8 Towns In The Poconos Have The Best Main Streets

The Poconos is a mountainous region in the northeastern portion of Pennsylvania that is best known for its stunning views and pristine lakes. This part of the state has long been a hotspot for those looking to escape the daily grind of the big cities.

The region of the Poconos is vast and diverse. Dozens of small towns and hamlets are nestled between deep river valleys and along the shores of lakes. Each of these small towns has its own identity and atmosphere centered around its main streets. Here, you can truly experience what each of these towns has to offer.

Jim Thorpe

Since the mid-1800's Jim Thorpe has been a destination for some of the wealthiest and high profile Pennsylvanians. Jim Thorpe is by no means locked off for those who are not in the highest tax bracket, but if you want to experience the finer things in life while visiting the Poconos, then this town is for you.

This town is equipped with some of the most extravagant and enchanting hotels in the area. All the most well-known hotels are located along the main street and are equipped with the charm and pizzazz of the century in which they were constructed.

Make sure to take a ride on the town's trolley. This antiquated yet charming form of public transportation will allow you to take a gentle tour around Jim Thrope, just as those well-to-do socialites did all those years ago.

Stroudsburg

Located in the middle of the Poconos, Stroudsburg has a ton of character and flair despite being so small. Dozens of murals and other forms of street art are on full display as soon as you enter the town. This is most apparent along the main street of the town.

After admiring the impressive public artworks, many visitors relax at local restaurants and bars in Stroudsburg. The town is renowned for producing some of the area's best cider and offers excellent local dining options. Most shops are family-owned and operated, enhancing the strong sense of community and connection.

Milford

Milford is filled with countless historical sites and scenic views of the mountains and river. This town prides itself on its relative cleanliness and warm demeanor. The locals here are some of Poconos' most welcoming and hospitable people.

Shopping in Milford is quite impressive, with specialist boutiques and stalls lining the main road through town. Earthly Treasures stands out as a popular shop where you can find handcrafted jewelry and accessories. Don't miss the Gifford Pinchot House, one of Milford's most famous attractions, located just a short walk from the high street.

Honesdale

A combination of both the old and the new, Honesdale has done a fantastic job at retaining its traditional feel and character while also being able to modernize in all the best ways. Along the main strip of Honesdale, you will be greeted by a couple of local breweries, something that the locals take quite seriously.

If you visit at the right time, you'll have the opportunity to join one of the numerous annual festivals hosted in the town center. In summer, the Roots and Rhythm Festival takes place, showcasing mainly local country and folk artists along with acts from the broader Poconos area. Honesdale is an excellent destination for a fun, family-friendly vacation.

Hawley

Hawley has a little bit of everything to offer to its visitors. This lively lakeside town is heavily focused on watersports and other similar activities. Boating, water skiing, and swimming are all common activities in the summer months.

Walking through its historic downtown, you will find quaint shops and decade-old family-run dinners and restaurants, all of which lend a surprisingly varied kind of food and experience. Much of the food is either locally grown or raised. Chances are, if you sit down for a meal here, you will be tasting something that has gone from "farm to table."

Tannersville

Tannersville is a great place to use as a base of operations to go adventuring in the nearby hill and mountains. There are a handful of zip line routes that are set up not too far from the town and it is certainly one of the more memorable and exhilarating ways to view the Poconos.

Once the adrenaline rush wears off and you are ready to head back to town, make sure you take a trip down Tannersville's Main Street. Here you will find a great selection of dining options and shops filled to the brim with character. The Smuggler's Cove Restaurant and Barley Creek Brewing Company are great places to sit down after a long day of zipping through treelines.

Palmerton

The sleepy town of Palmerton might not seem like much on the surface but underneath is an exceptional small town with an even more outstanding group of people who call this place home.

When traveling down the main strip of Palmerton, you will see all the typical sights and sounds of a small Pocono town. That all changes when you finally stumble upon the Halls of Horror. This adult-oriented haunted house is like no other.

It does not pull punches, and its employees will go out of their way to scare and traumatize you to the best of their ability. This establishment is certainly not for kids. But it could be a great time with friends or significant other if you are looking to try something off the beaten path.

East Stroudsburg

Yes, there are two Stroudsburg's. This Stroudsburg was previously known as Dansburry, but it apparently caused too much confusion between the Dansburry in Pennslyvania and Deleware. East Stroudsburg is known for its snake and animal farm and Frazzeta Art Museum. Both are great attractions that can be found around town. However, the real gems are located along the main strip.

The Golden Star and Royal Caribbean - Island Delight restaurants are some of the best Chinese and Caribbean food in the area. If you are looking for some authentic foreign cuisine, then look no further.

If you have never had the pleasure of visiting the Poconos, then make sure you add it to your list. This part of Pennsylvania feels almost like it is a secret to outsiders, which is a shame considering how beautiful it is. Each one of the towns in the Poconos has something special to offer those willing enough to visit. Once you have gone out, explore the breathtaking wilderness in the region. There are still plenty of things to find on the main streets of these towns.