The Mauch Chunk Opera House in historic downtown Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.

8 Towns in The Poconos that Are Ideal for Seniors

The work is done. Years put into a career can finally come to a rest. You have saved and invested, and now it is time to step back and reap the benefits of all the years of hard labor. There's more time to spend with the family and less stress. You can travel the world. Learn to play the piano, dance the salsa, or even finally finish that book that has been on the nightstand for three years. Whatever the motivation, retirement is the time everyone looks forward to and works so hard to accomplish, and when you finally do, you want to make sure the location you choose has a sense of community. That there are no college students throwing parties every weekend. Where the nights are full of the peaceful melodies of nature and not constant car honkings and the sirens of emergency vehicles. There is no better place than the Poconos

Jim Thorpe

View of the historic town of Jim Thorpe (formerly Mauch Chunk) in the Lehigh Valley in Carbon County, Pennsylvania
View of the historic town of Jim Thorpe (formerly Mauch Chunk) in the Lehigh Valley in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, via EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

A beautiful town full of Victorian buildings and the history that they bring, like the Old Jail Museum, Jim Thrope is an ideal location for seniors. The availability of senior-friendly public transportation and calming biking trails along the Lehigh River are just a couple of the reasons so many chose the town of Jim Thrope to spend their golden years. Traditional German restaurants, small local shops, and the annual Fall Foliage Festival supply a strong sense of community and togetherness that ensure the later years of life are not spent in isolation and solitude. Here you will find peace and new beginnings.

Honesdale

Colorful buildings on Main Street in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.
Colorful buildings on Main Street in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Image credit Nina Alizada via Shutterstock.com

Honesdale Is the perfect place for those who do not want to let old age stop them from getting out and staying active. In this town, you will never run out of interesting and engaging activities activities. Being the birthplace of The American Railroad there is a strong sense of pride in the community that is infectious. It is in close proximity to Prompton State Park for outdoor activities, a vibrant farmers market offering fresh local produce, and good access to healthcare services that specialize in senior care. Every year Honesdale hosts the Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival, and all year long several small galleries showcase local artists' work. Go alone, invite family, or venture out with neighbors. There is always something to do in Honesdale. 

Milford

Aerial view of Milford, Pennsylvania.
Aerial view of Milford, Pennsylvania.

Milford offers several active senior living communities surrounded by many well-preserved 19th-century buildings. It is a haven for senior citizens from all corners of the United States. It's close to the Delaware Water Gap for water sports, has numerous opportunities for bird watching in nearby natural reserves, and has a strong presence of artists and art studios, for anyone looking to try new hobbies. The public library is well-stocked and hosts regular events to engage the community and deliver plenty of entertainment. 

Hawley

Church Street, Hawley, Pennsylvania
Church Street, Hawley, Pennsylvania. Image creditJillcarletti, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This town is perfect for those with a need for the extreme being close to ski resorts and winter sports facilities. It's also Situated near Lake Wallenpaupack for water sports of lae side living if water access has always been a dream. Hawley boasts several golf courses in and around the town that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of golfers, and there are plenty of active gardening clubs and community gardens. All ensure numerous diverse opportunities for outdoor activity to go along with the abundance of walking trails suitable for all fitness levels. Hawley is also known for the Ritz Company Playhouse which offers regular performances. Perfect for romantic evening entertainment.

Stroudsburg

The Restaurant District in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.
The Restaurant District in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Image credit: Doug Kerr from Albany, NY, via Wikimedia Commons.

The community of Stroudsburg is packed with daily activities. It may be great for senior living but it is by no means slow.  It has an array of antique shops and boutiques, The Sherman Theater for live performances, active senior centers with various programs, and engaging exhibits at the Monroe County Historical Association. The town is close to several state parks for hiking and picnics and hosts the annual Pocono State Craft Festival.

Mount Pocono

PA 611 southbound in Mount Pocono

PA 611 southbound in Mount Pocono, By Famartin - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Pocono will ensure that the family, even the teens with attitudes, will want to keep coming back. The Mount Airy Casino Resort is a major attraction providing fun and lodging all in one. There are facilities for indoor bowling and recreation and numerous lakes and streams ideal for fishing and other water activities. When the family is away a classic movie theater showing the latest and classic films makes for nostalgic evenings. Not to mention regular community events, gatherings, yoga and wellness centers catering to seniors delivering just what the doctor ordered. 

Tannersville

Camelback Mountain Resort, a large ski resort in the Poconos mountains in Tannersville, Pennsylvania.
Camelback Mountain Resort, a large ski resort in the Poconos mountains in Tannersville, Pennsylvania.

Giving more reason for family to visit Tannersville ensures your golden years will have plenty of family around. This town is just what the doctor ordered for young and old. There is a little something for everyone. Situated by Camelback Mountain Resort and boasting the Crossings Premium Outlets Tannersville is quiet and beautiful while providing the excitement of city living. There are Extensive trails in Big Pocono State Park and the Tannersville Cranberry Bog for nature enthusiasts that are certain to make them feel right at home. Several local wineries and a variety of restaurants offering gourmet dishes deliver perfect romantic evening getaways. 

Palmerton

School in the Palmerton Historic District
School in the Palmerton Historic District, By Zeete - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

For calmer spirits, Palmerton is ideal for those desiring to just get away from it all. A rich history in zinc mining, access to the D&L Trail for cycling enthusiasts, and a public golf course available for enthusiasts bring the community together in a way that is unmatched and sure to bring good spirits. Nearby there are botanical gardens for nature walks and relaxation and there's even the annual Palmerton Community Festival.

In Conclusion

Senior life should always come with a good balance of community and daily active living. There are many who find their later years to be those void of friends, and missing that family touch, as the young grandkids have become teenagers and started venturing out on their own. However, with these towns, you will find every excuse to invite them around and keep them coming back for more. The Poconos are the perfect destination to spend one's final days. 

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