Bucks County Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Bucks County, from natural attractions to cultural landmarks and local cuisine. Plan your visit with our week-long itinerary and transportation options.


Introduction to Bucks County

Located in the Philadelphia Region of Pennsylvania, Bucks County boasts a rich history, natural beauty, and distinctive local culture. With charming towns, scenic countryside, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s a popular destination for weekend getaways and family vacations. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, admiring art, or simply relaxing in a picturesque setting, Bucks County has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll provide an in-depth look at the top attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, and logistics of visiting Bucks County.

List of Places to Visit in Bucks County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Washington Crossing Historic Park: Visit the site where George Washington and his troops famously crossed the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War. The park includes several historic buildings and a museum.
  • Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle: This impressive complex showcases the eclectic collection of archaeologist and tile-maker Henry Mercer, including early American tools, furniture, and more. The castle itself is a unique example of Mercer’s tilework.
  • Bucks County Historical Society and Mercer Museum: Housed in beautiful colonial-style buildings, this museum features exhibits on local history, art, and culture.
  • James A. Michener Art Museum: Named after the renowned author and Doylestown resident, this museum showcases a variety of art from the Bucks County region and beyond, including paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.

Natural Attractions of Bucks County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Delaware Canal State Park: This 60-mile-long park along the Delaware River offers hiking, biking, fishing, and boating opportunities. Enjoy scenic views of the water and surrounding woods, while observing wildlife along the way.
  • Tyler State Park: With over 1,700 acres of forests, fields, and wetlands, this park offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. Don’t miss the winding Neshaminy Creek, which runs through the park and is popular for canoeing and kayaking.
  • Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve: home to over 700 species of native plants, this botanical reserve offers a unique opportunity to admire wildflowers, ferns, and trees while exploring scenic trails.
  • Peace Valley Park: Located in central Bucks County, this park offers beautiful views of Lake Galena, as well as boating, fishing, hiking, and cycling opportunities. Keep an eye out for ospreys, herons, and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bucks County

  • The Delaware Canal Towpath: This 60-mile trail runs from Bristol to Easton along the Delaware River and is popular for hiking, biking, and jogging. It’s a great way to explore the natural beauty of Bucks County, while admiring the historic canal.
  • Tyler State Park Loop: This 11-mile loop takes you through some of the most scenic areas of Tyler State Park, including meadows, forests, and wetlands.
  • Washington Crossing Park Trails: With over 13 miles of scenic trails, this historic park offers a variety of hiking and biking options, with stunning views of the Delaware River.

Best Things to Do in Bucks County: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a scenic hot air balloon ride above Bucks County and enjoy incredible views of the countryside.
  • Ghost Tours: With its rich history and mysterious landmarks, Bucks County is the perfect destination for ghost tours. Choose from several different tours, including walking tours and bus tours.
  • Farmers’ Markets and Agriculture Tours: Bucks County is known for its rich agriculture, and visitors can explore the local food scene through farmers’ markets, agricultural tours, and tastings.
  • Antique Shopping: Bucks County is also a hub for antique shops, where visitors can explore unique objects from the past and find treasures to take home.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bucks County

  • Day 1: Visit the iconic Washington Crossing Historic Park and explore the museum and historic buildings.
  • Day 2: Explore the natural beauty of Bucks County with a hike in Tyler State Park and a visit to the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve.
  • Day 3: Immerse yourself in local history and culture with a visit to the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle, followed by a tour of Doylestown’s downtown and shops.
  • Day 4: Take a scenic hot air balloon ride above the countryside or enjoy a bike ride on the picturesque Delaware Canal Towpath.
  • Day 5: Relax by Lake Galena in Peace Valley Park, enjoy a picnic, or rent a boat for a leisurely afternoon on the water.
  • Day 6: Explore the local food scene with a visit to a farmers’ market, an agricultural tour, and a wine tasting at one of the many vineyards in the area.
  • Day 7: Take a ghost tour or visit one of the many antique shops in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Bucks County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pennsylvania Dutch Pretzels: These twisted bread snacks are a staple of the local cuisine and can be found at many bakeries and markets throughout Bucks County.
  • Bucks County Cakes: Sweet and rich, these traditional cakes are made with chocolate, cream, and plenty of butter. They are a local favorite for special occasions and are available at many bakeries and cafes.
  • Farm-Fresh Produce: With its rich agricultural scene, Bucks County is abundant in farm-fresh produce, from juicy peaches to crisp apples, heirloom tomatoes to buttery corn.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Bucks County is home to several vineyards, including the charming Crossings Vineyards, which offers tours and tastings of their award-winning wines.
  • Craft Beer: Check out the local brewpubs and breweries, such as the Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company in Croydon or the Free Will Brewing Company in Perkasie.

