11 Most Underrated Towns In the Poconos
The Poconos, a mountainous locality in eastern Pennsylvania, has long been a beloved destination for open-air aficionados and nature lovers. With their picturesque views of rising lands, thick woods, and untouched pools, the Poconos provides innumerable possibilities for trekking, camping, angling, and sailing. Notwithstanding the famous holiday spots, there are tons of underrated towns that are often unnoted by visitors. There are 11 most underrated towns in the Poconos, where you can encounter the region's natural grace and copious history more quietly and genuinely. From Milford's traditional precinct and Jim Thorpe's Victorian architecture to Hawley's lakeside walk and Delaware Water Gap's stupendous outlooks, each municipality has its distinct attractions and personality. So, accommodate your bags, and set off to search the concealed treasures of the Poconos.
Jim Thorpe
Named after the legendary Native American athlete, the picturesque township of Jim Thorpe enamors guests with its ancient monuments, resplendent loveliness, and social occasions. Set within the Lehigh Gorge State Park, Jim Thorpe flaunts a quaint main street lined with stores, eateries, and art galleries. An absolute must-visit is the archival Jail Museum, a Victorian-era lockup that confined the notorious Molly Maguires and is now open for exploration. Additionally, the restructured Asa Packer Mansion, a 19th-century mansion that flaunts the profusion and lifestyle of the town's originator, is a viewing point. For the outdoorsy, Jim Thorpe provides admission to the Lehigh River and the Pocono Mountains, with chances for whitewater rafting, hiking, and skiing. Moreover, the municipality also puts on many festivals and occasions throughout the year, such as the Fall Foliage Festival, the Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival, and the Pennsylvania Burlesque Festival.
Hawley
Hawley is also celebrated for its gorgeous natural loveliness, including the close-by Lake Wallenpaupack, which is the third-largest human-made lake in Pennsylvania and a favored spot for propulsion, fishing, and swimming. Travelers can also savor the picturesque beauty of the Lackawaxen River, which runs through the village and proffers chances for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Another must-see natural captivation in Hawley is the close-by Bushkill Falls, known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania." The falls show a series of eight tumbling cascades, each more exquisite than the last, and visitors can probe miles of hiking tracks that meander through the neighboring woodlands and accept stunning glimpses of the falls and the encircling scenery. Hawley is a secret gem in the Poconos that furnishes an ideal amalgamation of natural beauty. Tourists who digress off the beaten track to investigate this magnificent town will be rewarded with unforgettable ordeals and remembrances that will last a lifetime.
Delaware Water Gap
Tucked away in the Pocono Mountains, the Delaware Water Gap is a sublime natural marvel that blankets over 70,000 acres and traverses the boundary between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The park gains its namesake from the prominent Delaware Water Gap, a regal ravine cut out by the Delaware River that measures more than 1,000 feet wide and around 300 feet deep. Sightseers to the Delaware Water Gap can investigate vast stretches of trekking trails traversing through the park's rocky mountains, verdant woodlands, and shimmering streams. The park is likewise a famous destination for recreational fishing, paddling, and canoeing, with numerous miles of the Delaware River designated as a National Scenic and Recreational River. In the frostier months, guests can appreciate cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the park's many trails. Delaware Water Gap is a must-see destination in the Poconos for anyone who loves the great outdoors and remarkable natural scenery.
Stroudsburg
Nestled in the bosom of the Poconos, Stroudsburg is an attractive town that melds rural charisma with modern facilities. The town's traditional downtown is brimming with specialty stores, eateries, and cafes, plus many art galleries and cultural sites. One of the highlights of Stroudsburg is the proximal Glen Onoko Falls, an impressive natural spectacle consisting of a sequence of waterfalls and a strenuous hiking path that can go to cascades. Travelers to Stroudsburg may also investigate the near McMichaels Creek, a well-known venue for angling and tubing, or play a few holes at one of the town's plenty of golf courses. For those in history, Stroudsburg is the site of diverse historic areas, including the Stroud Mansion. Stroudsburg is a tucked-away jewel in the Poconos that provides an original combination of natural beauty, chronicles, and culture. Whether you're looking for outdoor ventures, shopping, and dining, or exploring the region's concentrated past and culture, Stroudsburg has something for all.
Bushkill
Enclosed by the Pocono Mountains, Bushkill is a serene municipality that provides travelers a possibility to flee the hectic life of the urban and sink into nature. The town is near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area, which makes it a sought-after spot for trekking, camping, angling, and canoeing. As well as external activities, Bushkill also offers travelers an opening to investigate the area's affluent background and culture. The town is domicile to many historical sites, such as the Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery, which boasts displays on the region's Indigenous American and colonial past. Bushkill is an overlooked treasure in the Poconos that gives tourists an opportunity to bond with nature and submerge themselves in the area's prosperous history and culture.
