visit bucks county tours

THE 10 BEST Bucks County Tours & Excursions

Bucks county tours.

• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Factory Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Adventurous
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Tastings and Tours: Bucks County

2. New Hope Railroad

3. Bucks County River Country

4. Byers' Choice Christmas Gallery

5. Skydive Philadelphia

6. Hellerick's Family Farm

7. Awgul Fishing Guide Service - Lake Nockamixon Fishing Charters

8. Ghost Tours Of New Hope

9. Driftwood Water Adventures

10. TreeTrails Adventures Trevose

11. Lancaster Balloon Rides

12. Delaware River Pedal & Paddle

13. Van Sant Airport

14. Nature's Way Canoe and Kayak

15. Journeyman Stand Up Paddle School

16. Encore Rides

17. balloon rides across america.

18. Sitters4Critters

19. Christians Travel

20. Bi-County, Inc

21. Ten Crucial Days Bus Tour

22. tycoon packaging.

23. Revolutionary Crawls and Events

What travelers are saying.

• New Hope Railroad
• Tastings and Tours: Bucks County
• Revolutionary Crawls and Events
• Bucks County River Country
• Byers' Choice Christmas Gallery
• Hellerick's Family Farm
• Ghost Tours Of New Hope
• Skydive Philadelphia

25 Things to Do in Bucks County for a Fun Visit

Bucks County is one of the best places to visit in the greater Philadelphia area. It is full of beautiful parks and gardens and unique cultural and historical attractions. There is also lots of great shopping, top-rated restaurants, and many things to explore, so there is a little bit of something for everyone.

We love uncovering all the fun things to do in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Here are some of our favorites.

See the covered bridges

There are 12 covered bridges that dot the landscape across the county. Generally dating from the mid-1800s, these bridges –which are a beacon for local photographers–are still open to traffic. A driving tour of all dozen of these quaint structures would take a day to complete, so we recommend splitting them up in eastern and western portions and making some nice scenic drives.

Shop at Peddlers Village

Peddlers Village is a delightful complex of colonial-style buildings, gardens, shops , and restaurants in Lahaska. Its winding paths pass more than 60 specialty boutiques and places to eat. In between, there are flower displays and water features.

Many weekends, visitors will find special events like the Strawberry Festival or the Summer Block Party that spread across the village. There are frequent decorations and competitions of different kinds, including a brilliant Christmas light display , a gingerbread competition, and even a competition for people making art and sculpture out of PEEPS marshmallows. We particularly enjoy visiting in the fall when the entrants in the scarecrow competition are on display around the property.

Visit Newtown

Newton is one of the cutest cities in Bucks County. Its highly walkable main street (State Street) is lined with boutiques, restaurants, and specialty stores, which makes for lots of shopping and eating opportunities. When I worked in town, taking a walk here was one of my favorite things to do.

Music or book lovers will enjoy Newtown Book & Record Exchange while foodies will like the specialty vinegars and oils at The Tubby Olive. For the best (and most unique) ice cream, don’t miss the Zebra Striped Whale . If you’re hungry, check out local favorite Isaac Newton’s Bar & Restaurant or The Temperance House located in an inn that dates from 1772.

For a look at the historic side of the town, follow the Newtown Heritage walk. This self-guided tour will take you to 34 significant sites that span over 250 years of history.

Pick your own at Solebury Orchard

From a summer full of blueberries and cherries to peaches and apples in fall, Solebury Orchard is the place to go for fruit . The 80 acres of this Bucks County farm and orchard teem with fruit trees and berry bushes welcoming visitors to pick their own or buy them straight from the market. Don’t miss the chance to try their apple cider donuts .

Tour Fonthill Castle

Fonthill Castle is one of the most unique places to go in Bucks County and, in fact, in all of Pennsylvania. Built in 1908, the historic structure was once a palatial home but is now a museum in Doylestown.

The Castle was built by Henry Chapman Mercer, an archaeologist and collector. With 44 rooms, 32 stairwells, and 18 fireplaces, Fonthill is filled with unique Moravian tiles, books, engravings, and lots of items collected during Mercer’s world travels. A guided tour of the home tells the story of Mercer’s life, passions, and influence on Bucks County. A visit here is nice any time of the year, but we especially love it around the holidays when the mansion is fully decorated for Christmas.

Explore Mercer Museum

Built in 1916, the Mercer Museum is one of the unique Bucks County points of interest. Another of Henry Mercer’s creations, his eponymous museum is a concrete castle that displays a collection of over 50,000 pre-Industrial tools. From funeral carriages to pill bottles and lighting devices, the museum offers a unique look at the tools of life used in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries.

Visit Moravian Pottery and Tile Works

The Moravian Pottery and Tile Works is the third Mercer attraction in Doylestown . It was constructed to produce handmade clay Moravian tiles made from Mercer’s designs. The tiles frequently depict Pennsylvania animals, trees, and flowers, and many feature graphic patterns or tell stories.

This National Historical Landmark is still a working museum. A tour here lets visitors learn about the tiles, which are still produced using Mercer’s original designs, and see them being made by artisans. To get hands-on, come for one of the Tuesday workshops that lets you make your own tiles.

Stroll downtown Doylestown

Downtown Doylestown is a top destination in the Philadelphia area. It’s known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and variety of shops and restaurants.

Local standouts include Siren Records, which has been the place to find music and records in town for over 30 years, and  Doylestown Bookshop , a welcoming, independent bookstore. Grab a beer at Geronimo Brewing, try the small plates at Honey , or sample farm-to-table goodness at Heirloom Doylestown.

Learn about history at the Bucks County Civil War Museum

Anyone who has been to Gettysburg knows the important role that Pennsylvania played in the Civil War. The Bucks County Civil War Museum gets even more detailed, looking at the contributions of Bucks County residents, especially the 104th Pennsylvania Volunteer “Ringgold” Regiment that originated in the area.

The Museum houses hundreds of artifacts, including maps, photos, flags, and works of art that tell the story of the War and offer a look at local life during wartime and its aftermath. Additionally, the library offers over 1500 research resources for people engaged in Civil War studies.

Visit Michener Art Museum

One of the cultural cornerstones of Bucks County, the Michener Art Museum is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying artwork from the Delaware Valley region. In its spacious galleries, visitors can enjoy the largest public collection of Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings along with temporary exhibits featuring photography, sculpture, and other works.

As a regional art museum , the Michener pays particular attention to showcasing art students and up-and-coming artists as well as established talents. It hosts a broad range of special events, including conversations with artists, lectures, classes, and performances, so there is always something new to experience in this special space. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden, which is free to visit.

Enjoy Washington Crossing Historic Park

The night of Christmas 1776, George Washington led his battle-weary Revolutionary War army in a daring move crossing the Delaware River from Pennsylvania to New Jersey. The next morning the troops arrived in Trenton where they achieved an important victory and helped re-energize a war effort that had been flagging. Washington Crossing Historic Park is a 500-acre park that preserves the site where the crossing happened and fortunes began to turn.

The park includes restored colonial buildings such as the Thompson-Neely House and McConkey Ferry Inn alongside later structures that show how Pennsylvanians lived and worked in the 19th century. Visitors can also see Bowman’s Hill Tower, which provides panoramic views of the river valley. Scattered among the park grounds are memorials and graves of Revolutionary War soldiers. Regular tours cover different aspects of the park and its buildings.

Wander Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

One of the fun things to do in Bucks County outdoors is to visit the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. The Preserve has a variety of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees that line its trails and meadows across the 134-acre area. The website for the Preserve highlights what’s in bloom in each season, so visitors always know what they can expect to see.

Walking around the Preserve, you’ll see water features, a creek, a pond, and physical structures like a stone arch bridge and log cabin—both of which date from 1933. It’s an excellent site for bird watching, and there are regular birding programs along with wildflower walks, workshops, and other educational offerings.

See the view from Bowman’s Hill Tower

One of the area’s most incredible views comes from the top of Bowman’s Hill Tower. From this 125-foot-tall tower, visitors can see up to 14 miles on a clear day, including the Delaware River and the surrounding countryside. It’s particularly impressive in the fall when you can have a bird’s-eye view of the Bucks County foliage.

An elevator takes you most of the way to the top, but there are 23 final stairs up a spiral staircase. (Note: the elevator is frequently out of service, so doublecheck before you go, if this is a deal breaker for you.)

Get outside at Lake Nockamixon

At the heart of Lake Nockamixon State Park is the lake itself. Spanning more than 1450 acres, Lake Nockamixon is popular for boating, fishing, and even more unexpected activities like windsurfing. Some areas near the lake close for the winter season, but some trails and picnicking and fishing areas remain open year-round, so it’s a great place to spend time outside , no matter what the season.

Visit Byers’ Choice Christmas Museum

Known around the world, Byers Choice Carolers are a symbol of Christmas to many people. Over the last 50+ years, these distinctive wooden figurines have run the gamut of Christmas-related characters, and the line now includes Carolers for other holidays, too. At the Visitors Center and Christmas Museum in Chalfont , visitors can see many of the figures in Christmas scenes year-round and watch artisans at work handcrafting new pieces to love.

Try gourmet water ice at Yardley Ice House

Yardley Ice House is a destination for sweets lovers around greater Philadelphia. This water ice and ice cream shop is known for having some of the most creative flavors in the area and makes every local “best of” list you’ll find.

From roughly mid-March through early October, Yardley Ice House serves gourmet flavors like coconut cream pie, cherry Bordeaux, and raspberry truffle, along with weekly special additions. The menu also includes milkshakes, floats, sundaes, and other desserts. It’s cash only.

