Exploring the Best of Bucks County with the Tourism Committee

Rep. Melissa Cerrato May 22, 2026

Dear Friends,

I had the opportunity to join the House Tourism, Recreation, and Economic Development Committee on a recent tour of Bucks County. These incredible three days began with a tour of Fonthill Castle, and it was a truly memorable experience. Walking through the castle’s intricate rooms and winding hallways, I was struck by the extraordinary craftsmanship of Henry Mercer and the creativity behind his tilework.

What made the visit especially meaningful was seeing how Mercer’s tiles connect directly to the ones featured throughout the Pennsylvania State Capitol. I have admired those tiles many times in Harrisburg but standing in the place where so many of them were designed and produced added an entirely new layer of appreciation. It is remarkable to trace the artistic lineage from Mercer’s workshop to the Capitol’s floors and walls, where his work continues to shape the character of the building.

The tour was a powerful reminder that our Commonwealth’s history is preserved not only in grand architecture but also in the small and intentional details that link our cultural landmarks. If you have never visited Fonthill Castle or taken a closer look at the Mercer tiles in the Capitol, I recommend adding both to your list. They offer a fascinating window into Pennsylvania’s artistic heritage and the vision of one remarkable craftsman.

As the day continued, we kept the Tourism Committee’s Bucks County adventure moving with a stop at one of the most unique spots in the area, the VAMPA Vampire and Paranormal Museum.

This place is such a fun blend of history, folklore, and the wonderfully unusual. From legendary vampire lore to eerie artifacts and paranormal curiosities, every corner has a story that draws you in. Whether you enjoy spooky tales or simply discovering hidden gems, VAMPA offers something memorable.

If you are looking for something different to add to your Bucks County itinerary, this is absolutely worth visiting. It is quirky, fascinating, and the kind of place you will be talking about long after you leave. Supporting local tourism can be as simple as exploring something unexpected and letting yourself enjoy a little mystery.

Our next stop brought us to Peddler’s Village, where the Tourism Committee enjoyed a guided tour that highlighted why this destination remains such a local treasure. From the charming pathways to the unique shops, every part of the village offered something special.

One highlight we especially enjoyed was the Birdhouse Display, a creative and colorful showcase that brings together artistry, craftsmanship, and a touch of whimsy. It is the perfect seasonal attraction for families, visitors, and anyone who appreciates local talent.

If you have not visited Peddler’s Village recently, now is a wonderful time to explore, shop, dine, and enjoy the beautiful displays.

We then continued our journey with a wonderful experience aboard the New Hope Railroad. Riding through the countryside on a historic train, surrounded by friendly staff and the charm of an earlier era, reminded all of us how fortunate we are to have such a unique attraction in our region.

The relaxing ride and scenic views made the entire trip memorable. It was fun, engaging, and full of the small-town magic that keeps people returning. If you have not taken a trip on the New Hope Railroad yet, I encourage you to plan a visit with family or friends or make it a day trip.

Our visit also included a stop at Ashlynn Distillery, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch followed by an engaging behind the scenes tour. Their team walked us through how they transform locally sourced ingredients into their signature products, explaining each step of the craft with knowledge and pride.

Seeing the production process up close and learning about the history behind their operation gave us a deeper appreciation for the role they play in our region. It is always inspiring to meet local businesses that put so much care into their work and contribute to the character of our community. We are grateful to Ashlynn Distillery for the warm hospitality.

Another highlight of our trip was touring Sesame Place, a destination that continues to bring joy to families across the region. The park’s dedication to family fun, accessibility, and high-quality guest experiences truly stood out.

Walking through the park brought back the familiar warmth of Sesame Street, and seeing Big Bird in person created a moment of pure excitement for everyone. The bright colors, friendly characters, and families enjoying their day together made it clear why Sesame Place remains such a beloved attraction.

If you have not visited recently, this is a wonderful time to rediscover the magic.

Our visit to Washington Crossing Historic Park offered a meaningful shift into the deep history of our nation. Standing on the grounds where General George Washington led his famous crossing of the Delaware River on the night of December 25th in 1776 gave us a renewed appreciation for this pivotal moment in the American Revolution.

The staff welcomed us with thoughtful insight and a genuine passion for preserving this history. Whether you enjoy early American history, scenic landscapes, or exploring with family and friends, Washington Crossing Historic Park offers an experience that stays with you.

We concluded our Bucks County tour with a visit to the Michener Art Museum and the wonderful Eric Carle Exhibit. The vibrant colors, playful textures, and timeless storytelling that define Carle’s work created an atmosphere filled with creativity and joy.

The final day to enjoy the Eric Carle Exhibit will be this Sunday, so now is a great time to plan a visit if you have not seen it yet. Even after the exhibit closes, the Michener Art Museum continues to offer remarkable exhibits and collections that are always worth exploring. I encourage everyone to stop by, support this outstanding local institution, and discover something inspiring each time you walk through its galleries.

Upcoming Events

SEPTA Senior Key Card Event

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming SEPTA Senior Key Card event, created to make it easier for residents who may not be able to visit our office during the workweek to apply for or renew their Senior Key Card.

Through our continued partnership with SEPTA, we are proud to provide this convenient opportunity for seniors in our community. The SEPTA Senior Key Card is available to residents aged 65 and older and offers free rides on all SEPTA transit routes, including buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail. Seniors traveling to Delaware or New Jersey can also enjoy a 50 percent discount on fares when using their Senior Key Card.

Important Notes:

SEPTA currently takes about four weeks to process and mail new cards.
If you prefer not to wait, you may renew your pass directly at SEPTA Headquarters, 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, by scheduling an appointment at (215) 580-7145.
Please note that duplicate cards cannot be issued at this event. To replace a lost or stolen card, you must mail a $5 check or money order payable to SEPTA to: SEPTA, P.O. Box 824833, Philadelphia, PA 19182.

We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to apply for or renew your Senior Key Card in a convenient and supportive setting. Please spread the word to friends and neighbors who may benefit from this program.

Summer Open House

Come and explore our “home away from home” at our Summer Open House! Get to know me and my wonderful team in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We’ll be serving light refreshments and look forward to an afternoon filled with great conversations and connections. We can’t wait to see you there!