Middleburg
Perched in Snyder County, Middleburg is a diminutive township that provides visitors a chance to retreat to the past and experience the zone's fecund past and culture. The town lodges several ancient sites, such as the Union County Historical Society Museum, which flaunts displays on the area's early colonizers and Autochthonous American inhabitants. One of the gems of Middleburg is the close-by Shade Mountain Winery, a family-run winery that creates a diversity of honor-winning wines utilizing grown grapes. Guests can sample the winery's wines and relish the awe-inspiring perspectives of the encompassing backwoods. Alongside past and culture, Middleburg is likewise a much-loved goal for outside lovers. The town is near the picturesque woodlands and undulating inclines, making it a perfect goal for trekking, outdoors, and hunting. Middleburg is a concealed pearl in the Poconos that provides visitors a chance to experience the area's deep-rooted past and culture while enjoying a mixed bag of open-air activities.
Honesdale
Honesdale is a delightful municipality situated in northeastern Pennsylvania, well-known for its abundant past and enchanting downtown. One of the chief attractions in Honesdale is the Stourbridge Line, a picturesque railway that offers excursions through the captivating countryside of the Pocono Mountains. Tourists can journey in traditional passenger vehicles and appreciate the stunning scenery of the encompassing landscape. For nature lovers, Honesdale is an ideal destination for angling and canoeing, with many close-by lakes and waterways. The town also plays host to the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, which provides chances for trekking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Another favorite tourist spot in Honesdale is the Wayne County Historical Society Museum, which displays the region's background and culture through displays and pieces. The museum is based on the ancient 19th-century D&H Canal Company office edifice, which is a symbol in its own right. In summation, Honesdale is a charming town that furnishes an ideal mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Palmerton
Palmerton is a diminutive municipality situated at the base of the Blue Mountain region, providing visitors with an incomparable combination of exterior pleasure and manufactory annals. One of the principal attractions in Palmerton is the Blue Mountain Ski Zone, which serves skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, and treks and mountain cycling in the summertime. Another admired fascination in Palmerton is the Palmerton Zinc Pile Superfund Spot, a past zinc smelter that can change into a communal park and wild reserve. Travelers can investigate the park's lanes and discover the site's chronicles and recovery attempts. For those who choose a more relaxed step, Palmerton is also dwelling to the Palmerton Area Library, which bestows a comfortable perusing room and a wide variety of books and media. Palmerton is a particular getaway that delivers a captivating glimpse into the locale's industrial antiquity, as well as copious chances for the external venture.
Walnutport
Enveloped in the lower regions of the Pocono Mountains, Walnutport is an alluring town that sightseers always neglect. Notwithstanding its little size, the town flaunts a bounty of open-air exercises for explorers to appreciate. One of the top attractions in Walnutport is the Lehigh Canal Park, where visitors can amble along the old Lehigh Canal and savor the perspectives of the surrounding nation. The recreation center likewise gives open doors for angling, cruising, and having a picnic. Another mainstream fascination in Walnutport is the Appalachian Trail, which goes through the town. Climbing lovers can investigate a segment of the trail and take in the lovely perspectives of the Pocono Mountains. For those wishing to remain nearer to town, the Walnutport Canal Association holds occasions, including the celebrated Walnutport Canal Festival. All things considered, Walnutport is a superb goal for open-air devotees who need to escape the groups and appreciate the normal excellence of the Pocono Mountains.
Milford
Concealed in the core of the Delaware Water Gap National Entertainment Area, Milford is an attractive township that exudes antiquity and culture. Established in 1796, Milford flaunts an appealing downtown region bordered with Victorian and Federal-style edifices that house unique shops, art galleries, and eateries. One of the town's must-view sights is the Grey Towers National Historic Site, the previous seasonal estate of conservationist Gifford Pinchot. The residence's mansion and gardens are available to visit and events. Milford is also the location of the Columns Museum, which displays relics and presentations about the town's past, such as the renowned "Lincoln Flag," which embellished the box at Ford's Theatre on the evening of President Lincoln's assassination. For nature aficionados, Milford provides access to the Delaware River and the Pocono Mountains, with lots of hiking trails, cascades, and panoramic drives to explore.
Laceyville
Situated in Wyoming County, Laceyville is an attractive village that provides visitors an opportunity to investigate the area's profound history and stunning natural grandeur. The town houses many ancient landmarks, comprising the Wyalusing Rocks, a selection of impressive rock structures that provide remarkable vistas of the adjacent countryside. One of the major attractions of Laceyville is the adjacent Susquehanna River, a famous spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Guests can also probe the nearby Endless Mountains, a picturesque area that furnishes a multiplicity of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and hunting. Besides outdoor activities, Laceyville also offers visitors a chance to examine the area's copious cultural heritage. The town houses many ancient locations, incorporating the Laceyville Historic District, which features maintained 19th-century edifices and architecture. Laceyville is a secret gem in the Poconos that offers visitors an opportunity to investigate the area's profuse history and captivating natural beauty.
Conclusion
A trove of beauty and a delightful small-town atmosphere, the Pocono Mountains zone boasts 11 towns that are underrated but should not be overlooked. From scenic Milford to the wilds of Jim Thorpe, there is a little something for everybody to savor. Whether you want to relish the region's lakes and streams, go for a romp in the mountains, or take in the local culture, a visit to these 11 underrated towns of the Pocono Mountains will astound and amuse you. So why not plan a getaway to the Poconos and realize for yourself why these towns are some of the least appreciated destinations in the country?
