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23 Things To Do in the Poconos In 2024

Great Wolf Lodge resort in Arizona
 

Did you know the Pocono Mountains used to be a popular honeymoon destination? The original heart-shaped tub even made its debut right here in the Poconos.

Flash-forward to today, and it has become known as one of the top family destinations across the United States! Recognized for its natural beauty and wide range of outdoor activities, it is no wonder tourists have begun flocking to this corner of the states.

If you're thinking of packing up the family or a trip to the Pocono Mountains, you'll want to check out this guide. Listed below are some of the best things to do in the Poconos!

Quick View: The 23 Best Things to do in Poconos:

1. Pocono Whitewater Rafting

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 paint-balling into your outing!

Family whitewater rafting

Source: Pocono Whitewater Rafting Facebook

2. Big Pocono State Park

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!

Family having a picnic at Pocono State Park

Source: Big Pocono State Park Flickr

3. Asa Packer Mansion

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!

Exterior view of the Asa Packer Mansion

Source: YouTube

4. Shawnee Mountain

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!

Snowboarders walking in the snow at Shawnee Mountain

Source: Ski Shawnee Twitter

5. Downtown Stroudsburg

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!

Tree lights lining the streets of downtown Stroudsburg Tree lights lining the streets of downtown Stroudsburg

Source: via Twitter

6. Promised Land State Park

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.

Sky reflecting on the water at Promised Land State Park

Source: Flickr.com

7. Pocono Go Karts and Play Park

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.

The race track at Pocono Go-Karts

Source: Pocono Go Karts

8. Pocono Indian Museum

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!

Gift shop at the Pocono Indian Museum

Source: via Facebook

9. Quiet Valley Historical Farm

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 a 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.

Historical Reenactment at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm

Source: Quiet Valley

10. Pocono TreeVentures

Every wonder what the Pocono Mountains look like from above? Find out at Pocono TreeVentures, where you'll find a series of aerial ropes adventure courses and zip lines. Each platform stands 40 feet above the ground. Kids courses are also available for those 4-7 years old.

Kids playing on a ropes course

Source: Exploria Resorts

11. Dingmans Falls

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.

Water Fall at Dingmans Falls in the Poconos

Source: Pinterest

12. No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum

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.

Tourist can ride by rail 1,600 foot into the mountain before embarking on a 600-foot guide 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.

Vintage photograph of coal miners hanging at the No. 9 Coal Mine Museum

Source: No 9. Coal Mine Museum

13. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad

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.

Scenic Railroad passing through the Pocono Moutnains

Source: Pocono Mountains

14. Poconos Horseback Riding

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!

Horseback riders in the Pocono Moutnains

Source: Instagram

15. Shawnee Playhouse

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!

Actors performing on stage at Shawnee Playhouse

Source: Shawnee Theatre Twitter

16. The Schisler Museum and McMunn Planetarium

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.

Spider in a web at the Schisler Museum and McMunn Planetarium

Source: Schisler McMunn Twitter

17. Klingel's Farms

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.

Corn stock at Klingel's Farm in Poconos

Source: Facebook.com

18. Pocono Snake and Animal Farm

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 kid 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!

Parrot at thee Pocono Snake and Animal Farm

Source: Snakefarm Facebook

19. Jack Frost Big Boulder

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!

Snowboarder enjoying a trail at Jack Frost Big Boulder

Source: from Facebook

20. Heckman Orchards

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!

Apple Picking at Heckman Orchard's

Source: Heckman Orchards Facebook

21. Callie's Candy Kitchen

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.

Chocolate fish at Callie's Candy Kitchen

Source: Callie's Candy Kitchen Facebook

22. Beltzville State Park

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.

Man walking through forest at Beltzville State Park

Source: via Flickr

23. Milford Beach

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.

Visitors enjoying Milford Beach in the Poconos

Source: via Pocono Mountains

How did you enjoy our list of things to do in the Poconos? Check out the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau for some more ideas. If you haven't yet figured out where to stay, think about spending a few nights with us!

Our Poconos lodge features over 401 suites for guests to enjoy. Our indoor water parks spans over 79,000 square feet, contains 3 pools as well as a host of dry-land activities. Check out our official site for more information our best deals. We hope to see you soon!

FAQ's

What is the Poconos known for?

There are so many things to do in the Poconos. The Pocono Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful outdoor scenery and nature in the United States, with hundreds of hiking paths, trails, and more criss-crossing the region. It has also become known in recent years as a popular family vacation destination, featuring numerous tourist attractions, resorts, outdoor activities, and more. Combine those two elements—amazing outdoors fun and family-friendly cultural attractions and landmarks, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in the Pocono Mountains.

How far is the Poconos from Niagara Falls?

If you’re in Niagara and excited to tackle your list of “Poconos things to do,” the fastest drive from Niagara Falls to the Pocono Mountains takes roughly five hours and 15 minutes.

What is the cleanest lake in the Poconos?

At 227 acres wide, Lake Harmony is considered the cleanest lake in the Pocono Mountains, thanks to the continually replenishing stream of fresh water from the nearby mountains.

Why are people moving to the Poconos?

The Pocono Mountains have been a popular residence for people looking to escape the fast pace of city living. It’s not hard to see why: There are so many things to do in the Poconos in summer, winter, and each season in-between. With great quality of life and the surrounding beauty of the natural landscape, it’s a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

What are the most popular things to do in the Pocono Mountains?

Poconos activities that will entertain every member of your family are easy to find. A number of the most fun things to do in the Poconos can be found on our list above of “24 Things To Do in the Poconos in 2024.” From a visit to Great Wolf Lodge, to the natural beauty of the forests and mountains, to the numerous parks, family restaurants, Poconos resorts, and other travel destinations throughout the region, the Pocono Mountains contain many popular attractions for tourists and families.