Described as “eclectic and relaxed,” Princeton is a vibrant community of about 1,200 nestled in the middle of Green Lake County. Founded the same year as Wisconsin, in 1848, and located about 50 miles from the Fox Cities, it’s the perfect destination for a day or weekend trip.
It is not, however, a typical “what you see is what you get” locale.
“It has a lot of the amenities that aren’t typically associated with a small town,” Matt Trotter, owner of Horseradish Kitchen + Market and the Parlor Hotel, says. “This footprint—Princeton’s—is what a neighborhood would be like in a big city. It’s your stomping grounds: your day-to-day spots. But a minute out of town, you’re seeing the cranes, the bald eagles. Hearing the frogs at night. You get the best of both worlds.”
“Princeton is this interesting mix of luxurious elements and more common, everyday elements. You can come here and have both and feel really good about it,” Greg Wright, founding member of the Princeton Art Collective (PARC) and General Manager of the Parlor Hotel, agrees. “It’s uniquely positioned to be able to live across those spectrums.
“Wisconsin’s most vibrant small towns often owe a group of artist-friends for that vibrancy. We are building that community of artists here and, in the process, adding Princeton—and its neighboring communities—onto the map of Wisconsin’s coolest small towns.When artists feel supported in a community they create a vibe and experience that elevates the quality of life for everyone in that place.”
Not only does the Fox River flow through Princeton, adding charm and recreation opportunities that only a waterway of the sort can, but the White River Marsh sits nearby as well.
“We’re very blessed from an outdoors standpoint,” Mark Judas, President of the Princeton Chamber of Commerce, says. “I can look out my office window and it’s amazing to watch the kayaks go by. There is a lot of uncharted territory. It’s great for nature buffs.”
And while we know to relish in the outdoors while we can, fresh air, stunning river views and wildlife sightings aren’t the only thing Princeton offers.
“Princeton has the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor activities that will make every member of the family happy,” Laura Skalitzky, Princeton Public Library Director, says. “If you are an indoors person, you can shop at our boutiques and antique stores, go out for lunch at our many restaurants, have a drink at several unique bars, make art at Soul Hammer, visit the incredible Princeton Historical Society Stone House and Folklore Museums, bowl at Stars & Strikes, play cards at the Senior Center, or stop at the library for drop-in crafts, talks by local experts on a variety of topics, and quiet reading.”
“There’s something for everyone,” Judas agrees. “I’ve noticed a lot that groups kind of break up and do their own thing. The women might be at the Flea Market, the guys are golfing or fishing. There are things like that you can do and then meet up at the end of the day to talk about.”
Known for its quaint and walkable downtown, Princeton underwent a transformation of sorts in the ‘90s, securing its spot on the state’s art scene.
“That’s really when what they call the original Princeton Renaissance happened,” Trotter explains. “That’s when people opened stores, people got excited. It’s now thought of as an arts town, but that wasn’t without trying.”
The effort shows, and continues. Maintaining its small town charm and hospitality, Princeton deserves its accolades for being a welcoming destination that packs a punch in terms of food, art, events and more.
“We make visitors feel like locals,” Wright reflects. “We’re happy (you’re) here.”
DINING TO-DO LIST
Princeton’s dining scene combines both elevated and unexpected with beloved Wisconsin staples to offer visitors the best of both worlds. From morning to night, check out these hot spots for breakfast, lunch, dinner and treats in-between.
Breakfast + Brunch
Everyone knows road trips call for caffeine, and Twister Coffee Bar answers. Originally simply a home goods store (more on that in Retail Therapy!), Twister added its drink menu and hasn’t looked back. With classics like lattes, mochas and more, stop here before anything else.
“Love the Iced Chai!” Greg Wright adds.
If you’re craving a sweet bite with your coffee, be prepared to be wowed by Renard’s European Bakeshop’s indulgent creations—they’re known for their Viennese pastries—you won’t find in a standard dessert case.
“They do things differently, you’re not just getting a regular donut,” Mark Judas says. “There’s almost always a line out the door.”
“I love their Monkey Muffin,” Greg Wright adds. “It’s dark chocolate, you rip the dough off, it’s so good.”
“But it’s made with pan au chocolate in muffin form!” Matt Trotter interjects. “It’s not your typical Wisconsin Monkey Bread.”
Known for their large Pancakes and Country Fried Steak, if you’re leaning toward a hearty, classic breakfast experience, Irma’s Diner delivers.
