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Attractions & Sightseeing Discovering the Poconos

Attractions & Sightseeing Discovering the Poconos

Pennsylvania, USA

Iconic Landmarks: Must-Visit Sites

Bushkill Falls (Bushkill), known as "The Niagara of Pennsylvania," features eight cascading waterfalls within a forested gorge. Well-maintained trails allow visitors to experience the falls from various viewpoints.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a vast protected area spanning 70,000 acres along 40 miles of the Delaware River. It presents opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and scenic drives.

Lake Wallenpaupack: Scenic Hub

  • Pennsylvania's second-largest man-made lake, 13 miles long with 52 miles of shoreline.
  • A hub for recreational activities: boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • Public access areas, boat launches (some with fees), and marinas are available.
  • Discover scenic views and opportunities for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Visitor Information & Tips for Iconic Sites

Bushkill Falls Information

  • Hours: Typically open April through October; check official website for exact dates and times.
  • Fees: An admission fee applies (usually $14-$19 for adults, less for children).
  • Parking: Ample paid parking is available on-site.
  • Insider Tip: Wear Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. Trails can be wet and rocky.
  • Insider Tip: Best light for photography is often morning or late afternoon.
  • Insider Tip: Allow 2-3 hours to explore the main trails.

Delaware Water Gap NRA Tips

  • No general entry fee. Some specific sites may have parking fees.
  • Explore multiple access points; popular sites include Dingmans Falls and Raymondskill Falls.
  • Dingmans Falls features an accessible boardwalk for waterfall viewing.
  • Scenic drives: Route 209 (PA side) and Old Mine Road (NJ side) offer picturesque views.

Check the National Park Service website for current trail conditions and closures.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Asa Packer Mansion Museum (Jim Thorpe): A preserved Victorian-era home offering insights into 19th-century industrialist life.
  • No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum (Lansford): Authentic experience of anthracite coal mining history, with an underground mine car tour.
  • Dorflinger Glass Museum (White Mills): Showcases a collection of cut glass from the Dorflinger Glass Company (1852-1921).
  • Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm (Stroudsburg): A living history museum depicting rural life on a Pennsylvania German farm from the 1800s.

Historical Sites: Stepping Back in Time

  • Old Jail Museum (Jim Thorpe):

    A former Carbon County Jail, offering a look into 19th-century prison life and the story of the Molly Maguires.

  • Stroud Mansion (Stroudsburg):

    Home to the Monroe County Historical Association, with exhibits on local history and development.

  • Lock Ridge Furnace Museum (Alburtis):

    Preserved ruins of a 19th-century iron-making furnace, showing early industrial operations (near Allentown).

  • Waterloo Village (Stanhope, NJ):

    A restored 19th-century canal town and Lenape Indian Village, offering a glimpse into early American life (near Delaware Water Gap).

  • GetYourGuide:

    Discover and book historical tours and tickets via GetYourGuide.

Natural Attractions: The Poconos' Outdoor Splendor

The Poconos are renowned for their natural beauty, presenting diverse landscapes for exploration.

Exploring Natural Wonders

  • State Parks:

    Promised Land State Park (lakes, hiking, camping), Tobyhanna State Park (lake activities, wildlife), Lehigh Gorge State Park (gorge, waterfalls, D&L Trail), Hickory Run State Park (Boulder Field, Hawk Falls).

  • Scenic Viewpoints:

    High Knob Overlook (Delaware Water Gap NRA) delivers sweeping views of the Delaware River and surroundings.

  • Wildlife Viewing:

    Spot white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkey, and birds in state parks and the Delaware Water Gap NRA. Best at dawn or dusk.

  • Geological Features:

    The landscape reveals glacial activity from the last Ice Age, visible in lakes, unique rock formations (Boulder Field), and dramatic river gorges.

  • Beaches, Lakes, Waterways:

    Lakes in state parks feature designated swimming beaches. The Delaware River supports kayaking, canoeing, and rafting.

  • Reminder:

    Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid feeding wild animals.

Hidden Gems: Hawk Falls

Located in Hickory Run State Park, this beautiful waterfall is accessible via a moderate hike (around 0.7-mile round trip). It offers a serene nature experience, often less crowded than other falls.

Hidden Gems: Tank Hallow Trail

A challenging loop trail in Delaware State Forest with waterfalls and unique rock formations. Offers a secluded hiking experience for experienced hikers.

Hidden Gems: Historic Milford

A charming Pike County town with Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. Quieter than Jim Thorpe yet equally picturesque.

Additional Hidden Gems

Discover more tranquil spots and unique experiences in the Pocono Mountains.

  • Lake Scranton (Scranton): Just outside the Poconos, this serene lake presents a peaceful escape with a paved walking trail (approx. 3.5 miles). Popular for locals.
  • Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary (White Mills): Beyond the glass museum, this sanctuary features 600 acres of protected land with walking trails, gardens, and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Insider Tip: These hidden gems often deliver a more secluded and authentic regional experience.

Plan Your Sightseeing

The Pocono Mountains are rich in attractions, from natural wonders to historical sites, inviting visitors to explore its diverse offerings.

Whether you seek adventure, cultural enrichment, or tranquil beauty, the region presents something for every interest.

Bushkill Falls: Visitor Guidelines

Ensure a smooth visit to "The Niagara of Pennsylvania" with these practical considerations.

Reminders

  • Open seasonally, from April through October, weather conditions permitting.
  • Wear appropriate footwear; trails can be wet, rocky, and include many stairs.

Delaware Water Gap NRA: Exploration Tips

Maximize your experience in this vast recreation area with thoughtful planning.

