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Spend a leisurely weekend exploring towns on either side of this historic waterway.
A patchwork of small towns and villages in Pennsylvania and New Jersey lines the scenic shores of the Delaware River north of Philadelphia. Eco-designer Danny Seo, an area resident, takes us to his favorite riverside locales—including charming home stores, quaint eateries, antiques shops, and great places to soak in the scenery.
Bucks County River Country
The best way to take in the wildlife, rock formations, and majestic cliffs along the banks of the Delaware River Valley is floating down the river in an inner tube. Head to Bucks County’s oldest river outfitter for everything you need for an afternoon of fun.
2 Walters Ln., Point Pleasant, PA; 215/297-5000; rivercountry.net
1740 House Country Inn
This cozy inn nestled on the Delaware River was built in the early 1800s as a private home and is now filled with folk art and antique furniture. Ask for a complimentary mountain bike to ride along the river’s towpath.
$150–$325 per night; 3690 River Rd., Lumberville, PA; 215/297-5661; 1740house.com
Bucks County Dry Goods
Owners Stewart Ross and Natalie Page compare the store’s selection of home accessories and women’s clothing to an art exhibit that is constantly evolving. Don’t miss the great selection of mid-century modern furniture, found objects, books, and artwork.
5 Klines Ct., Lambertville, NJ; 609/397-1288
The People’s Store
Antiques lovers will go gaga over the changing furniture, art, and accessories found at the oldest antiques co-op in Lambertville. “The silverware booth on the left side has a bargain bin where I’ve found lovely flatware for just a dollar,” Danny says. And don’t miss the second and third floors, he says. The stairs are hidden in the back. “You’ll find two more whole floors of treasures.”
28 N. Union St., Lambertville, NJ; 609/397-9808; peoplesstore.net
Boat House
Enjoy a drink at this nautical-inspired bar after a day of exploring. “This is a great place to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon,” Danny says. “They have a real wood-burning stove.”
8 1/2 Coryell St., Lambertville, NJ; 609/397-2244
Euphoria Studio
Treat yourself to a day of big-city pampering without the inflated price tag. Indulge in sugar body scrubs, deep-tissue massages, or aromatherapy facials. A boutique in front of the spa features an always-changing collection of personal-care products, antiques, clothing, and home items.
15 Trenton Ave., Frenchtown, NJ; 908/996-3399; euphoriastudio.com
Fiddleheads
Satisfy your inner foodie at this market with a sampling of gourmet treats, imported cheeses, and organic produce. Stop by on Saturdays for fresh artisan breads.
19 Bridge St., Lambertville, NJ; 609/397-3716; fiddleheadsonline.com
Book Garden
Bookworms will love this book and museum shop located in a colorful 19th-century Victorian home. It’s a source for area history, literature, and art.
28 Bridge St., Frenchtown, NJ; 908/996-2022; bookgarden.biz
Thistle
You can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring the shops and restaurants on Bridge Street. This inviting home store is full of traditional country classics from colorful ceramics to classic red, white, and blue accessories.
38 Bridge St., Frenchtown, NJ; 908/996-7080; shopthistle.com
The Bridge Café
Enjoy lunch outside at this casual spot perched on the banks of the Delaware River. Formerly the town’s train depot, the café features an interior with original tin walls and ceilings. Its classic pastry bread and premium ice cream are local favorites.
8 Bridge St., Frenchtown, NJ; 908/996-6040; bridgecafe.net
The Spinnery
This is a one-stop shop for knitting, weaving, spinning, natural dyeing, and more. They even have looms and spinning wheels to buy.
33 Race St., Frenchtown, NJ; 908/996-9004; spinnery.net
The Chocolate Box
Take a step into the past in this charming chocolatery inspired by 19th-century Europe. Indulge your sweet tooth with the tantalizing selection of imported chocolates and sinfully sweet confections.
39 N. Union St., Lambertville, NJ; 609/397-1920; chocolateboxusa.com
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