The Summer I Turned Pretty, the popular book series turned Amazon Prime Video series about how one summer changes everything between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah, has taken the world by storm. If you’re anything like me, you have been daydreaming about jumping into the show and taking a trip to Cousins, swimming laps in Susannah’s pool at night, or having a moment with your childhood crush out on the beach (yes, we’re team Conrad over here).
Although Cousins may be fictional, there are tons of places in Bucks County, PA to get your fill! Grab a bathing suit and your favorite pair of jean shorts and t-shirt, and check out these places below.
Explore Bucks County's Gardens
One of the details I love about The Summer I Turned Pretty are the beautiful flowers placed throughout the show. With the Greater Philadelphia region being the garden capital of the country, and home to the Conklin Family, it is easy to find beautiful places that showcase our beautiful nature. Stroll through the gardens at Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum on a self-guided tour, take a behind-the-scenes nursery tour at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, or walk through Terrain Cafe's gardens in Doylestown and grab a bite to eat afterwards. They even give you bread in a flowerpot!
Go Shopping Along Our Main Streets
Although Bucks County does not have any debutante balls happening this summer, you can still go out and shop at some of our boutique stores around the county. Check out Giana Rose Couture in Yardley, Serendipity in Doylestown for a cute t-shirt (Belly approved), and the shops at Dublin Town Center.
Stay at The Inn at Bowman's Hill
Located in New Hope, The Inn at Bowman’s Hill is the perfect summer escape. Surrounded by trees and beautiful landscape, this luxurious five-acre inn is the perfect place to stay when you feel like escaping to Cousins. You can even find your inner Belly and swim a few laps at the pool.
Pick Up Lollipops at Skip's Candy Corner
After seeing Conrad carry lollipops in his hand knocking on Belly’s door, you may have started to crave candy. Don’t worry, Bucks County has you covered! For all your candy needs, check out Skip’s Candy Corner, located in Peddler’s Village. This candy shop, named the ninth best candy shop in the country by USA Today, is the best place to pick up lollipops, home-made chocolate creations, and more!
Pick-Your-Own Fun
One of the best activities to do in Bucks County this summer is to go to u-pick farms and farmer's markets. Like a *certain* someone, fresh fruit from a local farm or farmstand is always a must. Find delicious strawberries, blueberries, and of course, peaches, at these pick-your-own-fun places.
Grab a Scoop
It wouldn’t be summer without ice cream! As a sweet treat aficionado, I know a thing or two about where to get a good scoop of ice cream. OwowCow Creamery, recently named the fifth best ice cream shop in the country by USA Today, has a few different locations throughout the county and is one of the best places to try unique flavors. I suggest trying Honey Lavender, Cookie Monstah or one of their seasonal flavors. If you’re looking for more options around the county, check out different ice cream shops here.
Browse Through Bookstores
As an avid reader, I am very jealous of the fact that I will never be able to read Laurel's memoir for Susannah or get my book signed by her. But I can easily get my fill of reading at some of my favorite bookstores! There are many different small bookstores throughout the county that sell various goods from used books to your favorite album on record. Check out these independently owned bookstores (and pick up The Summer I Turned Pretty while you’re at it).
Sip On a Cup of Hot Cocoa
Belly would be disappointed in me if I didn’t mention hot cocoa. Although hot chocolate may not be in season during the summer, you can plan ahead and bookmark these places to check out. Panna Gelateria & Bakery has an amazing and unique hot chocolate that is rich in flavor, and you can add a scoop of gelato on top. Mama Hawk’s is the perfect place to get a warm and delicious cup of hot cocoa once you have shopped to your heart’s desire at Peddler’s Village. Visit more hot chocolate locations here.
The Summer I Turned Pretty and Bucks County is the perfect Love Story wrapped in a Gorgeous invisible string. We know All Too Well why Bucks County, PA is the perfect summer getaway, with small-town Bejeweled charm, historic sites, and more! Bucks County is knocking on The Other Side Of The Door, telling you to come and explore what we have to offer (I couldn't end this without mentioning some Taylor Swift songs)!
