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New Hope is one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic fall getaways. As the leaves change color, this town on the Delaware River comes to life.
As the leaves change color, New Hope takes the spotlight on the Delaware River. Red, orange and yellow hues all bring a nostalgic feel to this town on the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Visitors can spend their days going apple picking, visiting public gardens, feasting on fine food and checking out some of the best antique stores anywhere in the region.
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10 a.m. – Have breakfast at Duck Soup Cafe
9 Village Row, New Hope; (215) 862-5890
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Tucked away from the main streets and hidden in a strip mall away from the touristy areas is one of the best breakfasts in Pennsylvania. Though it can be just as hard to find online as in person, we assure you, this is no wild duck chase. Nearly four decades old, this gem serves up omelets made from farm-fresh eggs, quiches, seasonal pancakes, French toast and daily soup specials. You really can’t go wrong here.
11:30 a.m. – Go apple picking at Solebury Orchards
3325 Creamery Rd., New Hope
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This classic apple orchard is a great place to spend a few hours getting fresh air in the afternoons. Currently, Solebury offers Honeycrisp, Crimson Crisp, Jonathan, Cortland and early Fuji apple varieties. If you’re planning on making a weekend trip, be sure to reserve your spot online. Time slots fill up quickly, so make sure to get your name on the list. The farm market also sells amazing apple sauce and cider; get yours piping hot and warm up from those fall breezes.
1:30 p.m. – Dig into lunch at Karla’s Restaurant
5 W Mechanic St., New Hope; (215) 862-2612
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This quaint, red brick building offers an intimate atmosphere for indoor diners and a quiet porch for outdoor patrons. With quick, friendly service and cocktails made with fresh juice, Karla’s features ample options for a casual lunch. The fried chicken sandwich is a favorite, as are the lobster bisque and pork chop.
3 p.m. – Stroll Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
1635 River Rd., New Hope
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Located in the historic Pidcock Creek Valley, the preserve boasts 700 different plant specials and 4.5 miles of trails that wind through forests, meadows, streams and ponds. Dozens, if not hundreds, of species of fauna grace the preserve as well, since aquatic life depends on the plants while birds and insects come to feed on the flowers that grow here. Spot woodpeckers, frogs, turtles and mushrooms at this unique slice of paradise in New Hope.
4:30 p.m. – Check out the antiques on New Hope’s Main Street
Main St., New Hope
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New Hope is a haven for lovers of classic vintages and antiques. Thirteen Vintage is a great stop to get pre-loved clothing. The selection of gently used and new items make it easy to lose track of time. The Creeper Gallery displays some of the most fascinating oddities you’ll see for free anywhere in the state. Open only on weekends from 12-5 p.m., the shop invites visitors to check out the haunted items room. Love Saves The Day, meanwhile, sells collectibles of every variety, from old comics to records, t-shirts, old toys and more. As always, keep your eyes peeled for authentic Ween merchandise. This famous Philly-based rock band got its start right here in New Hope and is a local legend.
6:30 p.m. – Tuck in for a hearty meal at Zoubi
7 W Mechanic St., New Hope; (215) 862-5851
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Considered one of New Hope’s best-kept secrets, Zoubi offers al fresco dining in a quiet courtyard just off Main Street, and the indoor dining doesn’t disappoint, either. All items are fresh and top-quality, but the standout jumbo lump crabcake is a must-have with crawfish, grilled corn, andouille, roasted tomato and chowder. The colossal shrimp, octopus and strip steak are also can’t-miss items, while specialty cocktails like the Last Word (gin, Luxardo liqueur, chartreuse), La Belle Epoque (tequila, Pernod, dash of mezcal, lime) and a cinnamon ginger Old Fashioned will round out any meal.
9 p.m. – Hunker down at Porches on the Towpath
20 Fisher’s Alley, New Hope
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In the heart of New Hope, this charming B&B offers a slice of tranquility for your evening off. A certain warmth and charm emanates from the quiet rooms and suites at Porches on the Towpath. While tucked away right next to the historic Delaware Canal, you might hear the nostalgic clip-clop of mules pulling barges or the whistle of steam floats. Originally built as a granary in the 1830s, Porches now offers an unforgettable stay and an even better breakfast made from local and seasonal items.
Related: 27 Drivable Weekend Getaways From the Philadelphia Suburbs
