Doylestown, a picturesque borough located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and small-town charm. Situated just 27 miles north of Philadelphia, Doylestown serves as the county seat and offers residents and visitors alike a perfect blend of cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and easy access to major cities.
Doylestown’s history dates back to the early 18th century when English and Scotch-Irish settlers arrived in the area. The town was officially established in 1745 and named after William Doyle, a local tavern owner. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Doylestown grew as a center for agriculture, commerce, and transportation, with the arrival of the railroad in 1856 further boosting its growth and development.
Local Landmarks:
- Mercer Museum: This unique castle-like museum, built in 1916, showcases the collection of Henry Chapman Mercer, featuring over 50,000 objects representing early American life and industry.
- Fonthill Castle: This historic home and museum, built between 1908 and 1912, was the personal residence of Henry Chapman Mercer and features his unique architectural style and decorative tile work.
- James A. Michener Art Museum: Named after the Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Doylestown native, this museum features a collection of regional art, with a focus on Bucks County impressionist painters.
Schools: Doylestown is served by the Central Bucks School District, which includes:
- Central Bucks High School East
- Central Bucks High School West
- Central Bucks High School South
- Doyle Elementary School
- Kutz Elementary School
- Linden Elementary School
- Cold Spring Elementary School
- Lenape Middle School
- Holicong Middle School
- Tohickon Middle School
Nearby Colleges:
- Delaware Valley University (located within Doylestown)
- Bucks County Community College (located within Newtown, PA, 10 miles from Doylestown)
- Gwynedd Mercy University (18 miles)
- Arcadia University (20 miles)
- Temple University (25 miles)
Doylestown’s charming downtown district is home to a variety of unique shops, boutiques, and galleries. Main Street and State Street feature a mix of locally-owned businesses selling clothing, jewelry, home decor, and specialty items. Peddler’s Village, located just outside of Doylestown, offers over 60 specialty shops and restaurants in a picturesque colonial-style setting.
Doylestown offers a diverse dining scene, with options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Some local favorites include the Buttonwood Grill for American cuisine, Honey Restaurant for farm-to-table dishes, and Genevieve’s Kitchen for French-inspired fare. The town also features several craft breweries and distilleries, such as the Doylestown Brewing Company and the County Seat Spirits.
Doylestown is surrounded by beautiful parks and nature preserves, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Central Park features walking trails, a playground, and a gazebo, while the 14-acre Burpee Park offers sports fields and picnic areas. The nearby Peace Valley Park spans over 1,500 acres and features hiking trails, fishing spots, and boat rentals, with many areas being dog-friendly.
Annual Events in Doylestown
- Doylestown Arts Festival: Held each September, this two-day event showcases the work of local and regional artists, live music performances, and food vendors.
- Bucks County Classic: This annual cycling race, held in September, features professional and amateur riders competing in a criterium-style race through the streets of Doylestown.
- Doylestown Holiday Parade: This festive event, held in December, includes marching bands, floats, and an appearance by Santa Claus, followed by the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.