The Best Things to Do in Bucks County this Winter
Winter is just around the corner, and the cold is finally starting to arrive in Bucks County. Although the leaves are mostly gone, New Hope is still bustling with happy visitors, local shopping, and holiday festivals. Some people might even argue that this is the best time of year to visit New Hope. If you’re planning a stay in New Hope around the holiday season, don’t miss out on some of the best things to do while visiting this winter.
Shop Downtown
Get your holiday shopping done, or treat yourself! New Hope is home to dozens of shops, where you can buy anything from one-of-a-kind antiques to handcrafted soaps, gourmet olive oils, and handstitched embroidery. Fashionistas can find beautiful and unique women’s clothing and accessories at Angel Hearts, a boutique located only a block away from the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge. And of course the best part about shopping “’til you drop” is grabbing a bite to eat at one of New Hope’s unique, charming restaurants. Café Blue Moose’s casual downtown environment is perfect for unwinding, and offers delicious dishes for a reasonable price.
Catch a Show at the Bucks County Playhouse
The Bucks County Playhouse has been entertaining the masses since opening in 1939, and isn’t going to stop anytime soon. No matter what time of year it is, you’re sure to find fun at the BCP – whether it’s a heartwarming musical, a classic like the Rocky Horror Picture Show, or a knee-slapping comedy. This December, BCP is straying from the beaten path of the Charlie Browns and the Miracle on 34th Streets with a murder mystery. In “Murder for Two: Holiday Edition,” everyone is a suspect and no one leaves without a good laugh. After the show, be sure to grab a drink at the Playhouse’s Riverview Café, located on the back deck, for a stunning view of the Delaware River. Don’t worry about the cold – it’s heated for year-round comfort.
Visit Peddler’s Village
It’s no secret that Peddler’s Village is one of Bucks County’s greatest holiday attractions. For more than 50 years, families have turned a visit to Peddler’s Village into a family tradition, enjoying the seasonal festivals and annual events like the Gingerbread House Competition. The fun doesn’t stop in December, either. Visitors in January can look forward to Bavaria in Bucks, featuring authentic German cuisine, wine, beer, and entertainment. Peddler’s Village is fun for the whole family, so there’s no need to leave the kids or grandchildren at home. Kids can visit Giggleberry Fair to take a photo with Santa, ride the grand carousel, and explore Giggleberry Mountain.
Tour a Winery
Most people consider places like California to be a top destination for wine-lovers, but little do they know that they don’t have to travel far at all for some quality vino. In fact, Pennsylvania is home to more than 200 wineries and 12 different wine trails, one of them being the Bucks County Wine Trail. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Bucks County Wine Trail includes 9 wineries, spanning as far West as Quakertown and as far North as Erwinna. If you want to stay local, the New Hope Winery is housed in a charismatic 18th century barn, right between New Hope and Peddler’s Village. There’s something for every type of palate on their wine list, including sophisticated reds and light, fruity whites. Just across the bridge in Lambertville, New Jersey, is Tomasello Winery’s Tasting Room. Lambertville has been named “The Antiques Capital of New Jersey,” so stop by any of the shops or eclectic galleries located on Bridge, Union, or Main streets.
These are just a few of the fun things visitors can do around New Hope and Bucks County during the colder months. If you bundle up, the picturesque streets are perfect for strolling and admiring the holiday decorations. You might even run into some local carolers! Keep an eye out for upcoming projects happening in New Hope, like the new Playhouse Inn and the Ferry Market.
If you’re planning an overnight stay in New Hope, the Carriage House is one of the oldest historical homes, and has been recently renovated with beautiful updates to the rooms and suite. To stay updated on our grand opening and other surprises, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!