Living in New Hope, PA
A popular destination for New Englanders who want to get away for a weekend or the summer, New Hope, PA, offers a distinctive mix of innovative culture, excellent restaurants, and historic homes. The one-time mill town transitioned into a creative enclave in the early 20th century when artists moved into the area to take advantage of low-cost housing and pastoral scenery. However, the New Hope real estate market has changed a lot since then with homes in the borough now in high demand.
Things To Do in New Hope
The New Hope community offers great theater, art, and family-friendly events. For example, the Bucks County Playhouse was originally a mill that reopened as a theater in 1939, and it has long been a popular spot to test shows heading to Broadway. Actors who have performed at the theater include Robert Redford, John Lithgow, Grace Kelly, and Audra McDonald. In addition, New Hope galleries exhibit a range of work, including cutting-edge sculpture, traditional crafts, and paintings by popular local artists.
On the first Friday of every month, local spaces stay open late for receptions that get art fans out on the town. Afterward, a range of palates are satiated by the local restaurant scene. Menu items run the gamut from crowd-pleasing burgers to organic, locally sourced free-range chicken to vegan chickpea pancakes. Complementary to the excellent dining choices is the handful of wine bars that pour local as well as international varietals. And to top it off, New Hope residents and visitors come together yearly for events like the Winter Festival, ShadFest Weekend, the New Hope Film Festival, the Auto Show, and Pride Fest.
Real Estate and Transportation
With New Hope's roots dating back to the 18th century, numerous historic colonials and converted farmhouses appear regularly on the market. Stone houses are popular in the area, and even new construction incorporates the older style. Condos, townhouses, and apartments can also be found.
Despite all that New Hope offers and the crowds that sometimes fill the main streets, New Hope nevertheless maintains its relaxing, laid-back atmosphere. Part of the reason is that few roads lead into New Hope, and driving in and out of the borough can take a little extra time. On the other hand, that also means automobiles don't overwhelm the countryside or the town. With Philadelphia only 40 miles and New York City about 70 miles away, New Hope is easy to get to for an evening or a day, and while commuter trains don't stop in New Hope, they do make stops in nearby Doylestown, PA or Lambertville, NJ.
