Plan Your Visit

Visit the Princeton Battlefield State Park

Step onto the sacred ground where American independence took root. The Princeton Battlefield State Park is one of the most significant Revolutionary War sites in New Jersey, where General George Washington led American troops to a pivotal victory on January 3, 1777. Just minutes from downtown Princeton, this historic battlefield invites you to walk in the footsteps of Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and General Hugh Mercer, and explore the legacy of the Battle of Princeton.

What to See and Do at Princeton Battlefield

  • Stand Where History Was Made
    Explore the very field where American troops turned the tide of the Revolution during the Battle of Princeton—an essential moment in the Ten Crucial Days campaign that helped secure American independence.

  • The Clarke House Museum
    Visit the 18th-century Thomas Clarke House, which served as a field hospital during the battle. Learn about colonial life, military strategy, and the sacrifices made during the war.

  • Gravesite of Unknown Soldiers
    Pay tribute to fallen heroes at the solemn grave marker for unknown American and British soldiers who died during the battle.

  • The Mercer Oak
    See the current Mercer Oak, planted to honor General Hugh Mercer, who was mortally wounded nearby. The original oak stood for over 300 years as a symbol of courage and resilience.

  • The Colonnade and Memorial Grove
    Walk among the historic colonnade and serene memorial grove, designed by architect Thomas U. Walter, who also designed the U.S. Capitol dome.

  • Enjoy Nature and Reflection
    Bring a picnic and relax in the peaceful surroundings of this New Jersey State Park, which is open year-round from sunrise to sunset and free of charge.


Explore the Ten Crucial Days Historic District

While visiting the Princeton Battlefield, take time to explore other Revolutionary War sites in the Ten Crucial Days Historic District, including:

  • Downtown Princeton

  • Washington Crossing Historic Park (PA & NJ)

  • Old Barracks Museum (Trenton)

  • 1719 William Trent House

  • Morven Museum & Garden

  • Trenton Battle Monument

Each site tells a unique story of America’s path to independence.


Getting to the Princeton Battlefield

Address:
500 Mercer Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Located just 2 miles from downtown Princeton, and approximately 50 miles from New York City or Philadelphia.

Free parking is available onsite near the Clarke House entrance.

Directions:

  • From Philadelphia via I-295 East
    Follow I-295 E into New Jersey. Take exit 68A for Princeton Pike North. Drive 3.8 miles and turn right into the park at Clarke House Road.

  • From North Jersey via Route 206 South
    Take Rt. 206 S into Princeton. Turn right onto Stockton St, then left on Library Place. Turn right on Mercer St. After 1.1 miles, turn left into the battlefield.

  • From New York City via NJ Turnpike
    Exit 9 to NJ-18 N to US-1 S toward Trenton/Princeton. Take Alexander Rd W exit. Turn left on Mercer St and follow signs to the battlefield.

  • From South Jersey via I-295 North
    Exit 68A for Princeton Pike North. Drive 3.7 miles and turn right into the park.


Planning Your Visit

🗓 Open Year-Round: Sunrise to Sunset
🎟 Admission: Free
🚗 Parking: Complimentary, on-site
🧭 Nearby Attractions: Historic Princeton, shops, restaurants, museums, and parks

Thank You for Keeping American History Alive!