The Best Small Towns in The Poconos to Chill Out In 2024

With its picturesque mountains, dewy woods, and glassy lakes, The Pocono mountain range was considered the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" in the 1960s. Today, couples, families, and friend groups are still attracted to travel in the region due to its rustic scenery and close proximity to metropolitan areas like New York and Philadelphia. Modern Pocono towns offer a friendly mix of shopping, eating, and sightseeing that you can combine with a day on the lake or a hike through the hills. Here are some of the best options, offering scenic outdoors with plenty of culture and activities.

Tannersville

Located only a 90-minute drive from New York City, Tannersville has a population of less than 3,000 people yet remains full of visitor-friendly things to do. If you're in town for the day, you've got to check out destinations like the Pocono Premium Outlets, where you'll find discounted versions of your favorite stores, such as Coach, Ugg, and the Nike Factory Store. There are also several eateries in the outlet center for lunch, such as Johnny Rockets and Pita Fresh.

If mom-and-pop shops are more your beat, you'll want to check out the housewares and collectibles at local stores like the Tannersville Antiques and Artisan Center or the Rustic Mountain. In addition, Tannersville is known as the home of Camelback Resort, with its indoor and outdoor waterparks, zipline adventures, skiing, and snowboarding. If you want something comfortable and affordable, stay at the Best Western Plus Poconos Hotel or the nearby Hampton Inn Stroudsburg.

Lake Harmony

If you're looking for a peaceful vibe, check out the tranquil waters of Lake Harmony. Outdoor exercise and exploring are popular along the Kidder Hike & Bike Trail and nearby Hickory Run State Park. The lake itself is a perfect location for waterskiing, boat tours, and canoeing. If you're staying overnight, you can check out the Lake Harmony Inn, which offers comfortable rooms, some of which are complete with kitchenettes. Or visit the Lodge at Lake Harmony, where you'll find lakeview restaurants and an indoor water park. If you love to check out unique destinations, soak up some local flavor at Terra Cottage Cafe and Gifts, where you can enjoy breakfast or lunch and find some collectibles on the way out. While you're in the area, take in fine dining and live bands when overlooking the water at Nick's Lakehouse Restaurant.

Honesdale

Chilling in the Poconos is as fun as ever in Honesdale, a town that has seen a good deal of buildup since 2020. You'll definitely want to check out craft beers and bites at Runaway Train Brewery or Here & Now Brewing Company. If you're bringing your family or just appreciate a nice train ride, hop aboard the Stourbridge Line, where you can book an excursion like the Dinner & Theater Train, Ice Cream & Family Game Night, or a Wine & Cheese Experience. Fans of chocolate and specialty coffee won't want to miss a tour of Moka Origins, which happens every Saturday or by appointment.

Hawley

Hawley is best known as the home of resorts like Woodloch Pines and The Lodge at Woodloch, where lakeside activities like swimming, boating, and fishing abound. The properties also include dining and top-notch accommodations. Spa addicts will want to check out the treatments and amenities at The Lodge at Woodloch, including an outdoor hot tub and waterfall overlooking the mountains. In recent years, visitors have come to adore Downtown Hawley, including restaurants like the Settler's Inn, which offers upscale dining, live music, and lodging. Nearby, shoppers will want to check out the Hawley Antique Exchange, which has pottery, art, and keepsakes. Adventuring folks will appreciate all boat rentals, camping, and dining available at nearby Lake Wallenpaupack, which is also a great place to find additional places to stay.

Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe is a wonderful Poconos destination for those who love the outdoors. Experience hiking and biking at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, where the lake offers swimming with a certified lifeguard between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and a concession stand. Camping sites and cabins are available for a complete mountain experience. You can also head into town and check out shops like The Country Cottage, where you'll find gourmet food and home decor. If you're looking for a unique way to see the town, sign up for a tour with the Jim Thorpe Trolley Co, which offers themed trips like The Wine & Suds Tasting Tour and the Ghosts & Graveyard Tour.

Shawnee on Delaware

Located on the Delaware River, Shawnee is best known for its mountain and ski area, where you can enjoy snow-tubing, skiing, and lessons. In the warmer months, you'll want to check out the Fireworks Display and Food Truck Festival. These events bring the town together with tons of lovely food and nighttime lights. While in downtown, be sure to take in a show like My Fair Lady or Cabaret at the Shawnee Playhouse. If you're looking for summer adventures, take a self-guided canoe, kayak, or rafting trip on the Delaware River. And if you need somewhere to stay, the Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort offers rooms, small cabins, guided tours, dining, a fitness center, and live music.

Skytop

Skytop is a corner of the Poconos best known for Skytop Lodge, a 1920 retreat hotel that beckons tourists from all over. Some of the many amenities in this hotel are multiple pools, a lake, golf, lawn games, a ropes course, and more. It doesn't slow down in the winter months when you can enjoy activities like skiing along scenic slopes in the Poconos. Nearby Chamberlain Canoes is a great spot for rafting, canoeing, or kayaking through the idyllic Pocono Mountains. Located less than two hours from New York City and two-and-a-half hours from Philadelphia, Skytop is the perfect mountain locale for a romantic getaway or family outing.

Milford

If small-town charm is your thing, you've got to check out Milford. This quaint town is the ideal destination for shopaholics, with a wide variety of shops, including the BetterWorld store & cafe, where you'll find plenty of creative kitchen supplies and books to take back home. Or stop by Changes by Robin for one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories. Similarly, the Grey Towers Heritage Foundation is a great place to check out live music and indulge in your artistic side. Speaking of art, events like the Milford Music Festival and the Milford Readers and Writers Festival bring plenty of folks to the area each year. If you're looking for somewhere to stay, boutique hotels like Hotel Fauchere and familiar names like the Hampton Inn Matamoros/Milford will keep you close and comfortable.

Wrapping Up

Folks in the tri-state area don't have to travel far to enjoy mountains, lakes, and small-town shopping. The Poconos boasts many charming hamlets where you can swim or boat, take in the scenery, or relax with a good book. With a variety of activities and accommodation types available, Pocono towns provide a wonderful escape from the concrete-and-computer world most people face every day. Find the one that's right for you and enjoy the perfect getaway.