8 of the Most Welcoming Towns in the Poconos
Situated in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Poconos Mountains are undoubtedly one of the State’s most stunning and equally beloved natural features. With breathtaking panoramas, splendid bodies of water, and stunning wooded areas, the Poconos are indeed one of the best ways to enjoy nature when in this part of the country.
For the charming towns that find themselves in this geographic region, a most special slice of Americana is offered. Full of natural beauty, cultural appeal, and loads of welcoming hospitality that only a small town can offer, these small Poconos towns are great gems for any visitor to discover. So come explore these mountains and the wonderful towns that call the region home!
Stroudsburg
Located just some 75 miles from New York City, the town of Stroudsburg is a most charming place with modern historical roots dating to the year 1799. And with a wondrous mix of natural beauty, historic allure, cultural events, and loads of great local businesses unique to small towns, Stroudsburg shows why it is truly one of the best destinations in the Poconos. Outdoors lovers will not want to miss a visit to Glen Onoko Falls or McMichaels Creek, where great fishing opportunities and splendid cascade vistas will delight all ages. Meanwhile, at the Academy Hill Historic District and Stroud Mansion (1795), guests will get a genuine look into 18th century life and the development of town. Ultimately however, whether it is enjoying the town’s natural splendor or taking in its historic heritage, visiting Stroudsburg is always a pleasing experience that will definitely leave one with the desire to return.
Milford
The town of Milford was established in 1796, and today is home to a very modest population of just over 1,000 inhabitants. Situated near the upper Delaware River and the border with the State of New York, this town maintains a charming old-world ambiance all within the exquisite views that are the Poconos. Tour the Historic District and its assortment of buildings in the Victorian and Federal styles, and then visit the Grey Towers National Historic Site. Here at this 1880s chateau mansion, guests can get a glimpse of domestic life in the late 19th century while marveling at the property’s beautifully maintained gardens.
Meanwhile, the Columns Museum, a most impressive collection of unique American historical items, brings visitors to crucial moments in the nation’s past. Finally, for the outdoor lover, Milford’s natural beauty cannot be ignored, and splendid views of the Poconos peaks and the Delaware River are always a delight. Enjoy opportunities for cycling, hiking, and boating, while even a scenic drive may just be enough to create a lasting impression.
Hawley
Hawley is beautifully located on the Lackawaxen River and is home to a population of just over 1,200 people. A wonderful spot to enjoy fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and water sports like tubing, Hawley is indeed one of the finest Poconos resort destinations. With an assortment of great hiking and cycling trails at the nearby Bushkill Falls (also known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania), outdoor adventure awaits in a most spectacular natural setting. Meanwhile, the history lover can visit such landmarks as the Ritz Theater or the Hawley Silk Mill (1880), listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which transport its guests back to old America. Indeed, Hawley delivers fascinating history and great panoramas, all within the special and unique framing that is the Poconos.
Palmerton
Situated at the base of the Blue Mountains, Palmerton is a charming and picturesque community of nearly 5,600 inhabitants. Just some 86 miles from the city of Philadelphia, this town founded in 1912 is indeed a most friendly and welcoming locale with great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Indeed, visitors can spend time at the Blue Mountain Ski Zone for awesome ski and snowboard sessions, while summertime bike rides and hikes are undoubted gems of any excursion. In addition, at the nearby Lehigh River, one can even explore a section of the famed Appalachian Trail! And naturally, like many small communities, Palmerton is full of charming and welcoming boutique shops and local restaurants that together with its Poconos setting make it a truly special place to visit indeed.
Walnutport
Founded back in 1909, the town of Walnutport lies along the Lehigh River with a population of just over 2,000 residents. A most charming and naturally beauty Poconos destination, Walnutport is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and a genuine slice of small town America. Visit the Lehigh Canal Park for both a peaceful and relaxing outing and an alluring step back to the 19th century or spend an afternoon at part of the Appalachian Trail where splendid views of the Poconos are always a delight. Meanwhile, with the town’s wonderful collection of inviting boutique shops, tasty local eateries, and loads of warm hospitality, any stay in Walnutport will surely be a positive one, all with the allure of the Poconos as a backdrop.
Honesdale
The seat of Wayne County, Honesdale, was founded in the 1820s and today continues to maintain itself as a place of great historic intrigue and natural splendor. Home to some 4,500 residents, Honesdale is situated in a rural area where outdoor activities remain ever popular and where one can enjoy sailing, fishing, cycling, hiking, and even rafting. Conveniently located near the Lackawaxen and Delaware Rivers, there is indeed always an opportunity to spend some time on the water. Meanwhile guests can also enjoy such historic outings like a ride on the Stourbridge Line or a visit to the Wayne County Historical Society Museum.
At the former a picturesque railway tour of the Poconos is absolutely delightful, while at the latter, an immersive guide through the region’s history is provided in a most informative and fun fashion. With wonderful outside activities, riverside charm, and interesting local history, Honesdale is certainly one of the best Poconos towns to discover.
Tannersville
Home of Camelback Mountain ski and waterpark resort, Tannersville is situated within Pocono Township and is indeed a haven for the outdoors lover. In addition to the great slopes and water rides of the aforementioned resort, visitors can visit the Big Pocono State Park which spans an area of some 1,300 acres. With stunning foliage in the fall and excellent opportunities for cycling, hiking, picnicking, swimming, camping, and boating, this most scenic locale will definitely satisfy the young and old. Meanwhile for the shopping enthusiast, do not forget to visit the Pocono Premium Outlets which features up to 100 brand name and designer stores and a variety of tasty dining options which will satisfy both the travelling family and the solo traveller alike.
Jim Thorpe
Named for the similarly-named Native American Olympic athlete in 1954, the town of Jim Thorpe was originally founded in 1818 under the name of Mauch Chunk. Known as the “Gateway to the Poconos”, this seat of Carbon County is home to a humble population of just over 4,500 residents and maintains a most splendid old-world charm. Full of Victorian-style buildings and historic landmarks, visitors can travel back in time through an exploration of such places like the Old Mauch Chunk Historic District, the Asa Packer Mansion (1861), the Carbon County Jail (1870), and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (1869), amongst many others.
With cobblestone streets and brick facades, Jim Thorpe’s cultural beauty is only rivaled by the lush foliage and mountain landscapes that surround it. Enjoy the town’s Fall Foliage Festival, where scenic train rides, arts and crafts sales, live music, hot food, and even ghost tours are a true delight for all ages. And do not forget to hop aboard a historic trolley for a guided tour of town, where loads of great photo opportunities await!
The beautiful and welcoming towns situated within the Poconos Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania are absolute treasures to be discovered. Full of truly splendid vistas, vibrant cultural attractions, and charming amounts of small-town Americana, these towns are ready to welcome guests of all ages. From the scenic and historic center of Jim Thorpe to the outdoor wonder of Hawley and beyond, these Poconos towns are truly awesome destinations. Whether one is looking to enjoy the outdoors or learn more about regional American history, when in these towns and in the Poconos, a pleasant and memorable experience will be sure to be had.
