Welcome to New Hope
History and charm abound in this town along the Delaware River
About 30 miles north of Philadelphia is the borough of New Hope, once a traveler’s destination along the Delaware River. Now an affluent community of about 3,000 residents, New Hope retains a small-town vibe and charming feel despite its proximity to the state capitals of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Once the getaway of the New York theater community and the former location of an art colony alongside the nearby Phillips Mill, New Hope retains a bohemian spirit. Hip and trendy businesses dot New Hope’s main street, divided into North Main Street and South Main Street by the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge. The bridge also crosses the Delaware River, allowing residents to spend time in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
What to Love
- Walkable Main Street offers excellent dining, shopping, and nightlife
- Easy access to notable cities like Philadelphia, Princeton, and Trenton
- A historic and small-town atmosphere
- Many green spaces and parks, as well as spectacular access to the Delaware River
Local Lifestyle
New Hope’s residents are proud of their charming community, whose primary industry is tourism. Initially settled by the Leni-Lenape Native Americans, colonists established New Hope in the late 1700s and became a strategic halfway point between colonial-era Philadelphia and New York. Revolutionary War history buffs note the community’s involvement in the Battles of Trenton and Monmouth, while local artists are quick to cite its role in developing the Pennsylvania Impressionist school of artists, also called the “New Hope School.”
In recent years, New Hope has been distinguished by its dedication to freedom and expression, which has led to its championing of anti-discriminatory employment legislation in 2002 and its development of an independent arts and antiques scene. New Hope remains a place for artists and their wares, with its downtown filled with crafts shops, boutiques, and galleries. Locals love spending an afternoon window-shopping while enjoying views of the Delaware River and admiring the many nearby creeks and streams that feed it.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
New Hope’s downtown and surroundings are dotted with historic buildings, many of which can be found on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s easy to get lost in the past at The Salt House, a tavern set inside a stone building built in 1751. Karla’s Restaurant and Logan Inn are equally charming, while those seeking an upscale dinner might reserve a table at OldeStone, a fine-dining establishment spectacularly set in a former church.You can also enjoy the best of what Bucks County has to offer at Stella, a new hotel and restaurant that overlooks the Delaware River and serves delicious fare made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Farther out in New Hope is the popular Rice’s Market, a seasonal outdoor market offering the best in farm-fresh produce, crafts, antiques, and other stalls. Food vendors offer everything from New England apple pie to authentic Thai dishes, so it’s best to come hungry! Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and tiny bed-and-breakfasts dot the roads along the Delaware River, cementing New Hope’s reputation as a resort town and a place for creativity and romance. It’s common for residents to book a night or two for a staycation or special event.
Things to Do
For those who prefer a day spent learning and surrounded by history, North and South Main Street has plenty to offer. Families will adore the Bucks County Children’s Museum, filled with hours of educational and scientific activities. History and train lovers will appreciate the 18-mile New Hope Railroad, a heritage railroad that operates both steam and diesel locomotives. Finally, the Bucks County Playhouse offers dinner and a show with a theater plus restaurant set inside a former gristmill.
Those willing to wander off Main Street will be well-rewarded, as the tranquil and verdant spaces of rural New Hope have much to offer. Visit Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve for its beautiful, well-kept grounds and an on-site nursery perfect for picking up plants for your garden. Bowman's Hill Tower is further off the beaten track, a 125-foot field tower set in a remote forest. Use the spiraling stairs — or the convenient elevator — to get a view as far as 14 miles in any direction.
Schools
New Hope is served by the New Hope-Solebury School District, which offers comprehensive Kindergarten through Grade 12 education via the New Hope-Solebury Lower Elementary School, Upper Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.
