New Hope is a quaint but lively town, set amid picturesque countryside surroundings and with an intriguing historical background. The city is a popular hub for artists. Stroll along its narrow streets and peruse the one-of-a-kind works in the dozens of galleries. Explore Main Street and its nearby cross streets, where most of the town’s historic attractions are located.
The Georgian-style Parry Mansion is a home long occupied by the family of Benjamin Parry, one of New Hope’s founders. Passed down through four generations, the house is now open to the public. Observe 125 years of evolving decorative styles in the home’s 11 rooms. Note the hand-blocked wallpaper design in the Empire dining room and look for lithograph prints in the Victorian bedroom.
Walk along the tranquil trails of Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve. With nearly 800 species of plants native to Pennsylvania and the Delaware Valley region, this pleasant garden highlights the diversity of this area’s fauna. The scenery changes depending on the season. Expect to spot graceful Virginia bluebells in April or purple swamp rose mallows in August.
Climb the stairs or ride the elevator to the top of the 125-foot (38-metre) tall Bowman’s Hill Tower, which was built from 1929-1931 to commemorate the fact that the hill may have been a lookout point for George Washington’s troops. The observation tower offers impressive views over the Delaware River surroundings.
Ride on a passenger car of the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad, which is pulled by an authentic steam locomotive or vintage diesel. This old-fashioned train makes a 45-minute trip between New Hope and Lahaska, passing through Bucks County’s scenic hills and valleys.
New Hope is located between Philadelphia and New York, along the Delaware River. Reach it by car. You’ll find ample metered street parking available.
