Princeton on the Cheap

Princeton is generally known to be expensive, with its upscale shops, fine dining, and four-star hotels. However, there are a number of services and events free of charge, and great deals to be found. You just have to look for them. I’ve decided to compile a list of things to do that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Basically, this is Princeton proper on the cheap for tourists and residents.

FREE

• Princeton Public Library – They have hundreds of free programs and events, and there are several offered daily. They also loan out to card holders a Nook Color, Kindle and Sony Reader for a week at no charge AND you can get a museum pass good for four adults for the local Grounds for Sculpture (amongst others) all for FREE.
• Spring Street Garage – You get up to 30 minutes parking on the house per visit.
• Metered Parking – Meters in the Central Business District are free Monday – Saturday 8 PM – 8 AM and Sundays until 1 PM and after 8 PM. See site for more details.
• freeB Jitney Shuttle – This shuttle bus loops around Princeton Borough during rush hour, including a stop at the Dinky station.
• Drumthwacket Tours – Advance reservations are taken for a Wednesday tour of the governor’s mansion. Closed in August and around holidays.
• Princeton Cemetery – Locals call this America’s Westminster Abbey, and it’s a pageant of U.S. History. Signers of the Declaration of Independence, a U.S. President & Vice President, a Nobel Prize winner, a Civil War general, and many other prestigious individuals are buried here.

• Prospect Gardens – These gorgeous manicured gardens surround the Prospect House on the Princeton University campus.
• Princeton University Campus – The university has a beautiful campus to walk through with its classic Collegiate Gothic architecture.
• Orange Key Tour – Instead of walking around on your own, you can opt for a guided university tour.
• Princeton University Art Museum – They have a fabulous collection of art from around the world, including pieces from big names like Manet, Monet, Picaso and Kadinsky.

• Cotsen Children’s Library – This library on the university campus is a magical place for children that resembles scenes from story books, which is probably why they call the reading space Bookscapes. A must see!
• Princeton University Visitor Parking – You can park here free if you’re visiting the university.
• Historical Society of Princeton – The Historical Society is headquartered in the Bainbridge House on Nassau Street that serves as a museum and library.
• Lake Carnegie – This picturesque reservoir is home to Princeton University’s rowing team. You can fish here, and in the winter when it freezes over, you can ice skate on it.
• Palmer Square – Hosts free seasonal activities. Their events directory is occasionally updated.
• Princeton Shopping Center – They host free activities, and they have free parking. Their events directory is occasionally updated.
• Origins – Schedule a free mini-facial without obligations.

• Spirit of Princeton – Their firework display next to the University Stadium in early July is a Princeton tradition.
• McCarter Theatre Parking – Free parking in the West Garage on Elm Drive off Faculty Road on the university campus.
• Communiversity – The Arts Council of Princeton and the university get together to host a Festival of the Arts. There is a charge for food and most activities, but the entertainment is free.

INEXPENSIVE

• Princeton Record Exchange – Used and/or new vinyl, CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays for purchase and for sale.
• Princeton Tour Company – Their bike, walking, trolley, and ghost tours, and pub crawls are the best in town.
• Princeton Athletics – Men’s and women’s athletic departments offer basketball, football, lacrosse, and hockey tickets for under $15. There’s even free football tailgating in the non-reserved area for up to three hours before the game.
• Morven Museum & Garden –  This former New Jersey Governor’s mansion was also the home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. It’s now a museum preserving U.S. history.
• Princeton Garden Theatre – Daily showings of art house films and some blockbuster movies.
• Great Clips – This Princeton Shopping  Center haircutter is the cheapest in town, especially if you have a coupon. You can even check in with an Android or iPhone app.

• Halo Pub – The least expensive ice cream in Princeton is made locally at Halo Farm.
• Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Princeton – They offer an introductory dance lesson at a rock bottom price!

GREAT DEALS

• McCarter Theatre – Broadway-like productions at suburban prices.
• Magnificent You – A 90 minute massage for the price of a 60 minute treatment.

What are some of your favorite free or cheap things to do in Princeton?