Maximize Your Visit

  • Consider visiting multiple access points due to the park's size.
  • Route 209 (PA side) and Old Mine Road (NJ side) present scenic drives.
  • Check current trail conditions and closures before heading out.

Museums & History: Engage with the Past

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and fascinating stories of the Pocono Mountains.

Cultural & Historical Insights

  • Asa Packer Mansion offers a glimpse into Victorian opulence.
  • No. 9 Coal Mine presents an authentic look at mining history.
  • Old Jail Museum connects visitors to 19th-century prison life and the Molly Maguires.
  • Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm showcases 1800s rural life.

Natural Attractions: Best Practices

Observe wildlife responsibly and stay informed about geological features.

Responsible Exploration

  • Bring Binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
  • Maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
  • The region's unique landscape is a product of glacial activity.

Hidden Gems: Secluded Discoveries

Tranquil Waterfalls & Trails

  • Hawk Falls in Hickory Run State Park delivers a serene experience.
  • Tank Hallow Loop Trail in Delaware State Forest presents a challenging, secluded hike.
  • Historic Milford offers charming Victorian architecture and unique shops.

Peaceful Escapes

  • Lake Scranton (near Scranton) presents a peaceful walking trail around its perimeter.
  • Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary provides walking trails and birdwatching.
  • These hidden gems offer an unique, less-trafficked experience.

Additional Attractions & Tips

Beyond the main highlights, the Poconos present a diverse array of experiences for every visitor.

Asa Packer Mansion

Explore the opulent Victorian home of a coal magnate in Jim Thorpe, with original furnishings and decor.

Dorflinger Glass Museum

Discover stunning American cut glass artistry in White Mills, demonstrating the region's industrial past.

Quiet Valley Farm

Step back in time at this living history farm in Stroudsburg, depicting rural Pennsylvania German life.

Cultural & Historical Insights

Old Jail Museum

Explore 19th-century prison life and the Molly Maguires' story in Jim Thorpe.

Book Tickets via GetYourGuide

Stroud Mansion

Visit the Monroe County Historical Association in Stroudsburg for local history exhibits.

Discover Local History

No. 9 Coal Mine

Take an authentic underground tour, learning about coal mining history near Jim Thorpe.

Experience Mine Tour

Waterloo Village

A restored 19th-century canal town and Native American village in New Jersey, near the Water Gap.

Explore Historical Village

Booking Tours

Secure your attraction and sightseeing tickets in advance through GetYourGuide.

View All Tours

State Parks for Outdoor Fun

Immerse yourself in nature with diverse recreational offerings.

Park Highlights

  • Promised Land State Park: Features two lakes, extensive hiking, and camping facilities.
  • Tobyhanna State Park: Centered around a large lake, with boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • Lehigh Gorge State Park: Famous for its dramatic gorge, waterfalls, and the D&L Trail.

Unique Natural Features

Discover distinctive geological formations and scenic vistas.

Highlights

  • High Knob Overlook: Sweeping views of the Delaware River and surrounding landscape.
  • Boulder Field: A National Natural Landmark in Hickory Run State Park.
  • Wildlife Viewing: State parks and forests are prime spots for seeing deer, bears, and birds.
  • Bring Binoculars for wildlife observation.

Final Thought: Diverse Exploration

Each offers an unique facet of the region, supporting a journey of discovery for every visitor.

Hidden Gems: Secluded Discoveries

Beyond the well-known attractions, the Poconos hold charming lesser-known spots for those seeking an unique experience.

Hawk Falls & Tank Hallow Loop Trail

Discover tranquil waterfalls and challenging trails away from the crowds.

Nature's Seclusion

  • Hawk Falls (Hickory Run State Park): A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short, moderate hike.
  • Tank Hallow Loop Trail (Delaware State Forest): A demanding trail with waterfalls and rock formations.
  • These trails offer more secluded hiking experiences.

Historic Milford & Lake Scranton

Explore charming towns and peaceful natural retreats.

Quiet Charms

  • Historic Milford: A charming Pike County town with Victorian architecture and unique shops.
  • Lake Scranton: Offers a peaceful escape with a paved walking trail (approx. 3.5 miles).
  • Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary: Protected land with walking trails and birdwatching.

Experience Local History

Journey through the past with museums and preserved sites.

Historical Insights

  • Asa Packer Mansion Museum: Discover Victorian life.
  • Dorflinger Glass Museum: View exquisite American cut glass.
  • No. 9 Coal Mine: Experience authentic mining history.

These sites present a rich understanding of the region's development.

Outdoor Adventures

Vast state parks invite exploration and nature connection.

Nature's Playground

  • Promised Land State Park: Ideal for hiking and boating.
  • Hickory Run State Park: Features the unique Boulder Field and Hawk Falls.

Each park offers unique landscapes and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Scenic & Historical Drives

Discover picturesque routes and their historical significance.

Driving Through Time

  • Delaware Water Gap NRA: Scenic drives along Route 209 and Old Mine Road.
  • Lake Wallenpaupack: Offers captivating views and recreation.
  • These routes reveal geological marvels and historical context.

Combine driving with short walks for a full experience.

Planning Your Itinerary

Consider Interests

Tailor your sightseeing to whether you seek history, nature, or unique local spots.

Time of Year

Some attractions are seasonal; check operating hours for your travel dates.

Pacing

Allow ample time at each site to avoid rushing and fully appreciate the experience.

Final Recommendation

The Poconos invite discovery, whether through well-known landmarks or secluded gems.