Somewhere at the end of New Jersey but before the Pennsylvania rain, my song began to soar, once again. Watching razor-thin drops gently pierce the mighty Delaware River, adventure was afoot, and the teardrops from above were cleansing.
The Pear Tree Project’s ‘On the Road’ took me to Lambertville, NJ, and New Hope, PA, this past weekend.
Most have heard of New Hope – it has been described by Mr. AI, also known as Art(ificial) Intelligence in the following manner, “its popularity stems from its charm as a walkable, artsy town with a vibrant theater scene, eclectic shops, and a strong LGBTQ+ community, attracting both tourists and celebrities alike” – and it did not disappoint.
Perhaps it was the age-old recipe of three-quarters cup expectation and one fourth cup of multitudinous hordes in search of souvenirs; no offense New Hope. However, it is the city on the Jersey side of the bridge that produced inspirational sights and unquenchable sustenance. It is Lambertville I long for on this random Tuesday back home.
A brief history ~ Transformed by the Industrial Revolution from an agrarian economy to a hub for manufacturing, commerce, and transportation, Lambertville has been rediscovered as a regional harbor.
Lambertville was a geographical hub during the Battle for Independence. George Washington’s army encamped where the bank now stands on Bridge Street and slept at the Holcombe Farmstead on North Main Street. He crossed the Delaware on December 25, 1776 just south of the city. In 1915, the Liberty Bell was carried on a train that ran on the railroad tracks across Bridge Street.
Named one of the most picturesque small towns in New Jersey by USA Today and one of America’s 15 prettiest towns by Forbes, the City of Lambertville is a memorable place to visit.
With its diverse, Zagat-rated restaurants, one of a kind specialty shops, and award winning hotels, it has become a year-round destination.
Priding itself on natural beauty and small-town friendliness, it has well-maintained historic homes and commercial buildings, protected open parks and river views, and provides active recreational opportunities for adults and children. All of which contributes to the high quality of life enjoyed by its more than 4,000 residents.
Highlights include ~ Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn; this wonderfully conceived and well-crafted establishment offers unawkward uniqueness at its best. Sometimes people, restaurants, elected officials, etcetera, try (very much in vain) to create coolness but cannot pull it off. This venue boasts formal dining rooms, a sports-themed watering hole, solarium-style eatery, and (drumroll please), one funky cave-like cellar of the wine persuasion.
The fare fantabulous, the ambience alluring, the service superlative, but the pièce de résistance was the aforementioned onsite vino dwelling. Please treat yourself to a rare gem in the bowels of this historic train station dating back to 1867, offering a rustic setting with exposed stone walls and original beams from the 1800s, complemented by contemporary provisions.
In addition ~ Under the Moon Cafe satiated a sobering stomach with delectable chicken and waffles. My habitat for two eves was the legendary Lambertville House, a charming hotel whose stone section was built in 1812 by Captain John Lambert. And, if time permits you should frequent The Boat House, tucked off a private path leading to a hidden speakeasy. Festooned in floor to ceiling nautical-themed art and decor with an authentic “lived in” aesthetic, including a massive whaling harpoon hung from above and furniture from an old fisherman tavern. Just try and ignore the pretentious, hippie-smock garbed barkeep, who believes putting his unsolicited spin on a 100-year old classic libation is acceptable. You may luck out, he may find work in a nearby coffee shop where he can adorn a wool cap in 90-degree heat, or be off the day you visit.
Trust me, there is a richness of spoils to be discovered under Hunterdon County, NJ’s most western sky, and although it might be awhile until I can gaze at those stars again that will not stop me from dreaming of my newfound friend.
Did You Know? The Delaware River, a 330-mile-long waterway, is the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi, flowing through five states and serving as a boundary between them, while also being a vital source of drinking water and supporting diverse wildlife.
You should send this to the Mayor It Sounds lke a wonderful town —–Thanks Maybe drive there someday soon Lis
Wonderful story and intriguing town. May I recommend if you visit Michigan to visit the town of Frankenmuth. Know for its Bavarian-style architecture while highlighting German roots. Everyone loves going there to visit especially around Christmas time.