Go wine tasting at Bucks County wineries

Bucks County is home to 10 wineries that offer a variety of sweet fruit wines and dry, European-style wines like Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. Some—like Wycombe Vineyard and Winery—are on historic farms owned by families that have lived in Pennsylvania for generations. Others like the iconic Sand Castle Winery were founded by Europeans drawing on a long heritage of wine-making tradition. Check out these offerings or the other special spots on the Bucks County Wine Trail .

Enjoy Delaware Canal State Park

At nearly 60 miles long, the towpath of Delaware Canal State Park connects historic towns, farms, and riverfront property spanning from Easton to Bristol. It’s the perfect place for runners, walkers, and bikers on a nice day.

The state park itself is 830 acres, crossing two counties. In addition to the towpath, there is a 50-acre pond and 11 river islands, which keep the scenery interesting. Depending on the time of year, there are opportunities for fishing, hiking, boating, and cross-country skiing. The restored Locktender’s House in New Hope has exhibits on the history of the canal locks, and the adjacent Lock 11 shows how boats moved through the waterway.

Stroll around New Hope

One of the top places to visit in Bucks County, the riverfront town of New Hope is filled with shops, restaurants, natural attractions, and beautiful river views. Shop along Main Street, grab lunch at the New Hope Ferry Market, and ride the antique coaches of the New Hope Railroad . Stroll the bridge across the Delaware River to explore the equally lovely Lambertville, New Jersey, on the other side.

Make a weekend of it and book a night at the historic Aaron Burr House, a cute bed and breakfast with a fascinating backstory—it’s the place Burr fled after killing Alexander Hamilton in their famous duel.

See a show at Bucks County Playhouse

First built in 1790, the Bucks County Playhouse began its journey as a theater in 1938. For decades, it was essentially the testing ground for Broadway—plays and actors debuted here in the summer, were workshopped, and moved on to the big leagues nearby in Manhattan.

The Playhouse hosted works by Neil Simon and was the site of Grace Kelly’s acting debut. Actors like Robert Redford, Angela Lansbury, and Dick van Dyke graced its stage. Bucks County Playhouse operates year-round, welcoming thousands of visitors to see its regular performances. It also has a restaurant with beautiful riverfront views.

See the historic stone houses

The county is full of many historic stone buildings built in the 1700s and early 1800s. Many of them have earned spots on the National Register of Historic Places thanks to their significance.

A driving tour connects the stone houses, or they can be seen individually. Some, like the Buckingham Friends Meeting House that dates from 1768, are open to the public. Others, like the London Purchase Farm that served as the headquarters for General Henry Knox and Captain Alexander Hamilton during the American Revolution, are private homes. If you’re hoping to actually visit one of the buildings, check its status before you go.

Visit Shady Brook Farm

A visit to Shady Brook Farm is one of the top things to do in Bucks County any time of the year. With a large farm market and garden center , visitors can find everything from mulch and flowers to vine-ripened tomatoes and turkey wraps. Don’t miss Uncle Dave’s Homemade Ice Cream, especially when the pumpkin flavor is available in the fall.

The special events are what really attract visitors to Shady Brook, one of the last historic working farms in the county. Tickets to their spectacular holiday light show are always in demand, kids love the pumpkin picking and hayrides , there is a meet-and-great with the Easter bunny in the spring, and much more. Pick-your-own apples, strawberries, and other fruits are also very popular in-season.

Tour the Pearl S. Buck House

The Pearl S. Buck House —a National Historic Landmark—is the former home of the Nobel- and Pulitzer Prize-winning author for whom it is named. The 1825 farmhouse is filled with Buck’s original furniture and possessions, and a tour here tells the story of her accomplishments and her dedication to philanthropic causes.

In addition to her distinguished writing career, Buck focused her efforts on bringing attention to causes that mattered to her. Foremost among them were women’s rights, civil rights, and adoption—with a special focus on children of mixed race who were considered “unadoptable” at the time. Features throughout the house tour ask visitors to reflect on the causes that matter to them and “what type of activist” they are.

During the holidays, the house is decorated with Christmas trees sponsored by local charities and community organizations, which gives them a platform to share their mission.

Visit the Garden of Reflection

The Garden of Reflection in Yardley is Pennsylvania’s official 9/11 Memorial. It was built in honor of the 18 Bucks County residents who died in the terrorist attacks. Their families were instrumental in the memorial’s development.

The memorials that are part of the Garden of Reflection cover 2.5 acres and are surrounded by a 2-acre Oak Garden Arboretum set within the much larger Memorial Park. As a result, there is plenty of room to reflect and enjoy the space—in fact, that what it’s intended for.

In addition to the Memorial, the park is meant to be a vibrant, joy-filled space. It is often full of people walking their dogs, exercising, and having fun. There is a playground as well as a basketball court, volleyball nets, a sports field, and a community garden. The whole thing is meant to be full of life and life-affirming.

Explore the Underground Railroad sites

Before the Civil War, Bucks County was an important location for people fleeing slavery and making their way further north. As a result, the area is home to many sites that were stops on the Underground Railroad—the secret network of places that provided safety and shelter to formerly enslaved people seeking freedom.

Some notable stops include the Buckingham Friends Meeting House (also mentioned above) whose members frequently hosted lectures by prominent abolitionists and the Continental Tavern , which was connected to other local buildings by an actual underground passage. The Newtown Theatre, which was an assembly hall in the 1800s, hosted many anti-slavery meetings, including speeches by noted abolitionists Lucretia Mott and Frederick Douglass. In Bristol, you’ll find a statue honoring Harriet Tubman, the Conductor of the Underground Railroad. Checking out these sites and others is an interesting way to learn about the county’s history.

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Top 11 Things to Do in Bucks County, Pennsylvania

About an hour north of Philadelphia, quiet Bucks County offers five mandatory offerings: farm-fresh, beautifully prepared food, cozy lodging, eclectic shopping, breathtaking scenery (prime for outdoorsy activities), and deep-rooted history—with a big dash of culture. An expansive 622 miles square and edged by the Delaware River, its two main towns, New Hope and Doylestown, have all the comforts you need in a manageable size. Head out on its pastoral lanes, and you’ll come across covered bridges, wineries, rambling farmhouses, grazing horses, woodsy parks, and glimmering lakes. This is a captivating place to come for a weekend getaway—and dream of staying forever.

Visit Mercer Mile

One of Doylestown’s most eccentric characters was archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer, responsible for three of its most fascinating sites. The Harvard-educated millionaire and arts-and-crafts advocate devoted the late 19th and early 20th centuries to preserving preindustrial tools of the past. As such, he built the six-story, concrete Mercer Museum and filled it to the gills (even hanging from the ceilings and walls) with wacky, intriguing odes to the past, including a gallows, vintage dental equipment, Conestoga wagons, a whaleboat, and cigar store figures. Mercer lived a mile away in Fonthill Castle , a crazy mix of medieval, gothic, and byzantine styles that he designed himself—and built without blueprints (explaining the dead-ends and uneven stairs). Just like the museum, it’s all poured-in-place concrete—even some of the built-in furniture pieces are concrete—and maybe not the warmest abode in town. That said, it’s a showplace for his tiles, both from around the world as well as those made in his own kilns. Mercer founded the nearby Moravian Pottery & Tile Works, which still reissues handmade tiles and offers tours that delve into the factory’s tile production.

See Where Washington Crossed the Icy Delaware

Courtesy of Washington Crossing Historic Park

You probably know the iconic scene of General George Washington crossing the ice-choked Delaware River on the cold Christmas night of 1776, thanks to Emanuel Leutze’s iconic painting, which hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The fascinating story of how that crossing was achieved—including 2,400 of his Continental army, cannon, horses, and wagons—and how it resulted in a victory that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War, is told at Washington Crossing Historic Park. Three main sites have been preserved in two different sections. The troops encamped for three weeks in the park’s upper section, about 2.5 miles south of New Hope. Officers resided in the Thompson-Neely Farmstead here, with soldiers camping on the property’s frozen fields. Nearby, the Thompson-Neely Grist Mill provided much-needed flour to hungry troops. The actual crossing site, 5 miles farther south, has a visitor center with exhibits—and panoramic views of the fabled river. Here, too, a barn holds replicas of the Durham boats used to make the crossing, as well as the McConkey’s Ferry Inn, where Washington and his troops enjoyed Christmas dinner.

Bike or Hike Through Nature

Bucks County’s bucolic rolling hills harbor a collection of parks offering idyllic nature escapes. In what may be the biggest coup for residents and visitors alike is Delaware Canal State Park , which preserves a historic, 60-mile-long towpath that wanders past islands, pocket woods, historic buildings, and small towns. Hop on a portion to stroll, bike, or run along the riffling river. At Tyler State Park in Newtown, take to the trails by bike, hiking boot, or horse to explore woods and historic farmland. Its various sections are divided by Neshaminy Creek. And Core Creek Park , in Middletown Township, has lakeside picnic areas, canoeing and hiking on Lake Luxembourg, and biking and hiking on woodsy trails. Other notables include Peace Valley Park , Nockamixon State Park , and Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, with nearly 1,000 native plants, a meadow, a pond, and a creek. You can also hike the woodsy, trail-laced grounds of Fonthill Castle.

Browse Antiques and Craft Shops in New Hope

Just four streets comprise the little town of New Hope on the Delaware. Still, here you’ll find an abundance of shops occupying historic buildings that purvey all kinds of fun, eclectic fare: antiques, handcrafted products, stone jewelry, leather hats, hand-made porcelain bowls, meticulously designed drawer pulls, natural jerky, handcrafted bath salts, and the list goes on. Just the names themselves are enticing: Love Saves the Day (collectibles), Cockamamie’s (antiques), and Exquisite Earth (jewelry), for example. Another option is Peddler’s Village , about 5 miles west of New Hope, where 65-plus craft and gift shops sit among landscaped gardens and brick pathways. It’s especially fun when it’s all decked out during the holidays.

