8 Oldest Founded Towns To Visit In the Poconos
The Poconos, or the Pocono Mountains, sit in northeastern Pennsylvania and are well known as a year-round destination. The natural and diverse landscape, featuring thickly forested areas, lush rolling hills, and flowing rivers and waterfalls, is only one attraction, alongside the endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and beautiful mountain towns. Alongside their beauty, the Poconos Mountains have a rich and layered history dating back to the 17th century. Though several towns were already founded, tourism in the Poconos became popular after WWII, as it was a lovely location for honeymooners and skiers alike. The area's small towns offer a charming summer escape, but the oldest-founded towns share delights and stories of their own.
Bristol (1681)
Opposite Burlington, New Jersey, on the Delaware River, the town of Bristol was founded in 1681, playing a significant role in the Revolutionary War and Civil War, and once even a major textile-milling center. The town's history lives on today through its antique shops, historic mansions, and important landmarks.
The Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum is a must-see, housing authentic Victorian-era decor and furniture. Silver Lake Nature Center is a great spot to venture into the beauty of the outdoors, enjoying a butterfly garden, lakes, and meadows. The town hosts Historic Bristol Day every October, where visitors and locals alike enjoy locally made arts and crafts, street food, scrumptious desserts, and unique live entertainment. Those searching for an extra historic adventure should stay in the King George II Inn, branded America's oldest operating inn.
Stroudsburg (1730s)
Founded in the 1730s, Stroudsburg is affectionately called the "heart of the Poconos" due to its blend of modern appeal and historic charm. This lively town is perfect for visitors seeking the excitement and business of a bustling small town, combined with easy access to peaceful mountains and outdoor adventures. Guests can enjoy strolling through the charming downtown, hiking the Levee Loop Trail, and exploring interactive museums and galleries like Stroud Mansion, Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, and Pocono Arts Council. Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from Stroudsmoor Country Inn and Cherry Valley Manor B&B to Cranberry Run Campground.
Hanover (1763)
Founded in 1763, Hanover is a charming historic town with a downtown featuring a range of Colonial Revival and Queen Anne-style buildings. The Hanover Area Historical Society's History Museum is a must-visit for exploring the town's past, while the Warehime Myers Mansion, constructed between 1911 and 1913, showcases classic furniture and antiques. The town is rich in natural attractions, with activities like hiking in Codorus State Park and boating, swimming, and water sports on Lake Marburg. It is also renowned for its vibrant beer scene, including Aldus Brewing Company, Center Square Brewing, and Fat Bat Brewing Company. Visitors can extend their visit with stays at the Codorus State Park campground or local bed and breakfasts.
Milford (1796)
Known for its historic main street decorated with Victorian-era homes, Milford is a resort town from the Gilded Age, founded in 1796. The Columns Museum is an especially unique stop, housing an abundance of stories and artifacts, including the "Lincoln Flag," a 36-star flag from the presidential box the night of Abraham Lincoln's assassination. Alongside its history, the town boasts a collection of rivers, trails, and waterfalls carved within nature over centuries. Explore the natural beauty with a visit to destinations such as Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Milford Knob Trail, and Raymondskill Falls. For a taste of history and natural grandeur all at once, visit the Grey Towers, a breathtaking National Historic Site, where visitors are welcomed to tour the garden and mansion built in 1886. Travelers can take their pick from many accommodations, including Babbling Brook Cottages, Best Western Inn at Hunt's Landing, and Kittatinny's River Beach Campground.
Jim Thorpe (1818)
One of the most charming towns in Pennsylvania, Jim Thorpe, founded in 1818, sits at the base of the Pocono Mountains. Once known as Mauch Chunk, the town has since earned its name from Jim Thorpe, an American athlete and Olympic gold medalist. Named after a great sports star, it only makes sense the town is a haven for athletes and adventurers alike - hiking, biking, white water rafting, skiing, and horseback riding are all popular in the area. Aside from its storied sports history, the downtown area boasts a plethora of Victorian mansions revitalized to house shops, restaurants, and even bed and breakfasts. Other historic spots worth visiting include the Old Jail Museum, Mauch Chunk Museum, No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum, and Eckley Miners' Village. Charming places to stay include The Bella Victoria Bed and Breakfast, The Gilded Cupid B&B, and The Harry Packer Mansion Inn.
White Haven (1824)
Founded in 1824, the town of White Haven lies along the Lehigh River within Lehigh River State Park, at the base of the Pocono Mountains. The park provides an ideal natural escape, offering activities such as hiking, biking, boating, and white water rafting. Within Hickory Run State Park, the Lehigh Tannery Historic Site is a noteworthy spot where visitors can delve into history by exploring the ruins of the tannery and enjoying the scenic outdoors. Hickory Run also features miles of streams and trails; hike the Hawk Falls Trail to see the 25-foot waterfall, and visit Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark with large boulders that have remained for 20,000 years. For an affordable summer getaway, visitors can camp in either park’s campgrounds or stay at a cozy hotel or inn in town.
Honesdale (1826)
Founded in 1826, Honesdale is one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania for a weekend escape. The area is often known as the "birthplace of the American Railroad," having housed the first steam locomotive to travel along commercial tracks in the United States way back in 1829. The same locomotive, called the Stourbridge Lion, lives on in the Wayne County Historical Society's Museum. Several historic buildings are a stone's throw away from the picturesque Central Park, including the 1859 Old Stone Jail, Wayne County's historic Courthouse, and the childhood home of Dick Smith. Unique shops and dining spots line the town's downtown streets, including Camp Umpy's Bagels & Stuff, Here & Now Brewing Company, and Maude & Main. Travelers can extend their stay in one of the many charming retreats, including the Himalayan Institute, Inn at Tyler Hill, and Keen Lake Camping and Cottage Resort.
Tobyhanna (1830)
Established in 1830, Tobyhanna blends stunning natural scenery with a rich, tangible history. The Pocono Manor Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features over 70 architectural styles from the twentieth century, including notable buildings like the Pocono Manor Inn, constructed between 1902 and 1949. The town also features Tobyhanna State Park, which spans 5,440 acres and includes the 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake. The park offers some of the region's best hikes, such as a scenic 5-mile loop through diverse terrain. It's also an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, where you might see wood frogs and salamanders—remember to bring binoculars! For those seeking a rustic experience, several campgrounds within the park provide accommodation.
Enjoy A Historic Trip To The Poconos!
The storied history of the Poconos makes its oldest small towns the ideal destination for a unique getaway, no matter the time of year. While the various museums surely have tales to tell, the century buildings and natural environment share a different glimpse into the past. From the natural history and beauty of White Haven to the picturesque and historic Grey Towers of Milford, there is endless beauty and depth to discover in these oldest-founded towns in the Poconos.
