June 18, 2011. Ken's son Scott, Scott's wife Laura and Ken's grandson Liam from Pennsylvania, met with Ken and his wife Paddy from New Jersey, for a get together at New Hope PA. The weather was sunny and warm and it was around lunchtime. We parked at the Triumph Brewery, but alas, the Triumph restaurant was booked until 5 PM for a private party. Scott suggested lunch at the Villa Vito which was a short block east from the Brewery. The patio was shady, with a nice cool breeze and the food and service was excellent.
After lunch, we stopped for a boat ride next to the Landing restaurant; but a sign told us that the boat was cancelled this day only because of a wedding. No problem, we walked two blocks down South Main Street next to Gerenser's Exotic Ice Cream store and purchased tickets on Coryell's Ferry. Being a little early for the ride we stopped at the ice cream store and yes, it did have some very unique flavors.
We purchased two containers of ground corn and as as soon as Liam threw out the first handful, the ducks came from everywhere to be fed.
The boat ride was fun, we went under the New Hope - Lambertville bridge and the Rt. 202 bridge. The Captain slowed down at one place and pointed out a haven for turtles.
On the return trip, we passed the Landing Restaurant and the Bucks County Playhouse. When we departed, the Commander fed the baby ducks right out of his hand!
Scott, Liam and Ken, being train buffs, had to take a ride on the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad. Scott selected the open air car which was very nice on a warm day.
At the half way point, the engine was uncoupled and was re-attached at the other end of the train for the return trip. Liam, having trains at home, was fascinated by the coupling process and watched intently at every step of the way.
There were some very large homes on the trip and nice scenery all the way. A local photographer took everyone's photo and had them printed while we were on the ride: $20 for two 5x7's. Nice idea.
After our train ride, we took a walking tour of New Hope. Along the way Scott spotted some large fish in the river across from the Bucks County Playhouse.
Many restaurants in New Hope and we stopped briefly for a cool beverage.
Strolling along the canal, Paddy and I, being veteran visitors of New Hope, were dismayed at seeing the empty canal. We remember taking a pleasant canal barge ride pulled by mules. Now it's just weeds.
After checking out the Visitor Center, we ended the day with an excellent meal the Logan Inn Restaurant.
It was a great day. We are all looking forward to the next visit.