Where to Stay in Bucks County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Black Bass Hotel: A historic hotel with scenic views of the Delaware River and luxurious amenities, located in Lumberville.
  • HollyHedge Estate: This charming boutique hotel and event space is set on 20 acres of gardens and woodlands in New Hope.
  • Golden Plough Inn: An elegant hotel in the heart of Peddler’s Village, offering comfortable rooms and access to dining and shopping.
  • Rodeway Inn & Suites: A budget-friendly option located near the Philadelphia Premium Outlets in Quakertown.

What to Buy in Bucks County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery and Tilework: Bucks County is well-known for its pottery and tiles, with artisan studios, such as Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, offering unique and beautiful pieces.
  • Antiques and Collectibles: With its abundance of antique shops, Bucks County is the perfect place to find unique antiques, vintage finds, and collectibles.
  • Farm-Fresh Produce and Products: Bring home a taste of Bucks County’s rich agriculture with locally grown produce, homemade jams and spreads, and other artisanal products.

Local Culture and Customs of Bucks County

Bucks County is known for its unique mix of colonial heritage and modern charm. Locals tend to be friendly and welcoming to visitors, and the area’s rich history and natural beauty are a point of pride among residents. Bucks County is also home to several important cultural festivals, such as the New Hope Arts Festival and the Shadfest.

Best Time to Visit Bucks County

Bucks County is a year-round destination, with something to offer in every season. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and stunning foliage, while summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities. Winter in Bucks County is also charming, with holiday festivals and cozy fireplaces.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bucks County

Do:

  • Do take a hot air balloon ride for a serene view of Bucks County
  • Do visit the many vineyards, breweries, and markets for locally made food and drinks
  • Do explore the museums and historical landmarks, to understand the rich history of the state and the region.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter, respect the environment, and keep it clean.
  • Don’t leave items in your car or in the open, keep them safe.
  • Don’t trespass on private properties.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bucks County

Bucks County is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take normal precautions, such as staying aware of their surroundings and belongings, locking cars and homes, and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Bucks County

There are several hospitals and medical facilities in Bucks County, including Doylestown Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital - Quakertown, and Abington Health. Visitors should also take precautions against tick-borne illnesses, especially during the summer months when tick populations are high.

Getting to Bucks County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bucks County

  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Located about 45 minutes south of Bucks County, PHL is a major international airport with connections to major cities throughout the world.
  • Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN): Located about 30 minutes northeast of Bucks County, TTN offers regional flights to several major cities along the east coast.

Bus Stations Near Bucks County

  • Greyhound Lines: 200 S Belvidere Ave, Nazareth, PA 18064
  • Bieber Transportation Group: 190 W Allen St, Allentown, PA 18102

Other Options

  • Car rental: Car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise have locations in the Bucks County region.
  • Train transportation: You can take a train to Trenton, NJ, and then transfer to the SEPTA bus line that will take you to Bucks County.

How to Get Around in Bucks County

Bucks County is relatively easy to navigate by car or bike. The major highways include I-95, I-276, and I-476. There are also several SEPTA bus routes that service the area, and taxis and ride-sharing services are available. Biking is popular in many parts of Bucks County, and there are several bike rental options available.

Where to Go Next from Bucks County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love is less than an hour away and offers a wealth of history, culture, and entertainment, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and world-class museums.
  • New Hope: This charming town on the Delaware River is a popular destination for dining, shopping, and scenic walks along the canal.
  • Doylestown: The county seat of Bucks County offers a vibrant downtown with shops, cafes, and art galleries, as well as several historical landmarks like the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle.

Conclusion

Bucks County truly offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and historical landmarks to fine dining and unique shopping experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Bucks County should be at the top of your list. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect itinerary and make the most of your trip to this charming and distinctive corner of Pennsylvania.

Doylestown Doylestown New Hope New Hope Lake Nockamixon Lake Nockamixon Fonthill Museum Fonthill Museum Bucks County Playhouse Bucks County Playhouse


    Bensalem
    Bristol
    New Hope
    Peddler's Village
    Quakertown
    Warminster