels in Princeton

Princeton: Where Knowledge Meets Nature's Playground

Nestled in the heart of New Jersey, Princeton is a charming blend of academic prestige and quaint allure. Home to the illustrious Princeton University, the town boasts stunning architecture and lush gardens perfect for leisurely strolls. Explore the vibrant downtown, where boutique shops and delightful eateries invite you to linger. Don’t miss the renowned Princeton University Art Museum, showcasing a diverse collection that captivates art lovers. With picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry, Princeton offers a delightful escape for those seeking history, charm, and a touch of intellectual inspiration. For our best hotel rates in Princeton and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Princeton

Some of the best places to stay in Princeton are New Hope, Trenton and Somerset. New Hope, Trenton, and Somerset each offer unique experiences for travellers. New Hope is known for its charming arts scene and scenic river views, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Trenton, the state capital, boasts rich history and cultural sites, while Somerset features suburban comfort and shopping options. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to mid-range hotels, with average room rates varying depending on the season. Overall, you'll find a welcoming stay in each location. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Princeton:

1. New HopeOpens in a new window: New Hope is a charming destination known for its rich cultural heritage and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore Peddler's Village, a historic village filled with shops and restaurants, or enjoy the thrills at Sesame Place, a popular theme park. The New Hope-Lambertville Toll Supported Bridge adds a picturesque touch to the area. For accommodations, consider Golden Plough Inn At Peddlers VillageOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel offering a business-friendly environment with a full spa and pool services. Another option is Lumberville 1740 HouseOpens in a new window, a cozy bed and breakfast suitable for adventure seekers, featuring nearby hiking and biking activities. Lastly, Woolverton InnOpens in a new window is a great choice for business travellers, providing excellent amenities just a short distance from New Hope.
2. TrentonOpens in a new window: Trenton is an ideal location for families, featuring attractions like Sesame Place and the CURE Insurance Arena for entertainment. With Six Flags Great Adventure nearby, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures. For lodging, Radisson Hotel Philadelphia NortheastOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly environment with business amenities and a game room for children. Sheraton Bucks County LanghorneOpens in a new window is also a solid option, located in the city center, focusing on wellness and natural accommodations, making it perfect for both business and leisure travellers. Additionally, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ewing Princeton SouthOpens in a new window allows pets and caters to families, providing amenities like a children's pool and arcade games.
3. SomersetOpens in a new window: Somerset is a vibrant area catering to families, with its close proximity to prestigious institutions like Rutgers University and Princeton University. The city boasts a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. For stays, Delta Hotels by Marriott SomersetOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that focuses on business and pet-friendly experiences, featuring a conference center and accessible business amenities. Doubletree by Hilton Somerset Hotel and Conference CenterOpens in a new window also provides a family-friendly atmosphere with essential business services. Alternatively, The Heldrich HotelOpens in a new window, located in the city centre, offers a pet-friendly policy and various business facilities, making it an excellent choice for both work and leisure.

Things to do in Princeton for first times

Three days in Princeton offers a delightful mix of scenic parks, serene lakes, and lush forests, perfect for hiking, boating, and enjoying outdoor sports. The vibrant atmosphere invites shopping and friendly competition on the golf course, making it an appealing destination for all types of travellers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Princeton:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Mercer County Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or engage in recreational activities amidst the beautiful landscapes. After soaking in the natural beauty, head over to the nearby Grounds For Sculpture, an incredible outdoor museum featuring stunning contemporary sculptures in a lush garden setting. Conclude your day with a visit to Sayen House and Gardens, where you can stroll through the charming gardens and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife as you unwind in this serene environment.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Albert Einstein's House, a fascinating site that offers a glimpse into the life of the legendary physicist. Next, make your way to the Princeton Public Library, where you can explore a wealth of resources and enjoy the architecture of this community jewel. Wrap up your day at the Princeton University Art Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of artworks ranging from ancient to modern times, all while soaking in the vibrant campus atmosphere.
• Day 3: Start your morning with a visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham, a stunning temple that showcases intricate architecture and offers insights into Hindu culture. Following this, head to Jasna Polana, a beautiful estate with picturesque grounds perfect for a relaxing stroll. End your day at McCarter Theater, where you can catch a live performance or engage in a discussion about the arts. This cultural hotspot will surely provide a memorable conclusion to your Princeton experience.

4 tips to find a great Princeton hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to explore Princeton on a budget, the most affordable time to visit is between January and March, when hotel prices are significantly lower. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance for the best deals, while domestic travellers should seek to secure their flights at least two months ahead. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the key attractions, such as the renowned university and the local library, both of which offer great value for money and enriching experiences.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Princeton, exploring options can lead to great savings. To uncover potential discounts on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find reduced rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com may keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you compare room rates and seize opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on aspects such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Princeton.
4. Consider your location: When booking your accommodation on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to key attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the sites you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Princeton

Princeton experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 31.6°F (-0.2°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.8°F (24.9°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Princeton, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January to March are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.