Looking for colonial charm, boutique shopping, and small-town elegance? Head to Newtown, Pennsylvania! Located in scenic Bucks County, Newtown is rich in Revolutionary War history, walkable streets, and cozy cafés. It’s perfect for weekend getaways, antique lovers, and those craving a dose of Americana.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Newtown is in the spring (April–June) and fall (September–November), when the weather is mild and ideal for strolling the historic streets, visiting nearby farms, and attending local festivals. The winter holidays also bring festive lights and events.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Newtown is located off I-295, about 45 minutes north of Philadelphia and 90 minutes from New York City.
- By Train: The nearest SEPTA Regional Rail stations are in Yardley and Langhorne, about 15 minutes away by car.
- By Plane: The closest major airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 1 hour away by car.
Where I like to stay
- The Brick Hotel – Historic boutique inn right on State Street with charming rooms and a classic tavern restaurant.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Newtown – Modern, all-suite hotel with kitchenettes, free breakfast, and an indoor pool.
- Temperance House – Historic inn and pub dating back to 1772, offering cozy rooms and a central location.
Top Attractions
- Newtown Historic Association – Learn about the town’s colonial roots and architecture through guided walking tours and exhibits.
- State Street Shopping District – Browse charming boutiques, artisan shops, bookstores, and cafés in a walkable downtown.
- Newtown Theatre – One of America’s oldest operating movie theaters, hosting indie films and live performances.
- Roberts Ridge Park – A family-friendly park with playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas near the heart of town.
1. Reconnect with Nature at Tyler State Park
Tyler State Park is a 1,711-acre state park in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The original farm and woodland setting of the area is carefully intersected by park roads, trails, and public facilities. Neshaminy Creek runs through the park, separating the park into several sections. The land on which the park was established was originally owned by Mr. and Mrs. George F. Tyler. The Solly House was the Tyler’s country home until they built George F. Tyler Mansion, which now houses the administration building of the Bucks County Community College. Old original stone structures in the park are great examples of early rural Pennsylvania farm houses. Some of them were built in the early 18th century. Tyler State Park includes a 36-hole disc golf course. It offers home to many species of birds. The creek has water snakes, turtles, and eels. The more secluded parts of the park provide home to deer, foxes, beavers, rabbits, wild turkey, and black bears.
101 Swamp Rd, Newtown, PA 18940, Phone: 215-968-2021
2. Reflect and Honor at Washington Crossing National Cemetery
Washington Crossing National Cemetery is located in Newton, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on 205 acres. It opened in late 2009 and is administered by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Located about three miles from the Washington Crossing Historic Park, the cemetery is designed to serve veterans in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area for the next 50 years. The cemetery has 15,500 full casket gravesites, including 15,100 crypts, 6,500 cremation sites and 4,100 columbarium niches. The cemetery also has an administration and public information center with restrooms, a maintenance facility, an entrance area, a flag assembly area, and funeral services committal shelters. .
830 Highland Rd, Newtown, PA 18940, Phone: 215-504-5610
3. Catch a Thought-Provoking Play with Langhorne Players
Langhorne Players is a non-profit volunteer community theater that produces thought-provoking works meant to encourage post-theater conversation. Established in 1976, the theatre works from the 200-year-old refurbished Spring Garden Mill in Tyler State Park, Newtown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The theatre offers intimate experience, with comfortable seating in velvet-covered seats. It is air-conditioned and can accommodate 73 guests per performance. Langhorne Players has built a wide reputation for expert sets, lighting and costumes and strong casting and directing. Seats to the theater often sell out because the select plays are interesting, new or unusual, from the best Broadway and Off-Broadway playwrights. During intermission, Langhorne Players treats its patrons with free soft drinks and salty snacks.
1440 Richboro Rd, Newtown, PA 18940, Phone: 215-860-0818
Where to Eat
4. If You're Craving Classic Comfort Food, Then Stop by Jake's Eatery
Jake’s Eatery is a cozy, spacious family-owned restaurant in Newtown since 2011. Plenty of lush green plants and plush purple booths create homey atmosphere. The menu is eclectic, with breakfast served whole day. Their pancakes are a big draw. Dinner menu has something for everyone and everything is made from the freshest ingredients, from juicy burgers, crisp salads to fresh seafood and barbecue meats. Jake’s daily specials include such treats as baby back ribs, crab macaroni and cheese and sizzling fajitas. Jake’s has another restaurant in Richmond. They do not serve alcohol but the guests are encouraged to bring their own.
49 Cambridge Ln, Newtown, PA 18940, Phone: 215-968-8676
More Places to Eat
- Isaac Newton’s Bar & Restaurant – Popular spot for craft beer, burgers, and American comfort food.
- Vecchia Osteria – Cozy BYOB Italian eatery offering homemade pastas and traditional fare in an intimate setting.
- Café Con Leche – Charming breakfast and brunch café with Latin-inspired dishes, pastries, and great coffee.
Local Events
- Welcome Day (May) – Annual street fair with vendors, food trucks, music, and community fun in downtown Newtown.
- Newtown Arts Festival (September) – Celebration of local art, music, theater, and food held at the historic Stocking Works.
- Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (December) – Festive family event with lights, carolers, and small-town holiday cheer.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Newtown, Pennsylvania
- New Hope (25 min) – Eclectic riverside town with art galleries, boutiques, and scenic Delaware River views.
- Doylestown (25 min) – Home to the Mercer Museum, Fonthill Castle, and a charming downtown with shops and cafés.
- Washington Crossing Historic Park (15–20 min) – Visit the site where George Washington crossed the Delaware River in 1776.
- Core Creek Park (15 min) – Serene park for kayaking, fishing, and nature walks near Lake Luxembourg.
- Yardley (15 min) – Quaint town along the river with coffee shops, antique stores, and peaceful canal trails.
Plan Your Trip