The Pocono Mountains is a region known for its ski slopes, lake resorts, and year-round destinations. The area includes well-known travel destinations, but there are also several communities near notable locations such as the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Lake Wallenpaupack and Lehigh Gorge State Park. These places offer rich history, outdoor access, local restaurants, and manageable downtown areas that can easily fit into a travel itinerary. Visitors can plan their days around hiking trails, museums, seasonal activities, shopping or simple strolls around town, making the Pocono Region flexible for many types of itineraries.
Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg is close to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, so travelers will find trailheads and river access just a short drive from downtown. Built in 1795, Stroud Mansion remains a well-known colonial-era building, although it is currently closed for restoration. Nature-loving visitors can spend time at the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, which features forest trails and wildlife exhibits that teach visitors about the region's habitats.
The Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm offers a glimpse into 19th-century country life through preserved barns and scheduled demonstrations. Main Street is home to the Sherman Theater, galleries and murals, bringing a steady artistic presence to the central district. When it's time to eat, The Goat on Main offers a simple menu and Stroudsmoor Country Inn offers accommodation with hill views and quick access to the surrounding countryside.
East Stroudsburg
Located on the opposite side of Brodhead Creek, East Stroudsburg maintains a steady pace, shaped in part by East Stroudsburg University. The campus supports public art events through its galleries and theater department. Families often visit the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm, a small wildlife attraction known for its close-up viewing areas and educational demonstrations. Located just outside of town, the Frazetta Art Museum showcases original paintings, sketches and memorabilia related to Frank Frazetta's legacy in fantasy art.
If you're looking to spend time outdoors, the Levee Loop Trail travels approximately four and a half miles along Brodhead Creek. Nearby Dansbury Park has tennis courts, a pool and a riverside footpath that connects to parts of the wider trail network. Dinner can be enjoyed at Trackside Station Grill and Bar, located in a converted train station. The nearby Quality Inn offers affordable accommodations for travelers requiring direct access to both Stroudsburgs and the local road network.
Honesdale
Honesdale's roots date back to early American transportation history. The Wayne County Historical Society Museum on Main Street features a full-scale replica of the Stourbridge Lion. The building once housed the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company and the museum complex includes adjacent buildings, a glass gallery and a research library that expands the historical material available to visitors.
Near town, the D and H Canal Basin Park has paved paths with signs illustrating the area's canal era. The Lackawaxen River is suitable for fishing and paddling, and a short drive takes travelers to Promised Land State Park, a wildlife refuge on the Pocono Plateau that is home to lakes, campgrounds, and several multi-use trails. Bistro 1202 offers a relaxed dining option and the long-standing Hotel Wayne offers rooms that place visitors right in the heart of downtown.
Hawley
Located on the northern edge of Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley offers access to lakeside recreation as well as a variety of shops and art spaces. The Hawley Silk Mill is a significant 19th-century industrial building that has now been converted into boutiques, cafes and wellness studios. Regular weekend gatherings such as craft workshops and donut Saturdays keep the site constantly active. Nearby, Cocoon Coffeehouse and Hopping Eagle Brewing Company remain active in the same complex.
On Main Avenue is the Ritz Company Playhouse, which organizes stage productions and seasonal theater. Lake Wallenpaupack stretches for approximately thirteen miles and offers numerous access points where visitors can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, or fishing boats. Many travelers choose Woodloch Pines Resort for its extensive program of activities, including winter sports and spa services. The Glass Wine Bar Kitchen is located above Paupack Falls and offers a meal with the sound of the water nearby, making Hawley a suitable setting for a trip around the lake.
Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe combines its mountain scenery with preserved Victorian architecture, making the town easy to explore on foot. The Asa Packer Mansion remains a well-known landmark, welcoming visitors who want a closer look at the original interior and the life of the railroad magnate who lived there. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers seasonal rides along the river and offers views of cliffs and forested slopes in parts of Lehigh Gorge State Park.
Outdoor travelers use the local D and L Trail access points for hiking or biking, and several outfitters offer whitewater rafting trips on nearby sections of the Lehigh River. The Old Jail Museum attracts visitors with its preserved cells and the long-debated handprint legend surrounding the Molly Maguires. In the city center there are small shops, galleries and cafes that serve as breaks between activities. Broadway Grille offers a central meal and the Inn at Jim Thorpe offers overnight accommodations directly above the restaurant.
Lehighton
Located on the Lehigh River, Lehighton offers travelers a convenient base on the south side of the Poconos. Beltzville State Park remains a big draw with its large sandy beach, fishing pier and boat rental areas. Hiking trails circle parts of Beltzville Lake and quieter coves like Pohopoco Creek Cove and Pine Run offer quieter spots for paddlers and anglers looking for slower water.
In town, travelers can visit the Pocono Tavern, browse the shops on First Street, or attend seasonal events around the park in the center of the district. The D and L Trails pass nearby, connecting hikers and cyclists with a long network of trails that traces the old Delaware and Lehigh transportation corridor. Several outfitters offer access to rafting and kayaking along the Lehigh River. After a day outdoors, many visitors end up at Pocono Tavern for a relaxing meal. The accommodations at the Hampton Inn Lehighton Jim Thorpe are close to the area's major routes.
Milford
Located near the Delaware Water Gap, Milford offers travelers a combination of architectural history, nature preserves, and nearby outdoor spaces. The Gray Towers National Historic Site, once the home of Gifford Pinchot, remains the city's most recognizable building. Tours of the mansion and landscaped grounds are available, including information about early conservation policies in the United States.
The Columns Museum preserves regional history and preserves artifacts such as the Lincoln flag from Ford's Theater. Raymondskill Falls is at the end of a short trail outside of town. It is often described as one of the tallest waterfalls in Pennsylvania, although measurements vary depending on the source, which is why authors often refer to it as one of the tallest waterfalls in the state. Milford Beach offers access to the Delaware River with paddling and picnicking opportunities. The city center remains easily walkable and includes galleries, shops and restaurants. Café Wren offers farm-to-table meals and Myer Country Motel offers long-term accommodation in country-style rooms.
A broader look at the region
Travelers looking for alternatives to the region's busiest vacation spots will find plenty of options in these small towns. The Poconos feature landscapes characterized by rivers, lakes, and foothills, and each community provides access to its own combination of history, hiking trails, lodging, and public programs. Visitors can put together a complete itinerary without long drives, as many of these locations are close to state parks, museums, and outdoor access points.
This combination offers travelers multiple options to organize a day trip or a multi-day stay. A short walk through a main street neighborhood could follow a morning on a hiking trail or a quiet afternoon at a museum. Small communities throughout the region offer lodging, dining, and short commutes to nearby nature preserves that make up much of the Pocono experience.