“Irma’s is a family-friendly, family-run diner with a home away from home feel,” owner Ashley Hogan explains. “Named after my great grandmother, we wanted it to be a place where people can come and get good food at a reasonable price and have a great experience.”
Fun Fact: “All bakery items are homemade by myself or other family,” Hogan says. “My sisters and mother are also cooks here and our grandmother helps with the baking.”
Lunch
If you’re in the mood to try one-of-a-kind sandwiches and other lunch fare, Horseradish Kitchen + Market is a must stop. Built exclusively with artisan bread from Renard’s European Bakeshop, their sandwiches focus on what’s good—literally and figuratively.
“I wanted something different,” owner Matt Trotter remembers conceptualizing the space (first a food truck, now a brick and mortar). “Renard’s had been around for a while and I knew I loved their bread. It’s local, so you feel good about it. And it’s healthy… ish.”
The naturally lit, bright space is known for their Midwest Beat (spelling intentional)—pistachio goat cheese, basil pesto, beets, mixed greens on ciabatta—as well as their Capri Sandwich with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil pesto mayo, balsamic syrup on ciabatta; and Korean Nachos: tortilla chips, pulled pork, kimchi, jalapeno crema, tomato, siracha, sesame seed and cilantro
“We have our core menu, and then we change up our soups and specials on Sunday nights for live music,” Trotter says. (More on the market and entertainment later!)
Unassuming and described as an “American style bar and grill,” WesternHouse serves both lunch and dinner. From Burgers, Chicken Wings and Wraps to Salads and the classic Wisconsin Fish Fry you can’t go wrong stopping any time.
“We’re really blessed with WesternHouse,” Mark Judas says. “It’s a small bar with awesome food.”
Happy Hour
Far from your typical happy hour but in the middle of downtown Princeton lies Field Blend Wines (FBW), a carefully curated shop specializing in natural wines produced by small-scale farms organically, without the use of pesticides and herbicides.
“FBW offers a carefully-selected lineup of reasonably-priced wines from France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Georgia, Hungary, California, Oregon and Washington: white, red, rosé, orange, sparkling,” Dennis Orlov, General Manager, says. “You can get a bottle to go or sip on some by-the-glass pours right in the shop. An assortment of snacks—olives, sardines, chips—is available, but our guests are always welcome to bring their own food to share over some delicious wine.”
“Field Blend has a really surprising wine list for a small town,” Greg Wright adds. “It’s like an educational experience in addition to great wine.”
Fun Fact: “FBW is dog and child friendly,” Orlov says. “There is a play area for kids with toys and drawing materials to keep them occupied and self-contained.”
Dinner + Late Night
Swap Friday fish for BBQ and live music at Knickerbocker Landing Saloon and Eatery. Known for their house-smoked meats—beef brisket, pulled pork and pulled chicken—they aren’t opposed to vegetarians, offering fresh salads and sandwiches as well.
Variations of classic hand-crafted cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Martini, Highball and Manhattan also grace the menu.
“If you’re into barbecue, it’s the place to be,” Mark Judas says.
Have a large group to feed? They offer catering. And when the weather is nice, catch a seat outside for delicious food and fun live music.
Patty Morabito and husband Matthew Schneider own and operate BeerBellys, a seemingly “normal” pub and grill you’d find in any small town. But if you think that, you’d be mistaken.
“BeerBellys is pretty much the opposite of what you’d expect of a small town Wisconsin tavern,” Morabito admits. “Almost sort of the anti-bar. No burgers, no pizza, no cheese curds, no fish fry. Instead, visit BeerBellys for their vegan and vegetarian options like their Mac-N-Cheese Bowls, Black Bean Tacos, Specialty Sandwiches, Taco Rice Bowls, Loaded Nachos, Naked Wings, Homemade Popper Dip, and Shrimp or Fish Tacos.
“Don’t get me wrong!” Morabito explains. “BeerBellys offers plenty of meat options like a mouth watering Shaved Ribeye Sandwich, Gyro Plate or Pork Shanks to please any palate. We are now open at 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday featuring The Boozy Breakfast to get you started early on the weekend!”
Fun fact: “Quite frankly, BeerBellys is known for fun. Be it an organized trip to the Brewers game, the zoo or the racetrack, there’s always something happening getting customers to interact with each other and bond,” Morabito says. “(We) serve food late night, until 1a.m., offer DOORDASH for delivery, have 8 beers on tap, and a huge selection of non alcohol choices available for all patrons.”
If smash burgers and fish frys are more your speed, not to mention a wide selection of sandwiches and drinks, Molly’s Buckhorn Bar & Grill is where to take in tasty plates and colorful celebrations.