Take a Self-Guided Covered Bridge Driving Tour

There’s something exceedingly nostalgic about covered bridges, and in Bucks County, you’ll find 12 of these historic structures that will zip you back to another time. Fifty covered bridges once sprinkled the county, with the last one being built in 1875, part of the trading network to transport goods produced by local mills. Today, Visit Bucks County has put together two self-guided driving tours , a 58.2-mile one focusing on the county’s Eastern Half, and the other, a 37.9-mile loop showcasing the Western Half. Each bridge is special in its own right, but Uhlerstown Covered Bridge, with windows on both sides, is the only one in the county that crosses the Delaware Canal; and Loux Covered Bridge is uniquely painted white. Van Sandt Covered Bridge is an easy-access one located just south of New Hope.

Attend a World-Class Play at Bucks County Playhouse

This down-home theater opened in 1939 in a historic grist mill and is always a fun evening out. It’s far from glitzy, but know that this isn’t just any old small-town theater. Future star actors cut their teeth on its esteemed stage—Grace Kelly, Walter Matthau, Dick Van Dyke, Robert Redford, Rob Reiner, Alan Alda, Liza Minnelli, John Lithgow, and so many more. Also, plays hoping for Broadway are tested out here first, with one of the most famous being Neil Simon’s "Barefoot in the Park" in 1963.

Check Out Underground Railroad Stops

Magicpiano / Wikimedia Commons

Enslaved individuals fleeing north toward freedom before the Civil War found shelter in several hidden locations in Bucks County, including churches, taverns, and private farms. Today you can visit some of these sites, including an African Methodist Episcopal church in Bensalem that served as a safe station; the immaculately restored Continental Tavern , which offers tavern fare; and the 1780 Wedgwood Inn in New Hope, where a network of underground tunnels hides beneath a hatch in the property’s gazebo. Two driving tours organized by Visit Bucks County—one in Upper and Central Bucks County, and the other in Lower Bucks County—link the most interesting sites.

Sip Your Way Through the County

Every good destination has its share of wineries and breweries, and Bucks County is no exception. The Bucks County Wine Trail links eight wineries, offering tasting experiences, beautiful settings, and special events; you can drive yourself (responsibly) or arrange a driver—or target one or two. Family-owned Buckingham Valley Vineyards and Winery , in Buckingham, is one of the state’s oldest farm wineries (founded in 1966) and is the county’s only winery producing Methode Champenoise sparkling wine; while Rose Bank Winery , in Newtown, sits on land once owned by William Penn and includes a 1719 stone manor house and 1835 barn. The Bucks County Ale Trail connects more than 20 breweries, each producing unique craft brews; most offer food as well. For starters: Doylestown Brewing Company has been brewing for more than 70 years, with its flagship RS Lager based on an old PA lager dating from the late 1800s; while Vault Brewing Company in Yardley, housed in a 19th-century bank, has a rotational on-tap selection that uses unexpected seasonal ingredients.

Pair Dinner with Delaware River Views

Courtesy of Stella

Local restaurants reap the benefits of Bucks County’s rural location—with the freshest products on hand to whip into tantalizing dishes. Add a panoramic view of the Delaware River, and you’ve found an idyllic combo—and the options are plentiful. The Yardley Inn has porch seating on which to enjoy contemporary comfort food. Both intimate Nektar Wine Bar and chef Jose Garces’ Stella , both in New Hope, serve small dishes to share, while Francisco’s on the River in Washington Crossing features Mediterranean and Italian eats. And if you don’t need a river with your fine dining, head to the Restaurant at Barley Sheaf Farm for award-winning seasonal fare overlooking flowery gardens.

Admire Local Art

It’s no surprise that this exceedingly picturesque county has long been an artist magnet. You’ll find the works of local artists—much of it depicting Bucks County scenes—hanging in inns and restaurants and being sold in galleries throughout the county. Though if there’s one place to see the most stellar works, head to the Michener Art Museum , which displays a small but enviable collection of Pennsylvania Impressionists (Edward Redfield, Daniel Garber, Fran Coppedge), a fountain-graced sculpture garden, as well as a serene room designed by local furniture maker George Nakashima. The museum is named after James Michener, the Pulitzer-Prize-award-winning novelist who grew up in Doylestown. When the town set about opening an art museum in 1988, he lent it his name. One room near the entrance is dedicated to Michener and includes artifacts, including his old typewriter. The museum occupies the old county prison, and while the interior is completely modern and state of the art, the old stone walls surrounding it add to the ambiance.

Sleep In an Enchanting Inn

Courtesy of River House at Odette's

One of the reasons Bucks County is such an ideal getaway is its wealth of beautifully tended inns, B&Bs, and hotels. Many occupy historic houses, including Pineapple Hill Inn B&B just south of New Hope. Built as a stagecoach stop in 1812, the genteel manor house sits on 5 acres of landscaped grounds and includes a yummy breakfast. And then there’s the brand-new River House at Odette’s in New Hope, a modern boutique hotel filled with local art, lots of warm wood and river rock, and unobstructed Delaware River. Inspired by Odette Myrtil, a French-American actress who established a cabaret restaurant on the spot, River House artfully displays artifacts from the original building and presents live cabaret performances in the two-story piano lounge. Playwright George S. Kaufman owned the 1740 Inn at Barley Sheaf Farm in Holicong, now a luxury hotel, restaurant, and spa on 100 acres.

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Barn Voyage! – Central Bucks County

Unwind as you drive down the picturesque back roads of Bucks County, and take notice of the beauty around you. Bucks County’s history and heritage is deeply rooted in its landscape, and we are fortunate to have much of it still intact. This series of self-guided driving barn tours of Bucks County will help you to explore our truly unique countryside while learning about its history along the way. Many of our “castles in the fields” stood witness to the American Revolution and the founding of this country. Whether they are still being used on working farms or adaptively reused as houses or offices, barns remain relevant fixtures and guardians of the history of our county and country.

We hope that by learning about and recognizing the beauty of these barns, you will be inspired to help protect them. Enjoy discovering the story of Bucks County through these iconic structures. Barn voyage! Please remember: most barns featured on this tour are privately owned, so enjoy them from a distance! A smartphone and a navigating buddy are recommended for this tour.

To request a printed brochure for this tour, contact Alex at [email protected].

This tour was made possible thanks in part to funding from Visit Bucks County .

Print out turn-by-turn driving directions to embark on this self-guided driving tour.

NOTE: Some of the following addresses are not exact, but they will get you in the general vicinity of the barn. Because many barns were built across from their respective houses, it can be difficult to determine a barn’s address!

Use hashtag #barnvoyage when posting on social media!

The “a-bridged” version of the tour takes you through one of Bucks County’s historic covered bridges!

Please remember: most barns featured on this tour are privately owned, so enjoy them from a distance!

Upon construction of the larger, deeper, easterly addition in 1835, additional stonework was added to the first section, and the barn was raised to allow for a unified ridgeline for both barns. This alteration, which is clearly visible in the west gable, creates an uneven gable roof on the original section. Two louvered ventilators are located on the raised portion of the southerly façade just under the roofline. The space surmounting the threshing doors is frame, rather than stone.

Following a fire in 1914, George L. Eastburn had contractor John K. LaRue build the barn that you see today. Along with the original barn, George L. Eastburn lost his hay houses, wagon house, four corncribs, machine house, chicken house, and other small structures and their contents in the fire. The barn contained 30 tons of baled hay, 15 tons of loose hay, 800 bushels of oats, a loaded hay wagon, thresher and cleaner and other machinery, and ten tons of fertilizer. With the wagonhouse went a market wagon and Benjamin Eastburn’s automobile, and with the cribs, 175 bushels or more of corn were destroyed, resulting in a loss estimated at $6,000. The newspaper reported that as many as a thousand people were at the scene during the afternoon and evening, many of whom assisted in every way they could in checking the flames and removing articles from burning or threatened buildings.

This farm is prominently situated on a hill near the intersection of Greenhill and Mechanicsville Roads. The buildings can only be seen at a distance. There are three barns on the property, one of which is a stone barn with a frame threshing area and is highlighted by ventilation slits that have been partially converted to residential use. There is an unusually long stone barn with a slightly projecting frame forebay and several large wall dormers for access to granaries. This second barn is extremely unusual in that it is quite long and narrow; it is without precedent in Bucks County. 19th century advertisements suggest that this was a “cow house” rather than a typical grain and stabling barn. The third barn is a frame bank barn that was moved to the site and placed on the foundations of another barn. Other buildings on the site include a stone piggery, stone smoke house, vault, and frame double corncrib. These buildings are only visible from a distance along the route. A side-trip down Greenhill Road will provide a better view.

This is a three-bay barn. The central bay (original threshing floor) appears to have been originally wood frame construction. The barn features two doors in the gable end of the east gable with a wider one providing access to a horse stable. There are no doors on the opposite gable end of the barn; the access to the stable area in this end of the barn is on the barnyard elevation.

There is in the interior of the east gable (facing the house) a date stone with the date of 1786. The unusual location of the date stone most likely is due to the fact that someone added a large window in the gable. Presumably the window was installed where the original date stone was located and the stone was rescued and relocated below the window on the interior. Many of current window openings which are now glazed were originally protected by wooden louvers. The frames still show the tenons where the original louvers would have been installed in the frames.

The barn was designed by renowned architect, R. Brognard Okie, who was known for his colonial restorations, which include the Betsy Ross House and Pennsbury Manor. Built in 1934, the barn provided cool, dry storage for grain, straw, and hay as well as horse stalls. In 1994, BCAS acquired the barn along with 55 acres. The renovation of the barn was completed in 1998. Historic photographs and information are on display. The property is located on land that is protected by a conservation easement administered by Heritage Conservancy. BCAS often holds public events, so feel free to get out and explore this barn and its surrounding area.

