Pennsylvania is filled with cute and charming towns that make perfect day trips! If you are looking for a day trip idea from New Jersey to one of the cute towns to visit in Pennsylvania, you should check out New Hope! New Hope is a picturesque and historic town nestled along the banks of the Delaware River. It is only a two hour drive from New York City and a forty five minute drive from Philadelphia. New Hope is a small and quaint town filled with historic buildings, cultural attractions, eclectic shopping and a vibrant art scene. There is so much to see and experience. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do in New Hope, PA on a day trip.
Best Things to Do in New Hope PA
Shopping in the Historic Downtown of New Hope
The heart of New Hope is its historic downtown. Shopping on Main Street is one of the best things to do in New Hope! Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets filled with cute boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, home decor, and flea markets.
Check out the list of New Hope shops here!
Hop Aboard the New Hope Railroad
One of the best things to do in New Hope is to climb aboard the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad. Dating back to 1891, the New Hope Railroad has become a landmark in the region. The journey will begin in New Hope and will traverse to the hills and valleys of Bucks County, where you will get to see amazing views of streams, farmland, and iconic landmarks. The tour guide will also share stories of the history of the railroad and the towns you pass through.
During the fall, you will get to experience the beautiful fall foliage. They even have Christmas themed rides during the holidays.
Check out more information on the New Hope Railroad here!
Walk Across the State Line between Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Stand in two states at once by crossing the bridge between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. On the New Jersey side, there is the town of Lambertville that you can also explore. You will find more shopping, dining, and art galleries.
Wine Tasting
Go wine tasting through the beautiful acres of vineyards on the Bucks County Wine Trail. You can book a tour individually with each winery or go on the Tastings and Tours bus! The standard package includes a visit to two wineries with private tastings or you can book a package that includes lunch!
Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
For all the nature lovers, you have to check out Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. This is a botanical garden and nature preserve in New Hope. They are dedicated to the conservation and display of native plant species and wildflowers of the region. You will find a diverse collection of wildflowers, trees, and shrubs indigenous to the Mid-Atlantic region. This preserve also has well-maintained trails that wind through the various natural habitats. They offer guided tours, workshops, and events so you can learn more about the plants and conservation efforts. Check out their visitor center for more information!
The spring season is the best time to visit since the wildflowers are in full bloom. The fall is also pretty with the fall foliage.
New Hope Arts Center
The New Hope Arts Center is a great place where local and regional artists can showcase their work. The center hosts art exhibitions that feature a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, photography and more. They also offer community events, workshops, and educational programs.
Bucks County Playhouse
The Bucks County Playhouse is a historic regional theater that dates back to 1939. They offer a diverse range of theatrical productions from classic American plays and musicals to contemporary works and new play development. The Playhouse is also involved in the local community, offering educational programs, workshops, and outreach efforts to promote theater appreciation and involvement. The theater operates on a seasonal schedule, with productions running from spring to fall.
Check out their schedule of events here!
Washington Crossing Historic Park
Washington Cross Historic Park is one of New Hope’s historical sites. This park commemorates the famous crossing of the Delaware River by George Washington and his Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. The park features walking trails where you can explore and learn about the history of the region. Every year, the park hosts a reenactment of Washington’s daring crossing. This event is usually held on Christmas Day.
In the park, you will find McConkey’s Ferry Inn. This served as an inn during the time of the Revolutionary War and now serves as a museum. Nearby, you will also find Bowman’s Hill Tower where you get panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Peddler’s Village
The Peddler’s Village is a charming outdoor shopping and dining complex located in Lahaska, which is about a 10 minute drive from New Hope. This is one of the best things to do in New Hope! It’s known for its colonial style architecture, beautiful landscaped grounds, and an array for specialty shops, restaurants, and attractions.
The Peddler’s Village hosts a variety of annual festivals and events and hosts live music and entertainment, especially during the holidays!
Check out my Peddler’s Village experience here!
Delaware Canal State Park
One of the best things to do in New Hope PA is to enjoy the outdoors! Nearby, you will find Delaware Canal State Park. They have scenic walking, hiking and biking trails along the canal. The Delaware River also offers a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, tubing and biking. Rentals and guided tours are available to help you make the most of the river and its surroundings.
Best Places to Eat in New Hope
One of the best things to do in New Hope PA is to enjoy their food scene! New Hope has a variety of restaurants from fine dining to a casual meal. There is something for everyone! Here are the best places to eat in New Hope:
The Landing Restaurant
This restaurant is located along the Delaware River. They offer waterfront dining with great river views. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes.
Ferry + Main
This restaurant is located in Logan Inn, one of the oldest operated inns in the United States. They serve brunch, lunch and dinner and focus on fresh and local ingredients.
Stella
This restaurant is located in Ghost Light Inn overlooking the Delaware River. They serve brunch, lunch and dinner and have a great selection of small plats and shareable dishes.
Nektar Wine Bar
Carl and I ate here for lunch and we absolutely loved it! We tried the wine and whiskey flights and had a bunch of their tapas. Our favorites were the scallops in thai curry sauce, tuna tacos, and truffle ravioli. So yummy!
New Hope’s Ferry Market
This is a food market filled with a bunch of different vendors. This makes a great lunch spot! They also have coffee and dessert. I highly recommend the hot chocolate and chocolates from Sciascia Confections.
Burgerly
This is an amazing burger spot that also is popular for their delicious seasoned fries!
Nina’s Waffles
For a fun tasty treat, visit Nina’s Waffles where you can get authentic Belgian Liege waffles and add fun toppings and ice cream on top!
Clusters Popcorn
This is a cool popcorn shop that has both savory and sweet popcorn flavors. My favorite was their Buffalo Blue and Cookie Explosion.
I hope you enjoyed my post on the best things to do in New Hope PA!
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