Neighborhood Spotlight: Newtown, PA

What to do; where to dine and shop; and what you don’t want to miss

Newtown is a small borough with approximately 2,300 people, located in Bucks County. William Penn founded the area in 1864 as a way to provide country homes to residents from Philadelphia and support the farming community. Newtown also is a place of historical significance, serving as the headquarters for General George Washington after his march to Trenton on December 26, 1776. In 1969, the entire central business district was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The Vibe

The overall vibe of Newtown is a quaint, bustling town that offers a blend of homespun charm, history, and entertainment. You’ll find lots of great restaurants, attractions, and festivals. There’s also an excellent mix of cultural experiences and ample opportunities for outdoor fun. 

Where to Eat and Drink

You don’t have to worry about finding a great place to eat or drink in Newtown, PA. Fantastic local eateries abound around every turn.

• • Isaac Newton’s — Try some delicious Devil’s Food Cheesecake or some honey BBQ wings at this local favorite. They serve a wide assortment of pub fare in a casual, laid-back atmosphere. Kick back with a cocktail or one of 22 beers on tap. The list of brews is always changing so you can try new things. 

• Pat’s Colonial Kitchen — This family-owned eatery has served breakfast and lunch to hungry guests since 1988. The charming, cottage vibe and down-home menu make you feel like you’re hanging out with family and enjoying a meal at home. They make everything from scratch daily. You’ll also find Missy’s Market in the restaurant’s foyer, where you can browse for a variety of antiques and unique finds.

• Duck Sauce — If you’re craving Asian cuisine, this cozy restaurant is just the place. It’s housed in a former Newtown residence, lending it a very relaxed and comfortable vibe. Try a variety of classic Chinese dishes mixed in with some Asian fusion creations.

• Green Parrot — This local hotspot strives to recreate the feel of the original Green Parrot Inn from the 1900s. It features a warm and inviting environment, friendly staff, and tasty pub fare. It’s also a great place to watch the game with your pals, boasting 19 high-definition televisions and excellent happy hour specials.

Where to Shop

Don’t miss out on some fun shopping experiences while you’re exploring Newtown. You’ll find a wide variety of stores showcasing all sorts of items.

• Alternate Dimension Toys — If you’re into comics, characters, collectibles, and toys, then you don’t want to pass up this local shop. As they refer to themselves, it’s Comic Con in store form. You can score additions to your Funko Pop collection, find that Marvel comic you’ve been searching for, or snag an unexpected treasure or two.

• Milk Money — Kids go through clothes so fast since they grow so quickly. It can be hard to stay up to date on your children’s clothing and stay on a budget. Milk Money makes it possible to do both by showcasing an impressive collection of children’s clothes in their upscale consignment shop. They also carry teen clothes, toys, games, books, and shoes.

• Lang’s Ski and Scuba —  Since 1966, Lang’s has offered exceptional service and supplies for various athletic activities. They specialize in skiing, snowboarding, and SCUBA, and you can find all the latest gear you need to tackle your next adventure.

• Newtown Farmer’s Market — Stock up on fresh produce from local vendors at the Newtown Farmer’s Market. It’s one of the standout Amish markets in the area thanks to amazing goods from Dutch Treats, Zook’s BBQ Barn, Klinghoffer Farms, and many more. Shop for fresh fruits and veggies, local seafood and meats, and homemade cakes, sweets, and snacks.

Three Things You Shouldn’t Miss

If you’re looking for things to do beyond eating great food and shopping till you drop, Newton delivers. Check out some of these top spots while you’re in town.

• Newtown Theatre — When you’re in Newtown, spend an evening soaking up culture by attending a production at this historic theatre. The building was originally for town gatherings when it was first built in 1831. But by the 1850s, it was regularly used for entertainment. Today, the theatre features concerts, plays, movies, and other events throughout the year.

• Tyler State Park — If you’d like to enjoy the great outdoors while you’re in Newtown, visit Tyler State Park for a day of recreation and fun. Tyler State Park is roughly 33 miles from Philadelphia’s city center. It features 1,711 acres of trails, greenery, and the Neshaminy Creek, in a refreshing setting of farmland and woodland. The Tyler Park Center for the Arts offers various classes throughout the year.

• The Temperance House — This historical inn offers a cozy place to stay while exploring Newtown. It began its life as an inn in 1772. Spend a weekend or more enjoying the home-away-from-home ambiance, or stop into the Tap & Barrel Tavern for a pint with friends and to enjoy a delicious meal. 

Learn more about Newtown Borough before heading into town so you can make the most of your visit. Happy exploring!