7 Of The Most Charming River Towns In The Poconos
From the bustling streets of Stroudsburg to the historic avenues of Milford, the Pocono Mountains are dotted with delightful riverside communities. Each town has its own distinct personality, offering a unique getaway for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend surrounded by nature or a trip filled with boutique shopping and local history, you’ll find it here.
These towns, connected by the region's winding waterways, are hubs of activity and culture. They serve as gateways to the area's natural landscapes, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and river sports right at their doorsteps. Ready to discover your next favorite spot? This article dives into the river towns that make the Poconos a must-visit destination.
Jim Thorpe
Often called "The Switzerland of America," Jim Thorpe is situated along the Lehigh River and is famous for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. The town's steep hillsides and historic buildings create a distinctive atmosphere that transports you to another era. As you walk through the downtown area, you'll find a variety of shops, galleries, and eateries housed in beautifully maintained structures. This setting, combined with the surrounding mountains, gives Jim Thorpe a memorable feel that has attracted people for generations.
There's no shortage of things to do here. Take a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for fantastic views of the river and the surrounding landscape. For a different perspective, the family-owned Jim Thorpe Trolley Company, Inc. offers live-narrated tours of historical sites, along with wine-and-shine excursions. In the evening, you can catch live music at the historic Mauch Chunk Opera House. If you visit in autumn, the Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival is a major draw. For those feeling gutsy, Pocono Whitewater Rafting provides thrilling trips down the Lehigh River.
Stroudsburg
Located at the confluence of the Brodhead and McMichael creeks, Stroudsburg serves as a lively hub in the heart of the Poconos. Its classic American downtown is filled with historic buildings, murals, and a wide array of businesses that make for a pleasant stroll. The Brodhead Creek runs directly through the town, adding to its appeal and providing a natural backdrop to the bustling streets. Stroudsburg has a friendly, accessible feel, making it a great starting point for discovering the wider region.
Stroudsburg has plenty of activities for a weekend getaway. You can spend a relaxing afternoon at Glen Park, which features river access as well as trails for hiking and mountain biking. For those interested in local flavors, the Pocono Day Tripper organizes tours of area breweries, wineries, and distilleries. A visit to the Monroe Farmers Market, a community staple for over 40 years, is a must on Saturdays year-round. In the evening, catch a show at The Sherman Theater, a restored 1920s performing arts venue that hosts local and national acts and features a full bar.
Delaware Water Gap
The town of Delaware Water Gap serves as the primary entry point to the vast Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This small borough is defined by its connection to the river and the massive natural formation it's named after. The town itself has a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, with a main street that retains a historic, village-like quality. It's a place where the focus is clearly on the surrounding environment, with many businesses catering to hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.
Activities here are primarily centered on the outdoors. You can spend days within the recreation area hiking, swimming, and kayaking. For guided excursions, Edge of the Woods Outfitters is a local company that provides whitewater rafting trips, kayaking, canoeing, and even overnight canoe camping trips. For a rewarding physical challenge, hike to the top of Mt. Tammany on the New Jersey side or Mt. Minsi on the Pennsylvania side for incredible views of the gap. If you're looking for a more relaxed activity, go fishing at Lake Lenape, a serene spot perfect for casting a line and unwinding.
Milford
Milford is a town rich with history and architectural significance, situated along the Delaware River. Its streets are lined with impressive 19th and early 20th-century buildings, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town has a refined but comfortable atmosphere, with a walkable downtown filled with antique shops, art galleries, and independent boutiques. It’s a community that clearly values its heritage, and this is evident in the preservation of its buildings and the stories shared by locals.
Milford provides many points of interest. Begin with a visit to the Grey Towers National Historic Site, a French chateau-style mansion built in 1886, featuring vast, landscaped lawns. Nearby, you'll find Raymondskill Falls, a three-tiered cascade that is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. For a meal with a side of history, stop by the Waterwheel Café Bakery & Bar. Through its glass walls, you can see a restored 19th-century water-powered grist mill. You can even take a self-guided tour to watch the waterwheel in action. For lodging or another dining option, the Historic Dimmick Inn hosts local live music and has been a town fixture for generations.
Hawley
Hawley is a town with an industrial past that has transformed into a center for recreation and relaxation, located near the Lackawaxen River. The town's history is closely tied to the once-booming silk and glass industries, and remnants of this past can be seen in its architecture. Today, Hawley has a laid-back, lakeside vibe, thanks to its proximity to the massive Lake Wallenpaupack. The downtown area has a mix of specialty shops, restaurants, and community spaces that reflect its evolution into a modern recreational hub while still honoring its heritage.
A key attraction is the Hawley Silk Mill, once a major industrial site and now a repurposed building featuring shops, a coffeehouse, and event spaces. For a unique way to experience the area, Pennsylvania Rail Bike, LLC is a family-owned business that offers railbike rides on historic railroad tracks through the mountains. Much of the activity revolves around the lake, and a Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tour is a great way to see it. You can also rent boats or paddleboards for your own fun on the water. To wind down, visit Three Hammers Winery for a tasting or have an upscale meal with waterfall views at Glass-Wine. Bar. Kitchen.
Honesdale
Honesdale, known as the "Birthplace of the American Railroad," is a historic town in Wayne County situated on the Lackawaxen River. This rich history is a core part of its identity, with many landmarks and attractions dedicated to its past as a transportation hub for coal. The town has a classic main street that feels both authentic and preserved, with a variety of local shops and diners.
There are many ways to connect with Honesdale's past and present. You can hop aboard The Stourbridge Line Train Excursions for themed rides through the mountains, including seasonal Santa tours and brewery tasting trips. For a nature-focused outing, the Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary has a museum, walking trails, a pond, and an annual summer concert series. Coffee and chocolate lovers should not miss Moka Origins, a local roaster and maker that gives tours and tastings of their products. On Saturdays from November through April, you can browse local goods at the Main Street Farmer's Market.
Dingmans Ferry
Dingmans Ferry is a small, quiet community that provides direct access to the Delaware River and the surrounding forests. This area is less about a bustling town center and more about its role as a gateway to the region's natural attractions. The atmosphere here is serene and rural, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to disconnect and spend time in nature. The community is closely tied to the river and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, with much of life revolving around the changing seasons and the recreational opportunities they bring.
The main draws here are the numerous natural sites. George W. Childs Park is a popular spot, known for its three waterfalls, a short hiking trail, and the ruins of an old woolen mill. Just a short drive away is the impressive Dingmans Falls, one of the most accessible and well-known waterfalls in the Poconos. For educational programs and guided nature trips, the Pocono Environmental Education Center operates within a forested preserve along the river. A truly memorable activity is to cross the Delaware River via the historic Dingmans Ferry Bridge, one of the last privately owned toll bridges of its kind, which has been in continuous operation since 1836.
River Towns Amidst The Pocono Mountains
The Poconos region is full of riverside towns, each with its own character and set of attractions. From the Victorian architecture of Jim Thorpe to the lakeside leisure of Hawley, there is a destination to suit any preference. These communities are more than just pretty places; they are hubs of history, culture, and recreation. They provide access to the mountains, rivers, and forests that define this part of Pennsylvania.
Whether you spend your day hiking to a waterfall, browsing a farmers' market, or taking a historic train ride, you're participating in what makes this area special. So next time you're planning a trip, look to the river towns of the Poconos for a memorable getaway.
