Millions of people visit the Pocono Mountains each year—and for good reason! The area is home to a stunning mountain range and a lots of fabulous opportunities to get in touch with nature. Skiing, hiking, fishing, biking, swimming in one of the region’s hundreds of lakes, horseback riding, ice skating—the list goes on and on. If you’re not particularly outdoorsy, the Poconos still have plenty to offer, including indoor water parks, shopping, wineries, escape rooms, zoos, quaint small towns, casinos, railroad rides, go karting, and a huge variety of dining options.
The Pocono Mountains are also appealing for their convenience. The region, which encompasses a massive 2,400 square miles, is within a two hour drive for millions of people in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. It’s the perfect place to plan a weeklong family vacation or a spontaneous weekend getaway without the cost, stress, and hassle of lots of travel.
Because the area is so huge and has so much to offer, though, it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming to settle on an itinerary for your trip. That’s where we would be thrilled to help! Our family has been traveling to the Poconos for vacations for generations and we own a vacation rental home in the area. Though it’s impossible to know everything this rich area has to offer, we’ve learned a thing or two about traveling the Poconos—and we’d be thrilled to share what we know with you!
The Ultimate Poconos Travel Guide
What should I consider when I’m travelling in the Poconos?
The Poconos, as mentioned above, are a large and diverse region. This provides a lot of wonderful opportunities for travelers, but also creates some things you’ll want to consider when planning your trip. Here are a few tips to help you plan a successful trip and have a wonderful time!
Location
When you’re planning out your trip to the Poconos, Google Maps is your friend. The Poconos are
a very large area and it can be easy to underestimate how far apart certain attractions or accommodations are. You don’t want to reserve a lovely vacation home in Jim Thorpe and plan your boating excursion on Lake Wallenpaupack—only to discover that those two things are actually an hour and a half apart. Before booking any accommodations, you’ll want to narrow down the top 2-3 attractions you want to visit and then choose a centrally-located home base.
Weather in the Poconos
Because of its elevations, the Pocono Mountains region is often a good 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas. Before planning your trip, you’ll want to check the weather for your dates (or check historical averages for those time frames) before planning any activities. This is especially important in the spring and fall seasons, when temperatures are a little more volatile. For example, it might feel pretty summery where you are in late April/early May, but that can be a fairly chilly time in the Poconos. Check the weather and plan/pack accordingly!
Getting Around the Poconos
The Poconos is definitely easiest to navigate by car. But if you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive, there are still some options to plan your getaway. Greyhound and a handful of other bus lines do provide service from places like Philadelphia and New York into certain parts of the Poconos. Uber and Lyft operate in the Poconos region and its fairly easy to get rides if you’re in more well-traveled areas like Stroudsburg. If you happen to be staying somewhere more remote, it might be a little trickier. Monroe County offers the Pocono Pony (public bus transportation), which services lots of resorts and tourist attractions.
Expenses
If you’re looking to have a memorable, relaxing vacation while still keeping your finances in check, the Poconos are a great destination. There are plenty of low or no cost options to explore—hiking and biking through beautiful state parks, visiting historic sites like Jim Thorpe’s Old Jail Museum, enjoying a glass of wine at a picturesque winery, window shopping for antiques, and much more.
However, some of the more popular attractions in the Poconos can run a bit pricier—a day of skiing or splashing around at the indoor waterpark is a ton of fun, but it’s not exactly cheap. It’s still worth it if you can afford the splurge! And remember to check the resorts’ websites before your trip for any special discounts (many places have lower priced tickets if you’re planning to visit in the evening, for example. Snow tubing in the dark is a lot of fun!)
Consider Travelling on Non-Weekends
Because of its proximity to cities like New York and Philadelphia, the Poconos are a perfect place to escape for the weekend and still make it back for work on Monday morning. While plenty of people do plan week+ vacations to the area, it’s very common for people to just make a weekend excursion. For that reason, resorts and other locations are often significantly busier on the weekends than during the week. If you’d like to avoid crowds (and sometimes get discounted passes!) definitely try to book your trip during the middle of the week, if work and school schedules allow.
Wildlife in the Poconos
Catching a glimpse of the Poconos’ diverse wildlife population is one of the most fun things about traveling the region. Some common species you might see during your trip are deer, chipmunks, turkeys, foxes, snakes, woodpeckers, and much more. Black bears also roam freely across the Poconos. They are rarely dangerous to humans, but it’s still very important to be wary and keep your distance. It’s also very important to secure garbage and food waste, which will draw bears out looking for food at night.
Outdoor Activities in the Poconos
The Pocono region’s mountainous terrain, plentiful lakes and waterways, temperate weather, and accessible location make it an ideal place for many Northeasterners to reconnect with nature. There are activities for all ages and fitness levels, from taking on a double-black-diamond ski trail to strolling around a peaceful lake.
