The iconic Princeton HiTops Half Marathon unfolds over a scenic 13.1-mile course that winds through the Princeton Historical District. The landmarks runners will pass include the Princeton Battlefield, Princeton University, Institute of Advanced Study, and the home once inhabited by Albert Einstein.
The race is expected to attract well over 1,500 runners and thousands of spectators to the streets of Princeton, NJ. The annual Half Marathon supports HiTops, an organization that has offered adolescent sexual health education and support for over 30 years.
The Event
The Princeton HiTops Half Marathon will begin at 7 AM on Nov. 3. The race is a Grand Prix event certified by the USATF.
Each runner who participates in the Half Marathon will receive a T-shirt and a finisher medal. Top male and female finishers will be given a gift card to Hamilton Jewelers worth $250. Additionally, the names of the top three male and female runners from the overall field, the top three male and female runners in each age group, and the top three male and female runners who are also employees of Princeton, will be engraved on the Governor’s Cup.
Team incentives include a 10×10 tent space for the two largest teams and a designated port-o-potty for teams that contain 25 members or more.
Princeton Accommodations
Princeton, New Jersey is a historic city that enjoys an active tourist industry. There are many great accommodations available to out of town runners. One top choice is the Hyatt Regency Princeton. The Regency offers a convenient location that is not far from the Junction Train Station and other mass transit options. It also features a heated pool that is encased in glass and a well-equipped gym for recovery after the race. The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village is another popular place to stay. It’s near the campus of Princeton University and Palmer Square. With indoor and outdoor pools and an onsite fitness facility, you’ll be able to work out before or after the race.
Things to do in Princeton
Runners and spectators who are in town for the Princeton HiTops Half Marathon will have many entertainment and recreation options to choose from when not participating in the race.
Princeton Market Fair
This upscale mall is just minutes away from the Hyatt Regency Princeton and features some of the most exclusive retail stores available. Popular retailers include Williams-Sonoma, Platapus, and Chico’s.
Sesame Place
Sesame Place requires a short commute from Princeton to Langhorne, Pennsylvania, but if you’ve got kids it’s worth it. The theme park offers children the opportunity to spend time in person with their favorite Sesame Street characters.
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
The park is a great place for visitors in the area to enjoy the outdoors. The 60 miles of paths available to park-goers allow visitors to hike, jog, and canoe at the park.
Mercer County Park
This county park is located on 2,500 acres of land and provides park-goers with the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing day in nature that includes both passive and active recreational activities.
Historical Society of Princeton
Visitors to the headquarters of Princeton’s Historical Society will have the opportunity to visit rooms that house furniture from particular periods in the history of the area. The Bainbridge House also features frequent special exhibits for the entertainment of visitors.
Princeton Battlefield and Clark House Museum
Visitors to this popular Revolutionary War museum will learn about weapons and arms that were used during the war and throughout the colonial period. Museum-goers will also be treated to exhibits that provide an in-depth look into the lives of Revolutionary War soldiers.
