THINGS TO DO IN
  POCONOS

Sports & Outdoor Activities in the Poconos

From hiking and biking to skiing, ziplining, and whitewater rafting, the Pocono Mountains offer year-round outdoor adventures for all ages and activity levels.

Ready to sprinkle a little adventure into your family vacation? Head over to Pocono Whitewater to experience some of the best outdoor getaways the region has to offer!

Choose from a wide variety of whitewater rafting adventures, from family-friendly excursions to moonlight rides. You can also opt for a combo adventure. Pepper in some biking, hiking and even paintballing into your outing!

Big Pocono State Park spans 1,306 acres across rugged terrain on the summit and slopes of Camelback Mountain. The park features over eight miles of trails, though there is a 1.4-paved drive for those looking for a lighter trek.

The summit features some amazing views of Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey!

If you're a fan of winter sports, you'll want to plan a trip to Shawnee Mountain, which features 23 slopes and trails, 2 terrain parks and a snow tubing park.

There are also tons of area lounging and dining options throughout the area!

A great summertime destination, the Promised Land State Park spans about 3,000 acres in size and is surrounded by over 12,000 acres of the Delaware State Forest.

The park features two lakes where you can fish, boat, swim, and more! There are also tons of hiking trails cabins and camping areas to check out.

Need a break from the great outdoors? The Poconos Go Karts and Play Park offers the whole family an opportunity to enjoy a moment behind the wheel.

The park, which serves as the area's largest and best go-karting park, contains both adult and kiddie tracks.

Standing at 130 feet, Dingmans Falls is the second highest waterfall in the state! There are a few different trails that lead you to the falls, and all are doable with kids in tow. Don't forget the camera! This is definitely one pit stop you'll want to document.

Families who ride will want to head over to Poconos Horseback Riding for a guided tour, lesson and other stables-related activities.

The ranch caters to individuals of all levels so don't worry about not being able to keep up! Wagon, carriage and sleigh rides are also available!

Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, just a few hours from New York City and only about an hour from Philly, is one of the best ski, snowboarding and snow-tubing destinations around.

The Jack Frost Big Boulder features over 15 trails and 10 lifts for individuals of all levels to explore!

Did you know that Pennsylvania has more covered bridges than any other state? Visit the Beltzville State Park for a better view of one of these regional staples.

The Harrity Covered Bridge, also known as Bucks Covered Bridge, is located in the middle of the park. Originally built back in 1841, the bridge spans 66 feet over Pohopoco Creek.

The park itself spans across 3,002-acres and features tons of hiking trails, picnic areas and a sandy beach, which also serves as a rest stop for migrating waterfowl and a popular destination for boaters and anglers.

Looking for a place to swim? Head over to Milford Beach during the warm weather months for a place to swim, sunbathe and engage in other forms of summer fun!

It's one of three lifeguarded beaches in the areas, so you don't have to worry about anyone getting in too deep! The area also offers a grassy area and comes complete with picnic areas, a pavilion, restrooms, a boat launch, a canoe launch, and access to the Joseph M. McDade Recreational Trail.

Big Screen Escapes offers immersive, movie-themed escape rooms in Mount Pocono and Tannersville.

Each room features original storylines and private bookings, making it a fun challenge for families and groups looking for indoor entertainment near Great Wolf Lodge.

Known for its unique three-turn layout, Pocono Raceway is a staple of the NASCAR circuit.

Located in Long Pond, it hosts major racing events and offers a distinct experience for motorsports fans visiting the Poconos.

Dropshots Pickleball is a modern indoor facility offering cushioned courts, lessons, and open play for all skill levels.

Family-Friendly Attractions in the Poconos

Looking for things to do in the Poconos with kids? Look no further.

Hitch a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad! Here, you can take in the sites from vintage coaches built as early as 1917. The narrated out-and-back trip follows the majestic Lehigh River over bridges and into the Lehigh Gorge State Park.

The view along this magnificent route changes with the seasons. Special events, including holiday trains, are scheduled throughout the year.

The Shawnee Playhouse was originally built back in 1904. Today, local actors and actresses continue to perform quality live theatre for the residents and vacationers of Shawnee. Children's shows included!

