Ready to hit the road and feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook without ever leaving Pennsylvania?
This road trip through Bucks County is packed with hidden bridges, tiny towns, and spots that’ll have you pulling over every five minutes to say, “Wait, we have to check that out.”
Think red covered bridges, little villages with fresh pie and old-school candy shops, and places so pretty they don’t need a filter.
You’ll drive through tree-lined back roads, explore towns that look like they belong in a Hallmark movie, and maybe even hear a spooky tale or two along the way.
So get ready for one seriously fun adventure as you won’t believe how many gems are packed into this one-day drive.
1. Knecht’s Covered Bridge
Knecht’s Covered Bridge is a charming red wooden bridge built in 1873, stretching 110 feet across Durham Creek in Springfield Township, right near Slifer Valley Road.
It’s known for its classic lattice-style trusses, peaceful forest setting, and the fact that you can still drive across it (yep, it’s one of those rare old bridges that’s not just for show).
If you love that old-timey vibe, this one’s a must-stop—just keep an eye out, as the bridge can appear suddenly along the road, and it might be easy to miss without clear signage.
2. Erwinna Covered Bridge
Just a little farther down the road, you’ll hit the Erwinna Covered Bridge, the tiniest bridge on this whole Bucks County road trip but don’t let its size fool you.
This little guy is only 56 feet long but features deep red sides, white entry portals and a low clearance that makes it feel like a cozy tunnel.
You’ll find it located in a shady spot over Lodi Creek in the quiet village of Erwinna.
It’s also one of the oldest in the county, built way back in the 1830s, and if you walk through it, you’ll spot the original wooden beams that have held strong for nearly two centuries.
3. Peddler’s Village
Next up is Peddler’s Village, a storybook-style shopping village that’s basically a real-life Pinterest board.
It’s got winding brick paths, colorful flower beds, and over 60 super cute shops and boutiques, plus bakeries and restaurants that smell like sugar and fresh bread all day long.
Don’t miss the vintage carousel or the seasonal festivals that turn the whole place into a party.
One of the best ones is the Apple Festival, traditionally held in early November, when everyone’s walking around with warm cider and pie.
4. Van Sant Covered Bridge
Once you’ve had your fill of shopping and sweets, head a few minutes down the road to the Van Sant Covered Bridge, which is known for being a bit spooky.
Hidden in the woods near the edge of Bowman’s Hill, this 86-foot bridge from 1875 is famous for local ghost tales, including legends about phantom footsteps and the cries of a baby when no one’s around (yep, people swear by it).
But creepy or not, it’s a beautiful spot to explore, with mossy stone abutments, a peaceful stream underneath, and gorgeous leafy trees.
5. Yardley
If you’re up for some riverside charm, Yardley is your next stop and it’s got major small-town-meets-coffee-shop energy.
This little borough sits right along the Delaware River and is packed with cozy cafés, like Pretty Bird Coffee Roasters, and the kind of sidewalks that make you want to slow-walk with an iced latte.
Check out the canal path for a scenic stroll, or pop into Vault Brewing for craft beer and live music (it’s the kind of place where one hour somehow turns into three).
6. Newtown
Next up is Newtown, and this town is all about old-school charm, it’s like stepping into a Hallmark movie, but with better coffee.
Founded way back in 1684, the streets are lined with Colonial-style buildings, cute boutiques, and the Newtown Theatre (it’s actually the oldest continuously operating movie theater in the U.S., dating back to 1831!).
Grab a scoop from Nina’s Waffles & Ice Cream or wander through State Street’s shops, you’ll definitely leave with something you didn’t plan to buy but had to have.
7. Doylestown
From Newtown, cruise over to Doylestown which is basically the artsy heart of Bucks County, with castles, museums, and just the right amount of quirky.
You’ve got to check out Fonthill Castle, a concrete mansion built by an eccentric tile-maker who basically said “normal houses are boring,” and then proved it.
The downtown area is packed with cool cafés, vintage shops, and murals around every corner.
Plus, the Mercer Museum looks like a medieval tower but it’s full of everyday stuff from 100 years ago, such as antique lighting devices and architectural hardware.
8. Mood’s Covered Bridge
Last but definitely not least, wrap up your road trip at Mood’s Covered Bridge in Perkasie, a peaceful finish to your Bucks County adventure.
Originally built in 1874, then rebuilt after a fire in 2004 and reopened to traffic in 2008, this bright red bridge stretches 120 feet over the East Branch Perkiomen Creek and is surrounded by farm fields, rolling hills, and quiet country roads.
It’s the kind of place where you roll down your windows to hear nothing but birds and rushing water.
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