If variety appeals to you, head north to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State, from its bustling cities to its rural farmland, is rich with enough American history, celebrated art, family festivities, award-winning dining, and nature excursions to suit any visitor’s tastes. In our September issue, we’ll tell you where to go and what to do in some of our favorite PA destinations. We’ll be sharing those stories online over the course of the month, so check back for more.
Spend any time in New Hope and you’ll understand why Bradley Cooper and the Hadid family have homes here. The artsy small town is conveniently situated about an hour’s drive from Philly or New York and while there are plenty of activities and shops geared toward tourists, it still feels like a place where people actually live. Bikers and hippies coexist with old-money elites in this eclectic town that champions authenticity, where the relaxing vibes of small-town life blend with the kinetic energy of a bigger city.
Catch a play or musical at the Bucks County Playhouse, where buzzworthy shows have been known to test the waters. Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell, for example, debuted her one-woman show here in 2021. Discuss a show over a drink or meal at Playhouse Deck Restaurant & Bar. Every dollar spent goes to the independent theater’s nonprofit mission.
There’s no need for a car once you arrive, as New Hope and neighboring Lambertville, New Jersey, are pedestrian friendly. Take a walk on the Delaware River bridge that connects the towns and spend time in both. Shop for classic concert T-shirts and leather jackets at Night Bird Vintage Clothing, delicate 1940s dresses at Bear Bone Vintage, and discounted designer brands at Greene Street consignment shop. Browse books from area authors at Farley’s Bookshop and retro curiosities at Love Saves the Day.
If you do have a car and don’t mind a short drive, Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market in Lambertville has been drawing bargain hunters since 1967. The colonial-style shopping center Peddler’s Village is less than a 10-minute drive away. It’s particularly charming over the winter holidays when it’s decorated with a million lights, hosts gingerbread displays, and gets visits from Santa. Grab a hot chocolate, lock arms with your love, and stroll around for a Christmas movie moment.
Where to Stay
The pet-friendly Ghost Light Inn, a 12-room boutique hotel (rooms from $375 per night), sits on a riverfront promenade next door to the Bucks County Playhouse. It has a cozy modern barn aesthetic that feels elevated. Equally appealing is the Logan Inn, a 38-room boutique hotel (rooms from $225 per night) that manages to be both comforting and cool, a blend of colonial allure and cosmopolitan flair. It’s one of the nation’s oldest continually operating inns. Treat yourself and book a suite with a Main Street balcony.
What to Eat
Don’t ignore the hotel restaurants; they have some of the best dining. Get brunch, lunch, and/or dinner at the outstanding Stella of New Hope at the Ghost Light Inn, where the romantic atmosphere (river views, dim lighting, and a fireplace) is as good as the service and cuisine. If you order only one thing, make it the perfect Parisian Gnocchi. Ferry + Main at the Logan Inn is another stellar choice. The beautifully designed space, with its open kitchen and perfectly prepared meats and seafood dishes, makes for an elegant dining experience.
Karla’s Restaurant & Bar offers strong martinis and a bustling brunch. Grab a casual lunch at Ferry Market, home to a variety of regional vendors in New Hope. A modern gastropub inside a 1751 stone building, The Salt House serves meals by a tavern fireplace. Enjoy small plates, wine, and whiskey flights on the airy patio at Nektar. For a sweet taste of Italy with a NoVA connection, visit Gelato Shop on Main Street, opened by the folks behind Dolci Gelati.
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Feature image of Bucks County Playhouse by Kevin Crawford Imagery
This story originally ran in our September issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
