Discover a captivating journey through American history at The Thompson-Neely Grist Mill in New Hope. Explore historic buildings and enjoy scenic trails in this unique outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly flat walking with some gentle inclines on trails.
Wildlife
History
The Thompson-Neely House was used as a hospital by George Washington's troops during the 1776 crossing of the Delaware River.
Conservation
The Friends of Washington Crossing Park work to preserve the historic buildings and natural habitats, promoting sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
Friends of Washington Crossing Park
Discover a captivating journey through American history at The Thompson-Neely Grist Mill in New Hope. Explore historic buildings and enjoy scenic trails in this unique outdoor experience.
Friends of Washington Crossing Park connects visitors with the history and landscapes of Washington Crossing Historic Park in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. The organization facilitates guided experiences across more than 500 acres of parkland, including the Thompson-Neely House, the Thompson-Neely grist mill, Bowman's Hill Tower, and programs that interpret George Washington's actions during the Ten Crucial Days.
The Thompson-Neely House Tour highlights a stone structure built between 1740 and 1788, notable for serving as an encampment for Lord Stirling's Brigade and functioning as a regimental hospital. The Thompson-Neely Grist Mill experience pairs historic farm interpretation with the house and grounds to illustrate 18th‑century life. Bowman's Hill Tower invites visitors to climb 125 stairs to panoramic views extending up to 14 miles along the Delaware River and Bucks County countryside.
A Preserve and Tower Combination Ticket offers access to Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve and the tower in one purchase. The Traversing the Ten Crucial Days Bus Tour follows George Washington's maneuvers from December 25, 1776, to January 3, 1777, with expert interpreters recounting battles and local history.
Interpretive tours, preserved historic buildings, and managed natural areas provide layered learning opportunities for families, history enthusiasts, and school groups. Information is presented through tours and ticketed experiences that emphasize documented dates, structures, and landscapes, enabling visitors to explore verified historical sites and scenic vantage points within Washington Crossing Historic Park. All tours and experiences take place on park properties in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, with multiple on-site access points throughout the historic park grounds nearby.
Park Area
500+ acres
Historic landscapes and trails
Historic Structures
Thompson-Neely House (1740–1788)
Stone house with documented Revolutionary use
Tower Views
14-mile panorama
Climb 125 stairs for scenic vistas
Ten Crucial Days
Dec 25 – Jan 3
Follow Washington's 1776–1777 maneuvers
Reserve tickets for Thompson-Neely House tours, the Preserve & Tower combination, or the Ten Crucial Days Bus Tour and experience documented Revolutionary War sites.
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths around the park and grist mill can be uneven, so wear comfortable, sturdy footwear.
Bring insect repellent
Especially in warmer months, mosquitoes and ticks can be present near wooded or grassy areas.
Plan for limited shade
Some trail sections and outdoor exhibits have minimal shade, so bring sun protection.
Check tour availability in advance
Guided tours of the grist mill and Thompson-Neely House are popular and require prior booking.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support for walking uneven terrain around the mill and historic sites.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during warm weather excursions.
summer
Insect repellent
Protects against ticks and mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
spring
Light rain jacket
Useful for spring showers and unpredictable weather.
spring