Pocono Ski Resorts
With an average of 50 inches of annual snowfall, it’s no wonder that the Poconos are a mecca for skiiers and snow boarders. Camelback Resort, the largest ski resort in the Poconos, is home to 39 trails and a fantastic snow tubing course. Blue Mountain Resort, another popular destination, boasts the state’s largest vertical drop at 1,082 feet! Other resorts, like Shawnee and Big Bear, offer a smaller resort experience perfect for first-timers and families with younger kids.
Read more about ski resorts in the Poconos.
Hiking and Biking in the Poconos
While lots of people associate the Poconos with winter-weather activities like skiing, the area actually welcomes its largest number of tourists during the summer months. A huge draw for these travelers are the Poconos’ nine state parks and two national parks, which are home to waterfalls, wildlife, gorgeous foliage, and trails for all experience levels. Lehigh Gorge State Park, for example, offers visitors a chance to follow an abandoned railroad route along the Lehigh River and stop at Buttermilk Falls, a picturesque 50-foot waterfall.
Learn more about some the top hiking trails in the Poconos.
Outdoor Adventures in the Poconos
If you’re an adrenaline seeker who is looking for something a little more out-of-the-box, the Poconos have tons of adventures in store for you. The Poconos are framed by two rivers—the Lehigh River and the Delaware River. Both have plentiful opportunities for activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking. If you’re looking to amp up the excitement even more, book your excursion on a “dam release weekends", when dams upriver are released to increase waterflow.
Outdoor adventure parks are also popular choices in the area. Resorts like Camelback and Blue Moutain transform during the summer months to offer activities like extensive ropes courses, zip lines, laser tag, and more. If you’d like to experience the outdoors from behind the wheel, book an experience at the famous Pocono Raceway or hop on a UTV to explore the woods at high speeds!
Learn more about adventure activities in the Poconos.
Water Recreation in the Poconos
With 150 lakes and 170 miles of river, the Poconos certainly have lots of opportunities for fun on the water. If you’re interested in kayaking or canoeing, check out the famous Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area. This area, formed where the Delaware River cuts between the Appalachian Mountains, has incredible views of the surrounding mountains and foliage.
If you can’t imagine taking a vacation without spending some time on a beach, don’t worry—you can find that in the Poconos without having to travel to crowded New Jersey beaches. Many state parks, like Hickory Run State Park, have lakes with sandy beaches perfect for spending a day in the sun.
Opportunities for boating and fishing also abound in the Poconos. Anglers from all over travel to the region for excellent bass and trout fishing. Fishing licenses are required, which can be obtained through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Indoor Activities in the Poconos
Although the Poconos are known for picturesque mountains and idyllic lakes, there’s plenty to do if you’re not in the mood to strap on your skis or lace up your hiking boots. These attractions, from indoor water parks and casinos to shopping and go karting, are part of what makes the Poconos such a wonderful year-round vacation destination. No matter the weather, you’ll always find ways to have fun and make memories in the Poconos.
Indoor Waterparks in the Poconos
The Poconos are home to some of the most expansive and exciting indoor waterparks in the country! Great Wolf Lodge, recently completed a $125 million renovation and expansion, adding to their already impressive line up of tube slides, wave pools, and more. Kalahari Resort and Convention Center is a fantastic option for guests of all ages, whether you’re looking to zip down a water slide or enjoy some relaxation at the spa. Aquatopia, Camelback Resort’s indoor waterpark, has a gorgeous all-glass roof that floods the space with light.
Read more about Indoor Waterparks in the Poconos
Casino Resorts in the Poconos
The Poconos are home to two casino resorts—Mount Airy Casino Resort in Mount Pocono and Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre. Mount Airy was recently named one of America’s top ten casino resorts by USA Today. It’s a great choice for an adult getaway—no guests under 21 are allowed at the resort (even the hotel and restaurants). If you’re visiting the Poconos during the summer, visit Mohegan Pennsylvania, where you’ll be able to bet on live horse racing at the Pocono Downs or enjoy a live concert at their Party on the Patio summer series.
Learn more about casino resorts in the Poconos
Shopping in the Poconos
If you’re looking for some retail therapy during your trip to the Poconos, you’re in luck—the area has lots of traditional shopping options as well as some places that embody the rustic charm of the Poconos. You’ll definitely want to stop by the Pocono Premium Outlets in Tannersville. This huge complex has over 100 stores, including the North Face, Coach, Guess, and lots more. For a more authentically Poconos shopping experience, places like the Shoppes at American Candle or Country Kettle Candy have decor, souvenirs, candy, and a bit of kitschy fun.
Learn more about shopping in the Poconos
Miscellaneous Fun!
