Philadelphia & Southeastern Pennsylvania
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Borough
A riverfront arts town on the Delaware
New Hope is a small borough on the Delaware River in Bucks County, directly across from Lambertville, New Jersey. Known for its galleries, theaters, inns and antique shops, it draws visitors year-round and serves as a gateway to river tubing, cycling and the Delaware Canal towpath.
History & Local Character
Founded as Coryell's Ferry in the 18th century, the town became a canal and mill center before reinventing itself in the 20th century as an arts colony. The Bucks County Playhouse, opened in 1939 in a former grist mill, helped establish that reputation.
Housing & Real Estate
Housing is limited and predominantly historic in the borough, with more inventory in neighboring Solebury Township. Waterfront and in-town properties command premium prices.
Restaurants & Shopping
Main Street restaurants range from riverfront decks to fine dining in restored inns, with a lively weekend brunch and evening scene.
Schools & Education
New Hope-Solebury School District serves the borough and surrounding township, with a single-campus K-12 configuration.
Parks & Recreation
The Delaware Canal State Park towpath runs through town, and Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve and Washington Crossing Historic Park are nearby.
Transportation & Accessibility
Route 202 and Route 32 serve the borough, with New Jersey connections across the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge. Transit options are limited to bus service.
Local Businesses
Galleries, antique dealers, apparel boutiques, inns and restaurants make up nearly the entire commercial core.
No businesses are listed in New Hope yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Bucks County Playhouse
- Delaware Canal State Park
- Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve
- Washington Crossing Historic Park
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Walkable arts-and-dining downtown
- Delaware River and canal access
- Strong tourism economy
- Small, tight-knit borough
Considerations
- Very limited housing inventory and high prices
- Seasonal tourist congestion
- Few everyday convenience services in town
Frequently Asked Questions
What is New Hope known for?
New Hope is known for its galleries, the Bucks County Playhouse, antique shops and its location on the Delaware Canal towpath across from Lambertville, New Jersey.
Can you walk between New Hope and Lambertville?
Yes. The New Hope-Lambertville Bridge carries pedestrians between the two river towns.