No matter how long you have been a resident of Bucks County or its surrounding areas, it continues to be a fascinating place rich in stories, beauty and history. So many people and events from Bucks County's history have contributed to the charming, timeless, and scenic towns around us. Read up on some of the these must visit historic spots here, then plan your next visit or weekend outing experiencing them for yourself!
2024 Happening List Winner | Historic Spots
525 E Court St, Doylestown, PA 18901
215-348-9461
Fonthill Castle, the home of archaeologist, anthropologist, ceramicist, scholar, and antiquarian, Henry Mercer was built by Mercer himself between 1908-1912. The castle acted as his home and a showplace for all of his tiles and prints which are still displayed in the castle today. The historic castle and the original reinforced concrete architecture, including 44 rooms, over 200 windows, and 18 fireplaces is open for admiration year round.
Guests can enjoy an hour long guided tour of the castle, or take the adventure a step further with the thrilling behind the scenes guided tour. Tour guides lead guests through hidden passageways, tall towers, and “secret rooms” for the complete historical experience.
The holiday season is a wonderful time to see the castle in all of its glory as it is decorated and illuminated for Christmas time. Starting on Saturday November 16, you can visit the decked out castle for a holiday tour. Guests can book a guided tour, or meander through the castle following the tour route at their own pace on Saturdays and Sundays from December 7th through December 31st. The illuminated castle on a winter night in Bucks County makes for the perfect enchanting holiday experience!
Fonthill Castle Winter by Kevin Crawford
Fonthill Castle Interior By Kevin Crawford
Fonthill Castle Exterior by Kevin Crawford
2024 Happening List Finalist | Historic Spots
85 Holly Dr, Levittown, PA 19055
215-547-4271
The Bolton Mansion, also known as the home of Phineas Pemberton, is one of the most historically and architecturally significant homes in Pennsylvania. Each one of its inhabitants since William Penn played a significant role in the course of Pennsylvania history. Phineas Pemberton, best known as William Penn’s chief administrator in Bucks County, was Falls Township’s most prominent citizen as he held many job titles. He served three terms in the Provincial Council, four terms in the General Assembly, and was President of the Assembly. He also led the annual gatherings of Quakers, known as Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of Friends. Following Phineas Pemberton and his immediate family, the house continued to inhabit historical figures cultivating the rich history of the Bolton Mansion.
Guests can travel back in time to the 17th-20th centuries when they book a guided tour through the mansion led by experts on the Bolton residents, architecture, and land. Those interested can stay up to date with Bolton Mansion's Events throughout the year by visiting the events calendar on their website.
Washinton Crossing Historic Park
2024 Happening List Finalist | Historic Spots
1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing, PA 18977
215-493-4076
George Washington led his ragged army across the Delaware River in 1776 in an attempt to invade Trenton and attack the Hessian outposts during the war for Independence. Late Christmas evening, Washington and his 2,400 troops perservered through an intense snowstorm, to finally defeat the Hessians the morning of December 26. This battled inspired the re-ignition of the cause of freedom and revived the American Revolution. The Friends of Washington Crossing Park is a non-profit group dedicated to sharing the rich history of the Crossing and the impact it has had on this generation and generations to come.
The fall 2024 Lantern Tours will be led every Friday and Saturday this October from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Guests can learn about the Crossing during the time of evening the event actually took place in order to fully understand and experience the historic story. One of their largest events is the annual crossing reenactment. Hundreds of reenactors gather in continental military dress for two separate reenactments during the month of December featuring a speech from Washington and the rowing across the Delaware River in replica Durham boats. Thousands of people gather every year to “witness the Crossing that saved the Revolution.
Photo by Flintlock Imaging
Photo by Alexandru Bruschini of Mediaology Co.
Photo by William Hampton
1098 Durham Rd, Pineville, PA 18946
215-598-6960
The Pineville Tavern is a charming little restaurant with a delicious menu and a rich and fascinating historical background. In 1776, Alexander Hamilton was able to negotiate the release of Continental General William Alexander, previously known as Lord Sterling, from the Hessian forces. During his captivity Lord Sterling was able to uncover crucial information due to his fluency in the Central German dialect. As soon as he was released he requested to meet with the Army's Chief Intelligence Officer in private where he informed him that the Hessians were barracked just ten miles down the road in Trenton, New Jersey. This led to the creation of Alexander Hamilton's “Pineville Plan” articulated in Pineville Tavern just ten days before the crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Night 1776, changing the outcome of the Revolutionary War and history forever.
Guests can eat in, order out, or book a private room at the Pineville Tavern for a night of delicious food and drinks accompanied by the authentic historic ambiance. Private rooms available include the 1742 room, the Garden, and the Mural Room.
Photo attributed to Pineville Tavern
Photo attributed to Pineville Tavern
2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
215-236-3300
The Eastern State Penitentiary was the first prison intended to inspire penitence in prisoners. The once famous and costly penitentiary is still standing with its original grand architecture remaining. The Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is a nonprofit committed to spreading awareness about the criminal justice system and how it impacts people's lives.
Guests can book a daytime guide-led tour or self-led audio tour at the penitentiary. Halloween nights at the penitentiary are extra special and super spooky featuring five haunted houses, historic tours, themed bars and lounges, live entertainment, and more!
84 S Pine St, Doylestown, PA 18901
215-345-0210
The Mercer Museum is the second castle built by Henry Mercer in Bucks County. The six-story tall concrete castle features wonderful exhibits that intrigue and educate guests including a complex collection of pre-industrial tools and an extensive look into pre-industrial American material culture. The research library within the museum is dated back to 1880, and is a very credible source for all things Bucks County history, including its surrounding regions.
Events and Educational Tour Information can be found HERE
Henry Chapman Mercer and His Dog
Mercer Museum Interior by Kevin Crawford
Mercer Museum Exterior by Kevin Crawford
Pennsbury Manor State Park, 400 Pennsbury Memorial Rd, Morrisville, PA 19067
215-946-0400
Pennsbury Manor is a historic site along the Delaware River dedicated to the history of William Penn, a significant figure in Pennsylvania History. The site is a reconstruction of Penn’s scenic 43 acre estate. Stories of colonists, servants, enslaved people, and Native Americans who lived on the estate grounds are told at the Manor, diving into the complex history of those who once inhabited the estate. Guests can view 17th century objects and furniture and enjoy various demonstrations and hands-on activities intended to allow guests to travel back in time to when the Manor was still flourishing. Even the plants and farm animals are an accurate representation of the animals and plants native to the manor in 1776.
Held from April to October, “Sundays at Pennsbury” is a variety of events where guests can watch different demonstrations from colonial craftspeople. Tours of the Manor are also available for booking throughout the year! Guests can book a guided 90 minute tour that allows guests to get a glimpse of life in the 17th century with their award winning exhibit, an orientation video, and a tour of the Manor house and grounds. Guests have free rein to explore the Manor grounds after the tour. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the estate after! Family tours are also available to book and include a more hands-on experience that's perfect for little ones!
Guests can stay up to date on all of Pennsbury Manor's events throughout the year by taking a look at their Event Calendar. There are many unique happenings for each season providing a fun and educational experience for all.
Pennsbury Manor will be hosting their featured fall event, “Tricks or Treats,” this October 27th! The event is perfect for kids as it includes trick-or-treating, carnival games, a magic pumpkin show, and the opportunity to sit on the jury for a witch trial!
Photo attributed to Pennsbury Manor
Photo attributed to Pennsbury Manor
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