The original section of the low barn has a central door and long ventilator slits and is probably contemporary to the first section of the house that dates to 1748. The English three-bay stone barn is highlighted by narrow ventilation slits.

According to several date stones, the original section of the house was built by Enoch Pearson in 1748. The original stone section of the barn was probably built around the same time, making it one of the oldest barns in Bucks County. The current owners renovated the barn, replacing the old asbestos siding with wood siding. Inside, a floor was constructed for the adaptive reuse of the barn.

Bonus Barns:

Other Places to Visit:

Located down the road from the Thompson-Neely barn, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve showcases an extraordinary diversity of plants native to Pennsylvania and the Delaware Valley region. Of the approximately 2000 species native to Pennsylvania, the Preserve is home to nearly 800 of them. The goal of the Preserve is to encourage the public to visit, enjoy, and learn about the richness of Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.

Climb aboard the New Hope & Ivyland passenger train and travel into a scene from the past. Relax and leave your cares behind as you journey into history, learning what rail travel was like for your parents, grandparents or great-grandparents.

Discover a historic village with charming colonial-style buildings, award-winning gardens, and distinctive shopping, dining, and lodging. For more than 50 years, visitors have followed the winding brick pathways to experience exceptional dining, explore the best of Bucks County shopping, enjoy family fun at Giggleberry Fair, escape from the everyday to a getaway at the Golden Plough Inn, and celebrate favorite traditions at seasonal festivals and annual events.

From this site, General George Washington and men of the Continental Army and militia crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night 1776 and marched to Trenton, NJ. There, they attacked and defeated Hessian troops quartered in and around the village. This surprise attack and victory set the stage for Washington’s subsequent victories at the Second Battle of Trenton and Princeton.

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Your self-guided tour of Bucks County’s covered bridges

There used to be at least 50 such bridges in the county. only a dozen 19th-century covered bridges remain..

• Sana Mahmud, Gina Kim

A sign about the history of Uhlerstown sits at the entrance of the bridge. (Gina E. Kim/WHYY)

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Historical context for the Bucks County bridges: A journey through time

Tips for a self-guided tour of the covered bridges:.

• The tour of the covered bridges takes roughly three-and-a-half hours. Along the way, you can experience the many treasures of Bucks County including wineries, rolling pastures, farmhouses, historical landmarks, and main street shopping and restaurants.
• If you are a fan of local breweries, Bencivengo recommends the Bucks County Ale Trail . Visiting five breweries on the trail earns you a free T-shirt.
• Drive with caution. Motorcycles frequent the roads and much of the tour is made up of narrow and winding gravel streets against steep hills. Many of the bridges are one-way. Be prepared to yield to oncoming cars before driving through.
• Plan your meal breaks and pack enough snacks. You can make pit stops at the Peddler’s Village , Doylestown , and New Hope .
• Except for Schofield Ford Covered Bridge, none of the other bridges have designated parking.

The tour is divided into two loops. The self-guided driving tour takes you through the county and will have you starting and ending at the Washington Crossing Historic Park.

1. Starting point: The Eastern Half Loop

This loop is 58.2 miles and takes about two and a half hours to complete.

Washington Crossing Historic Park Visitor Center

The tour begins at the park’s visitor center. There is a large parking lot across the street. You can access walking and biking trails and explore a scenic view of the Delaware River. You can also visit the spot where George Washington crossed the river during the Revolutionary War.

2. Van Sandt Covered Bridge

This bridge is about 6 miles from the park and sits over Pidcock Creek. Van Sandt was constructed in 1875 and is rumored to be haunted. It is nicknamed “the crybaby bridge,” and is a stop on the Haunted Bucks County driving tour . According to legend, a young woman killed her child and herself on the bridge and their cries can still be heard at night. With no place to pull over, it is best to drive through the bridge and avoid any ghosts.

3. Loux Covered Bridge

13 miles away from Van Sandt is the Loux. It crosses Cabin Run Creek. Built in 1874 and owned by the state of Pennsylvania, it is named after John A. Loux, who was the “longest-tenured justice of the peace in Bucks County.” The one-lane bridge does not have a place to pull over but it takes you through picturesque winding roads and is surrounded by charming landscapes.

4. Cabin Run Covered Bridge

Cabin Run Covered Bridge is nestled against Tohickon Creek and is 2 miles away from the Loux. In the 19th century, this area had an abundance of log cabins and stone houses. The bridge is named after them. During the Revolutionary War, the area was said to be utilized by the Doan Boys, a gang of Loyalist brothers.

Assembled in 1871, the bridge is only half a mile from Tohickon Valley Park and is the perfect spot to enjoy the creek and take a break from driving. The park is equipped with picnic benches and portable toilets.

5. Frankenfield Covered Bridge

4.3 miles away from Cabin Run is the fourth bridge on the tour. Created in 1872, Frankenfield sits on a busy road and spans Tinicum Creek. At 130 feet, it is one of the longest-covered bridges. The bridge is named after Henry Frankenfield, a contractor who lived in the nearby village of Sundale. According to a history book about Montgomery County , Frankenfield’s “influence and workmanship may be found in many of the finest buildings in Bucks County.”

6. Erwinna Covered Bridge

About 3 miles away is the shortest bridge on the tour. Constructed in the mid-1850s, the 56-feet long Erwinna’s white paint, lattice-type construction, and American flag make it arguably one of the most eye-catching bridges. The bridge is nestled between two homes and sits on the 528-acre property Colonel Arthur Erwin purchased in 1769. The colonel served in the Bucks County militia and aided George Washington by rallying his soldiers to assist in the 1776 Delaware River crossing.

7. Uhlerstown Covered Bridge

The Uhlerstown Bridge lies hidden amongst tall trees, horse farms, and houses that seem almost stacked on top of the bridge. The oak bridge, 2.5 miles away from Erwinna, was built in 1855. It is the only covered bridge that crosses the Delaware Canal in Bucks County. It was named after Michael Uhler, a local canal boat builder and the first postmaster who founded Uhlerstown. Uhler’s business with the canal system employed around 100 people in 1887. The historic area was also once known as “Mexico” according to a plaque by the bridge.

Uhlerstown Hill Road is a one-way street west of the bridge and is closed from December to April.

8. Knecht’s Covered Bridge

15 miles from Uhlerstown is Knecht’s Covered Bridge in Springfield. The wide, open road surrounding the bridge is a welcoming contrast to the thin and winding roads connected to the other bridges. The bridge is surrounded by sleek black fences and a sprawling pasture. It was constructed in 1873. The bridge that connects Durham Creek was also known as “Slifer’s Bridge”. Knechts sits on fertile land lived on by German settlers in the early 1700s. The bridge’s location is said to be the path of the 1737 Walking Purchase.

9. Sheard’s Mill Covered Bridge

7.6 miles from Knechts and the last stop on the Eastern Half Loop is the Sheard’s Mill Covered Bridge. This bridge was constructed in 1873 and sits near a mill. John Clymer, the owner of a local mill in East Rockhill Township, utilized the facilities for feed and apple cider up until the 1980s.

Ready for a break from driving? The bridge is close to many local attractions including downtown Perkasie and Lake Nockamixon , which is great for hiking, boat rides, and more.

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The Western Half Loop

This loop is 37.3 miles and takes about an hour and a half to drive through.

10. Mood’s Covered Bridge

6.6 miles from the end of the Eastern Half Loop is the first bridge on the Western Loop. Built in 1874, Mood’s Covered Bridge now sits in the middle of a residential area in Perkasie and is one of the most used covered bridges.An average of 2,000 vehicles cross through this span daily. However, the bridge that you can cross today is not the original. In June 2004, the bridge was set on fire by arsonists and it had to be replaced.

Mood’s is next to an athletics field with parking spots perfect for pulling over and taking selfies and photos.

11. South Perkasie Covered Bridge

Only 2 miles from Mood’s lies the remains of the South Perkasie Covered Bridge. Constructed in 1832, this is the third oldest Town Lattice bridge in the country. In 1958, the Perkasie Historical Society relocated the bridge from Pleasant Spring Creek to Lenape Park to save it from demolition. It is now owned and conserved by Perkasie Borough.

Bomboy believes that South Perkasie is the most authentic covered bridge in the state.

“You don’t see a lot of original bridges because the ones on road service are constantly being rehabbed, but it was taken out of service in 1958.”

A 2021 storm damaged the bridge. It has been undergoing renovations since.

This bridge is currently off-limits to commuters and tourists but can be viewed from a distance. Bomboy said it will probably reopen in a year’s time.

12. Pine Valley Covered Bridge

Pine Valley is 8.7 miles away and is the second oldest covered bridge in the county. This bridge was built in 1842 and crosses Pine Creek Run. This bridge is adjacent to the popular Covered Bridge Park . Its location makes Pine Valley a favorite among locals.

Drive with caution. Oncoming traffic does not stop at one entrance of the bridge. If you are visiting at night, you may see the bridge lit up.

Local tip: On your way to the next bridge, stop at Tanner Brothers Dairy Farm in Ivyland for their famous chocolate milk and ice cream.

13. Schofield Ford Covered Bridge

About 15 miles from Pine Valley is the last covered bridge on the tour. It is the only bridge that is not painted and has a rich history. Schofield Ford Covered Bridge was destroyed by arsonists in 1991.

“It was rebuilt by the local carpenters…and took them four years to raise the money to pay for the steel substructure. The state didn’t pay for everything. All the local carpenters took a month off, they scavenged the wood, and they rebuilt the bridge into an exact replica of the one that was burned,” Bomboy said.

Today, the bridge sits in the middle of Tyler State Park and is reachable by trail. Find a parking spot and walk or bike to the bridge to enjoy the creek and surrounding nature.

