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A weekend in Bucks County

A room in the 1740 House Inn, in Bucks County (HANDOUT)

Bucks County's reputation as a summer getaway goes back to the 1920s, when Broadway luminaries such as Dorothy Parker, Geroge S. Kauffman and Moss Hart all bought property here to escape tghe pressures of the city. In their wake, they brought a summer theater that developed a strong following (it's still going strong) and a tradition of antiquing and first-class restaurants. In fact, all the sophistication of the city without the hassles.

The landscape has remained as it was -- wildflower-studded stretches of grass divided by stone walls, deep woods, and the Delaware River itself, a perfect place to go canoeing or rafting or tubing, depending on your energy level. In the small river towns, there are plenty of shops that carry everything from pricey antiques and original paintings to kitschy souvenirs. The dining scene is equally varied, with plenty of fine restaurants and an equal number of fast-food establishments as well as places to get a tasty salad, sandwich, or burger.

WHERE TO STAY: The 1740 Inn, right on the banks of the Delaware in Lumberville, has terrific views as well as nicely renovated rooms, some with their own terraces overlooking the water. In addition, there is a swimming pool, and mountain bikes are available, in case you want to take a ride along the towpath that runs along the Delaware. (River Road, Lumberville; 215-297-5661; $170-$325 per night)

WHERE TO EAT: If you really want to keep it local, and not have to worry about whether or not you can have that extra glass of wine, the Black Bass ( a mere 300 yards from the inn) is a fine choice. This is a venerable old place -- in business since the mid 1700s -- and there are all manner of American memorabilia decorating the walls. The menu, though, is perfectly up to date, with dinner specials like coffee-lacquered duck or swordfish with olives and hummus. If, on the other hand, you'd rather keep your dinner classic, there are dishes like rack of lamb and sea bass with gumbo sauce. (3774 River Road, Lumberville, PA; 215-297-5770. Expect to pay about $55 per person for a three-course dinner)

WHAT TO DO: Get out and about. Take a stroll -- or a bike ride -- along the Delaware towpath, or head to Washington's Crossing State Park for a walk in the woods. Do a little shopping in New Hope, which is chock-a-block with stores selling just about everything under the sun.