“Visit Molly’s during their over-the-top Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations!” Laura Skalitzky suggests.
Mecan River Outfitters & Lodge is known for their Burgers, Steaks, Pastas, Prime Rib, Friday Night Fish Fry and a really good Old Fashioned from the bar.
RETAIL THERAPY
Princeton’s shopping scene is a bit like the city itself: eclectic. It offers everything from thrifted treasures at the famous flea market and antique stores to bright, modern home decor and more.
Before or after catching a bite at Horseradish Kitchen + Market, take a few minutes to peruse their curation of intentionally fun and uncommon items.
“What people love about the shop is the feeling of discovery,” owner Matt Trotter says. “You’re seeing something for the first time. I challenge myself to find things like that.”
The majority from independent designers and makers, shelves are filled with fun food items, kitchen wear, books, clothing and more.
Known for their small and largescale ornamental yard art, you won’t miss Chief’s Trading Post colorful presence whilst exploring Princeton.
“When you drive past, there are all sorts of metal yard art and fun stuff like that,” Mark Judas says. “They have a lot of fireworks, unique things for your home… it’s one of those places you could stroll around for hours.”
Proud to be “very authentic,” Woolbrights River City Antique Mall only allows dealers to bring in 15% collectibles to their booths while the rest must be antiques.
“We have very high standards for our dealers,” Pam Woolbright says. “Booths are very clean and kept up. Most of our dealers come in weekly with new items which is very nice. We offer deliveries, storage and shipping. We even have a layaway plan here.”
Woolbrights is specifically known for their Victorian and primitive furniture, decoys, gas and oil, porcelain signs, jewelry, toys, holiday items and more.
“If anyone is looking for anything in particular all they have to do is ask,” Woolbright says. “If we don’t have it, we have a list where people can place their name and item they are looking for. If the item comes in we will call.”
If you’re shopping with sustainability in mind, daiseye’s selection and philosophy will be a perfect fit.
“daiseye is an eclectic marketplace offering fair trade and earth-friendly products—from clothing and accessories to unique gifts that uplift both you and your living space,” owner Jessica Greget says. “You’ll discover treasures of simple beauty, crafted from materials like reclaimed wood and tin, recycled glass, and organically grown herbs and fibers.”
Along with offering an array of unique clothing, jewelry and an assortment of home goods, the shop focuses on inclusivity and its core principles like items being socially and economically responsible; using recycled or reclaimed materials, no testing on animals, supporting sustainable energy, etc.
Fun Fact: “Our name is pronounced ‘days-eye,’” Greget explains. “We love all flowers, but daisies are our favorite. We love daisies because of their cheerful appearance and how easily they grow in the wild. Which leads us to our namesake. The flower ‘daisy’ has also been referred to as ‘eye of the day.’”
For everything from an array of Amish-made furniture, candy, jams and jellies to Wisconsin specialty items from Door County and the like, the Princeton Country Amish Store is worth the stop. They also do special orders!
If you have time to spare and are in the mood to be wowed by rare and eclectic collections, Sasquatch’s Variety Shop is your ticket.
With a “Something For Everyone” mantra, the store offers jewelry, sports cards, memorabilia, comics, greeting cards, home décor, collectibles, crafts, games, artwork and more. And of course, sasquatch items!
ATTRACTIONS + RECREATION
From silent sports like kayaking, biking and paddle boarding to other outdoor recreation and a rich history to and viewing and making art amongst some of the best in the nation, Princeton’s attractions are a visitor’s dream.
The largest weekly outdoor flea market in Wisconsin, Princeton’s Flea Market is technically a shopping experience, but entering its 51st year, has certainly earned its spot as an “attraction.”
“The flea market is a wonderful event that Princeton is very fortunate to have,” Mary Lou Neubauer, Princeton Chamber Board Member, says. “It is an attraction that allows shoppers to enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the items that our seasonal vendors bring to the market on a weekly basis, or the seasonal flowers and fresh produce vendors, or those unique daily vendors who bring an eclectic mix of items that you just have to take home.
“There are practical items like blankets and sheets and homemade soaps, kids’ items like butterfly nets and sunglasses, books, yard art, spices, vintage glassware and more. You can find fresh cheese and Amish baked goods.”
“It draws crowds from everywhere,” Mark Judas adds. “It’s amazing that this small community brings in people from Arizona, Colorado, all over the place.”
