As summer approaches, it’s time to enjoy the warm air and sunshine. If you’re looking for a romantic place to stay with your significant other for the weekend, or a daytrip with your friends, New Hope is a great place to visit.
Although many of you have probably grabbed a bite to eat in New Hope, or at least passed through it, there is even more to this quaint town. The sleepy town of New Hope, Pennsylvania has the feel of a quirky hippie village with more than a few “cutesy” gift shops, making the town tourist friendly, especially during the warmer months.
New Hope is not flashy like Atlantic City or Manhattan, but you will fall in love with its unique style and diverse restaurants that line both sides of Main Street. Some interesting and delicious eateries to check out include Zoubi, a historic house-turned-restaurant known for its European fusion cuisine, warm atmosphere and extensive outdoor seating. Havana is a New Hope favorite with a more modern flair. This restaurant/bar/club features a Latino-inspired casual menu and frequent concerts. After the concert, grab a sweet treat at Italian Cucina. This tiny family-operated restaurant is hidden away at the end of an alleyway. Locals swear by the place for good reason: the cannoli are out of this world!
With dozens of restaurants to choose from, a ride out to New Hope barely leaves any time for any other sightseeing. New Hope is a historic town that boasts plenty of public landmarks, and a train ride that takes its riders through the surrounding natural landscape that overlooks the Delaware River.
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f the historic side of this village is not your thing, be sure to at least check out the ample shopping opportunities. New Hope has plenty of unique novelty shops including lingerie stores, thrift shops, and antique stores. Some of these stores include Christmas Past, a cutesy, old-fashioned Christmas shop open all year round, and Medieval Gallery, a store dedicated to the Middle Ages where you can buy anything from medieval sword replicas to gorgeous, period-style dresses.
New Hope is known for its old-fashioned lodging options, as there are not many chain hotels or motels in the area. Instead, the winding roads surrounding the center of town are dominated by mom n’ pop bed and breakfasts. Although each has its own charm, I would recommend the Pineapple Inn. The Innkeeper greets guests with hot chocolate and an array of dinner options. They will even make a reservation for you! The rooms are smaller, but each is uniquely furnished and decorated.
New Hope is just 15 minutes from campus and a great place to visit before the semester ends, or as a small graduation celebration with friends.