Bucks: Nature, History and Culture

Bucks combines vast landscapes, water-based activities, and historic and cultural destinations. The county is considered a year-round destination for all four seasons. Those looking for holiday accommodation can therefore tailor their trip planning to their own interests: nature and outdoor activities, history and art, water, or regional culinary experiences.

Nature among lakes, creeks and rocks

Nockamixon State Park covers 5,286 acres in the gently rolling hills of Bucks County. The 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon is fed by Tohickon Creek, Three Mile Run and Haycock Run. Four boat ramps, a marina and boat rentals make the lake an important destination for visitors who want to spend time on the water.

Ralph Stover State Park also showcases another side of Bucks’ landscape. The 45-acre park is traversed by Tohickon Creek; at the High Rocks section, there is a viewpoint overlooking the creek. In the 1,711-acre Tyler State Park, Neshaminy Creek winds through the grounds and divides them into several areas. The park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset.

For a short, special nature excursion, Ringing Rocks Park is an excellent option. The 123-acre site is home to the largest waterfall in Bucks County. In the boulder field, individual rocks can ring like bells when struck with a hammer. A gentle five-minute walk leads from the boulder field to High Falls. Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve is also located in the historic Pidcock Creek Valley of Bucks County.

Water, trails and American history

Washington Crossing Historic Park preserves the site where George Washington crossed the Delaware River during the American Revolution and is designated a National Historic Landmark. The grounds include historic buildings, walking trails, fishing opportunities and a place to launch non-motorized boats. The 125-foot-high Bowman’s Hill Tower offers a view over the Delaware River Valley. This makes it possible to combine historical interests with time outdoors without limiting the trip to just one type of experience.

Art, crafts and historic houses

The Mercer Museum showcases more than 60 crafts from early America. Moravian Pottery and Tile Works is also a National Historic Landmark and a historic tile factory that has produced ceramic art tiles from wild clay from Bucks County since 1898. Fonthill Castle impresses with more than 44 rooms, 18 fireplaces and 200 windows; the interiors feature numerous original handmade tiles. The castle offers one-hour guided tours.

The Michener Art Museum is housed within the preserved stone walls and façade of the former Bucks County prison from the 19th century. At the Pearl S. Buck House, visitors can see the desk at which Pearl S. Buck wrote the novel “The Good Earth” and visit the cultural center, gardens and seasonal special exhibitions.

Regional specialities and getting there

The Bucks County Ale Trail guides visitors to more than 30 craft breweries with the help of a digital pass. Farmers’ markets offer fresh produce, Amish meats and baked goods; at some markets, visitors can also pick their own fruit and berries. Bucks County can be reached from the East Coast via Interstate 95 and from the west via Interstate 276. Bucks County Transport provides local transit in the Doylestown, New Britain and Chalfont areas, with connections to the SEPTA Doylestown rail line and the Route 55 bus line; this includes Doylestown Dart and Dart West.

When looking for holiday accommodation in Bucks, it is worth deciding first on the type of travel pace you want. Those who want to combine nature and water can include the parks mentioned above and Lake Nockamixon in their selection. For culture-focused days, historic sites, museums and distinctive houses take center stage. Culinary experiences such as breweries and farmers’ markets complement both types of trip.

More places to include in your search

If you would like to continue your search for regional accommodation, you can also visit Andalusia, Langhorne, Feasterville-Trevose, Doylestown, Croydon, Morrisville, Yardley, Quakertown, Warrington, Warminster, Bristol and Bensalem.

For the higher-level travel overview: Pennsylvania.