Marie & Charlie
Things To Do
Dining - Firkin Tavern
One of our favorite bars and just around the corner from our house! Pub food, inexpensive, great drinks, gluten-free friendly. Sit-down dining and bar seating available. Family-friendly.
Dining - Osteria Procaccini
If you're looking for something a step up from a diner or bar, but still want to stay within budget, Osteria is your place! Authentic Italian food in a cozy atmosphere. We love their pizza and they have many GF options available (even pizza and pasta!). Try one of their artisan salads or house cocktails. Family-friendly.
Dining - CAFE Seventy-Two
Simply the best brunch place you could ask for. It's a little gem of a restaurant but always crowded so do yourself a favor and make a reservation (phone or online). Family friendly with tons of gluten-free options and creative coffee drinks that are more like dessert than breakfast!
Dining - The Happy Mixer Bakery
This dedicated gluten-free bakery is one of our favorite places to grab a pastry or bagel. Marie is heavily addicted to their chocolate chip muffins so don't tell you her went there if you don't plan on bringing her back one! FYI-this is a grab and go place, no seating available.
Shopping - Labyrinth Books
OF COURSE, we recommend stopping at one of the best independent book stores in the world. Okay, Marie might be a little biased since she worked here for three years but you won't be disappointed by the large selection of books and gifts. There are two floors so make sure you check out the basement! Hosts a wonderful children's section as well. In the heart of downtown Princeton across from the University, so a perfect place to stop in while you're strolling around.
Shopping - The Front Porch
If you're looking for a cozy boutique in a quaint town, stop into The Front Porch in Pennington. A charming, two-story, store that has everything from cocktail shakers to baby clothes. Fun fact: this is who handled our invitations!
Shopping - Trenton Farmer's Market
If you're looking for a good old-fashioned Farmer's Market, look no further. It stands in a permanent building so it's always open no matter the weather! If you have time, check out our favorite vendor, T Spoon of Sprinkles, for some delicious GF/vegan desserts. Terhune Orchards also has the best produce! Open Thurs-Sun.
Shopping - Downtown Princeton
We are so lucky to be getting married only 10 minutes away from downtown Princeton and we hope guests will take advantage of this and explore the town! It holds a special place in Marie's heart since she worked there for a few years. In fact, it's what's brought her down this way! There is no shortage of shops and dining options; there is truly something for everyone. You may also enjoy walking around the beautiful campus grounds, but don't get lost!
Activity - Mercer Meadows
Marie and Josie's favorite hiking/walking place of all time! Conveniently located right next to the venue, it's only a 5 minute drive. There are miles and miles of flat trails, perfect for walking and cycling. It's a popular place for bird watching so keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birds of prey. If interested, Marie can give you a run-down on her favorite trails as there are multiple trailheads!
Activity - Pine Creek Miniature Golf
We've spent many hours playing miniature golf at Pine Creek. It was recently bought by a family who loves to do theme days and special decorations. It's not your typical mini golf as it's laid out more like a real golf course. Wear your walking shoes! Bonus points if you guess correctly who is better at putting: Charlie or Marie?
Activity - Princeton Kayak & Canoe
Okay, so you're not much for shopping and would rather do something a little more adventurous? You should try kayaking or canoeing on the D&R canal! Safe and easy enough for those who have never done it before, it's actually surprisingly peaceful. See how many turtles you can count soaking up the sun along the way!
Activity - Ewing Bowling Lanes
This bowling alley is across the street from our neighborhood and recently got a huge facelift. It hosts a dozen lanes and a small arcade.
Activity - Grounds for Sculpture
If being outside in nature and looking at art is your thing, you must visit Grounds for Sculpture! The expansive grounds are home to hundreds of different art pieces, many of them strange or unusual. Make sure you book tickets a little in advance as it is often sold out day-of.