These 8 Towns In The Poconos Have Beautiful Architecture

The Poconos are famous for amazing wooded views and sunsets, but that’s not all! If you want to spend the weekend exploring the wonders of the Poconos, check out these small towns with amazing architecture. They transport travelers back to simpler times with their pristine historical districts that capture the wonder of the 18th and 19th centuries. From the Victorian elegance of Jim Thorpe to the rustic charm of Lackawaxen, these Pennsylvania towns are treasure troves that tell the story of their past. So, get ready to travel back in time through these amazing towns in the Poconos!

Jim Thorpe

The architecture in Jim Thorpe is so beautiful that it’s often referred to as the Switzerland of America. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, its narrow streets and Victorian-style buildings add to its rustic charm. While in town, make sure to stop by the Asa Packer Mansion. This stunning Mansion was built in 1861 and delivers old-world charm in its perfectly preserved halls.

The Maunn Chunk Opera House serves as the heart of Jim Thrope. Built in 1881, it’s one of the oldest theaters in America in operation. Visitors can catch a live concert or play in this magnificent structure. Or, head to the Old Jail Museum, the former county jail, to travel back in time. With quaint shops and restaurants ranging from fine dining to cozy diners, Jim Thopes is a great place to take in the scenery of the Poconos.

Stroudsburg

The downtown district of Stroudsburg is frozen in time with its charming 18th and 19th-century buildings and historical attractions. Walk down the cozy street of the downtown district local shops and cafes for an afternoon. The Sherman Theater, built in 1921, is the cultural hub of Stroudsburg and offers a wide variety of live performances and shows throughout the year. While Stroudsburg works hard to preserve its history, expect to see modern flourishes of local art on buildings that add to its overall charm.

For a real treat, stop by the Jacob Stroud Mansion. As the former residence to the town’s founder, Jacob Stroud, it gives visitors a glimpse back into time walking the magnificent halls. Built in 1795, it’s one of the oldest buildings in the region. Admire the amazing architecture, and learn a little more about the founder of the town. The mansion is also home to the Monroe County Historical Association.

Lackawaxen

Lackawaxen is another Poconos hidden gem with a rich history, natural beauty, and amazing architecture. While not stunningly elegant, the area reflects a rustic American charm in its simple log cabins, churches, and natural structures. One of the most impressive structures in town is the Zane Grey House. It’s a great example of early 20th-century architecture with sweeping views of the Delaware River. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to learn a little more about the history of the home and its owner, author Zane Grey.

The Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct is another example of Lackawaxen’s amazing architecture. The aqueduct was designed by John A. Roebling, who later went on to design the Brooklyn Bridge. Today, this magnificent aqueduct is the oldest wire suspension bridge in the country. Visitors should also check out Lackawaxen and Union Church, which is one of the oldest buildings in the area. Despite its modest design, it offers a glimpse into America’s humble roots.

Milford

Milford is a sleepy town with so much to see and discover. As one of the founding cities in the Poconos region, it’s home to some magnificent structures dating back to the 18th century. One of the most stunning structures in town is the Columns Museum, a Neo-Greek revival mansion. It boasts displays and exhibits of the area. Another great site is the Milford Theatre, constructed in the 1920s. There, visitors can catch a live screening or plan their visit to check out the annual Black Bear Film Festival.

Visitors to Milford can also take a self-guided tour of the amazing downtown distinct to admire the architecture of the Colonial and Victorian-era buildings. Shop at one of their many specialty shops, antique stores, or art galleries. History buffs will love the grandeur of Pike County Courthouse built in 1874 that’s still in use today!

Honesdale

The town of Honesdale is a lively district in the Poconos with a lot of old-world charm. Known as the Birthplace of the American Railroad, Honesdale has a rich history and stunning buildings that feel like traveling back in time. Check out the Wayne County Historical Society Museum to learn more about the roots of this amazing town. The historic downtown district boasts Greek Revival Architecture dating back to the 19th century.

The opulence of the city streets of Honesdale harkens back to the days when it was a thriving hub for the railroad industry. Today, these buildings host quaint shops, local boutiques, and cafes. One of the most notable architectural marvels of Honesdale is the St. John the Evangelist Church, built in 1842. With its magnificent Gothic Revival architecture and stained glass windows, it’s a must-see for visitors.

Hawley

Once a mill town, Hawley is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Poconos north of Lake Wallenpaupack. The historical downtown area, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods, boast charming Victorian and Early Industrial Architecture. The most notable site in Hawley is the 19th-century Hawley Silk Mill. In its early days, it was one of the largest silk mills in the United States. Today, the original structure has been transformed into a lovely shopping district with locally owned shops, boutiques, and art galleries while still honoring the original architectural structure.

Another notable building in town is Grace Episcopal Church, an intricate Gothic Revival church with amazing stained glass windows built in the late 1800s. To learn more about this sleepy little town, be sure to stop by the Hawley Historical Society Museum, built in the 1860s.

Tannersville

Since its founding in the mid-1700s, Tannersville has always been a bustling resort town thanks to its location in the heart of the Poconos Mountains. The charming downtown district boasts beautiful Victorian-style structures filled with shops, cafes, boutiques, and antique stores. For more shopping, explore the nearby Crossings Premium Outlets. Even the surrounding neighborhoods host amazing homes from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Tannersville is much smaller than some of the other towns in the Pococnos, but it’s just as charming and peaceful! Head to the Camelback Mountain Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in Pennsylvania, to relax and unwind after a long week. While you’re there, make sure to stop to admire the many former railroad buildings peppered throughout Big Pocono State Park.

Lehighton

Lehighton, a once industrial town, is now a hub for tourists and adventurers. The architecture of the historical district reflects its once-industrial past. Amazing buildings such as the Vinctorian-era Carbon County Courthouse punctuate the rustic skyline. The charming downtown district boasts 19th-century buildings and clean sidewalks with charming shops, boutiques, and cafes. The downtown district lights up around Christmas with its annual Christmas in Lehighton!

Thanks to the Lehighton Area Historical Society, many of the historical buildings remain in excellent condition. Situated on the outside of town are the remains of old factories and mills with a distinct industrial design. Visitors can also hop in their car and take a science drive back in time, driving one Blue Mountain Drive to take in the scenery.

Enjoy More Than Just The Mountains In The Poconos

You can learn a lot about the history of a town through its architecture, and that’s certainly true of these small towns in the Poconos. The quaint, rustic charm of Hawley tells the tale of its silk mill roots, while the opulence of Honesdale is the story of how it became the Birthplace of the American Railroad. From Gothic-revival churches to more contemporary buildings like the Mediterranean Revival of Zane Grey House, there’s something here for everyone. The architecture of these towns is so amazing that the Poconos Mountains may just have to take a back seat!