The 6 Best Things to Do in the Poconos for the Most Magical Mountain Escape!
Roaring waterfalls to lazy rivers, picnics under pines and small-town bites—make Pennsylvania's natural playground your next trip
Welcome to Pennsylvania’s charming Pocono Mountains—a long-time love of honeymooners and adventurers alike for its easy access from nearby big cities. Tucked away from it all, it’s where sweeping evergreen peaks, waterfalls and family thrills meet small-town charm. Here, 6 things to do on your next PA road trip…
Admire the beautiful Bushkill Falls
Start your road trip at the Delaware Water Gap for river beaches and inviting trailheads, then put on your comfiest walking shoes for Bushkill Falls, “the Niagara of Pennsylvania,” with eight cascades linked by wooden bridges (worth every step).
Have a blast at the Great Wolf Lodge
Traveling with kids, grandkids or just a kid at heart? Book a room at Great Wolf Lodge in Scotrun, Pennsylvania, where you can float down the lazy river that winds through this 84-degree-heated indoor water park with surprisingly delicious food options that make this a one-stop shop for a much-needed escape.
Take in the sights from the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Next, it’s all aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe for cliff-hugging views above the Lehigh River, especially gorgeous as the changing leaves give way to snowy cliffs. On sunnier days, head to Hawley for a boat tour on the stunningly man-made Lake Wallenpaupack. You can opt for a narrated cruise or even rent a pontoon for the afternoon.
Grab a bite at fan-favorite dining spots
Refuel with local eats: shrimp tacos at Zack’s Taco Shack in Tannersville, retro breakfast at Hickory Valley Farm Restaurant, slurpable pho and bánh mì at Bà & Me and pastries from Be Kind Bake House in Honesdale.
Spend the evening at Mount Airy Casino Resort
Feeling lucky? Hit up the iconic Mount Airy Casino Resort for a nightcap—buzzing slots, classic tables, craft cocktails and laid-back dining await.
Gaze at the beautiful night sky
Finish your adventure under starry skies; this mountain getaway turns quick trips into the stuff of family legend.
Bonus: Experience the Poconos at home
You don’t need to travel to Pennsylvania to get some PA love. Here are two things you can do to experience the Poconos from home…
Sip a peppermint white chocolate shake inspired by Great Wolf Lodge
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate)
- 1⁄2 cup + 2 Tbs. (for melting chocolate) whole milk
- 3 cups vanilla ice cream (about 6 scoops)
- 1⁄4 tsp peppermint extract
Melt chocolate with 2 Tbs. milk. Blend all ingredients and a pinch of salt until creamy. Pour into chilled glasses. Garnish as desired.
Take a virtual train ride through the Poconos landscape
Ready to roll from home? This PBS-featured tour glides from Jim Thorpe into Lehigh Gorge State Park. Watch the video posted by Andy’s Awesome Adventures on YouTube.com.
This story first appeared in the November 24, 2025, print issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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