What makes Newtown, Pennsylvania one of the “10 Coolest Small Towns in America“?

It's rich history is no doubt impressive. The town was founded in 1684 by William Penn in order to provide country homes for city residents and to support farming communities. During the Revolutionary War, General George Washington designated Newtown as his headquarters after his December 26, 1776 morning march to Trenton and before the Battle of Princeton.  Between 1726 until 1813, Newtown served as the county seat of Bucks County, before being replaced by the more central Doylestown. Today, Newtown is home to the  oldest operating movie theater and the 130 year old Newtown Hardware House.

Court Street in Newtown captured by Elisa Baxt of Only in Bucks

And then, of course, there is the beautiful scenery.  In 1969, Newtown's entire central business district was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's also home to Pennsylvania’s most popular state park, Tyler State Park, as well as a Heritage Walk that traces the very steps of George Washington. Director M. Night Shyamalan chose the scenic small town as the backdrop to his 2002 movie, Signs.

Then there are the amazing people. One of the most noted former residents was painter Edward Hicks (1780–1849) who lived in Newtown for over forty years with his family.

Or perhaps it's a bustling modern business district? The town, which measures more than three times the size of it's original parameters, is enhanced by unique boutiques, colleges, cuisine, a climate for industry. Lawyers across America have likely heard of the small town as The Law School Admission Council is headquartered in Newtown Township.

While Newtown has no doubt woven an intricate tapestry over it's 331 year history, it's the dedication of Newtown's current community which upholds and continues to improve upon those traditions. Those are the people that make Newtown one of the “coolest towns in America” and make the region one of the best places to raise children.

That's why we're turning the spotlight on Newtown for an up close look at some of the hardworking businesses, organizations, and people that make this community so special. This is Newtown Happening.

Explore the beauty of Newtown; go behind the scenes at some of the businesses that make this town tick; and learn about the latest developments going into improving the community:

The Newtown Athletic Club
120 Pheasant Run, Newtown, PA
(215) 968-0600
Explore and learn what's new at the bustling 250,000 square foot lifestyle center.

National Penn Bank
950 Newtown Yardley Road, Newtown, PA
(215) 968-4444
Get to know the new local bank in Newtown! In fall 2014, this established Philadelphia regional bank moved into town, delivering the latest in tools and banking technology without losing a local touch.

DJW Home
25 S. State Street, Newtown, PA
215-579-1200
For over 20 years, we've come to know Newtown's David J. Witchell as a brand synonymous with local style. Now, they're introducing DJW Home, 25 South Denim, and a new location!

Orange Theory Fitness Newtown
2140 South Eagle Road, Newtown PA
(215) 957-1700
The workout that has helped people all over the country get into the best shape of their lives is coming to Newtown.

barre3 Newtown
2875 S Eagle Road, Newtown, PA
(215) 860-1625
Local Lauren Ziel brings one of the most popular modern-day workouts to Newtown.

The Goddard School, Newtown
119 Pheasant Run, Newtown, PA
(215) 579-8844
From infant care to Kindergarten to summer camp  – Newtown parents trust The Goddard School to keep their little ones safe and nourished.

Isaac Newton's Bar & Restaurant
18 S State St, Newtown, PA
(215) 860-5100
The quintessential Newtown bar and restaurant! Discover what's kept locals loving this local bar and restaurant for over 24 years.

Photography captured by Christina Bruce & Elisa Baxt

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