Fun day trips out of Philly

New Hope is a small and scenic village nestled along the banks of the Delaware River in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, about an hour’s drive from Philadelphia. It offers scenic countryside, casual restaurants, quaint B&Bs, and great shopping and nightlife. For families who visit, New Hope is home to the Bucks County Children’s Museum. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, there is a weekly fireworks display over the Delaware River (every Friday night at 9:30). In September the town hosts a juried arts and crafts festival. Some of the shops have reduced hours in the winter. My favorite time to go is in the autumn for the gorgeous scenery, and while it’s still warm enough to enjoy the outdoor dining. Cross the bridge to the New Jersey side and visit the equally quaint Lambertville, voted one of the prettiest towns in the US by Forbes Magazine. Lambertville’s tree-lined streets are full of lovely Victorian houses, antique shops and art galleries, and the walking/biking trail on the riverfront provides endless scenic views.

The Golden Nugget Antique Market was voted the “Best of Philly” flea market in 2012 and is just one hour’s drive from Philadelphia in Lambertville, New Jersey. You can wander and browse the vintage treasures for hours, but it gets quite busy, so arrive early and bring lots of cash. The Golden Nugget consists of both outdoor vendors and an indoor covered market, and is open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 am to 4 pm. Be sure to allow time to visit the lovely Victorian town of Lambertville, about a mile north, and also consider crossing the bridge to the Pennsylvania side for a stop in New Hope. Both Lambertville and New Hope are scenic and enjoyable destinations that offer outstanding restaurants, art galleries, and yes, more shopping!

When Philadelphia‘s battered asphalt and noise begin to tire, head for an afternoon at Longwood Gardens, a verdant hamlet 35 miles West of the city in the Brandywine Valley. 1,077 acres of horticultural magnificence occupy one of Pierre S. du Pont’s many estates, including an impressive conservatory that stretches about 1/2mile. Ornamental gardens and topiaries, which rotate regularly, can be appreciated all year round in addition to seasonal illuminations (the Christmas light display is so well-received, guests must reserve tickets in advance). It’s not only the sheer size of the property that draws in visitors from around the world but the robust display that easily rivals the impeccably manicured gardens of Europe. The indoor children’s garden, treehouses, model trains (seasonal) and concert series make Longwood a great option for traveling families.

There has been no shortage of brilliant academics during Princeton University’s luminous history, but in terms of reputation one German-born physicist towers above all others. One of the most recognizable figures of the 20th century, Albert Einstein’s status as a cerebral demigod has only grown since his death in 1955. To remind yourself that he was, in fact, just a man, it may help to visit his former home on 112 Mercer Street. The house is still in use as a private residence, so please forbear from any kind of late-night, equation-mumbling séances.