7 Picturesque Towns in the Poconos for a Weekend Retreat
The Pocono Mountains region in northeastern Pennsylvania has been a popular travel destination for generations, especially for residents of nearby East Coast cities looking for a quick getaway. In its history as a tourist mecca, the Poconos began as a wilderness escape, morphed into a slightly kitschy honeymoon destination, and is now known for both excellent outdoor recreation and gigantic indoor water parks. The Poconos has something for every traveler; discover seven of the region’s most picturesque small-town destinations for a weekend getaway.
Tannersville
The town of Tannersville has been around for more than 250 years, and still retains a fair bit of historic charm, but weekend tourists usually come for its modern amenities. The gigantic Camelback Ski Resort boasts first-class accommodations and an endless array of activities, including skiing, zip-lining, and splashing around at its huge indoor water park. Meanwhile, the Pocono Premium Outlets in Tannersville hosts over 100 brand-name shops offering deep discounts. Yet Tannersville is also a great place to get out into nature and truly experience the Poconos—a hike to the summit of Big Pocono State Park presents unsurpassed panoramic views of the forested countryside.
Tobyhanna
Like Tannersville, Tobyhanna is a tiny community that hosts one of the Poconos’ mega-resorts. Kalahari Resort, with an African theme that admittedly feels a little out of place in the Poconos, provides weekend travelers with great amenities such as a 220,000-square-foot indoor water park. While Kalahari is big enough to keep you occupied indoors all weekend, be sure to get outdoors and try your hand at hiking, boating, and more at Tobyhanna State Park. If you are a car enthusiast, definitely also head over to Pocono Raceway, which hosts a NASCAR race each July and other events throughout the auto racing season.
Lehighton
Coal mining in the Poconos has a long history, with Lehighton once serving as a key coal-shipping hub. Although the coal mines have been closed for years, Lehighton now flourishes by attracting tourists eager to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes surrounding the town. Plan your Lehighton weekend by booking a stay at the fabulous Inn at Birch Wilds, especially if you are looking for a rustic and romantic getaway. Nearby outdoor attractions include Lehigh Gorge State Park and the D&L National Heritage Trail. Lehighton also offers a variety of enjoyable community events, such as the Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival, which is held each October.
Delaware Water Gap
The town of Delaware Water Gap derives its name from the dramatic, narrow mountain pass carved out over thousands of years by the Delaware River. The town is nestled in the river valley, with the Appalachian Trail offering a scenic ascent up Mt. Minsi for panoramic views. Outdoor lovers can explore the McDade Recreational Trail for mountain biking, experience thrilling whitewater rafting on the river, and enjoy migratory bird watching at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, among other activities. The town is also a hub for live music, and the Deer Head Inn, a historic hotel, restaurant, and music venue located on Main Street, bills itself as the “Home for Jazz in the Poconos.”
Stroudsburg
Despite having a population of only 6,000, Stroudsburg is the largest town in the Poconos. Downtown Stroudsburg offers plenty to explore, including long-standing businesses like Dunkelberger’s and historic landmarks such as the 1795 Stroud Mansion and the 1890 Monroe County Courthouse. Stroudsburg also bustles with festivals and community events throughout the year, such as the Quiet Valley Farm Animal Frolic in May, Pride Festival and Juneteenth in June, Pocono State Craft Festival in August, and StroudFest in September. While there are many hotels in and near town, check out Cherry Valley Manor if you are looking for a great weekend at a luxury bed-and-breakfast.
Bushkill
The quaint community of Bushkill is renowned for its stunning natural landmark, Bushkill Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania" due to its impressive series of eight waterfalls. Visiting the falls involves a bit of hiking, but the breathtaking views make it well worth the effort. Additionally, Bushkill boasts Poconos Park, a 10,000-seat amphitheater that hosts a diverse array of events such as music festivals, carnivals, a haunted house, holiday light displays, and an annual TacoFest in May. The area around Bushkill is home to several great places to stay for the weekend, including the Deerfield Inn, a Victorian home transformed into a 12-room bed-and-breakfast.
Honesdale
Honesdale calls itself the “Birthplace of American Railroading” and proudly displays a replica of America’s first commercial steam locomotive, the 1829 Stourbridge Lion, at the Wayne County Historical Museum. Once used for transporting coal, the Stourbridge Rail Line now operates as a picturesque 25-mile scenic railway, especially stunning during the fall. Autumn is also time for the Harvest and Heritage Days Festival, a highlight of Honesdale’s busy community calendar. For history-filled weekend accommodations, check out the 1895 Hotel Wayne in downtown Honesdale or the 1819 James Manning House B&B, 3 miles outside of town.
The Poconos region, spanning Carbon, Pike, Monroe, and Wayne counties, has evolved from coal-mining country into a vibrant four-season travel destination. Its charming small towns have accommodations ranging from tiny bed-and-breakfasts to historic hotels to modern mega-resorts, with options to suit every traveler’s taste. So, whether you are interested in mountain trails, scenic railways, historic architecture, live jazz, or indoor water parks, start planning your Poconos travel adventure today!
