One Of The Northeast's Best Small Towns Is Hiding Just 90 Minutes Outside NYC — With River Views And Storybook Streets

New York is about to hit pique weather for summer getaways, and this nearby Pennsylvanian town is turning heads...and you’ve probably never been. *USA Today* just released their list of the best small towns in the Northeast for 2025 , and this boutique suburb less than two hours from NYC just landed on it . Meet New Hope, Pennsylvania , a lively arts hub along the Delaware River best known for its eclectic shops, historic sites, and vibrant theater scene . This historic little town sits right on the banks of the Delaware River , offering water views, a walkable main street full of quirky shops, and a local arts scene that gives it serious cool-town energy. It’s only home to around 2,600 people , making it an ideal quiet little place to hop between antique stores or sip wine by the water. To get to New Hope, it’s only about a 90 minute drive based on normal traffic, or you can even brave it out on NJ Transit + Uber if you have to. Take a look below at some of the town’s features, both suggested by the Secret NYC team as well as the USA Today team. Things To Do in New Hope, PA ---------------------------- * Walk the New Hope–Lambertville Bridge: Stroll along the scenic, photo-worthy bridge that connects New Hope with Lambertville, NJ and get river views, town views, and the perfect golden-hour glow . * Shop Along Main Street: Shop one-of-a-kind boutique shops, antique stores, and local galleries —many housed in colonial buildings. Tey range from handmade jewelry to indie bookstores and beyond. * Catch a Show at Bucks County Playhouse: One of New Hope’s prize possesions. This historic theater has been home to early performances from big names like Grace Kelly and Robert Redford. Today, it still puts on Broadway-quality musicals, dramas, and comedy acts . *View here* * Bike or Walk the Delaware Canal Towpath: A peaceful trail that runs along the river—perfect for biking, running, or a chill afternoon walk with views. * Explore Local Galleries: New Hope is an artists’ haven, and sculpture gardens, modern galleries, and studios are everywhere. Our suggestions: New Hope Arts Center, Gallery Piquel, Jim’s of Lambertville, Topeo Gallery . Where To Eat in New Hope ---------------------------- * Stella of New Hope: Elevated American eats in a dreamy riverfront setting (ask for a table outside). It’s a little splurge-y, but totally worth it. *View here* * Nektar Wine Bar: A “wine, beer, and whiskey bar all in one” right across from the street from Bucks County Playhouse. Order some Mediterranean small platers, wine, and charcuterie at an outdoor table after the show. *View here* * Nina’s Waffles: An absolute must in the summer, Nina’s specializes in Belgian waffles/local ice cream combos you didn’t know you needed. *View here* Where To Stay in New Hope ----------------------------- * Ghost Light Inn: This 12-room boutique hotel oozes modern luxury meets riverside charm . It even shares the riverfront promenade with the historic Bucks County Playhouse which houses the inspiration for the hotel’s featured ghost lights in each room. *View here* * Carriage House of New Hope: This three-room bed and breakfast style inn is a waterfront oasis. Especially the highly sought after Room 13, the largest suite with two floors of amentities like a chef’s kitchen, king beds, and much more. *View here* * River House at Odette’s: A riverfront luxury hotel (pictured above) with Delaware views, an NYC-esque rooftop bar, and one of the best hotel restaurants in the entire small town. *View here* Source: https://secretnyc.co/new-hope-pennsylvania-top-small-town-northeast-2025/