I agree with going to Hamilton station rather than Trenton. I've parked at both and Hamilton is bright and safe. I just didn't like the feel of Trenton.

Hamilton is a nicer station and cheaper to park than Trenton. The only downside to Hamilton is parking can be difficult on a weekday. Trenton has 2 very large parking garages and always has space. For a weekend, definitely go for Hamilton.

surfmom...Either Trenton or Hamilton are completely safe. If going on a weekday, at commuter hours, pick Trenton because the parking is much easier. Use the garage which is right across from the station. Connect into downtown at Clinton Ave. from Route 1. No need to travel about in the city. At other times, consider Hamilton.

If I'm traveling north on Route 1, where do I get off for Hamilton and is it easy to find once off the highway? I've taken NJ Transit from Trenton and Princeton Junction but never Hamilton. Are there ticket machines or a real person there?

thanks for the info guys. We're thinking it will be a weekday this time.

For our anniversary, my dh suggested me coming to the city (he is working there the 2 days before and day after)... I decided instead that the whole family will meet Daddy and spend the day in NYC :)

My dd8 is studying immigration, so we'll probably go see Miss Liberty, Ellis Island, etc. I decided it is worth skipping school for a day.

I looked at Amtrak from 30th St and its about $300 rt for all of us, from Trenton, it is $75 for all of us. Since I have to drive at least 45 min to either, I might as well go to Trenton.

Sounds like parking *might* be an issue, since I only drive a domestic car :) I'll probably just chance it and park in Trenton. Hamilton looks like a good option for future weekend visits - thanks for the tip!

We're going in May - I'll let you know - thanks!

surfmom, I park at Trenton if I go to New York during the week because parking at Princeton is impossible (although very easy on a Friday afternoon or Saturday morning.) You pass the train station, it will be on your right and then there is a parking garage entrance on your left. I think it cost somewhere around $20 for 24 hours to park. Have fun!

Apparently BoltBus is also now in this market and is having a fare war with Megabus. They leave from 30th street.

You can get a discount on most Amtrak routes if you book 3 days in advance and have an AAA or other card (amtrak.com shows which ones).