When you’re searching for things to do in the Poconos, lots of big names pop up—Camelback, Blue Mountain, Great Wolf Lodge, and others. Large resorts are wonderful, but sometimes you’re looking for a more low-key experience. The Poconos have plenty of independent, locally owned small businesses that offer a fun experiences for anyone traveling to the area. Big Screen Escapes, for example, is a locally owned escape room company with two locations in the Poconos. An evening in one of their retro-themed rooms is an incredible way to make memories with friends and family. S&S Speedway Indoor Go Karting in Stroudsburg is a fun activity for groups looking to get the adrenaline pumping.
Restaurants, Wineries, and Breweries
With a region as large and diverse as the Poconos, it can feel difficult to narrow down the best restaurant options. It’s worth doing a little digging in order to bypass the chain restaurants and find some of the Poconos’ most interesting, creative, and fun food options.
Best Comfort Food in the Pocono
Many people travel to the Poconos to take part in the area’s host of active, outdoor activities—skiing, hiking, canoeing, and more. And what’s better at the end of a day of heart-racing fun than some good old-fashioned comfort food? The Poconos really shines in this area, with lots of options for creative, delicious, and reasonably priced comfort food. Wingz and a Prayer, for example, has some truly fabulous wings (and an unbelievable list of homemade sauces!). If you’re craving some brisket and mac and cheese, Joe Bosco Authentic Smokehouse BBQ is the place to be.
Get more tips on the best comfort food in the Poconos
Best Wineries and Breweries in the Poconos
The Pocono Mountains are home to some incredible vineyards and breweries. Wineries like Mountain View Vineyards offer a great selection of wines, from dry white wines to sweet sangrias—along with a truly breathtaking view from their tasting room and outdoor seating areas. There’s no lack of great beer in the Poconos, either—breweries like Pocono Brewery Company and Barley Creek Brewing Company serve up lots of varieties of craft beer and fantastic food to go along with it.
Learn more about the best Wineries and Breweries in the Poconos
Best Special Occasion Restaurants in the Poconos
Though much of the Poconos typically has a rustic, casual vibe, that doesn’t mean there aren’t lots of options for a more upscale night out. The Frogtown Chophouse—a cozy steakhouse with thoughtfully prepared food and an expansive wine list—is a perfect option for a special family celebration or night out. The Water’s Edge at Memorytown, with its creative food, high wood-clad ceilings, and pristine lake view, is our choice for an intimate date night.
Places to Stay in the Poconos
Poconos Vacation Rental Homes (Airbnb, VRBO, Etc.)
Many visitors to the Poconos region choose to book vacation rental homes through sites like Airbnb or VRBO. Rental homes are often a convenient, economical choice for families and friends traveling together, and provide lots of comforts of home like a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and multiple bathrooms. Many Pocono vacation homes also offer fun touches like fireplaces, outdoor grills and fire pits, hot tubs, updated decor, and more.
Location is important when it comes to rental homes in the Poconos—check that the home you choose is close to the attractions and activities on your itinerary. Many vacation rental homes in the Poconos are also located in resort communities that offer access to private lakes, pools, basketball and tennis courts, and more. If you’re interested in using these amenities, check the listing or connect directly with your potential host first to ensure that they will be available during your stay (for example, lots of lakes, pools, etc. are only open during the summer months). You’ll also want to check to see if there are any extra fees associated with using the community amenities.
Finally, pay close attention to the home’s photos, description, and reviews. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the host of the home before booking your getaway—good communication can help you clarify details about the home and give you a good sense of the kind of responsiveness you can expect during your stay.
Oak View, our rental home in the Poconos, is a peaceful 3-bedroom 2-bath home that sleeps up to 8 people. It’s located in the south-central Poconos near Camelback Resort, Kalahari, the Pocono Premium Outlets, Mount Airy Casino, and several gorgeous state parks. Oak View is completely remodeled and was designed with a Scandinavian-inspired warm minimalism that makes you feel right at home.
Resorts
Many of the Poconos’ resorts, like Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge, and Split Rock Resort, offer hotel accommodations that are perfect for families and groups that want to be right in the action. Resort accommodations are also a great option if you think you’ll spend most of your time at that venue. For example, if your kids are dying to spend a few days exploring Great Wolf Lodge, you might want to consider staying there to avoid travel time and traffic. Entry to the park is also often included at a discounted rate when you’re staying on-property.
Lodges and Upscale Venues
The Poconos, famous for generations as a honeymoon destination, is home to several gorgeous lodges perfect for hosting your wedding or spending a few romantic days in the area. These locations aren’t the kitschy, shag-carpeted hotels of years past—many of the Poconos’ upscale lodges have a modern-yet-rustic charm perfect for a romantic getaway. Some area favorites are the French Manor Inn and Spa, the Lodge at Woodloch, Skytop Lodge, and Ledges Hotel.