New Hope Travel Guide
Discover all the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in New Hope, Pennsylvania with this comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to New Hope
- List of Places to Visit in New Hope
- Hiking/Biking Routes of New Hope
- Best Things to Do in New Hope: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for New Hope
- Food and Drink Scene of New Hope
- Where to Stay in New Hope: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in New Hope: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of New Hope
- Best Time to Visit New Hope
- Do’s and Don’ts of New Hope
- Safety and Health
- Getting to New Hope: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in New Hope
- Where to Go Next from New Hope: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to New Hope
Nestled in the heart of Bucks County, in the Philadelphia Region of Pennsylvania, New Hope is a charming small town with a rich history and a thriving art scene. The town is known for its scenic views, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
List of Places to Visit in New Hope
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
New Hope is home to a number of museums and historical sites that offer fascinating insights into the town’s rich heritage. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in New Hope include the following:
- New Hope Railroad
- Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
- Fonthill Castle
- Mercer Museum
- Bucks County Children’s Museum
Natural Attractions of New Hope: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
New Hope is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Pennsylvania, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking trails to scenic drives and water activities, here are some of the best natural attractions in New Hope:
- Delaware Canal State Park
- Ralph Stover State Park
- Bowman’s Hill Tower
- Washington Crossing State Park
- Delaware River Tubing
Hiking/Biking Routes of New Hope
If you love hiking and biking, you’ll have plenty of options in and around New Hope. Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking in the area:
- Delaware Canal State Park Trail
- Washington Crossing State Park Trail
- Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve Trail
- Tyler State Park Trail
- Ringing Rocks Trail
Best Things to Do in New Hope: Activities and Tours
Whether you’re traveling with kids, looking for a romantic getaway, or simply exploring the town on your own, New Hope has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in New Hope:
- Take a ride on the historic New Hope Railroad
- Explore the quaint shops and art galleries in the town center
- Enjoy a scenic horseback ride at Horseback Riding Adventures
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the Delaware River
- Watch a play at the Bucks County Playhouse
Week-Long Itinerary for New Hope
Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to New Hope:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the town center and visit the New Hope Railroad |
| Day 2 | Go hiking at Ralph Stover State Park and Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve |
| Day 3 | Take a hot air balloon ride over the Delaware River |
| Day 4 | Visit the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle |
| Day 5 | Spend the day at Delaware River Tubing |
| Day 6 | Take a scenic drive to Washington Crossing State Park |
| Day 7 | Shop for souvenirs at the local markets and relax at the Inn at Bowman’s Hill |
Food and Drink Scene of New Hope
Must-Try Dishes
New Hope is known for its diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from farm-to-table cuisine to classic Italian fare. Here are some of the must-try dishes in New Hope:
- Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup at Marsha Brown
- Lobster Bisque at The Landing Restaurant
- Charcuterie Board at The Salt House
- Shrimp Po’ Boy at Havana
- Lamb Shank at The Logan Inn
Local Beverages
In addition to its delicious food, New Hope also has a thriving local beverage scene. Here are some of the best local beverages to try in New Hope:
- Wine from the New Hope Winery
- Beers from Triumph Brewing Company
- Spirits from Hewn Spirits
- Ciders from Haymaker Meadery
- Coffee from Rojo’s Roastery
Where to Stay in New Hope: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are plenty of accommodation options in and around New Hope, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in New Hope:
- The Inn at Bowman’s Hill
- The Ghost Light Inn
- The Logan Inn
- The Wedgwood Inn
- The Brick Hotel
What to Buy in New Hope: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Looking for a unique souvenir to bring home from your trip to New Hope? Here are some of the best local products to buy in New Hope:
- Artwork from the many galleries in town
- Handmade jewelry from Karla’s Jewelry Gallery
- Local wine from the New Hope Winery
- Fresh-baked bread from Bread N Circus
- Locally-made cheese from The Village Cheese Shop
Local Culture and Customs of New Hope
New Hope is a diverse and welcoming town, known for its thriving arts community, natural beauty, and rich history. Visitors to New Hope should be respectful of the town’s unique culture and customs, and take the time to learn about the town’s rich heritage.
Best Time to Visit New Hope
New Hope is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique attractions and activities. Spring and fall are particularly popular times to visit, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most colorful.
Do’s and Don’ts of New Hope
Do:
- Take a ride on the historic New Hope Railroad
- Explore the quaint shops and art galleries in the town center
- Respect the town’s unique culture and heritage
Don’t:
- Leave trash or litter in public areas
- Park in prohibited areas
- Disrupt local wildlife or damage natural habitats
Safety and Health
Safety in New Hope
New Hope is a safe and welcoming town, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Visitors should, however, take standard safety precautions, such as locking their vehicles and securing their valuables.
Health in New Hope
New Hope is home to several medical facilities, including the St. Luke’s Hospital - Upper Bucks Campus and the Doylestown Health Urgent Care. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health coverage before traveling.
Getting to New Hope: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near New Hope
The closest airport to New Hope is Philadelphia International Airport, located approximately 40 miles away. Other nearby airports include Trenton-Mercer Airport and Lehigh Valley International Airport.
Bus Stations Near New Hope
The closest bus station to New Hope is the Doylestown Transportation Center, which offers connections to other major cities in the region, including Philadelphia and New York City.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach New Hope by train, with Amtrak and SEPTA offering regular service to the region.
How to Get Around in New Hope
The best way to get around New Hope is by car or bicycle, although visitors can also explore the town on foot or by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Where to Go Next from New Hope: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
New Hope is a great base for exploring other destinations in Bucks County and the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:
- Peddler’s Village
- Sesame Place
- The Gardens at Mill Fleurs
- Grounds for Sculpture
- Valley Forge National Historical Park
Conclusion
With its scenic views, natural attractions, and vibrant cultural scene, New Hope is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pennsylvania or the Mid-Atlantic region. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, you’re sure to find something to love in New Hope.
