Itinerary Suggestions: Pocono Mountains

-Hour Layover Highlights

This is a very condensed itinerary, best if already in the region. Pick one main activity (waterfalls or scenic views) if you prefer a slower pace.

A quick visit for those passing through.

Suggested Itinerary

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive in Stroudsburg area. Head to Bushkill Falls. Spend 2-3 hours exploring.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Grab a quick lunch at a casual eatery in Bushkill or East Stroudsburg.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Drive to Big Pocono State Park for panoramic views. Outlet shopping at Crossings Premium Outlets is an option.

Weekend & Weeklong Plans

From a brief weekend trip to a comprehensive week, the Poconos present many choices.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

This itinerary balances nature, history, and relaxation. Adjust your journey based on preferred activities.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 (Arrival & Relaxation): Check into resort/B&B. Enjoy indoor waterpark or a walk around Promised Land Lake.
Day 2 (Adventure & Scenery): Bushkill Falls hiking. Lunch near Bushkill or in Jim Thorpe. Explore Jim Thorpe in the afternoon.
Day 3 (Departure & Last Stop): Scenic drive around Lake Wallenpaupack. Boat tour (seasonal) or Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center visit. Lunch in Hawley.
This balances nature, history, and relaxation.

Perfect for a short break to recharge.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience 7 Days

This itinerary covers the main regions and highlights. Flexibility a preference for time at favored activities.

Week-Long Exploration

Days 1-2 (Eastern Poconos & Water Gap): Base in Stroudsburg. Explore Delaware Water Gap NRA, kayaking on Delaware River, Bushkill Falls.
Days 3-4 (Central Poconos & Resorts): Base in Mt. Pocono. Indoor waterpark, adventure park, or winter sports.
Days 5-6 (Western Poconos & Jim Thorpe): Base in Jim Thorpe. Explore historic town, biking/hiking Lehigh Gorge, whitewater rafting (seasonal).

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

This extensive trip presents a truly immersive and varied experience, combining nature and city life.

Extended Adventures

Week 1 (Poconos Deep Dive): Follow the One-Week itinerary, allocate more time per area.
Week 2 (Regional Exploration): Use Pocono base for multi-day excursions to Philadelphia or New York City.
Further options: Pennsylvania Dutch Country (Lancaster) & Gettysburg (Civil War history).
Combine with Finger Lakes region in New York for wine tasting and more waterfalls.

Day 7 Departure/Leisure

Your final day in the Poconos offers a chance for last-minute enjoyment or a relaxed departure.

Final Day Options

Enjoy a final Pocono breakfast.
Revisit a favorite spot.
Visit a local winery (Mountain View Vineyard) or brewery (Barley Creek).
Simply relax before your departure.

General Planning Notes

These suggestions help tailor your trip to your preferred duration and activities. Consider combining different themes for a varied experience.

Flexible Adjustments

Adjust any itinerary to fit your group's pace and interests.

Booking Ahead

Especially for resorts and popular attractions, booking in advance is a good idea.

Consider Seasons

Some activities are seasonal. Check operating dates before final plans.

Itinerary Design

Crafting your Pocono Mountains itinerary is a personalized process. These suggestions serve as a springboard to design a trip that matches your travel style and creates lasting memories.

Interest-Based Routes: Tailoring Your Experience

Design your itinerary around your passions.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Ideal for those who enjoy stepping back in time and exploring significant sites. Base your stay in Jim Thorpe.

Attractions

Asa Packer Mansion Museum.
Old Jail Museum.
No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.

Explore historic architecture and local heritage farms.

Food and Culinary Experiences

For those who travel with their taste buds. Stroudsburg or Hawley make good bases.

Culinary Delights

Dine at various local diners and independent restaurants.
Explore the craft beer scene (Barley Creek Brewing Company, ShawneeCraft Brewery).
Visit local wineries (Mountain View Vineyard, Blue Ridge Winery).
Seek out local maple sugar houses in spring.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Thrill-seekers and nature lovers discover many options. Base in Mt. Pocono/Tannersville or a state park campground.

Water Adventures

Whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River.
Lake Wallenpaupack for boating and swimming.
Kayaking and canoeing.

Land Adventures

Hiking challenging trails in Delaware Water Gap NRA or Ricketts Glen State Park.
Skiing/snowboarding at Camelback or Blue Mountain (winter).
Mountain biking on rail trails or resort slopes.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

A perfect trip for families with children. Kalahari Resorts or Great Wolf Lodge make excellent bases for indoor waterpark access.

Family Fun

Spend ample time at the indoor waterpark.
Visit Bushkill Falls.
Enjoy family-friendly activities at Camelback Mountain Adventure Park.
Explore Claws 'n' Paws Wild Animal Park.

Art and Architecture Emphasis

For those with an appreciation for aesthetics and historical design. Jim Thorpe or Milford make good bases.

Artistic and Historic Sights

Jim Thorpe's Victorian architecture, unique galleries, and boutique shops.
Milford's historic main street and proximity to Grey Towers National Historic Site.
Dorflinger Glass Museum in White Mills.
Seek out local artists' studios.

Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Retreats and Serenity

Base at The Lodge at Woodloch (luxury spa retreat) or a secluded B&B.

Activities for Calm

Indulge in spa treatments, yoga, and meditation. Spend time in serene natural settings like Promised Land State Park.

Tailored Adventures

These interest-based routes allow travelers to customize their Pocono experience to their specific passions, leading to a memorable trip.

Itinerary Suggestions