8 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in The Poconos

If your idea of the perfect vacation involves sky-scraping mountains, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil lakes, the Pocono Mountains are your dream destination. Tucked into the northeast corner of Pennsylvania, this region pairs jaw-dropping scenery with inviting small towns and historic landmarks. There’s deep history here too; evidence of human habitation stretches back thousands of years, and tourism has been part of the Poconos’ story since the early 1800s. Ready to explore? Below are eight breathtaking Pocono towns to visit, from waterfall-rich Bushkill to the storybook streets of Jim Thorpe, each with its own version of small-town charm and easy access to the region’s most memorable outdoor sights.

Delaware Water Gap

In 1829, the Poconos’ first hotel opened in the charming town of Delaware Water Gap. This lovely little town quickly became a favorite summer destination, especially after the railway arrived in 1856. During the warm months, you’ll often see visitors paddling, kayaking, or swimming in the Delaware River, which gracefully winds through the scenic mountain gap that gives the town its name.

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, offering 70,000 acres of pristine wilderness just waiting to be explored. The town itself also has plenty of beautiful spots to discover. Be sure to visit the Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery, and take a tour of the Castle Inn—both showcase stunning turn-of-the-century architecture that adds to the town’s charm.

Skytop

For the best views in the Poconos, you have to go high. Skytop offers magnificent panoramas of the region’s dazzling scenery. Be sure to take your camera to the rooftop observation deck at the Skytop Lodge which offers breathtaking views in every direction. A few minutes from town, you will find the Promised Land State Park spanning 3,000 acres on the Pocono Plateau. It’s easy to spend a full day here with 50 miles of hiking trails, two lakes, and a free museum to explore.

If you are visiting in summer, you might be lucky enough to catch the Pocono Mountains Music Festival, which takes place in Skytop every year and features musicians from almost every genre as well as musical theater performers.

Jim Thorpe

One of the oldest towns in the Poconos, Jim Thorpe is famous for its rich history, stunning streets, and unusual name. Originally known as Mauch Chunk, which means "bear place," the town was renamed in 1954 to honor the first Native American athlete to win an Olympic Gold medal for the US. Founded in 1818, Jim Thorpe is a quaint town with leafy old-world streets and distinctive red brick architecture. Nearby Lehigh Gorge State Park gives visitors a chance to experience the thrill and beauty of the great outdoors with whitewater rafting, winding hiking trails, and serene fishing spots.

Bushkill

Bushkill’s most popular tourist stop isn’t man-made. Known as the Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania, the town’s famous Bushkill Falls first opened to the public in 1904 and are a big draw for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to go home with stunning vacation photos. The park is a collection of eight waterfalls spread over 300 acres and includes two miles of hiking trails. The Main Falls cascades over a 100-foot cliff into a deep, rocky gorge.

Another must-see is the Bridalveil Falls which gets its name from the misty shroud that hangs over the tumbling water. Many walkways and bridges provide stunning views of the waterfalls from every angle; you may even get close enough to feel the spray.

Hawley

A charming main street lined with colorful shops, sandy lakeshore beaches, and lush parks makes Hawley a truly beautiful place worth exploring. Some of the top highlights include the Stourbridge Line, a historic train route that offers delightful excursions and themed events. Hop aboard a vintage carriage and take in breathtaking views of the Lackawaxen River Valley and the northern Poconos. Hawley is also proud to be home to the stunning Wallenpaupack Lake, affectionately called "the big lake." Whether you're watching a pink-tinged sunset from the shore or enjoying a peaceful hour of fishing on its calm waters, Wallenpaupack truly lives up to its reputation as the sparkling jewel of the Poconos.

Lehighton

Located along the scenic Lehigh River, the charming town of Lehighton offers a warm welcome in a picturesque mountain setting right on the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. It's a wonderful place to start an adventure along this historic route that spans over 165 miles and features the National Canal Museum. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or just taking a relaxing walk, the D&L Trail has so much to offer with its fascinating ruins, hanging bridges, and views of majestic mountains.

Feeling a bit laid-back? You can enjoy a lovely picnic or even set up camp at Beltzville State Park, a tranquil 3,002-acre spot perfect for rest and recreation on the shores of Beltzville Lake.

Milford

Milford is a wonderful place to explore in the Poconos, thanks to its stunning architecture and amazing natural sights. In downtown, you'll discover the Historic Forest Hall, a beautiful building from the 1880s Gothic Revival style. Another favorite is the Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, a charming estate that was once home to Pennsylvania's former Governor Gifford Pinchot. Visitors are welcome to wander the lush lawns and enjoy the turreted mansion. Just outside of town, don’t miss Raymondskill Falls, a breathtaking waterfall cascading over three tiers of rock, viewable up close from two specially built platforms.

When visiting in the fall, take a walk along the Milford Knob Trail, which winds through a dense forest and opens up to incredible panoramic views of the town, painted in vibrant ambers, yellows, and reds during the fall season.

Honesdale

In 1829, Honesdale welcomed the arrival of the first steam locomotive to run on commercial tracks in the US, marking a memorable beginning to the town’s lively tourist scene. Today, it continues to enchant visitors with scenic rail journeys along the Stourbridge Line. Guests also love exploring Prompton State Park, which boasts 26 miles of charming hiking trails and perfect picnic spots for a relaxing day out. For those seeking a stunning view, the hike up Irving Cliff, a gentle one-mile trail, offers breathtaking vistas of the town and surrounding forests — especially beautiful on a clear day. In fall, Honesdale transforms into a vibrant, picturesque village, and during winter, it becomes a cozy haven for outdoor adventures like skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding. This charming town even inspired the beloved holiday classic Winter Wonderland, written by local songwriter Dick Smith in 1934.

Picturesque Poconos

The Poconos mountain range is a breathtaking area of natural beauty that calls out to nature lovers, and its charming small towns are equally captivating. You can explore historic buildings and stroll through inviting downtowns, all set against a stunning natural landscape that's perfect for outdoor fun. Visiting the Poconos means you'll likely return with a collection of beautiful photos that capture the unforgettable moments of your trip for years to come. With four counties, 150 lakes, 170 miles of rivers, and 261 miles of trails for hiking and biking, there's always an exciting adventure waiting in the Poconos.