Just three hours from the Potomac and the DMV, awaits the perfect weekend getaway in the picturesque river view town of New Hope, Pennsylvania.
As the guest of the tourism bureau of Visit Bucks County, my family stayed at the historic Pineapple Hill Inn Bed & Breakfast, one of the many inviting homesteads, located on nearly six acres between Washington Crossing and New Hope, at 1324 River Road.
Originally constructed in 1790, the inviting B&B has been hosting guests for 45 years. This charming and well-appointed Inn, decorated in a pineapple motif with lovely hand-picked antiques, polished hardwood floors, in-room fireplaces, an in-ground pool, fire pits for s'mores toasting, and delicious homemade breakfast prepared by Pineapple Hill Inn Manager Lori Coffman.
Our weekend breakfast fare included assorted fresh berries, a choice of juice, delicious coffee, homemade cinnamon buns, and one of several scrumptious homemade entrees such as French toast, pancakes, or croissant casserole. There was always coffee, tea, and cookies available for all-day snacking..
“I love all of the people who come to stay with us. They are usually on vacation and always in a good mood,” explains Coffman. “I have developed nice relationships with many of the returning guests who are like family.”
Nearby attractions include Ghost Tours of New Hope, the ideal way to enjoy fall weekends from Halloween to Thanksgiving. Public tours run Saturday nights from June through November.
There are added tours on Friday nights in October, with “steady numbers” for those seeking a spooky Halloween experience. There are also private tours available, which require reservations.
Tour Guide Scott Randolph has been leading the one-hour historical walking tours since 2007 for visitors with a range of interests. Those who take the tour will learn about local legends and hear some lore. He said visitors enjoy the mystery, history, and scores of true stories.
Known as an artsy town, there are numerous restaurants, art galleries, wineries, breweries, and shops to fill your weekend with everything from books and comic books to boozy lemonade and ice cream, as well as soaps. lotions, candy, hot sauces, and a variety of desserts.
For a lovely short country drive, I recommend a stop at Manhoff Market Gardens and Cidery in nearby Solebury, for hard cider and the juiciest strawberries that I have ever tasted. The market also has seasonal fruit picking tours.
Other area tours include the Bucks County Ale Trail, a brewpub tour featuring hand-crafted beer, with locally sourced menus and cocktails, live music, and special events, as well as the popular Bucks County Wine Tour.
Our first memorable dinner was at Greenhouse New Hope, where I had the delicious French Dip. My guests had chicken with French fries, and a sweet potato and black bean burger. For dessert, we shared a delicious cookies and cream mousse.
Our second night, we headed to Karla’s Restaurant, where I had the filet special with homemade mashed potatoes and broccoli, while my guests had a fried chicken sandwich with a side of house-cut French fries, and the house special ravioli with chicken and peas in a light and creamy white sauce. We saved our dessert for the s'mores that we happily toasted back at the Pineapple Hill Inn.
When you are making your hotel and restaurant reservations, be sure to check out The Bucks County Playhouse for high-level entertainment. The venue has hosted memorable musicals and plays, including several world premieres that went on to tour or play on Broadway. Future shows include The Rocky Horror Show from Oct. 10 through Nov. 2, and Elf: The Musical from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4. For tickets and information, call 215-862-2121.
“I have developed nice relationships with many of the returning guests who are like family.” Pineapple Hill Inn B&B Manager Lori Coffman.