Fun fact: This year, the flea market will have music on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Head to The Ice Bowl for a sweet cone or dish—they offer 24 flavors of ice cream!—but afterward, the real treat begins. With live music on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer, there’s more than just sugar that makes your time there sweet.
“And if that’s not enough we rent tubes and kayak tubes too! Enjoy the beautiful Fox Fiver tubing or kayaking… our trip includes a drop off down Lock Rd. and you finish at The Ice Bowl. No need to call and wait for a pickup when you’re done. The trip takes roughly 3 hours. Enjoy food and a drink from our tiki bar before or after your trip.”
Mecan River Outfitters & Lodge also offers fun on the water and in the outdoors, in the form of “canoe trips, pheasant hunts, cross-country ski trails, lodging, good food, and many other activities in the area,” Leanne Harvey says. “We rent canoes and kayaks mainly on the Mecan River but we can also put you on the Fox. We operate year round. So, bring your sense of adventure and don’t forget the camera!”
If you’re on a quest to find out why Princeton used to be called “Beantown” or “Petunia City,” the Princeton Historical Society has you covered. It also focuses on lesser known history.
“Princeton has a very colorful history,” Vickie Wielgosh, Director of the Building and Renovation of the Folklore Museum, says. “Of course the Fox River played an integral part, informing Princeton whether through trading or a major shipping community along the Fox. But did you know that Princeton was supposed to be a major hub for railroad transportation?
“It would have meant Princeton would have been a major metropolis. As the funding and planning were put in place, the automobile was invented, which stopped all moving forward for the plans. If you ask any of the people from this area or the folks that come to visit, they are more than happy that those plans fell through. And we were left with the beautiful community we have.”
Visit the new Folklore Museum and Stone House Museum, open on Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment from April to October, for a blast from the past.
“We are telling the story of Princeton, its people and the surrounding area by not only viewing artifacts, but incorporating a totally interactive way,” Wielgosh explains.
“We are doubling our space, adding 11 new displays, over a dozen touch screens and continuous running monitors to tell our story, background sounds to envelop you as you pass along the vignettes. It will allow you to spend as much time as you would like to enjoy the full history of our area.”
If you’re in the mood for light exercise and history, take part in the Historical Walking Tour.
“We wanted to tell the stories less about the buildings and more about the people that inhabited the buildings,” Wielgosh says. “As we gathered information about the walking tour, we interviewed folks in their eighties and nineties. We realized we were talking to folks that were having memories of their parents and grandparents back in the 1800s. What you will find on those plaques, are memories and investigated stories of those buildings and the people that inhabited them.”
You can follow along on your phone as you walk from plaque to plaque.
If you find yourself in Princeton on Sunday evenings this summer, Horseradish Kitchen + Market’s The Sunday Sessions should not be missed. In its sixth “volume,” of bringing live music to the community, their whole deck is transformed to provide guests the perfect concert vibe.
“It’s a whole production,” owner Matt Trotter says. “All of a sudden, it’s a scene. It’s very ‘buzzy.’ The garage doors go up. The lights are all on, it’s twinkly. It’s social, outdoors, good music, good food, fresh air and nature.”
If you’re craving the rural side of Princeton, you’ll get it in the form of wildlife in abundance.
“(It) is spectacular. Black and white squirrels, bobcats and even the occasional black bear can be seen strolling in the area,” Laura Skalitzky says. Visitors will also enjoy bird watching on many public lands, including the White River Marsh State Natural Area, home to a group of extremely rare and endangered Whooping Cranes. Bald Eagles swoop along the Fox River looking for fish, Yellow-Headed Blackbirds can be spotted here, and barred owls are very common- just ask the Green Lake Bird & Nature Club, which hosts an annual Bird Festival (April).
“Finally, don’t forget the fish! Each spring, giant ‘dinosaur fish’ spawn on the banks of the Fox River right behind our business district. Watch out, as you may be splashed by their sharklike tails, thrashing as they seek the best positions among the rocks. These adult Lake Sturgeon weigh 30-300 pounds, grow up to six feet in length, and have remained virtually unchanged since the Cretaceous Period.”
Fitness fanatics don’t have to skip their workout whilst visiting Princeton. In fact, they’ll experience even more than exercise at Grizzly Fitness. They do offer day and week passes, but the building itself is awe-inspiring.
“(It) is extremely cool,” owner Ellie Apland says. “It was originally built as a gymnasium in 1880 and has subsequently been a meeting hall, theatre, movie theatre, five & dime, hardware store and antique store.
When we were remodeling we discovered four huge murals that were painted in 1905, and they are really beautiful and unique. I am happy to show interested people around and tell them the building history! It’s too cool not to share!”