The Schofield covered bridge is really instagrammable, Bencivengo said. It’s a favorite spot for wedding photographers and ballerinas.

14. End back at Washington Crossing Historic Park

The Bucks County covered bridge driving tour is now complete. You can now adventure through the park or nearby towns such as New Hope for a bite by the river.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

How To Spend An Amazing Weekend In Bucks County, Pennsylvania

Robin O'Neal Smith

• Destinations
• Pennsylvania
• United States

People often visit Philadelphia and forget about its neighbor, rural Bucks County. But here, visitors will find an appealing environment filled with history, famous landmarks, quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and friendly faces.

Bucks County is a lovely countryside getaway ideal for the mature traveler. Sitting north of Philadelphia along the Delaware River, it includes the charming towns of Bristol, Quakertown, Sellersville, Doylestown, New Hope, Newtown, and Yardley.

Here are some ideas for spending an amazing weekend in Bucks County. While the area is beautiful in winter, summer and fall are the best times to visit for the most pleasant outdoor adventure.

Visit Bucks County hosted my stay and activities in New Hope, Encore Rides sponsored our bike tour, and Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve provided a free guided tour. All opinions remain my own.

Things To Do In Bucks County

In Bucks County, there are lots of things to see and do within a half-hour drive. These include state parks, biking trails, horseback riding opportunities, farmers markets, a castle, a railroad, shopping, the Bucks County River Country, breweries, a wildflower preserve, and more.

Robin O’Neal Smith

Take A Bike Tour Of The Delaware Canal Towpath

The Delaware Canal Towpath is a National Recreation Trail that runs along a 19th-century canal built to transport coal from the Upper Lehigh Valley to Philadelphia. You can walk or ride a bike along the path; however, you can cover more ground and see more by bike.

On the towpath, you’ll pass by forests, historic river towns, scenic farms, and quaint buildings. Most of the trail is smooth and relatively wide, but there are a few narrow spots along the way.

One exciting thing about this ride is the loops created by the bridges across the river to New Jersey. You can ride a single loop for 7 miles or all five loops for a 16.5-mile ride. It’s easy to access all the loop points along the trail.

If it is your first time riding the Delaware Canal Towpath, you might want to consider a guided bike tour. Rick at Encore Rides provides an interesting and enjoyable tour that includes a waterfall, tidbits of history, facts about the various towns, and safety instructions for crossing the various bridges and traversing the narrow areas.

Hike Through A State Park

Hike or bike through the sprawling Tyler State Park or Neshaminy State Park or bring a blanket and some takeout treats to enjoy on a picnic.

Linda Harms / Shutterstock

Explore Washington Crossing Historic Park

Washington Crossing Historic Park marks the spot where George Washington’s army crossed the Delaware on Christmas Day in 1776. The 500-acre site has been preserved, and you can view restored colonial buildings in the park. The park also contains Revolutionary War soldiers’ graves, stone memorials, Bowman’s Hill Tower , and picnic pavilions. Online reservations are required for guided tours and also for entry to Bowman’s Hill Tower.

Ride The New Hope Railroad

Hop on an open-air car and enjoy a ride on an excursion train on the New Hope Railroad . The train departs from the train station in New Hope and chugs along through the Bucks County countryside. Narration about the sights is provided during the ride.

Tour A Castle

An entire castle made of cement is located in Doylestown. Henry Chapman Mercer’s Fonthill Castle has 44 rooms and is considered an architectural masterpiece. The castle is decorated with homemade tiles and has over 6,000 books on its shelves. Allow some time to walk the grounds during your visit or, better yet, take a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the pond. Guided tours of the inside the castle are available, but you’ll need to call ahead for reservations. Be aware that there are steps in various places in the castle.

The Mercer Museum exhibits 18th- and 19th-century items in another six-floor castle located along the Mercer Mile in Doylestown.

Float Down The Delaware

Cool off in the river on a hot summer day by renting a tube, kayak, canoe, or raft and relaxing on the Delaware with Bucks County River Country . They even have two-person tubes, so you can stay near your partner the entire trip down the river.

When we visited, we kayaked, and it was so peaceful and serene. I can’t wait to go back. Plan to spend at least 4 hours on your river excursion.

Get Lost In Wildflowers

Stop and smell the wildflowers! Stroll through Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve and spot tons of native flowers. There are nine different hiking paths to follow, and they are all easy to moderate. They also have a gift shop and plant store.

Be aware that you might come into contact with poison ivy if you go off the trail and walk through the wooded area.

While there, you might want to visit the nearby Bowman’s Hill Tower, where you can see up to 14 miles away.

Cross Covered Bridges

Bucks County is home to 12 beautiful covered bridges. Enjoy a scenic drive to see them all. Most are in northern Bucks County. You can get directions to these architectural landmarks here .

Learn About The Underground Railroad

Bucks County once served as a key stop for enslaved persons as they traveled the Underground Railroad to freedom. Today, you can take an educational driving tour to follow the Underground Railroad stops in Bucks County.

There are 15 Underground Railroad sites in Bucks County. At the Wedgwood Inn (where I stayed when in New Hope), a gazebo in the side yard hides an entry down to the tunnel system of the Underground Railroad.

Take The Wine Trail

You can experience local flavors along the Bucks County Wine Trail . There is also an ale trail and a distillery tour.

Listen To Ringing Rocks

Visit Ringing Rocks Park to swing a hammer and hear some of the rocks ringing like bells in a field of boulders. This is a most unique experience. If you hike a bit beyond the boulders, you’ll be rewarded with a waterfall.

Be sure to take your own hammer, since the park does not provide anything with which to ring the rocks. This excursion is for the sure-footed traveler. The path is flat and smooth, but navigating the rocks would be difficult for those with mobility issues.

Best Restaurants In Bucks County

Karla’s restaurant & bar.

Karla’s Restaurant & Bar has a great eclectic menu and drinks including blood orange martinis and margaritas. I enjoyed my first-ever martini at Karla’s.

On Mondays, they have a special local menu featuring dinner and dessert for one price.

Havana’s Restaurant

Another excellent choice is Havana’s Restaurant in New Hope. They serve American and Mexican food. Be sure to try the delicious sesame-coated onion rings. Nightly entertainment is also on offer.

Bucks County Sweet Spots Trail

Indulge your sweet tooth by conquering the Bucks County Sweet Spots Trail . You will find everything from ice cream to donuts and other sweet delicacies.

Where To Stay In Bucks County

Wedgwood inn.

Set on 2 private acres, the Wedgewood Inn sits in a park-like setting with flower-lined walkways leading to two gazebos and a hammock. It’s just a few steps from New Hope’s historic and vibrant downtown.

Innkeepers Carl and Dinie have a variety of rooms to suit your needs, and breakfast is always home-cooked.

Aaron Burr House

The Aaron Burr House is a lovely Victorian home one block from downtown New Hope. This is the house where Aaron Burr stayed after killing Alexander Hamilton in a duel.

Black Bass Hotel

The Black Bass Hotel boasts a picturesque river view with all the features of a historic local inn. You’ll love their luxurious suites.

You can find other accommodation options in Bucks County here .

Where To Shop In Bucks County

Grab a souvenir (or two) at the fun outdoor shopping area known as Peddler’s Village .

You will find plenty of unique specialty shops in the various towns of Bucks County. Bucks County House of Jerky , Covered Bridge Coffee Roasters , and Brad’s Raw Chips are some of my favorites. You’ll also find shops selling jewelry, clothing, candles, and more.

There is so much to see and do in Bucks County that you could easily spend a full weekend there. You will most certainly want to return for another weekend to enjoy a few additional experiences.

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

Preserve, Protect, Promote

Touring, lodging, dining.

• Tour the Covered Bridges of Bucks County
• Bucks County Travel Bureau Tour
• Local Dining and Lodging
• Cabin Run Covered Bridge
• Erwinna Covered Bridge
• Frankenfield Covered Bridge
• Knecht’s Covered Bridge
• Loux Covered Bridge
• Moods Covered Bridge
• South Perkasie Covered Bridge
• Pine Valley Covered Bridge
• Schofield Ford Covered Bridge
• Sheard’s Mill Covered Bridge
• Uhlerstown Covered Bridge
• Van Sant Covered Bridge
• History of Covered Bridges
• Historian Named New Bucks County Covered Bridge Society Chair
• YouTube: A Brief History of Covered Bridges
• Bridge Parts
• Photo Gallery

The Bucks County Ale Trail

3207 Street Rd Bensalem, PA 19020 Phone: 215-639-0300 Region: Philadelphia & The Countryside

The Bucks County Ale Trail includes more than 20 breweries and taprooms and takes tourists on an adventure from our river towns to the countryside. Visit any Bucks County brewery or the Bucks County Visitor Center in Bensalem or Quakertown to pick up a printed passport or get a free digital passport online. Check-in digitally or get your passport stamped at 5 or more breweries to get a FREE Bucks County Ale Trail T-Shirt!

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ANF Centennial GeoTrail

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Explore the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest while learning about its history and ecology. Search for 28 geocaches hidden across the four counties of ANF (Elk, Forest, McKean and Warren countie...

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Know Before You Go

The Bucks County Wine Trail is thrilled to welcome visitors to our 8 unique wineries!

The Bucks County Wine Trail is comprised of Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery , Buckingham Valley Vineyards , Crossing Vineyards , Manoff Market Cidery , Rose Bank Winery , Rushland Ridge Vineyard & Winery , Sand Castle Winery and Vino By Zzino . Each winery has its own operating hours, unique tasting experiences, per person tasting fees and, in some cases, special events and on-site tours.

There is not a trail-wide ticket available to tour all the wineries. Instead, we invite guests to visit our wineries at their leisure. (Groups should call ahead to the winery you wish to visit and make a reservation).