Get up-close-and-personal with all kinds of animals at the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm. The family-owned facility has been in operation for over 30 years.

The "starter zoo" offers kids the opportunity to bottle-feed deer, goats and potbellied pigs. They can also feed the monkeys, pet the rabbits and admire a 23-foot python!

Food & Hospitality in the Poconos

The Pocono Mountains offer a diverse culinary scene and a range of lodging options that cater to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Spend the day at the Farm! Klingel's Farm produces delicious local food and contains some of the best local entertainment around! Get lost in their 11-acre corn maze or poke around their famous pumpkin patch! Mountain slides and wagon rides are also available.

Planning a trip to the Pocono Mountains this spring? Make sure to stop by Heckman Orchards, where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables. Make sure to check out their official site to see what's in season!

Have any chocolate addicts in the family? Well then Callie's Pretzel Factory will be a must-stop shop! Here you'll find all your favorite treats including potato chips, licorice, and cream cheese, covered in chocolate!

In 2015, they even opened up a museum to introduce visitors to the art and history of candy making. You can visit free of charge during normal business hours.

Just minutes from Great Wolf Lodge, The Swiftwater is a boutique luxury hotel offering a refined mountain retreat.

Guests can enjoy stylish rooms, an indoor/outdoor pool, and elevated dining at The Olivet. The hotel also provides concierge-curated experiences, making it a relaxing base for exploring the Poconos.

The Stourbridge Line offers scenic train rides through the Northern Pocono Mountains, departing from Honesdale.

With vintage coaches and themed excursions like wine tastings and seasonal events, it’s a charming way for families to experience the region’s natural beauty and history.

Local Culture in the Poconos

The Pocono Mountains are rich in local culture, blending small-town charm with deep-rooted traditions and creative energy. Read how you can experience it for yourself.

The Pocono Mountains offer tons of natural beauty, but there are also some amazing cultural spots to check out! Head over to downtown Stroudsburg if you're in the mood to check out some local boutiques, museums, galleries, murals, music venues and more!

Take a trip back in time! The Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm can introduce you and your family a dose of 19th century Pennsylvania German agricultural heritage.

Visitors can expect to find an 1850s bank barn, the original farmhouse, a cabin, springhouse, icehouse, smokehouse, dry house and assorted smaller barns. They'll also find dressed interpreters re-enacting daily life on the farm.

You'll also find a bunch of farm animals located on the 114-acre plot, including horses, cows, pigs, goats, ducks, rabbits and chickens.

Poconos Park is a 200-acre entertainment venue nestled in the scenic countryside near Bushkill. It features a large amphitheater, a lakeside event space, and hosts seasonal festivals, concerts, and community events.

Just a short drive from Great Wolf Lodge, it’s a great spot for families looking to enjoy live music and outdoor fun in the Poconos.

Seasonal Festivals & Events in the Poconos

Whether you’re looking for things to do in the Poconos in the summer, spring, fall, or winter, there’s an event for you.

Held at Peaceful Woodlands Family Campground, this intimate music and arts festival features Americana, alt-folk, and bluegrass performances alongside camping, workshops, and family activities. Usually it occurs in July-August.

Running for over 160 years, the Wayne County Fair is a classic agricultural fair featuring over 20 rides, live music, tractor pulls, a demolition derby, and plenty of fair food.

It’s a family-friendly tradition in August that blends rural charm with big-time fun.

Held at Yenser’s Tree Farm, the Sunflower Festival offers vibrant fields for photo ops, a sunflower maze, hayrides, and a farm fun zone for kids.

It’s a colorful, low-key way to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, primarily in August on the weekends.

Set in a natural amphitheater at the Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary, this outdoor concert series features live music under the pines.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, picnics, and enjoy a relaxed evening in nature in July and August on weekends.

This quirky, free street festival celebrates all things pickle with themed food, games, vendors, and a beer garden.

Held in October in downtown East Stroudsburg, it’s a fun and flavorful event for all ages.

Wally Lake Fest is a lakeside celebration packed with boat tours, live music, artisan markets, and water activities.

It’s one of the region’s biggest summer events, perfect for families and lake lovers alike.

