By Jill Stolz
Visiting historic Lambertville and its Bucks County neighbor, New Hope, PA, is like crossing into a different era. Less than an hour’s drive away, Lambertville and New Hope offer a wide variety of activities for families of varying ages and interests. Late summer and early fall are ideal times to explore the natural beauty and diverse cultural opportunities offered in these quaint little towns.
Lambertville is known as the “antique capital of New Jersey” and there are plenty of antique stores to satisfy everyone from the bargain browser to the avid collector. There are also many eclectic specialty stores that beckon visitors inside. One such place is the Magic Glass Studio, located at 63 Coryell Street. This is a hands-on experience where customers can create a one-of-a-kind glass piece at this unique studio.
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For the outdoor enthusiasts, bring your bicycles and ride the scenic rail trail or bike to nearby Frenchtown. Hikers will enjoy Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, located two miles south of New Hope on Route 32. Wildflowers and native plants and trees surround walking trails through 100 acres of woods and meadows. Tubing and rafting rides on the Delaware can be found at Delaware River Tubing in Frenchtown or Bucks County River Country, located eight miles north of town on Route 32, which also provides canoeing and kayaking trips.
Those with small children or older grandparents might consider a ride on the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad which boards at 32 West Bridge Street in New Hope. The restored 1920s steam engine passenger train takes you through historic Bucks County, evoking the Golden Era of steam railroading. Passengers may get off at Lahaska Station and return to New Hope.
New Hope is a scenic riverside town with a big city feel. Eclectic stores, inviting dining, and impressive cultural attractions make this vibrant town a fabulous day trip or a weekend getaway. Previously known as Coryell’s Ferry, New Hope offers 200 years of History. Museums, cobblestone roads, quaint cafés and an overall fervor are just some of the hallmarks of New Hope.
Shoppers will not want to miss the Golden Nugget Outdoor Flea Market located a few miles south of Lambertville. The Golden Nugget is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The emphasis is on antiques, but there are plenty of dealers selling collectibles, art, pottery, jewelry, and clothing.
All of this activity will surely make a person hungry! There are many wonderful restaurants, some with Delaware River views, along the tree-lined streets. For breakfast and lunch, try Full Moon Café, Giuseppe’s for good, homemade pizza, and Hamilton’s Grill Room for an excellent seafood dinner. For coffee and dessert, head to Lambertville Trading Company. Before you leave, stop by La Chocolate Box and take home some of the delicious confections to savor, along with your memories of a glorious day!