Families visiting Princeton University for the first time have many decisions to make.  The only accommodation in Princeton that doesn't require a car is the Nassau Inn across the street from campus.  A lovely old inn, the Nassau is perfect for a visiting mother, grandparents or family friend traveling alone.  A 10 minute walk from the "Dinky," Princeton's own train station that connects with Princeton Junction, one can have a visit, car free, simply by taking the train from Newark Airport.  There is also the Princeton Airporter.  This option is also good for travelers who must fly into JFK.  Freshman coming from long flights and uncomfortable with the train might also need the airporter their first few trips.  

However, any visiting parent knows that at some point a shopping trip will be needed, especially for the freshman parent weekend.  This means a rental car.  Rental cars and flights are often cheaper out of Philadelphia airport.  With traffic the distance can be similar to Newark which is often shrouded in bumper to bumper jams.  Hotels in Princeton tend to be along Route one, about 5-15 minutes from campus in a safe, travel friendly area.  The Hyatt is closest to campus and often the priciest.  The Marriott (formerly the Doral) and Westin are next in line, although about 10 minutes north on Route 1 from the Hyatt.  At rush hour this can be a lot lot longer.  Both Hotwire and Priceline are perfect for Princeton if one is looking for a 3 or 4 star hotel for the price of a 2.  Lots of hotel rooms makes Princeton a buyers market.  Parking is free and all hotels along Route 1 require a car.  

You can bid 2.5* hotel at Princeton on priceline.com for $30 to get this brand new wonderful Homewood Suites with complimentary breakfast. 

Parking on campus can be tricky.  The real trick is to remember to pack a few rolls of quarters.  Between Forbes and the Dinky are 14 hour parking spots.  As one moves up the hill the parking decreases from 14 hours to 8 hours and finally to 2 hours.  Don't feed the meter! You will get a ticket.  It is possible to get a ticket even when you aren't guilty!  Dining options in Princeton are plentiful and your student is going to want to sample them.  So park with time to spare. 

One good place to park the car is the Princeton Public Library parking deck, you can even validate at the library for some free time to start with.