7 Offbeat Towns to Visit in The Poconos

The Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania is an incredible destination with so much to offer. This region covers an area of about 2,400 square miles and is home to a wide range of natural attractions, from breathtaking waterfalls to 170 miles of winding rivers, flat-topped mountains that rise up to 1,800 feet, and more. The region is also home to a number of offbeat towns, which are perfect spots from which to enjoy its best offerings. From the bird haven of Delaware Water Gap to the numerous waterfalls of Dingmans Ferry, discover seven towns in the Poconos region to visit on your next trip.

White Haven

White Haven, a borough along the Lehigh River, is a stunning town in the Poconos with exciting offbeat vibes. Here, visitors will be met with interesting attractions like Lehigh Gorge State Park, which features views of the Lehigh River. This park offers visitors opportunities for a wide range of activities, from whitewater rafting to boating, birdwatching, and fishing. Just outside of town, Sand Spring Lake is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing on the beach in a tranquil environment without the crowds. Nescopeck State Park is another pleasant outdoor destination in White Haven to check out. The 3,550-acre park is one of the newest in Pennsylvania and is home to Lake Frances, a nine-acre man-made lake for fishing expeditions.

Delaware Water Gap

The town named after the famous Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area does not fall short in its share of adventurous and unforgettable offerings. Visitors can savor the best sights of the Delaware River from the town or get more stunning views at Mount Minsi, which is easily reached through the Appalachian Trail near the town. Another popular hike in the area is the 1.2-mile Mount Tammany trail. For those who love arts and parties, September is the perfect time to visit and enjoy the Delaware Water Gap Celebration of Arts Festival. Highlights of the festival include jazz music and exhibitions from sculptors and artists across the world.

Tannersville

The small unincorporated community of Tannersville in Pocono township may appear to be an offbeat town. But don't be fooled. This town has the perfect landscape for adventurous exploits and thrilling outdoor indulgences. The town sits within the Camelback Mountain, for exciting outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain climbing, and cycling.

Tannersville is also home to the largest ski resort in the Poconos, Camelback Mountain Resort, which is also the largest snow tubing park in America. The resort has two waterparks, Aquatopia and Camelbeach, the latter being the largest outdoor waterpark in the state. With two water parks and a ski resort, it's a premier four-season destination in Pennsylvania to lose track of time. Also, Tannersville is home to the Big Pocono State Park in Camelback Mountain, where the mountain's summit offers panoramic vistas of New York and New Jersey. In addition, hikers visiting the park will have over seven miles of hiking trails to explore.

Bushkill

Bushkill is a town that may be described as off-the-beaten-path and is not even incorporated. However, visitors will be in for a shocker in this town within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. One of the town’s highlight attractions is the nearby Bushkill Falls, a series of eight different waterfalls, which is also the acclaimed Niagara of Pennsylvania. The tallest of them is Bushkill Falls at 100 feet, while the rest include Bridesmaid, Bridal Veil, Pennell, Lauren Glen, and three others yet to be named. Visitors can explore these falls via hiking trails and bridges while spotting birds.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe is a beautiful town founded in 1818 and named after a Native American sports legend of the same name. While the town is steeped in history, with the Old Jail and Asa Packer Museums hosting historic artifacts, nature is alive here. The Lehigh Gorge Trail ends in the town, with its starting point at White Haven. Hence, the 26-mile trail can be hiked backward to White Haven in Luzerne County. The trail runs through the Lehigh Gorge State Park, where the Lehigh River presents abundant whitewater rafting opportunities.

In addition, the park is a destination for bird watching, more hikes, fishing, cycling, and sightseeing. Afterward, head downtown to indulge in delectable offers at Ma's Crepes and Cakes, where cakes are sensational. Alternatively, storm the Broadway Grille, where grilled shrimp, pulled chicken, and sausage leave a pleasant aftertaste.

Dingmans Ferry

Dingmans Ferry is a natural gem and haven for hikers who love to admire nature in its freshest and untamed form. The town is within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where the Delaware River slices through the Appalachian Mountains and offers opportunities for a wide range of activities, from fishing, to hiking, rock climbing, canoeing, and more. Visitors to Dingmans Ferry will also be stunned by its array of charming waterfalls, where they can enjoy nature photography and scenic hikes. These falls include Fulmer Falls, Factory Falls, Deep Leap Falls, Dingmans Falls, and Silverthread Falls. Visitors can also check out the Dingmans Ferry Bridge, a picturesque toll bridge and one of the finest over the Delaware River.

Hawley

Hawley is a beautiful town with a population of less than 2,000. The town sits on the north side of Lake Wallenpaupack, the second-largest lake in Pennsylvania, and is characterized by a peaceful downtown area filled with beautiful trees, centuries-old buildings, and entertainment venues. First, a walk through this area is incredibly satisfying, but it is nothing compared to the fun that awaits at the lake, with activities like boating, swimming, and water skiing. Hawley is also home to historic attractions like the Hawley Silk Mill, which dates to the 1800s and stands as a testament to the town's rich industrial history.

For some entertainment, visitors must check out the Ritz Company Playhouse, where live performances are held from June through September. For more entertainment, be sure to visit Looking Art Gallery to see impressive artworks made by local and international artists.

There are hidden natural gems tucked away in offbeat towns around the United States, and the Poconos is a perfect example of this. While these towns are best visited in summer, they are also absolutely delightful in winter and other seasons like spring and fall. Once the Honeymoon Capital of the World, the towns of the Poconos Mountains are charming destinations that offer endless adventures, recreation, and soul-refreshing moments.