Revved Up Stay at Princeton’s Historic Nassau Inn
10 Palmer Square, Princeton | Central Jersey Region
The beloved Nassau Inn dates back to 1756 and is one of Princeton’s most historic (and charming!) accommodations. Former U.S. presidents and diplomats have stayed here, and we think you’re due for an overnight too. Dine at the legendary Yankee Doodle Tap Room and admire the 13-foot original Normal Rockwell mural. Relax in timeless, well-appointed guest rooms and suites including the Albert Einstein Suite and the George Washington Suite. Be immersed in elegant amenities like stone fireplaces, antique décor and nods to history everywhere you turn, all within reach of the amazing shops and tasty eateries of Palmer Square. Explore Princeton’s Ivy League downtown, take in a live show at the renowned McCarter Theatre or watch the reenactment of the 1777 battle of Princeton at Princeton Battlefield State Park on January 5, 2025.
Artsy Ivy League Escape
Various locations in Hamilton Township & Princeton | Central Jersey Region
For a weekend getaway that combines sculpture with scholarly flair, this Mercer County escape does the trick. Be amazed at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton Township, showcasing 270+ outdoor sculptures on forty-two acres and several indoor galleries. Enjoy fine dining by the fireplace (and feel like you’re in the French countryside) amid the ambiance of Rat’s Restaurant, named Philadelphia Magazine’s Most Romantic Restaurant. Reservations are recommended. And for the ultimate Ivy League experience, the new Graduate by Hilton Princeton makes the grade – boasting historic decor, Tiger traditions and collegiate nostalgia at every turn. Plus, it’s just steps away from the hallowed halls of famous Princeton University. It’s a great time to admire the campus’ architecture and take in a college sporting event too.
Treasure Seeking Weekend in Lambertville
Various locations in Lambertville | Central Jersey Region
If browsing eclectic galleries and unique antiques while strolling quaint downtown streets and kicking back in cool cafes and coffee shops along the way sounds heavenly, Lambertville is calling your name. Named one of the 50 Most Charming Small Towns in America by HGTV and known as the Antiques Capital of New Jersey, this riverside town is the laid-back Jersey gem for you. Visit the Antiques Center at the People’s Store, Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market, Midiri Antiques and A Touch of the Past Antiques. Rest easy at The Inn at Lambertville Station and savor award-winning cuisine in a restored 19th-century train station on the banks of the Delaware River at Lambertville Station Restaurant. Or book a stay at Lambertville House and dine at the beloved Lambertville House Restaurant. For more small NJ towns big on personality, visit Metuchen, a Great American Main Street winner in 2023 and named Destination of the Year by Jersey’s Best for 2024. Frenchtown is another standout to add to your winter bucket list.
Central Jersey Culture Trip
Various locations in Robbinsville Township & Hamilton Township | Central Jersey Region
If you haven’t experienced the breathtaking BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville Township yet, it’s high time you did. Carved in stone according to ancient Hindu scriptures, this Mahamandir (Hindu house of worship) is the largest in the world and one of the most unique Hindu stone mandirs built in the last six hundred years. It’s also an immersive, cultural-rich getaway. Be sure to check the website for important visitor info. Enjoy mindfully made vegetarian Indian and Western cuisine at Shayona Café or amazing authentic Indian flavors of nearby Rani in Hamilton Township. Choose from a variety of close-by hotels including Hilton Garden Inn Hamilton and Courtyard by Marriot Hamilton. For more global-inspired tastes in the Garden State, click here.
On-the-Road American Revolution Itinerary
Various locations throughout New Jersey | Central Jersey Region
Did you know that over six hundred Revolutionary War battles and skirmishes were fought on Jersey soil? It’s true! George Washington spent a lot of time in New Jersey, especially the Central Jersey Region, and we think you should too. Our easy-to-follow American Revolution itineraries make sure you don’t miss a thing from Washington Crossing State Park, where Washington and his troops landed after crossing the icy Delaware River on December 25, 1776, to the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton and Washington’s final wartime headquarters, Rockingham Historic Site in Kingston. Itineraries include things to do throughout the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area, and places to eat along the way. So, grab the keys and get revved up for an awesome history buff getaway.
If these Central Jersey getaways pique your interest, check out our South Jersey and North Jersey getaways. For events and boredom breakers in winter or any time of year, access your free New Jersey Travel Guide. Sign up for our e-newsletter too. As always, visit your destination’s official website and social media pages or give them a call for up-to-the-minute hours and details. See you in Jersey!
