This Bucks Co. Shopping Center Named 2nd Best In U.S.

LAHASKA, PA — Peddler’s Village has been named among the top shopping centers in the nation by USA TODAY. The 63-year-old property, known for its historical charm, lush landscaping, and locally owned retail businesses, secured second place in a public voting competition that included the nation’s most prestigious retail destinations.

USA TODAY 10BEST teamed with a panel of experts to nominate their top picks for the most outstanding shopping centers throughout the U.S., factoring in the variety of stores, dining and entertainment options, and overall experience for guests. Readers then voted to determine the winners.

“The most remarkable shopping centers aren't just places to buy things; they're community gathering spots that provide a clean, safe, and enjoyable environment for their many visitors,” noted USA TODAY.

One of Philadelphia’s most popular attractions, Peddler’s Village comprises 65 specialty shops and boutiques, the vast majority of which are locally owned and operated. While many shops are new and experiential, others have thrived for decades; the Cookery Ware Shop, for example, opened in 1969 and is now operated by third-generation owners.

Flowers blooming along the brick walkway. (Peddler's Village)

Shoppers at Peddler's Village in Lahaska. (Peddler's Village)

Bob McGowan has long appreciated the unique charm of Peddler’s Village — first as a young visitor, and, now, having steered Peddler’s Village businesses for seven years, as its CEO.

“There’s an exciting sense of discovery and adventure here, and a level of personal service and human engagement that is rarely found in today’s shopping environment,” he said. “Our guests feel a connection to not only to the picturesque, storybook setting of Peddler’s Village, but also to the people they meet here who have worked so hard to launch and grow their small businesses.”

He continued, “We are very grateful for this honor and to the people who made it happen, especially Earl and Sheila Jamison, whose vision 63 years ago has come to fruition so beautifully. We owe our success to our merchants, our employees, and especially to our guests, who have supported us so loyally over the years.”

Open year round, Peddler’s Village shops offer a wide range of merchandise, including apparel, accessories, home goods, furniture, fine art and handcrafted items, books, toys and games, and plenty of gifts and collectibles. The shopping center maintains a 4.7 rating on Google.

In addition to its shops, Peddler’s Village is home to numerous restaurants, the 67-room Golden Plough Inn, and the Giggleberry Fair indoor family fun center.

Also known as an entertainment center, Peddler’s Village is planning a summer filled with events, including:

• Safari in Sand – every day through August 31. Safari in Sand features majestic sand sculptures created by world-renowned sand artists that depict wild animals encountered in a safari. Pick up a field guide at the Visitor & Event Center or outdoor kiosks. On the tour, visitors will learn fun facts about the wild animals. Safari in Sand is funded in part by the Bucks County Tourism Grant Program.
• Bucks Fever Tunes at Noon from 12 to 1 p.m. on Fridays through August 29. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many restaurants and eateries and enjoy live music on the Village Green, presented in partnership with the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce.
• Food Truck Thursdays from 4 to 8 p.m. on May 22, June 19, July 24, August 21, and September 18. Bring your friends and family for an evening of great food and fun on Giggleberry Green. Free admission.
• Murder Mystery Dinners: "I Love the 80s to Death" and "Death of a Gangster" at 7 p.m. on June 14 and 27. Purchase tickets for interactive mystery dinner theaters presented in partnership with The Murder Mystery Co.

• Bucks Fever Art & Sculpture Exhibition from June 12 through July 6. The exhibition, in partnership with the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce, features a wide range of artistic styles and prize-winning pieces, many of which will be for sale. Free admission. Open daily during shopping hours at the Visitor & Event Center.
• Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival presents "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" at 3 p.m. on June 14 and 15. As part of its inaugural “Play On!” community touring program, the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival (PSF) presents Shakespeare’s hilarious mash-up of mistaken lovers, mischievous fairies, and amateur thespians. Free admission.
• Comedy in the Village at 8 p.m. on June 20. Three comedians take the stage for Comedy in the Village. This is a ticketed event and reservations are required. Mature humor, for adults 18+ only.
• Bucks Fever Talent Show from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on June 21. Performers of all ages will showcase their skills and compete for prizes, including the grand prize of $3,000. Musicians, singers, dancers, comedians, and others are invited to enter by May 28. The talent show is a ticketed event and is presented in partnership with the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce.
• Red, White, and Blue BBQ Bash from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 4. Celebrate the Fourth of July at Peddler’s Village with a Red, White, and Blueberries BBQ Bash on Friday, July 4 featuring live entertainment, family activities, a watermelon-eating contest, and blueberry-themed barbeque favorites. Free admission (with pay-as-you-go food).

• Santa’s Summer Holiday from July 24 through 27. Santa is returning to Peddler’s Village, but this time for his summer vacation. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making special appearances throughout Peddler’s Village during their holiday. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as enjoy special photo opportunities and events including a Safari Party featuring pay-as-you-go tropical-themed food, drinks, and entertainment on Friday, July 25.
• Dueling Pianos & Desserts on July 25. Enjoy a rousing dueling pianos performance by New York-based pianists and a delicious array of desserts prepared by the Cock ‘n Bull’s pastry chef. This is a ticketed event and reservations are required.
• Peach Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on August 2 and 3. Peach Festival will feature live entertainment, family activities, outdoor food and drinks, peach-themed specials and treats, a sidewalk sale, in-store specials, and more. All month long, Village guests can enjoy peach-inspired food and drink specials at restaurants, eateries, and tasting rooms. Free admission.