11 Most Relaxing Poconos Towns
The Poconos region of Pennsylvania is a beloved destination for vacationers and adventure seekers alike. Something about being on a main street surrounded by lush greenery and crisp mountain air resets your body and mind, preparing for relaxation ahead. Whether you choose to walk the Victorian streets of Jim Thorpe, listen to the waterfalls in Milford, or watch the eagles over the Delaware River in Lackawaxen, each community below provides a unique way to unwind. These eleven towns in the Poconos stand out for their beautiful natural scenery and lively centers, all set against the rushing sounds of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers.
Bushkill
The town of Bushkill serves as the primary entry point for one of the most famous natural attractions in the Pocono Mountains. Known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," Bushkill Falls consists of eight waterfalls within the forest. Visitors spend hours walking the wooden boardwalks and bridges that crisscross Bushkill Creek, which provides a misty environment even in the heat of summer. The town is situated within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, offering opportunities for time by the water. Nearby, the Pocono Indian Museum provides an educational retreat where guests learn about the Lenni Lenape people who first inhabited this region of Pennsylvania.
Delaware Water Gap
Named after the nearby geological wonder, the town of Delaware Water Gap is a famous stop for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Despite the popularity of the town with backpackers, it remains a retreat where visitors enjoy the sound of the Delaware River. The Point of Gap Overlook provides one of the most famous views in Pennsylvania, where the river cuts a deep gorge through the Pocono Mountains. Music lovers find relaxation at the Deer Head Inn, which is a historic venue for jazz. For a tranquil experience, the McDade Recreational Trail offers miles of gravel paths that parallel the river, where visitors can spot bald eagles and other local wildlife.
Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe, originally known as Mauch Chunk, is a quaint town in Carbon County of the Poconos Mountains, with a population of 4,500 people. Architecture enthusiasts walk through the Old Mauch Chunk Historic District that features Italianate and Federalist architecture. Visitors can also check out the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, which offers a narrated train ride along the Lehigh River, allowing them to see the Pocono Mountains without having to hike. Visit the Asa Packer Mansion and the Old Jail Museum to learn about the coal mining and railroad heritage of the area. Tourists interested in art can also visit local galleries and antique shops on Broadway that offer indoor activities throughout the year.
Milford
Located at the northern edge of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Milford is a town that serves as a sanctuary for nature lovers. The Grey Towers National Historic Site is a famous landmark in Milford and was the home of Gifford Pinchot, who was the founder and first chief of the US Forest Service. The tower now serves as a tourist spot for exhibits and scenic trails. For those who seek the soothing sound of rushing water, Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state, is just a short drive from the town center. The Columns Museum provides an indoor retreat where guests view the famous Lincoln Flag. The town sits along the Delaware River and offers several spots for a peaceful afternoon of birdwatching in the heart of the Pocono Mountains.
Honesdale
Honesdale, also known as the "Birthplace of the American Railroad," is a small town with a blend of industrial history and serene charm. Visitors who look to unwind can board the Stourbridge Line, a seasonal excursion train that follows the Lackawaxen River through the scenic wilderness of the Pocono Mountains. The Main Street of the town is ideal for an afternoon of browsing independent shops and local galleries. For a bit of exploration, the Wayne County Historical Society Museum showcases a full-scale replica of the Stourbridge Lion, which was the first steam locomotive to run on commercial tracks in the US. Nature enthusiasts often hike to the top of Irving Cliff, which provides a sweeping view of the town and the surrounding river valley.
Hawley
Situated near the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, the town of Hawley is a prime destination for lakeside relaxation. The community is home to the Hawley Silk Mill, which is a massive bluestone structure that local developers repurposed into a space for shops and galleries. Visitors often spend their mornings at Bingham Park, where well-maintained walking paths offer a simple way to enjoy the fresh air of Pennsylvania. For those who enjoy art, the Ritz Company Playhouse hosts local theater productions in an intimate setting. The location of the town in the Pocono Mountains ensures that peaceful water views are never far away, whether you are dining by the Lackawaxen River or exploring the nearby trails.
Lackawaxen
Located at the confluence of the Lackawaxen River and the Delaware River, the town of Lackawaxen is a destination for history and nature enthusiasts. The community is best known as the home of the Zane Grey Museum, which was the former residence of the famous novelist. Visitors also walk across the Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct, which is the oldest wire cable suspension bridge in the US. This bridge offers a silent view of the river valley and is a popular spot for watching bald eagles during the winter months. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Pocono Mountains, this town provides an escape far from the noise of major highways.
Weatherly
A truly peaceful escape, Weatherly is a small borough in Carbon County that maintains an exceptionally relaxing atmosphere. Once a hub for the Lehigh Valley Railroad, the town now serves as a gateway to the Lehigh Gorge State Park. The lack of large commercial corridors ensures that the town remains quiet even during peak travel seasons in the Pocono Mountains. Enjoy a relaxing day at Eurana Park, where you can find a disc golf course, a fish pond, and an old-fashioned concessions stand. A short drive away, the Eckley Miners' Village is an authentic 19th-century company mining town that lets visitors experience and see the lives of a working-class American family.
Canadensis
Located deep in the woods of Monroe County, Canadensis has a population of 2,600 people and an atmosphere that truly defines a small town. The town is filled with several small shops, cafes, churches, bed and breakfasts like the Frogtown Inn, and more, creating a cozy atmosphere for anyone visiting. The community is largely centered around the Brodhead Creek, which is a pristine trout stream that attracts fly fishers who look for a morning on the water. The town has no major nightlife, and due to this, the night sky in this part of the Pocono Mountains remains dark and perfect for stargazing. This village is also home to the Spruce Lake Retreat, which is a 900-acre faith-based sanctuary for those who seek contemplation and rest.
Lake Ariel
If you are looking for a classic lake-life experience without the party crowds, Lake Ariel is a small community in Lake Township. Once a major destination for the Pennsylvania Coal Company gravity railroad, the town has transitioned into a residential spot. Relaxation here usually involves spending time at the Lacawac Sanctuary, which is a 550-acre nature preserve. The sanctuary features the Watres Lodge and several miles of hiking trails that lead to Lake Lacawac, which is one of the most pristine glacial lakes in the Pocono Mountains. The absence of large crowds on the water makes this Pennsylvania town a premier choice for those who seek natural beauty and peace.
White Haven
Named for the white pines that once covered the area, White Haven serves as a peaceful and serene location nestled along the Wicomico River. The town is a favorite starting point for cyclists who use the Lehigh Gorge Trail. This 26-mile trail follows an abandoned railroad grade, providing a flat route through the heart of the Pocono Mountains. Hickory Run State Park provides visitors with ample waterfall views and excellent hiking trails. In town, enjoy the Soapy Bee Country Store offers quaint gifts and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch. Because the population is less than 1,200 people, this Pennsylvania town remains a calm environment for outdoor exploration.
The Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania offer much more than high-energy attractions and crowded resorts. By visiting these quaint towns, travelers discover the expansive history and natural serenity that define the region. These towns host communities that practice simple living and do not have high, industrial-scale tourism, offering travelers an opportunity to find stillness that truly defines a traditional mountain escape. They prove that relaxation exists in the simplest experiences, such as a slow train ride through the forest or a sunset view over Lake Wallenpaupack. When you are ready to escape the city noise, these towns stand ready to welcome you with mountain air and a slower pace of life.