For those with an artistic flair, or for those who want a new experience in the creative world, Soul Hammer’s vision is to introduce art to everyone—whether to view or to make—and for all ages.
“We strive to foster creative independence in you as an artist that will lead to a greater vision while giving you the support you need to succeed,” owner/artist, Tammi Ann Ross, says. “We are all in this together. Let’s be awesome!
“Our classes, taught by a variety of skilled artists, will change and vary throughout the seasons of the year. Our gallery space is filled with all our artist’s work: from glass, sketches, paintings, to metal and pottery, see the artists’ visions while creating your own.”
LODGING
Cozy up and stay the weekend or more in Princeton!
When you’re near the water, there’s just something about the rustic getaway vibe that hits the spot. If that’s what you’re looking for, Mecan River Outfitters & Lodge delivers.
“(We offer) a very unique place, a beautiful log building with full service restaurant and bar, five rooms upstairs for lodging, a gift shop and a grand great room for relaxing,” Leanne Harvey says.
“The stay at the lodge is a great spot for family groups or best friend weekend getaways. We also have four rustic cabins available. All this is located on our family farm where we raise beef cattle and grow corn and soybeans.”
The Parlor Hotel offers an interesting and beautifully decorated space with even more unique options and curated experiences.
“It’s a boutique hotel, but we’re also heavy on group rental,” owner Matt Trotter says.
“We list rooms on AirBnb if (the hotel) isn’t rented as a whole group, so people can rent an individual room,” General Manager Greg Wright says. “Our wheelhouse is doing large, full building rentals. It’s eight beds totals, so we can do groups of 16 if people double up. We also do have an AirBnb upstairs and access to a couple of others. So we can do slightly larger groups.
“That’s the fun for us. If they do a whole building rental, we can work on curating an experience. We’ve done everything from private meals, our chef can work with them for a private dinner at Horseradish. We’ve arranged time on a pontoon boat, kayak trips. We’ve arranged concerts for people. It’s about trying to figure out how to do a personalized, really cool experience for people.”
The hotel has hosted dog training retreats, yoga retreats, bridal parties, school district retreats and more.
“It’s about memory making,” Wright says. “It’s less of the place you stay to explore the destination, it’s a visit to yourself. You’re coming to hang out with a project, a big life event. It’s about checking in with yourself.”
CLEAR YOUR CALENDAR
Enjoy Princeton’s annual traditions and events! For more information and details, visit https://princetonwi.com/featured-events/
April: The Sturgeon Spawn
The sturgeon spawn is Princeton’s most ancient tradition. Lake Sturgeon have been coming to the banks of the Fox River for thousands of years. In spring, when water temperatures begin to climb, these giant “dinosaur fish” follow an ancient and mysterious impulse to travel upstream from Lake Winnebago and Green Bay. They seem to remember their favorite places, and only spawn in a few select locations along the Fox River.
July 5: Princeton’s Independence Day Celebration
Join us for a fun filled patriotic day in the City of Princeton. 4 p.m.: Parade: Lineup begins at National Exchange Bank. The route goes down Water Street, right on South Howard Street, and ends at City Park. Prizes awarded to top float entries. 5 p.m. at City Park: fun and games for kids and adults, food booth, beer and refreshments tent, live music, and fireworks at dusk.
August 22: Cemetery Walking Tour
Tour of the local cemetery with volunteers portraying forefathers. Sponsored by the cemetery restoration committee.
September 21: Unity’s 15th Annual Harvest Faire
The Fall Art and Craft Fair, along with art, craft, and food vendors, will have music throughout the day, and also food and refreshments will be available at the Food Booth. A small number of non-Craft Faire Vendors will be allowed in the Park.
October 11: Hallo-Wine and Boooze Cider, Beer & Wine Tasting
Join the Princeton Chamber of Commerce for a walk around the town with a twist. Water Street will be blocked off so you can sip wine or enjoy a craft beer and shop the local businesses.
November 28-30: Christmas in Princeton
Small-town Holiday charm for the whole family! Every year, on Thanksgiving Weekend, the community of Princeton transforms into a Wintry Wonderland during its long-running “Christmas in Princeton Thanksgiving Weekend” Celebration. The shops are decked, the streets twinkle, and merriment is shared by all. This family-friendly festivity includes three days of shopping, the Lights on Water Street Parade, a tree lighting, four craft fairs throughout the town, breakfast with Santa, hot chocolate, s’ mores and more.
