About

The Peacock Inn:

A Timeless Princeton Landmark.

Nestled on Bayard Lane, just a short stroll from Princeton University, The Peacock Inn has stood as a cherished symbol of elegance and hospitality for over a century. This historic boutique hotel is steeped in tradition, with a legacy that reflects Princeton’s rich academic and cultural heritage. The Inn’s architecture blends Colonial Revival and Georgian influences, echoing the charm of an English country manor, an ideal complement to the town’s refined, scholarly atmosphere.

Throughout its storied past, The Peacock Inn has welcomed an array of distinguished guests, from visiting dignitaries and esteemed professors to prominent celebrities. Its reputation for gracious service, understated luxury, and timeless ambiance has made it a beloved destination for those seeking an experience that is both intimate and memorable.

Today, The Peacock Inn continues to honor its legacy while embracing the present. Guests enjoy the best of both worlds: a beautifully preserved historic setting paired with modern comforts and an acclaimed fine dining experience. Whether you're visiting Princeton for business, leisure, or academia, The Peacock Inn offers an exceptional retreat with a uniquely personal touch.

A Storied Past:

The Historical Timeline of The Peacock Inn

1779

Originally built during the colonial era on Nassau Street near what is now University Place, the property was purchased by Jonathan Deare—delegate to the first Provincial Congress of 1775 and member of the Continental Congress. During sessions at nearby Nassau Hall, the house provided lodging for fellow congressmen, playing a quiet yet vital role in the early days of American governance.

1875

The building was relocated to its current address at 20 Bayard Lane, within the Princeton Historic District and converted into the Princeton Hotel Company by William Libbey III. A Princeton professor, geographer, and pioneering archaeologist, Libbey was also instrumental in designating orange and black as the official colors of Princeton University. Notably, he was among the first in Princeton to own a telephone.

1911

Joseph and Helen O’Connor acquired the property and officially opened it as The Peacock Inn, naming it after a charming inn from the Midlands of England. The name and concept brought a touch of English refinement to the heart of Princeton.

1915

A devastating fire threatened the Inn’s existence, but it was successfully restored by renowned architect and historic preservationist Rolf Bauhan, who maintained the building’s architectural integrity while breathing new life into its structure

1920s ~ 1933

During Prohibition, the Inn’s basement transformed into a lively speakeasy known as Peacock Alley. The hidden bar was adorned with murals by famed Jazz Age illustrator John Held Jr., adding flair and artistic prestige to its clandestine charm.

1954

In a moment of unexpected fame, the entire Princeton football team crowded onto the Inn’s front porch, which promptly collapsed under their weight. A photographer captured the dramatic scene, and the iconic, award-winning image later appeared in Sports Illustrated.

2005

After decades of storied hospitality, the original Peacock Inn closed its doors.

2006 ~ 2010

Barry and Elaine Sussman purchased the property and began an extensive restoration that would last over three years. Stripped to its beams and foundational walls, the structure was meticulously rebuilt, honoring its historic character while reimagining it as a refined boutique hotel. The Peacock Inn officially reopened in 2010, complete with luxurious accommodations and an acclaimed fine dining restaurant.

2018

Though the restaurant briefly closed, a new chapter began when Genesis Hospitality Group acquired the property in May 2018. Under their stewardship, The Peacock Inn continues its legacy as one of Princeton’s premier destinations where history, elegance, and modern luxury converge.

Trivia & Tales

from The Peacock Inn

A legacy of elegance, intellect and a few secrets worth sharing…

Einstein Slept Here Yes, that Einstein. In 1933 Albert Einstein made The Peacock Inn his temporary home for ten days. He valued its quiet elegance – perfect for a world-changing mind.

What’s in a Name? Inspired by the British tradition of inns with animal names, “The Peacock Inn” embodies elegance, color and a touch of aristocratic charm.

A Place for Pioneers In the early 1900’s, the Inn was known as a safe, refined destination for women traveling alone, particularly visiting scholars and academics.

Literary Whispers While never confirmed, author F. Scott Fitzgerald may have drawn inspiration from the Inn during his college days at Princeton University, possibly channeling its ambiance into This Side of Paradise.

Prohibition Secrets During the dry years of Prohibition, the Inn’s basement, known as Peacock Alley, operated as a speakeasy for those in the know. Elite guests enjoyed clandestine cocktails in style, beneath the radar and beneath the Inn.

Murals Unearthed During renovations in the 2000s, stunning Jazz age murals were discovered layers of wallpaper in Peacock Alley. Black-and-white hand drawn murals by famed Jazz Age illustrator John Held, Jr. depicted scenes straight from the Roaring Twenties which are now proudly displayed in our restaurant fine dining, The Perch.

Local Legend’s Cameo Local legend and brilliant mathematician John von Neumann, said to have read books while driving, appears in one of Held’s murals. The detail offers a quirky tribute to Princeton’s eccentric genius culture and a wink at its storied past.

Hidden in Plain Sight Tucked behind lush greenery and understated signage, The Peacock Inn feels like a tucked-away retreat right in the heart of Princeton. First-time guests often describe the experience as stumbling upon a well-kept secret hidden in plain sight. We prefer to think of it as a discovery worth making.

Awards

The Peacock Inn and our fine dining restaurant The Perch at Peacock Inn have received numerous prestigious awards over the years.

	2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024	AAA Four Diamond Award A Four Diamond Award indicates a property provides upscale amenities, remarkable service, and outstanding cuisine, with a focus on refined and stylish design, as well as extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality.
		AAA Inspector’s Best of 2020
	2022, 2024, 2025	Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence Best of Award of Excellence recipients display excellent breadth across multiple winegrowing regions and/or significant vertical depth of top producers, along with superior presentation.