8 Serene Towns in The Poconos for a Weekend Retreat
Nestled within the picturesque Poconos Mountains are several serene towns that offer an escape from everyday life. The region offers breathtaking landscapes of rivers, mountains, waterfalls, and woodlands where visitors can unwind. From meditating in the Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area to taking a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Stroudsburg, these towns in the Poconos provide a slower pace of life. Whether enjoying the scenic views at the summit of Camelback Mountain in Tannersville or exploring the railroad history of Honesdale, these serene towns in the Poconos boast an unforgettable weekend retreat.
Jim Thorpe
The tranquil town of Jim Thorpe is one of the best places in the Poconos for a serene getaway. Nestled in the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe offers visitors a tranquil retreat surrounded by stunning natural surroundings. Enjoy a scenic bike ride along several trails at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy fishing or boating in the peaceful lake or simply soaking up the sun along the shores at the park. For an unforgettable experience, climb aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Visitors can sit back and relax on the 70-minute breathtaking train ride to Lehigh Gorge State Park.
In town, time slows down along charming streets lined with Victorian architecture. History buffs can explore historical sites and the town’s railroad history at the Asa Packer Mansion, the former home of the railroad tycoon. Visitors can unwind next door by staying at The Harry Packer Mansion Inn, the inspiration for Walt Disney's World's Haunted Mansion. Luckily, instead of haunting visions, the inn only offers guests stunning views of gothic architecture and of Jim Thorpe since it is perched on top of Packer Hill.
Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg offers serenity with a vibrant downtown, making it a peaceful escape that boasts stunning natural beauty. Explore the scenic downtown by visiting local art galleries, such as the Andrei Art Gallery and the Gamut Art Gallery, featuring works by local artists. Afterward, enjoy a live performance at the Sherman Theater, which featured Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy on opening night in 1929, the theater featured on opening night. This historic theater continues to be a vibrant hub of entertainment, welcoming a diverse range of performers throughout the year.
Beyond its quaint downtown, Stroudsburg also offers tranquil outdoor retreats. Enjoy a blissful hike through the Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, a 166-acre nature preserve. For a unique look at the outdoors, take a trip to Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm. Visitors can view the 1890s cooking demonstrations and basket weaving and learn about agricultural heritage from the 19th century. After exploring Stroudsburg, enjoy a tranquil stay at The Penn Stroud Hotel. Located centrally in town, the hotel was built in 1833 by the grandson of Jacob Stroud, the founder of the town.
Milford
The quaint town of Milford was founded in 1796 and has been a haven for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for centuries. Nestled along the Delaware River, Milford rests along the border of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The picturesque town boasts tranquil outdoor activities, such as kayaking, hiking, and scenic drives along the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Along with its natural beauty, Milford is home to a vibrant arts community. The town’s historic district is home to several art galleries, including Golden Fish Art Gallery and the Artisan Exchange, both featuring works by local artists. Explore art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cafes in the town's historic district. Downtown Milford is also home to the Columns Museum, featuring local and national artifacts. History buffs can explore exhibits in the 1904 neo-classical mansion, such as the Abraham Lincoln flag. After exploring the serene downtown and tranquil outdoors in Milford, enjoy staying at the Hotel Fauchère. The historic hotel offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and a relaxing weekend retreat in downtown Milford.
Hawley
The tranquil town of Hawley is a memorable weekend escape in the Poconos. Situated at the northern tip of Lake Wallenpaupack, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a serene fishing trip or boating on the pristine lake. Along with its stunning lake views, Hawley provides blissful hiking trails around town, including the Riverwalk Trail near Bingham Park.
A serene getaway to Hawley is not complete without a trip to the Hawley Silk Mill. A former silk factory from 1880, the building now serves as a multi-use space with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Explore Art on the Edge and the Looking Glass Art Gallery, featuring paintings by local artists and fine art prints. Located nearby is the Ledges Hotel, a historic boutique hotel that offers scenic accommodations for guests. Housed in the J.S. O’Connor American Rich Cut Glass Factory from the 1890s, the hotel overlooks the scenic falls of the Wallenpaupack Creek, a tributary of the Lackawaxen River.
