Reader’s Digest Names This NJ Spot As Best FREE Tourist Attraction 

In these days and times, the term "free" is something you don't see often. In fact, when you see "free," you might get a weird vibe like "is this a scam?"

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If you hear "free" when it comes to travel, you probably get a "red flag." Don't run, Reader's Digest has put together a list of the very best "free" tourist attractions around the nation and yes this includes one for us here in the Garden State, so let's dive into this day trip and see what we can do this spring and with little to no cost.

According to Reader's Digest, New Jersey's best "free" tourist attraction is located in Mercer County. RD selected Princeton University as the states best "free" tourist attraction.

Why is Princeton University A Great Tourist Attraction?

Reader's Digest says "From strolls along the famed boardwalk in Atlantic City to a plethora of sandy beaches along the Jersey shore, New Jersey has plenty of free things to explore. Take tours of the campus at Princeton University, attended by Former First Lady Michelle Obama, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jimmy Stewart, Queen Noor of Jordan, and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos among many other notable names."

What Are The Best Tourist Attractions At Princeton University?

According to Princeton University, "A self-guided walk or informal “Orange Key” tour can help you see the highlights at your own pace." These locations are highlighted by various Princeton publications:

FitzRandolph Gate: "This stunning wrought-iron entrance marks the official gateway onto Princeton’s main campus. It’s been open to the community since 1970 and makes a classic photo op before you stroll through to explore the rest of the grounds."

Nassau Hall: "One of the oldest buildings on campus (built in 1756), Nassau Hall is rich in American history. It briefly served as the U.S. Capitol after the Revolutionary War and today stands as a striking example of colonial architecture you can admire from the outside—or explore the public areas inside during your walk."

Princeton University Chapel (Exterior & Grounds): "The grand chapel’s Gothic architecture is breathtaking up close and worth seeing even if you just admire it from outside. It’s centrally located and anchors some of the prettiest parts of campus."

Princeton University Art Museum: This is world-class art spanning ancient to contemporary works, and admission is free for all visitors.

Prospect Garden: "Tucked between campus pathways, this peaceful garden space with a stone fountain and shade trees is perfect to pause, relax, or people-watch."

Cannon Green & Campus Lawns: "Spread out around Nassau Hall, these grassy quadrangles and old cannons are great for a picnic, photos, or just meandering through the heart of Princeton."

Joseph Henry House: "This small brick home on campus was built in the 1830s for a famed American scientist and is a neat piece of Princeton’s history to spot as you walk the grounds."

In addition, resources recommend going for a coffee or bite near Nassau Street or in Palmer Square

Some additional tourist attractions that are near the campus to check out:

• Herrontown Woods Arboretum
• Palmer Square
• Marquand Park

Have you visited Princeton University? Any tips or places to see that you would like to add? We would love to get your feedback.