Pennsylvania - Pennsylvania Travel Guide 2025
Pocono Mountains (PO)
2024-11-28 11:26:55
The crackle of a campfire, the roar of the river, the whir of a fishing reel — the Pocono Mountains offer a soundtrack of simpler times and richer experiences. Sun-drenched summer days offer endless chances for fishing, hiking, camping, or relaxing on the porch. Bring the whole family to enjoy sprawling resorts and larger-than-life water parks. Come fall and winter, rolling mountain terrain plays host to an autumn canopy of color and an adventure course for snow sports enthusiasts. Small Town Living in Hawley Family-owned
Marvel at Milford
Grey Towers National Historic Site, also known as Gifford Pinchot House, was once the home of “The Father of Forestry,” Gifford Pinchot, the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service. Another cultural institution is The Columns Museum of the Pike County Historical Society, a neo-classical mansion featuring various exhibits of artwork, archives, and artifacts preserving Pike County’s history. For a bit of moving art, secure tickets to a play, classic film, or concert at the Milford Theater & Performing Arts Center, dating to the 1920s. Or map yourself to Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, where you can admire the cascade from two viewing platforms.
Where to Stay: For a boutique hotel getaway, check into Hotel Fauchère, offering luxury accommodations with on-site dining at Bar Louis, as well as The Porch in warmer months. Or opt for The Historic Dimmick Inn. Opened in 1828, it is one of the oldest buildings and pubs in the state.
WILDERNESS DAY TRIPS
Mostly surrounded by the Delaware State Forest (filled with glacial lakes, wildlife, and scenic beauty) is Promised Land State Park in Greentown. Pitch a tent for an overnight camping adventure or simply go hiking or fishing for the day. If you’re hoping to chase waterfalls, Bushkill Falls in Bushkill is where to go. The park is known as “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” with a series of eight waterfalls and multiple hiking paths to stroll.
Small Town Living in Hawley
Family-owned and -operated since 1951, Lukan’s Farm Resort is a peaceful property to lay your head at night and enjoy family-style meals.
Go on a scenic electric rail-bike adventure with Pennsylvania Rail Bike to experience the nature and wildlife of the Pocono Mountains.
For somewhere less rugged and more historical, head to Delaware & Hudson Canal Park at Lock 31, a 16-acre park with ruins of the canal lock, plus an 1820s farmhouse. After a long day on the trails, fuel up at Ravyn & Robyn Food & Wine, a cozy eatery in a former bank, offering fine wine, Italian eats, and private dining in the bank’s old vault.
DON’T MISS: Claws “N” Paws Wild Animal Park in Lake Ariel features family-fun animal shows, a deer and lamb petting zoo, giraffe feedings, and a turtle zone.
MOUNTAIN TOWN GETAWAY in Jim Thorpe
“America’s Little Switzerland” lies in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, where outdoor adventurers and those looking for a scenic getaway come near and far to Jim Thorpe.
In between nature exploration, immerse yourself in culture at one of the area’s eclectic museums — including the Victorian Italianate splendor of Asa Packer Mansion Museum, the eerie and mysterious hallways of The Old Jail Museum, and the historical relics and memorabilia of The Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center.
For vibrant entertainment in a unique outdoor venue, grab tickets to Penn’s Peak.
For where to stay, consider The Harry Packer Mansion Inn, a luxury inn located in the Victorian village perched atop Packer Hill, just steps from downtown. Stone Row Pub & Eatery offers an intimate dining experience in a classy-casual boutique pub located in an 1880s building.
Opt to take a scenic, 16-mile narrated train ride along the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway on vintage passenger cars, and take in views of the Lehigh River, sheer cliffs, and lush forests.
Located on the outskirts of historic Jim Thorpe, the picturesque Mauch Chunk Lake Park is perfect for that family getaway of seasonal activities — including fall hayrides, camping, and warm-weather swimming.
From whitewater boating and hiking in the summer to snowmobiling and sightseeing in the winter, Lehigh Gorge State Park in nearby Weatherly is great for a day of activities year-round. Here, cyclists can hop on the Lehigh Gorge Trail, which follows 26 miles of the D&L Trail.
AMENITY-PACKED RESORTS NEARBY
From Camelback Resort & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark in Tannersville and Mountain Springs Lake Resort in Reeders to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Pocono Manor and Mount Airy Casino Resort in Mt. Pocono, take your pick from all manner of incredible lodging options loaded with on-site attractions.
Explore Stroudsburg
Often considered “the heart of the Poconos,” Stroudsburg is a striking mix of historic allure and modern appeal. From local shops to shows and seasonal festivals, its walkable downtown has something for everyone. Catch a live show at Sherman Theater, a community concert hall and theater on Main Street. For wildlife enthusiasts, Schisler Museum and McMunn Planetarium is a fun and educational stop that features more than 130 wildlife specimens from around the world. For some outside relaxation, venture out to Brodhead Creek Park in East Stroudsburg to stroll the walking trails. Unwind at The Renegade Winery, where you can catch events like a Wine & Yoga flow. Meanwhile, Carroll & Carroll Booksellers is a book lover’s dream destination — an independent shop featuring hundreds of new, used, and rare books.
Grand History in Honesdale
Welcome to the “Birthplace of the American Railroad.” Honesdale’s rich railroad history began in 1829 when the “Stourbridge Lion” was brought over from England. Today, you can take a scenic train ride tour along the Lackawaxen River in the Northern Pocono Mountains with The Stourbridge Line train excursions. More fascinating history resides in the Honesdale Residential Historic District, a national historic neighborhood consisting of almost 300 residences built between 1830 and 1940. Scarfalloto’s Towne House Diner and Restaurant boasts delicious pizzas, as well as sandwiches and burgers on fresh-baked breads. Then wander to Here & Now Brewing Company to see what’s on tap. At nearby Prompton State Park, cast a line into Prompton Lake, have a picnic, and play a round of disc golf. In the summer, hit the trails for some mountain biking, and in the winter, gear up to go cross-country skiing.
POCONOS POWDER DAYS
Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains are a winter wonderland, offering families, adventurers, and snow sports enthusiasts plenty of action at premier ski resorts.
Camelback Ski Resort in Tannersville features 39 trails, a snow tubing park, adaptive ski and snowboarding program for people with disabilities, and on-site pubs for après-ski beers and burgers. Blue Mountain Resort in Palmerton boasts the highest vertical drop in Pennsylvania, attracting daredevils in search of downhill thrills, high-speed chairlifts, and night skiing. Part of the Epic Pass network, Jack Frost Big Boulder offers a unique dual-mountain experience in White Haven and Lake Harmony (about a 20-minute drive from each other). Enjoy a combined 39 trails of beginner to advanced skiing and snowboarding, plus three freestyle terrain parks for slopeside action. Shawnee Mountain in East Stroudsburg is perfect for beginners and intermediates, offering 23 trails, snow tubing, a kids’ Mini Monster Mountain play area, and a friendly atmosphere ideal for learning and enjoying the slopes. With so many options, it’s easy to make the most of a snow day.
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