Tannersville
The scenic town of Tannersville is located in the heart of the Poconos, providing the perfect location for a serene getaway. The town is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy great recreational opportunities year-round at Camelback Mountain Resort. In the winter, enjoy skiing, tubing, and snowboarding down the scenic mountain. During warmer months, the resort offers a picturesque getaway filled with hiking, zip-lining, and mountain biking, as well as the Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark. Visitors can also stay at a suite or condo at the resort, making it a great lodging option.
For more tranquil outdoor activities, visit the nearby Big Pocono State Park. Situated on 1,306 acres along Camelback Mountain, the park offers scenic views of three states: Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. More spectacular views and delicious meals are available at Summit House, a restaurant located at the top of the mountain.
East Stroudsburg
Not to be confused with its neighbor, Stroudsburg, East Stroudsburg is its own town in the Poconos, providing a great escape from everyday life. A gateway to scenic outdoor activities in the Pocono Mountains, visitors can explore nearby parks and nature preserves. Gregory's Pond Park features a one-mile trail system and fishing in the tranquil ponds. Just outside of town is Mt. Nebo Park, a 137-acre nature preserve that offers tranquil hiking trails, a peaceful pond, and ample wildlife viewing.
For those looking for an intergalactic serene activity, visit the Schisler Museum & McMunn Planetarium at East Stroudsburg University. Enjoy astronomy and nature exhibits, as well as incredible planetarium films throughout the year. After exploring the museum and planetarium, enjoy a bite to eat nearby at the Trackside Station Grill. Built on the historic Dansbury Depot, visitors can get a side of history with their meal. Relax at the Poconos Mountains Villas, which offers studio and villa accommodations. Resort guests can also take a scenic horseback ride with Bushkill Riding Stables, tee off at Pocono Hills Golf Course, and enjoy the resort’s indoor swimming pool.
Delaware Water Gap
As the Eastern Gateway to the Poconos, Delaware Water Gap offers stunning natural beauty and serene outdoor recreation opportunities. Explore miles of hiking trails along the scenic Appalachian Trail, enjoy kayaking or rafting on the Delaware River, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The area is also known as a relaxing spot to meditate, offering the perfect tranquil getaway.
In town, Delaware Water Gap offers cultural attractions and an escape from city life. Visitors can tour the Castle Inn, a previous resort that welcomed half a million visitors each year. Although the inn is no longer a hotel, travelers can take a guided tour of the historic 1906 building. During warmer months, the inn is one of the stops on the Pocono Historic Trolley Tour. Another stop on the tour is the Deer Head Inn, the nation’s oldest continuously running jazz club. Visitors can enjoy live jazz and a delicious meal and stay the night in one of the inn’s rooms or suites.
Honesdale
Known as the birthplace of the American railroad, Honesdale blends its rich history with small-town charm, providing a serene weekend retreat. History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike enjoy exploring the picturesque town. In 1829, the town was the site of the Stourbridge Lion, the first steam locomotive to run on commercial tracks in the country. A replica of the train is on display at the Wayne County Historical Society, housed in the headquarters of the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company from 1860. Situated on historic Main Street, museum visitors can explore the charming town’s shops, galleries, and restaurants, including the Here and Now Brewing Company.
For a unique tranquil retreat, hop aboard the Stourbridge Line Train. Choose from many scenic train rides, including a round-trip train ride through the Northern Poconos Mountains from Honesdale to Hawley. For those who want to experience the great outdoors, enjoy a blissful kayaking trip in the Lackawaxen River or watch the sunrise at Gibbons Park, a hidden gem atop Irving Cliff. After exploring the town, unwind at Hotel Wayne, a historic hotel first built in 1827 and rebuilt in 1895. The hotel features suites, apartments, and fine dining.
Each of these eight towns in the Poconos offers the perfect serene getaway. For those seeking a weekend getaway exploring the art galleries in Hawley or a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe, the area offers something for everyone. Whether seeking a tranquil hike in the Delaware Water Gap or a relaxing resort stay in East Stroudsburg, these towns provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
