2023-12-19 07:19:31
A Retreat to New Hope Known for its vibrant arts scene, woodsy landscapes, and quaint atmosphere along the Delaware River, New Hope has become a beloved destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure. Stay at 1870 Wedgwood Inn, a Victorian house dubbed the “Painted Lady,” listed on Bucks County Registry of Historic Places. Don’t miss exhibits at New Hope Arts Center or a theatrical production at the recently renovated Bucks County Playhouse. Outdoorsy travelers will be pleased to find many trails available to explore. Enjoy the ever-changing scenery and historic setting of Delaware Canal State Park, including the Delaware Canal Trail, where you can walk along a 59-milelong towpath paralleling the Delaware River and canal shoreline. At the 135- acre Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, see a botanical garden and accredited museum full of native plants. Climb Bowman’s Tower for excellent nature views. Or pair river views with refined American plates at Stella of New Hope, a barn-like restaurant and bar. Find Inspiration in Doylestown Opt for a self-guided tour adventuring through the region’s most unusual historic towns where you’ll discover the home of American archaeologist and antiquarian Henry Chapman Mercer within Fonthill Castle. More historic sites under the Mercer name are Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum and the Mercer Museum. Explore Impressionist paintings at the Michener Art Museum, and then find the perfect vacation read at Doylestown Bookshop. Little ones will let their imaginations run wild at the sprawling Kids Castle Central Park. At night, sip craft cocktails and enjoy American tavern food (don’t miss the chicken pot pie in a flaky pie shell) at The Hattery Stove & Still. Natural Beauty in Chadds Ford Located about 25 miles southwest of Philadelphia, discover Chadds Ford in all its wonder. The Battle of Brandywine brings to life the largest engagement of the Revolutionary War at Brandywine Battlefield Historic Site, while Sanderson Museum and Brandywine Museum of Art are home to historical artifacts and American art, respectively. For one of the most beautiful sights in the township, visit NC Wyeth House & Studio/Kuerner Farm, where various aspects of artist Andrew Wyeth’s career and legacy remain for visitors to soak in. Experience local flavors at Penns Woods Winery, a family-run Pennsylvania-grown winery, equipped with a tasting room and some of the best varietals in the state. For an authentic Italian meal and glass of vino, pair your homemade pasta and fresh seafood at Antica Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar. Iconic Philadelphia From the Philadelphia Museum of Art and African American Museum in Philadelphia to The Met Philadelphia and Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, there is no shortage of culture here. An interesting detour of the otherwise metropolitan streets of the city is Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania, an official arboretum including a 250-year-old tree at the entrance. Another breath of fresh air lies in Spruce Street Harbor Park, an urban park in Penn’s Landing featuring a boardwalk along the Delaware River, colorful hammocks, floating gardens, and a beachfront atmosphere. Look no further for where to eat than making a reservation at one of the 2023 James Beard Award-winners—including Friday Saturday Sunday and Fork. Post meal, head to the chic R&D Cocktail Bar, serving classic and innovative cocktails in the hip Fishtown neighborhood. THREE SIDE TRIPS FROM THE CITY KENNETT SQUARE: Nestled in the rolling hills of Chester County’s countryside, make way to the charming borough of Kennett Square, also known as the Mushroom Capital of the World. You’ll quickly see why when you stop in The Mushroom Cap storefront. But beyond the ‘shrooms, don’t miss a stop at the gorgeous Longwood Gardens, one of the world’s premier horticultural display gardens, where you can see dazzling displays that elevate the art of horticulture. KING OF PRUSSIA: Shop to your heart’s content at King of Prussia Mall, the third-largest mall in America with six major department stores and more than 450 stores, boutiques, and restaurants. If shopping isn’t your thing, the Valley Forge National Historical Park offers 3,500 acres of monuments, meadows, and structures commemorating the Revolutionary War. MALVERN: Remarkably intact and carefully restored, the 19th-century village of Historic Sugartown offers a window into traditional Americana. Wandering the quaint streets of Malvern you’ll also find the Wharton Esherick Museum, preserving the artist’s furniture, furnishings, interiors, and utensils.
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