Princeton, New Jersey

Self-satisfied Princeton is home to Princeton University – the nation's fourth oldest, formed after breaking away from the overly religious Yale in 1756. The tranquil and shaded campus is a beautiful place for a stroll. Just inside the main gates on Nassau Street, Nassau Hall, a vault-like historic building containing numerous portraits of famous graduates and one of King George II, was the largest stone building in the nation when constructed in 1756; its 26-inch-thick walls, now patterned with plaques and patches of ivy placed by graduating classes, withstood American and British fire during the Revolution. It was also the seat of government during Princeton's brief spell as national capital in 1783. The 1925 chapel, based on one at Kings College, Cambridge has stained-glass windows showing scenes from works by Dante, Shakespeare, and Milton, as well as the Bible. Somewhat smug student-led tours (during term Mon– Sat 10am, 11am, 1.30pm, & 3.30pm, Sun 1.30pm & 3.30pm; hours vary during vacations; free; Tel:609/258-1766) take you around to all of these sights, leaving from the Frist Campus Center.