Tips to Help Plan Your Tour

Before beginning an exciting adventure at our wineries in bucolic Bucks County, we would like to share some tips to be sure our guests have the most enjoyable experience possible. Here are some general things to expect and guidelines to follow:

Planning your trip:   With seven wineries on the Trail, time may not allow you to visit all in one day. We recommend downloading the  Official Bucks County Wine Trail Map  and picking your route ahead of time. You may also want to hire a touring company to drive you. Bucks County offers major tourist attractions, fine dining and many charming B&Bs, so consider an overnight stay.

Enjoying seasonal varieties:   Our wineries offer new releases throughout the year, so consider visiting during different seasons. You can discover new wines and buy your favorite limited-edition wines before they sell out.

Private/group tastings:   Please call ahead to the winery you are planning to visit if you are coming in a group (more than 6 people) or would like a private tasting or tour. Wineries need to staff appropriately to ensure optimal customer service. Tasting fees and offerings vary at each winery. Please ask ahead of time.

Bringing children on the Trail:   The tasting rooms are part of an adult experience that takes place on working farms, active processing facilities and busy parking lots. If you bring children along, please be sure to always accompany them.

Minding your alcohol intake:   Our wineries pour controlled amounts of wines for tasting. However, tasting at several wineries in close succession may cause one to unwittingly consume alcohol above the legal limit. If you intend to visit more than one winery in a day, we recommend you employ a designated driver or limit your wine consumption accordingly.

Please email us at [email protected] with any additional questions.

For reservations to experience “nkwiluntàmën: I long for it; I am lonesome for it (such as the sound of a drum)” by Indigenous artist Nathan Young, please go to https://nkwiluntamen.com/

Pennsbury Manor

Our History

William penn timeline.

Step back in time to the 17th century and immerse yourself in the captivating legacy of William Penn, a visionary who sought solace in the embrace of a country life for his beloved children. Penn’s dream materialized in the spring of 1683 as the construction of his countryside residence commenced, nestled on 43 enchanting acres along the banks of the Delaware River.

Embark on a guided tour , where passionate historians will regale you with tales of William Penn’s life and the historical significance of his estate. Delve deeper into the past with a visit to our award-winning exhibit, “ William Penn: Seed of a Nation,”  providing a nuanced perspective on one of America’s most renowned Quakers and the founding principles that shaped the nation.

Gardening at Pennsbury

In the rich tapestry of colonial America, the English emerged as skilled horticulturalists, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape through the exchange of plants and botanical knowledge across Europe and the burgeoning colonies. At the heart of this botanical fascination was William Penn, a visionary who not only sought to cultivate the land for practical purposes but also viewed gardening as a conduit to understand the divine intricacies of nature.

Penn’s enlightened perspective led him to encourage his dedicated gardeners to venture into the lush surrounding forests, collecting a bounty of plants destined for both the estate’s kitchen garden and the return voyage to England. This exchange of botanical treasures not only enriched the aesthetics of Penn’s estate but also contributed to the broader botanical dialogue between the Old World and the New.

Colonial Americans at Pennsbury

In the intricate tapestry of colonial life , the rhythm of daily existence was orchestrated by the ebb and flow of the seasons, an intricate dance that shaped routines and activities far more profoundly than our contemporary lives. As the warmth of summer bathed the landscape in golden hues, Pennsbury, William Penn’s estate, transformed into a hub of activity, each day unfolding as a chapter in the agrarian symphony of life.

The fields surrounding Pennsbury became a patchwork of vibrant greenery, tended to by diligent hands. Gardens flourished with an array of fruits and vegetables, each carefully selected for its flavor and utility. Residents toiled under the summer sun, nurturing the crops that would soon find their way to the tables of Pennsbury.

Life at Pennsbury & the Colonial Revival

Does Pennsbury Manor look the same as it did 300 years ago? Answering this question evokes a response akin to a confident and emphatic shrug of the shoulders. The available information is simply insufficient to paint a detailed picture of what Pennsbury precisely resembled in the year 1700.

Archaeological evidence does validate the presence of a brick front and a clapboard back, aligning with Penn’s instructions in 1685. In that directive, Penn urged, “what you can do with bricks, do; what you can’t, do it with good timbers… and we can brick it afterwards.” Regrettably, Penn faced the unfortunate circumstance of being unable to see the completion of the brickwork, leaving an unfinished chapter in the architectural evolution of Pennsbury.

The Manor House

Pennsbury Manor, nestled along the banks of the Delaware River, held a multifaceted role in the life of William Penn beyond being a mere family home. Stepping beyond the confines of domesticity, Pennsbury Manor evolved into a dynamic hub, encompassing the dual functions of an office and a center of colonial government whenever Penn graced its halls with his presence.

Within the confines of  The Manor , the stately mansion was not merely a sanctuary for familial ties but transformed into a command center for Penn’s administrative responsibilities. It became the epicenter where decisions crucial to the fledgling colony were conceived and executed. Rooms that echoed with laughter during family gatherings would also resonate with the weighty discussions of governance, policy-making, and the shaping of colonial destinies.

William Penn and American History

Penn, alongside fellow Quakers , embraced the notion that each individual must pursue their own path to connect with God. Beyond this personal conviction, Penn envisioned that fostering religious tolerance, often termed as “liberty of conscience,” would not only strengthen governance but also contribute to the prosperity of societies.

Pennsylvania, under Penn’s guidance, became a haven for settlers of diverse religious backgrounds. Unlike other American colonies, which established official churches, Penn opted for a different course. His vision for Pennsylvania was one where religious pluralism thrived, unencumbered by the establishment of a singular official faith. In this atmosphere of inclusivity, settlers from various religious persuasions found a welcoming home, embodying the very essence of Penn’s commitment to liberty of conscience.

Plan Your Visit

“A country life and estate I like best for my children,” William Penn Situated along the Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Pennsylvania, this 43-acre country estate was the summer home of William Penn, founder and first governor of Pennsylvania.

What was life like 300 years ago? The stories of people who lived and worked at Pennsbury Manor will come to life through living history demonstrations and activities, including gardening, blacksmithing, open-hearth cooking, and more!

School Programs

Pennsbury Manor offers a variety of programs designed specifically for children. We are the only historic site in the country that relates specifically to William Penn, his contributions to Pennsylvania, and his impact on American history. All of our educational programs meet Pennsylvania history standards, and our hands-on approach to learning means that every student has the opportunity to be involved. Programs are offered Tuesdays – Fridays throughout the year. Our Education Program Coordinator will be glad to help you plan your Pennsbury Manor experience!

Distance Learning

A distance learning program from Pennsbury Manor is a great way to bring history to your students from afar! Whether you are in the classroom, at home, or using hybrid learning, a distance learning lesson could be the perfect fit for you. This program requires a strong internet connection and access to a virtual learning platform. For more information or to book your program, please email our Education Program Coordinator, Kerry Scott, at [email protected]. Two weeks’ advance booking is recommended.

Virtual Classroom

Learn about William Penn, the 17th Century and Pennsbury Manor from the comfort of your home! Our Virtual Classroom offers free, fun activities for students for both inside and outside the house. Find out more: Call 215-946-0400

William Penn in Your Classroom

How would your students like to learn about the founding of Pennsylvania from the man himself? All Manor House to School House programs are provided by William Penn in the classroom. Each program runs 45-60 minutes in length and can accommodate up to two classes at a cost of $250. An additional program on the same day is $100. Call the Education Program Coordinator at 215-946-0400 to book your Manor House to School House program at least two weeks in advance.

Homeschool Families and Groups

Whether you are visiting as an individual family or as a larger group, Pennsbury Manor can help you plan a visit to meet your goals. Our homeschool programs are designed to introduce learners of all ages to the world of William Penn! Call or email our Education Program Coordinator, Kerry Scott, at [email protected] or 215-946-0400 to plan your visit.

Help Support our Animal Friends

In william penn's time, the animals at pennsbury manor would have been part of a working farm that sustained the people living there. today, our sheep, geese, oxen, and horses serve to educate the public about the crucial role of their predecessors. pennsbury manor is one of a handful of museums that maintains a living collection of retired animals. with your generous donation, we will be able to continue to provide a great life for our animals..

Bucks County celebrates Black History Month. Here are the special events

Although Black History Month occurs during the shortest month of the year, there is no shortage of events in Bucks County that will be inspirational, educational and celebratory.

From distilling Bucks County's role in the Underground Railroad to celebrating Black culture through performances and storytelling sessions, here are Black History Month events in Bucks County.

Gather Place hosts Underground Railroad performance, touch on abolitionism

Many may not realize that Bucks County provided a vital link and sort of transportation hub for the Underground Railroad. Now, the historical Gather Place Museum in Yardley will highlight that vital connection through the one-woman " Journey Through Time: The Underground Railroad Revealed ," performance.

Performer Shirley Lee Corsey's multimedia presentation explores Bucks County's role in the Underground Railroad, and will focus on Yardleyville, circa 1682, the precursor for present-day Yardley.

Corsey will also provide insight about Lower Makefield Township's Slate Cemetery and will commemorate the African American Civil War veterans buried there and emphasizing the ongoing legacy of resilience and their contributions to America's history.

"Journey Through Time: The Underground Railroad" is a free event and begins at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Yardley-Makefield Library, 1080 Edgewood Road in Yardley.

