Princeton and Nearby

Description

For Graduate Students

Orange Key Tours

A long-standing tradition at Princeton, Orange Key Tours are led by student volunteers who enthusiastically share their love and knowledge of Princeton with prospective students and visitors. You may have taken a tour before arriving on campus, but if not, an Orange Key Tour is the best way to get a feel for the exciting community that will be your home for the next four years.

You’ll learn about the facilities on campus, get a sense of the 250-plus years of history and traditions that only Princeton can claim, and hear some fun facts and anecdotes. The tours last about 45 minutes and describe the campus beyond the stimulating classes, renowned faculty, and world-class resources at Princeton.

Orange Key Tours are offered year-round, and you won’t need a reservation unless you have a group of ten or more people. Tour and information session times are listed online along with suggested itineraries. A virtual tour is available as well.

The Town of Princeton

Downtown Princeton is a destination for dining, shopping, events, and the arts, and a cultural base for students and residents.

Nassau Street and Palmer Square

At the heart of downtown Princeton is Palmer Square, a mix of offices, residential space, shops, bars, and restaurants The square is anchored by the historic Nassau Inn and faces the University and Nassau Street—the main commercial street in downtown Princeton and the boundary between the campus and town.

Along Nassau Street and on the side streets that intersect it, you’ll find high-end clothing stores such as Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, and Barbour; jewelers; bookstores; and gift stores.

Eat and drink

There’s no shortage of restaurants and pubs to visit, from the Alchemist & Barrister, Winberie’s, and Triumph Brewing Company to PJ’s Pancake House and Hoagie Haven, long-time favorites of students and residents. There are numerous spots for coffee and snack breaks, like Small World Coffee and Panera Bread.

Movies and theater

You can see the latest movies and documentaries at the Princeton Garden Theater, which offers discounts to students (bring your student ID).

On the west side of campus near the train station, McCarter Theatre Center for the Performing Arts is one of the nation’s leading theaters and most active cultural centers in the nation, offering more than 200 performances of theater, dance, music, and special events each year.