Philadelphia, PA - One of America’s most celebrated fall drives is Route 32 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This road trip will take you along the Delaware River’s easterly border of Bucks County with an abundance of antique shops, art galleries, historic sites, and trendy restaurants.
The Ultimate Bucks County Drive
River Road in Bucks County
Pennsylvania is a bucket-list-worthy foliage drive for any fall enthusiast. To get started, take I-95 North out of Philadelphia to Exit #10 towards New Hope, PA, where you’ll follow signs to Route 32 (River Road) North. Your first stop will be Washington Crossing Historic Park. On this very spot, General George Washington and his troops made their famous crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776.
Enjoy The Beauty of Autumn in Bucks County
Here, you will actually see the leaves on both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides of the Delaware River. You will additionally pass the Thompson Neely Barn, one of several gorgeous old stone barns on Visit Bucks County’s Barn Voyage self-guided barn driving tour.
If you are driving through on a Sunday, you will enjoy brunch at Washington Crossing Inn. Or perhaps even walk through Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve (North on Route 32 approximately five minutes), the perfect stop for nature lovers.
New Hope Day Tip
Take a left out of Bowman’s Hill and continue up River Road till you reached New Hope. You really can’t miss it — it is full of art galleries and boutiques perfectly positioned alongside shops tailored toward the mystics and motorcycle riders.
Next, enjoy an early lunch break at The Deck Restaurant & Bar, situated in the back of the famous Bucks County Playhouse. Or perhaps the outdoor patio at The Landing Restaurant, Jose Garces’ Stella, with sights of the Delaware River, devote a bit of time to some shopping in town after lunch.
Take in Bucka Counties Autumn Foliage
Now, get ready to surround yourself with autumn-colored trees and riverfront homes. Before, get back on River Road heading North, and soak in the landscape before arriving at Lumberville, Pa.
Where you can delight in some tea or toss back a pint at the Black Bass Hotel, a 250-year-old inn, tavern, and fine dining with a view of the river.
If you are looking for a quick bite to eat, the Lumberville General Store is an excellent place for grab-and-go lunch instead. Once you’re finished here, continue North on scenic River Road.
Bucks County Covered Bridges
When you arrive at Erwinna, take the time to drive underneath the covered bridges around town. Or a treat yourself to a glass of wine at The Sand Castle Winery or continue your trip at Ringing Rocks Park.
These seven acres of rocks actually ring like a bell when you gently hit them. (You’ll need to bring a hammer if you want to partake in this phenomenon.) The park is situated inside a 120-acre forest that looks stunning when the leaves are at their peak.
Stay at a New Hope Bed and Breakfast
At last, it is time to wind up your day by heading back to New Hope, well known for its beautiful B&Bs such as Wedgwood Inn, Logan Inn, Inn at Bowman’s Hill, and Fox & Hound Inn. Before departing after breakfast, get your last taste of fall in by taking a ride on the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad.
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.
