7 of the Most Hospitable Small Towns in The Poconos
Located in Northeastern Pennsylvania and one of the prettiest areas of the 鈥淜eystone State,鈥� the Pocono Mountains 鈥� a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains usually referred to simply as the Poconos 鈥� are certainly fun to explore. An easy day trip or weekend getaway from New York State and New Jersey, this beautiful area encompasses around 2,400 square miles and includes some of the most picturesque towns in the Northern United States.
Not only are these charming destinations great to look at, but they are also home to a variety of authentic Poconos experiences you won鈥檛 find elsewhere. From the friendly Swiss vibe of Jim Thorpe to the historic railway town of Honesdale and from the cozy Victorian homes in Milford to the welcoming resort town of Tannersville, these seven small towns in the Poconos are among the most hospitable places to visit in Pennsylvania.
Jim Thorpe
Often referred to as the "Switzerland of America" for its mountainous terrain and charming European aesthetic, the town of Jim Thorpe started off in 1818 as Mauch Chunk but was renamed in 1954 after the famous US athlete. Fast forward to today, and the town is home to several first-rate attractions, including the Asa Packer Mansion Museum, a well-preserved mansion that offers a glimpse into the life of the influential Packer family. Built in 1861, it features original furnishings and intricate woodwork and provides a vivid portrayal of 19th-century luxury lifestyles.
For those interested in a little history with their sightseeing, the historic Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Poconos. This 16-mile train journey offers panoramic views of the Lehigh Gorge State Park with its dense forests, towering cliffs, and the Lehigh River.
Hawley
Not only is Hawley one of the most hospitable small towns in the Poconos, but it鈥檚 also one of the prettiest. Located near the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, the state鈥檚 third-largest lake covers an area of 5,700 acres and is well-known for its boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking experiences. Visitors always receive a warm welcome at the Hawley Silk Mill, built in 1880 and now a community space housing art galleries, shops, a caf茅, and a fitness center.
Take a stroll through Downtown Hawley, and you鈥檒l find the Ritz Company Playhouse, which has welcomed audiences since 1933 with live performances. Pack a picnic and head to the nearby Promised Land State Park for some wildlife watching and hiking (camping is also available).
Honesdale
Honesdale is located near the state border with Connecticut and is known as the birthplace of the American railroad. It was here in 1829 that the country鈥檚 first-ever commercial steam locomotive, the Stourbridge Lion, ran on rails for three miles to nearby Honesdale. This remarkable engineering feat is celebrated today with the Stourbridge Line, a heritage railroad that welcomes guests aboard fun rides through some of the most stunning scenery in the Poconos. For an added dose of that fabled Poconos hospitality, time your visit coincides with the attraction鈥檚 festive Christmas or fall color trips.
The Wayne County Historical Society Museum is another must-visit and offers further insights into the area's railroad industry, as well as glass manufacturing. The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century building and features exhibits on the Delaware & Hudson Canal, the railroad, and the people who shaped the region's history.
Milford
Milford鈥檚 location in the upper Delaware River Valley is certainly a pretty one. A highlight of a visit to this hospitable town is Grey Towers National Historic Site, the former home of Gifford Pinchot, the first Chief of the US Forest Service and twice-elected governor of Pennsylvania. This sprawling country estate with its French ch芒teau-inspired architecture is best explored by tours led by friendly and informative guides (the surrounding gardens can also be visited). The Columns Museum is another must-do and is home to the famous Lincoln Flag, which cradled the President's head the night of his assassination.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is another must-do in Milford. A big draw among outdoor enthusiasts, this 70,000-acre preserve boasts hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching in a truly spectacular setting. The McDade Recreational Trail, which runs along the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River, is accessible from Milford and provides scenic views ideal for biking, hiking, and birdwatching.
Stroudsburg
The star of the show in Stroudsburg is undoubtedly the town鈥檚 thriving Main Street. Here, historic fa莽ades house an eclectic mix of shops, galleries, restaurants, caf茅s, and attractions that are always eager to welcome visitors, none more so than The Sherman Theater. Built in 1928, this restored historic venue continues to welcome punters to live performances ranging from concerts to community theater.
Stroud Mansion is another must-see. This beautifully preserved 18th-century building now serves as a museum operated by the Monroe County Historical Association and provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich history through its exhibits and collections, including period rooms, local artifacts, and archives.
Tannersville
Its location just off the I-80 highway makes Tannersville an excellent day-trip destination for those traveling from places like New York City, a 90-minute drive to the east. Top things to do in Tannersville include spending time at Camelback Resort, a family-friendly destination offering winter activities such as skiing over its trails and terrain parks.
Come summer the resort morphs into Camelbeach, Pennsylvania's largest outdoor water park. Summer fun can also be had at Camelback Mountain Adventures, including zip-lining, mountain coaster rides, and treetop adventure courses. Feel the urge to splurge? Pocono Premium Outlets is a nearby shopper's paradise with over 100 stores offering discounts on designer and name-brand merchandise.
Mount Pocono
Leaving the best-named of these small towns to last, Mount Pocono is just a stone鈥檚 throw from Big Pocono State Park. A popular spot for hiking, many of its trails meander up Camelback Mountain and offer spectacular views over the surrounding countryside (and three states). The Pocono Raceway, known as the "Tricky Triangle," is also nearby and hosts many major NASCAR and racing events, drawing fans from across the nation.
Looking for the perfect souvenir of a memorable Poconos adventure? Head to Ye Old Village Trader, a family-run business set in the oldest building in Mount Pocono that has been providing visitors with gifts and locally made crafts for over 60 years. Visit around Christmas time and you鈥檒l even be treated to free hot chocolate鈥� it doesn鈥檛 get any more hospitable than that!
The Final Word
While these attractive small towns in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania each offer plenty of great reasons to visit, combine them together for a fun road- or day-trip experience for a truly memorable Poconos adventure. From the historical streets of Jim Thorpe to the slopes of Tannersville, each of these destinations promises the kind of enriching experiences that memories are made of. Be sure to include these seven most hospitable small towns in the Poconos on your Pennsylvania travel itinerary.
