Bucks: Experience Nature, Water and History

At Ringing Rocks Park, boulders can ring like bells when struck with a hammer. This unusual natural phenomenon is a striking introduction to Bucks: alongside distinctive landscapes, the itinerary includes sites of American history, art and craft traditions.

Parks and Waterways

Nockamixon State Park covers 5,286 acres in the rolling hills of Bucks County. Lake Nockamixon covers 1,450 acres and is fed by Tohickon Creek, Three Mile Run and Haycock Run. Four boat launches, a marina and boat rentals add to the lake’s amenities; check rental availability before making plans.

Tohickon Creek flows through the 45-acre Ralph Stover State Park; the High Rocks section offers a viewpoint overlooking Tohickon Creek. In the 1,711-acre Tyler State Park, Neshaminy Creek winds through the grounds, dividing them into several areas. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset; check the hours before your visit. Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve is located in Bucks County’s historic Pidcock Creek Valley.

Ringing Rocks Park covers 123 acres and is home to the largest waterfall in Bucks County. From the boulder field, an easy five-minute walk leads to High Falls. Trail conditions can vary by season. If you try out the ringing rocks, follow the on-site safety instructions.

History along the Delaware River and Cultural Sites

Washington Crossing Historic Park preserves the site where George Washington crossed the Delaware River during the American Revolution and is a National Historic Landmark. Park activities include historic buildings, walking trails, fishing opportunities and a place to launch non-motorized boats. The 125-foot-tall Bowman’s Hill Tower offers views across the Delaware River Valley; check seasonal access to the tower before your visit.

Arts, crafts and everyday history also shape the area’s cultural attractions. The Mercer Museum showcases more than 60 early American trades. Moravian Pottery and Tile Works is a National Historic Landmark and a historic tile factory that has made ceramic art tiles from Bucks County wild clay since 1898. Fonthill Castle has more than 44 rooms, 18 fireplaces and 200 windows; numerous original handmade tiles adorn its interiors. The castle offers one-hour guided tours, though the format may change.

The Michener Art Museum is housed within the preserved stone walls and facade of the former 19th-century Bucks County prison. At the Pearl S. Buck House, you can see the desk where Pearl S. Buck wrote the novel “The Good Earth,” and visit the cultural center, gardens and seasonal special exhibitions. Exhibition dates may vary.

Regional Experiences and Planning

For a taste of local food culture, farmers’ markets offer fresh produce, Amish meats and baked goods. At some markets, you can also pick your own fruit and berries; selection and activities may change. The Bucks County Ale Trail digital pass helps you discover more than 30 craft breweries. Participating breweries and rewards may change.

From the East Coast, Bucks County is accessible via Interstate 95, and from the west via Interstate 276. In the Doylestown, New Britain and Chalfont area, Bucks County Transport provides local transit with connections to SEPTA’s Doylestown rail line and Route 55 bus line. Services include Doylestown Dart and Dart West; check routes before traveling.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Bucks, first decide whether nature parks and water, history along the Delaware River, or culture and crafts will shape your stay. Choose your search area based on the places you actually want to visit.

Discover more destinations: Andalusia, Langhorne, Feasterville-Trevose, Doylestown, Croydon, Morrisville, Yardley, Quakertown, Warrington, Warminster, Bristol, Bensalem.

For the broader travel overview: Pennsylvania.