North Penn High school showcase, Aretha Franklin profile fill out Black History Month events in Bucks County

Here are the other Black History Month events in Bucks County to check out:

• A Raisin in the Sun : Lorraine Hansberry's epic take of a Black family's existence and survival on the Southside of Chicago in the 1950s gets a 20-date run at the Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street. The play centers on five members of the Younger family are each looking for ways to improve their lot through education, business, real estate, and sheer self-determination. The arrival of a long-awaited life insurance check promises life changing opportunities, but also brings drama and strife. "A Raisin in the Sun" runs from Wednesday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 18, and tickets start at $45.
• Portrait of Aretha Franklin : The Queen of Soul gets a proper send up during jazz and Blues recording artist CeCe Teneal 's run of three performances at the Bucks County Playhouse. Teneal will honor the late Franklin with renditions of many of Franklin's greatest works, including "Respect," "Freeway of Love," and "I Say a Little Prayer." Teneal has a 7:30 p.m. show on Friday, Feb. 2, and shows at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3. Tickets are $55.

Supporting the homeless in Bristol: 'Homie Claus' works to bring Christmas to all. Catch him in his blue suit in Bristol

• Why We Sing : Zimbabwe native Shalom Mukamuri , known for his inspirational music, will explore the African American experience through tales of resilience, joy, and endurance. Mukamuri's performance begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, at the Michener Art Museum, 138 South Pine St., Doylestown. Tickets are $25.
• Black History Showcase at North Penn High School : North Penn High School and the African American and Allies Club will hold a joint showcase to highlight the African American experience at North Penn, in the United States, and around the world. There will be various artistic performances, including step dances, spoken word pieces, and a skit performed by members of the AAAC. This showcase begins at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 15, inside the North Penn High School auditorium, 340 Valley Forge Road, Lansdale.
• Harriett Tubman Live : Shirley Lee Corsey will deliver another one-person presentation, this time focusing on the Tubman's entire lifespan. This performance will also touch on Tubman's childhood, escape from slavery, her role in the Civil War, and Tubman's efforts during the Woman's Suffrage era. Corsey's performance begins at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Gather Place Museum, 188 S. Canal Street in Yardley. Tickets are $15.

Bristol activist work for the community: 'Whatever the need, I try to answer.' How a Bristol resident is showing up for community

In addition, Bristol activist Carla Reynolds is sponsoring a Black History Month art contest, in which the winning selections will be displayed in storefronts along Mill Street in Bristol.

The pieces should focus on Black history, self-expressionism and creativity.

The contest is open to all races and ages. Submissions must be paint on canvas, and need to be dropped of between 9 a.m. and noon on Friday, Feb. 2 at 301 wood street in Bristol.

Interested artists can email Reynolds at [email protected] for more information and further details.

More: Bucks County's Black cemeteries honor history of those buried there

The DIY tour of the Underground Railroad in Bucks County

Visit Bucks County has an expansive list of Underground Railroad "stops" in Bucks County which can be visited at any time.

The one-tank, self-guided tour takes Underground Railroad trackers to the Wedgewood Inn, which featured an elaborate and literal underground network of tunnels, and to the African American Episcopal Church in Bensalem , where church leaders helped more than 9,000 slaves find freedom.

The self-guided tour also includes suggested stops at the private the Archambault House in Newtown, whose former owner, Joseph O. Archambault, helped escaped slaves obtain their freedom. Since this is a private residence, it is suggested that visitors admire the house from afar.

Other stops on the self-guided tour include the Buckingham Friends Meeting House, the Continental Tavern, and the Harriet Tubman Memorial Statue, all located in Bristol.

Pig Farming for Extra Family Income

Help At-Risk Families Get a Fresh Start in a Safe Home $250

Gifts from caring people through Champions for Children make a life-changing difference. Donations from Champions are used to support and sustain our humanitarian programs in the countries we serve.

The Global Leadership Program, for students from grades 9 through 11, is designed to help young adults become better students, college applicants, and global citizens.

In keeping with the literary legacy of Pearl S. Buck, the Pearl S. Buck Writing Center, organized and run by the Pearl S. Buck Volunteer Association, offers writing classes and book discussion groups.

• School Field Trips to the Pearl S. Buck House

Pearl S. Buck International provides opportunities to explore and appreciate other cultures, builds better lives for children around the globe and promotes the legacy of our founder by preserving and interpreting her National Historic Landmark home.

We provide humanitarian aid in China, Kenya, South Korea, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and the United States.

Pearl S. Buck was a writer, activist, and humanitarian. She was awarded the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize. Ms. Buck used the spotlight on her to shine a light on the plight of marginalized people everywhere and to advocate for the civil rights movement in the U.S.

Meet our incredible board and staff members who make our work possible.

Phone: (215) 249-0100

Email: [email protected]

520 Dublin Road Perkasie, PA 18944

Get Directions

Engage your audiences with a speaker from Pearl S. Buck International. Individuals with expertise on the life and legacy of Pearl S. Buck are available to enlighten your group and meet your needs for interesting, original programming with a wide variety of topics.

Sponsorship Helps Children Succeed Academically in the Philippines

Relationship with Child Sponsor Motivates Student to Overcome Obstacles

Originally founded by Pearl S. Buck, the Welcome House adoption program matched more than 7,000 orphans and children from around the globe with adoptive families in the United States from 1949 – 2014.

Register Now for April Volunteer Orientation

Leading with Humanity and Compassion: Virtues from Faith Traditions and Beyond

Pearl S. Buck International carries on Pearl S. Buck’s legacy of bridging cultures and changing lives through humanitarian aid, intercultural education, and historical tours of the Pearl S. Buck House, a National Historic Landmark.

Hidden Gems: Fashioning A Legacy Exhibit

• Pearl S. Buck International 60th Anniversary

Join us for one of our signature events held throughout the year. Events include: Women of Influence Awards Dinner, Taste of the World, Living the Legacy Breakfast, and more.

Join us for our beloved holiday events – The Festival of Trees and the Holiday Craft Show.

The Pearl S. Buck House, an iconic stone farmhouse and National Historic Landmark, along with the Cultural Center, Welcome Center, and Estate Pavilion sit on a stunning 67-acre estate with prize-winning gardens and manicured grounds. Multiple indoor and outdoor rental spaces are available to make your event, party, class or workshop a memorable one.

Volunteers at Pearl S. Buck International play an important part in sharing the history of Pearl S. Buck and her National Historic Landmark house, organizing community events, and fundraising for the organization.

Join Pearl S. Buck International by becoming a member!

Members of Pearl S. Buck International are part of a group of committed, involved people who support Pearl S. Buck’s legacy of bridging cultures and changing lives. They also enjoy exclusive benefits such as:

• Unlimited guided tours of the Pearl S. Buck House
• Admission to the Members Holiday Reception and Candlelight Tour
• 10% discount at the gift shop
• Guest passes for friends and family

Caring and compassionate people can make a positive difference in the world through their generous, tax-deductible donations, which support the work of Pearl S. Buck International in bridging cultures and changing lives.

Plan Your Visit

Heavy Intensity Rain

The Pearl S. Buck House, a National Historic Landmark museum near the Greater Philadelphia Metro Area in beautiful Bucks County, PA, was the home of Pearl S. Buck and her family. Here you can tour the home, explore the award-winning gardens, and learn more about Pearl S. Buck and her legacy.

Until further notice, reservations are required for tours of the Pearl S. Buck House National Historic Landmark museum.

To make a reservation, please call the tour desk at 215-249-0100 x110. tours are only offered at specific times - please scroll down to see tour times., please do not use [email protected] to make a reservation. this email is monitored by staff who do not have access to our reservation book and who do not work on the weekends., business office hours.

Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 5pm Sat: 10am - 3pm Sun: 12pm - 3pm

For tour times, see below.

Tour prices.

Adults - $15 Seniors - $12 Students - $7 Members - Free

Tour Prices - Combo Tickets

Adults - $25 Seniors - $20 Students - $10 Members - Free

Discount price if you decide after taking one tour that you'd like to take the other - second tour must happen same day as the first

520 Dublin Road Perkasie, PA 18944 Map

Tours Include

Docent- or facilitator-led tour of the historic home museum Access to the Exhibit Gallery, Welcome Center, and Gift Shop Access to the gardens **(Gardens can also be accessed without purchasing a tour of the museum)**

Pearl S. Buck House National Historic Landmark Two Museum Tour Options to Choose From

"where history and humanitarianism meet", purchase your tour tickets online below, please note: we are requiring reservations for tours at this time..

Pearl S. Buck: Taking Action

Tour & Interactive Dialogue

This tour with interactive dialogue of the Pearl S. Buck House museum, developed in collaboration with the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience, shares the story of Pearl S. Buck’s forward-thinking human rights advocacy for issues that remain relevant today. Pearl S. Buck, winner of the Pulitzer and Nobel Prizes, used her fame to shed light on the rights of marginalized communities including people of color, people with disabilities, women, biracial children, and immigrants. Beyond using her writing to bring attention to these social justice issues, she took action to help those affected.

This tour engages visitors in conversations about subjects important to Ms. Buck. It inspires them to reflect on their own values and to take action to make the world a “good and peaceful place,” as Pearl S. Buck said and did.

If you are looking for an enlightening and uplifting experience that will inspire you to embrace Pearl S. Buck’s principles and practice, this tour is for you.

Pearl S. Buck: Life & Legacy

Traditional Historic House Tour

Pearl S. Buck was a Pulitzer and Nobel Award-winning author, a humanitarian, and an activist. This traditional biographic tour of her home, the Pearl S. Buck House, a National Historic Landmark museum, allows visitors to learn about the life and legacy of this remarkable woman.

A rich, mostly intact collection makes guests feel as if they are visiting the house in the time Ms. Buck and her family lived there. Objects from the ordinary (a closet full of board games played by the family) to the extraordinary (the typewriter Ms. Buck used to write  The Good Earth ) add to the fascinating experience. Other interesting items include rare artwork from around the world, period furnishings, personal clothing, and a library stocked with hundreds of books (including those by her favorite author, Charles Dickens).

If you love history, architecture, literature, folk art, fine art, or just stepping back in time, this tour is for you.