Held at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm in August, this juried craft fair features over 60 artisans, live music, food, and heritage demonstrations.

It’s a great way to experience local culture and craftsmanship in a scenic setting.

StroudFest is a free, end-of-summer street festival with live music, food vendors, and local crafts.

Spanning several blocks downtown, it’s a lively way to wrap up the season with family and friends.

Hosted at the No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum, this summer festival honors the region’s mining history with tours, reenactments, music, and family activities.

It’s both educational and entertaining, offering a glimpse into the area’s industrial past.

Historical Sites & Museums in the Poconos

The Pocono Mountains are steeped in history, from coal mining and industrial innovation to Native American heritage and early American life. Whether you're looking for immersive tours, living history, or unique collections, these museums and sites offer something for every curious traveler.

The Asa Packer Mansion is located in the quaint and historic town of Jim Thorpe and was once home to the philanthropist and railroad magnate for which its named.

The mansion consists of 3 stories, 18 rooms and approximately 11,000 square feet of living space and is now open to the public. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn everything there is to know about the legendary Packer family!

Looking for some things to do in the Poconos with kids? Head over to the Pocono Indian Museum where you'll learn the history of the Delaware Indian, starting from 10,500 B.C.!

Learn about their peaceful coexistence with other Indians, their initial contact with European settlers, and the short 100 years it took for the white man to virtually eliminate all trace of the Indian's existence. Guests can also explore displays of ancient artifacts, weapons and tools!

The No 9 Coal Mine was originally opened back in 1855 by the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company. Today, it operates as a museum to introduce visitors to the region's coal mining heritage.

Tourists can ride by rail 1,600 feet into the mountain before embarking on a 600-foot guided walking tour where they can examine the original 900-foot deep mine shaft, walk the “mule-way” where young men guided the mules between the different levels of the mine, and see a miner’s hospital cut into solid rock.

The museum houses the largest collection of mining artifacts in the area, including tools, blasting equipment, household goods, and more that belonged to the miners who worked the No. 9 Mine.

As the folks over at The Schisler Museum and McMunn Planetarium like to say, two adventures, one price! Spend the day exploring the natural world through a series of engaging collections, educational programs and diverse exhibits.

Things to Do in Scranton, PA Today

Scranton is less than an hour’s drive from the Poconos and offers a mix of museums, outdoor spaces, and pop culture landmarks perfect for a quick day trip.

Located next to the Steamtown National Historic Site, this museum showcases vintage trolleys and interactive exhibits.

Families can even take a scenic trolley ride along a historic rail line, making it both educational and fun.

Dedicated to the legendary magician Harry Houdini, this museum features memorabilia, artifacts, and live magic shows.

It’s a unique indoor experience that’s great for kids ages 4 and up.

Situated in Nay Aug Park, Everhart Museum blends natural history, science, and art.

It offers rotating exhibits and hands-on programs that appeal to children and adults alike.

This indoor play center is designed for younger children, with climbing structures, slides, and interactive zones.

It’s a safe and engaging space for active play, especially on rainy days.

Just outside Scranton, PNC Field is home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Catching a minor league baseball game here is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with the family.

Located at 503 Lackawanna Ave, this 86-foot mural features 17 characters from The Office along with iconic quotes.

It’s the only officially recognized mural by NBC and Peacock, making it a must-see for fans.

Things to Do in Allentown, PA Today

Just under an hour and a half away, Allentown features amusement parks, science centers, and family-friendly attractions ideal for a full day of exploring.

One of the region’s biggest attractions, this dual amusement and water park offers roller coasters, thrill rides, and dozens of water slides. It’s ideal for a full day of summer fun.

This hands-on science museum features interactive exhibits on physics, biology, and technology. It’s a great indoor option for curious kids and families looking to learn through play.

An indoor go-kart racing facility with a quarter-mile track and high-speed karts. It’s a fun and active choice for older kids and teens.

This massive playground includes over 300 activities, an electronic play station, and nearby picnic areas. It’s a great spot for younger children to burn off energy.

This transportation museum showcases vintage cars, trucks, and bicycles, with interactive exhibits and rotating displays. It’s both educational and visually engaging for all ages.