The town of New Hope is the most popular destination in Bucks County and a lovely place to stroll. It is situated along the Delaware River just across a small auto/pedestrian bridge from Lambertville, New Jersey, another charming town. New Hope has a rich history and strong artistic roots and is home to many unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

The action centers around Bridge Street, which connects New Hope with Lambertville, as well as Union Street in Lambertville and Main Street in each town. There is also a thriving gay culture, including a few gay bars and gay-owned inns and restaurants.

In addition to exploring on foot, another great way to see the area is to take a 50-minute ride on the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad (32 W. Bridge St., New Hope, 215/862-2332, www.newhoperailroad.com) between New Hope and Lahaska, pulled by a steam locomotive.

A branch of the James Michener Museum in Doylestown is in New Hope, The Michener in New Hope at Union Square (Union Square on Bridge St., 215/862-7633, www.michenermuseum.org, Wed.–Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Jan.–Mar., Tues.–Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Apr.–Dec., until 6 p.m. Sat. in summer, $5 adult, $4 senior, $2 child 6–18, free under 2). With the same goal of highlighting local art, this branch is home to two permanent exhibits: The Artists Among Us and Creative Bucks County, along with rotating exhibits featuring historic and contemporary artists.