Tour Times—Reservations Required

Monday: No Tours Tuesday - Friday: 1 pm Saturday: 1pm Sunday: 2 pm

Monday: No Tours Tuesday - Friday: 11 am & 2 pm Saturday: 11 am & 2 pm Sunday: 1pm

Click Here to Buy Taking Action Tour Tickets

Click here to buy life & legacy tour tickets, what our visitors say.

Wow - I knew Pearl S. Buck was an author but I didn’t know about ALL her humanitarian endeavors! Today I learned just a bit about her life and wow!!! She was a phenomenal outspoken woman for human rights - all humans! Her home a National Historic Landmark and is right here in Bucks County! I went on a cold dreary day but the house tour was awesome - festival of trees was going on so the whole house was decorated. Visitor center was extremely informative. Definitely will be back to see the grounds on a nicer day! Plan to bring family and friends as well! 

The volunteer that provided our tour taught us so much about this amazing woman. The time spent touring the house and garden area made for a terrific visit. Would not interest young children. Highly recommended.

The tour and presentation greatly exceeded my expectations. I thought it would be pleasant and informative, but it was truly beautiful and fascinating. The docent was gracious and amazingly knowledgeable, answering a wide variety of questions as well as giving the regular tour. You can stroll around the lovely grounds and admire the flowers. It was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

This lovely home, grounds, and final resting place of the Nobel prize winning author is a fitting tribute to her life and legacy. The collection of personal effects include her typewriter. The tour docent is very knowledgeable and engaging.A must for literary lovers and gardeners alike.

I had a tour of The Pearl Buck House with a group of friends. Whether you are a fan of her writings, enjoy house tours, gardens, or appreciate the contribution she has made to international understanding there is something for everyone. The docent was very knowledgeable, and gave us time to appreciate the variety and historic significance of the objects we saw. There is also an exhibit area at the Visitor’s Center with changing exhibits. Enjoy!!

Hidden Gems: Fashioning A Legacy

March 15-may 31, 2024.

This exhibit will showcase the best representations of Pearl Buck’s personal style through her intact collection of American & Asian fashion, jewelry, shoes, handbags, hand fans, gloves, and associated archival material. A woman well ahead of her time, Ms. Buck had the chance to live in two very different cultures and carefully chose clothing and accessories to represent the two halves of herself & her life.

Virtual Exhibit: Top Secret: The Pearl S. Buck FBI File

In a time of cultural, social, and racial upheaval, Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Pearl S. Buck's humanitarian and social justice work and writings brought her to the attention of the FBI, who created a massive file on her.

Virtual Exhibit: Dangerous Women

History is full of women who pushed the boundaries of their time through politics and through culture. Often, these women faced pushback for their radical ideas of equality. Society viewed them as Dangerous Women .

Virtual Exhibit: Pearl Buck & Women

Pearl S. Buck, was a Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, avid humanitarian, and ardent social justice activist. She was a staunch advocate for gender equality and women’s rights.

Virtual Exhibit: Pearl Buck Taking Action: Civil Rights in America

Pearl S. Buck was a Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, humanitarian, and social justice activist. She was a staunch advocate and ally in the fight for civil rights in America.

International Gift Shop

The International Gift Shop, located in the Welcome Center, offers a unique variety of gifts, books, apparel, jewelry, crafts, décor, and more in a boutique-like setting.

Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm   |   Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm   |   Sunday from 12 noon to 3 pm

More Information

While you are here.

While the Pearl S. Buck House and grounds enjoy a peaceful and secluded setting, we are not in the middle of nowhere! See what nearby dining, shopping, accommodations, and more you can enjoy to make a whole day or weekend of your visit!

Accessibility

There are areas of the Pearl S. Buck House museum that are not easily accessible by wheelchairs or walking support devices.

The Pearl S. Buck House tour is featured in a tour DVD, which can also be used in conjunction with the walking tour to view areas that guests may be unable to navigate. For specifics on wheelchair accessibility and space measurements for guests using walking aids, click here.

Group Tours

Group tours and pricing are offered for parties of 10 or more. Boxed lunch options are available. Learn more by calling 215-249-0100 x110.

School Group Tours

Tours for school groups are offered on weekdays from 9 am to 3 pm. Reservations are required at least four weeks in advance.  The tours meet PA and Common Core academic standards in Language Arts, History, Geography, Art, and Science.  To learn more call 215-249-0100 x149.

Closed on Holidays

The Pearl S. Buck House is closed on these days in 2024: New Year’s Day, January 15, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve (as well as New Year's Day 2025).

**If a holiday or observed holiday falls on a Monday, the Gift Shop will also be closed. For the most up-to-date information on closures, please contact us at 215-249-0100. Weather-related closures will always be on our social media.

Funding for the Pearl S. Buck House is supported in part by a grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

• Beds & Headboards
• Chairs & Rockers
• Coffee Tables
• Dining Tables
• End & Side Tables
• Design Process
• Introduction
• Design Approach
• History & Team
• The Grounds
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PLAN YOUR VISIT

Studio visiting hours, design appointments.

Please call 215-862-2272 to make a design appointment or for more information on starting the Nakashima Design Process make an inquiry.

George Nakashima WoodWorkers Directions

TOURS & VISITOR INFORMATION

We are located in historic Bucks County about two miles from downtown New Hope, just above the Delaware River. Downtown New Hope is a quaint, thriving small town with numerous galleries, restaurants, and bed and breakfasts. 

Parking is accessible from the northwest entrance off of Aquetong Road, marked by our mailbox and wooden signpost.

GUIDED TOURS

For more information on Guided Tours, please visit the Nakashima Foundation for Peace .

VISITOR GUIDELINES

Our goal is to provide you  with a safe and enjoyable visit at George Nakashima Woodworker while protecting the environment, craft and spirit of our work.

Masking indoors and social distancing is required. Visitors will be divided into small groups to allow for social distancing. Please stay home if you are not feeling well.

Please wear comfortable and easy-to-remove footwear, as the tour includes an outdoor walk of ¾ mile on uneven terrain and grassy hills. We ask that shoes be removed before entering select buildings.

Although we allow outdoor photography for personal use on the property, we ask that you refrain from photography or video recording while inside.

To guide our initial conversations, let us know what piques your interest and the dimensional details of your space. You can learn more about our design process  here .

Direct inquiries are welcome. Call us at (215) 862 – 2272 or email us here to speak to our team for further guidance.

The result of many years’ collaborative research and exploration, finally available for your pleasure and deeper understanding of what makes Nakashima unique.

You can find the book here . I hope you will explore and enjoy this journey as much as we have.

—Mira Nakashima

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Flood prone Bucks County residents brace for heavy rain as task force meets to find solutions

Bucks county residents brace for more flooding rains.

More rain and flooding brings back awful memories to those who live near the Delaware River in Bucks County. And on the eve of a State Task Force visit aimed at addressing flooding issues, that’s exactly what’s in the weather forecast.

YARDLEY, Pa. - More rain and flooding brings back awful memories to those who live near the Delaware River in Bucks County. And on the eve of a State Task Force visit aimed at addressing flooding issues, that’s exactly what’s in the weather forecast.

"I’ve seen this water go up to the bottom of that bridge" says Mitch Bralynski.

He knows all too well the power of the Delaware River. Bralynski has lived near its banks in Washington Crossing for the last 71 years.

He also knows when it rains, PennDot trucks show up like clockwork, the ‘Road Closed" signs come out and his home in Upper Makefield Township becomes an island. "The road closed every time. Never fails," he added.

Flooding in Lower and Upper Makefield Townships have become a way of life for residents. Last July, a catastrophic flooding event made national headlines when seven people were killed, including three from one family visiting from South Carolina. Their car was swept away by historic flooding.

Missing children identified after flash flooding kills 5 in Bucks County

A 9-month-old boy and his 2-year-old sister are still missing after devastating flash flooding claimed the lives of five people in Bucks County over this weekend.

"Frankly, I worry. I worry about folks I represent and I hope to get through this storm without that type of tragedy," says State Senator Steve Santarsiero, from Newtown, Bucks County.

Sen. Santarsiero is part of the state's Flood Insurance Task Force, formed in November of 2023 by Governor Josh Shapiro after the tragedy to find solutions to help alleviate the high cost of flood insurance and help residents mitigate the flood risk.

Wednesday the task force will visit the site of last summer’s flooding and projects underway to help prevent it from happening again. Santarsiero points to projects like dredging of the Delaware River Canal and re-routing of local creeks as fixes to help local drainage.

"We are seeing more of these severe storms happen and happen with greater frequency. And frankly, when you have a large amount of rain in a short amount of time, it really does tax existing infrastructure," said Sen. Santarsiero.

The task force will come up with recommendations that may lead to change. People like Bralynski are hoping that change comes before more lives are lost.

"Nothing gets done. It’s been like this for years," he added.

Wednesday’s task force meeting is happening at the Lower Makefield Township Community Center at 1550 Oxford Valley Road in Yardley.

The public is also encouraged to comment. You can find more information here .

Coincidentally, heavy rain and flooding is expected during that task force visit to Bucks County.

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Enjoy fun and seasonal festivals throughout Bucks County! 

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Bucks County's charming towns and main streets are filled with fantastic shopping and culinary delights. 

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Celebrate Our Arboretum Status Tree Planting

• Location: Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum
• Dates: April 20, 2024
• Address: 610 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007
• Phone: (215) 788-9432
• Time: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
• Price: Free to attend
• Visit Website

In collaboration with the Philadelphia Horticultural Society, PHS Tree Tenders, and the Garden Club of Bristol Borough, seven trees will be planted on the Grundy Campus. Educational materials and refreshments will be provided.

• April 20, 2024
• Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum
• Visit Website |
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