The One Pennsylvania Town Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
Located approximately 80 miles north-northeast of Philadelphia and roughly 120 miles west of New York City, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, is situated at the southern edge of the Pocono Mountains. With just over 4,500 residents, the town offers a compact, walkable downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Steep hills, dense forests, and the winding Lehigh River surround you, with scenic trails and parks steps away. As you wander streets, follow a river trail, or cross a historic bridge, you’ll take in a mix of 19th-century architecture and natural beauty. Jim Thorpe blends history, nature, and small-town charm in a way that’s easy to experience in a single visit.
History & Innovation In Jim Thorpe
Founded in the early 1800s as Mauch Chunk, the town quickly grew into a prosperous hub for coal mining. One of its most notable innovations was the Mauch Chunk Switchback Railway, later known as the Switchback Gravity Railroad. Built to transport mined resources down the mountain, it became a popular attraction for thrill-seekers and is often cited as a precursor to the modern roller coaster.
The wealth from that era is still visible today in the stately Victorian homes along Broadway and neighboring streets, particularly on what was once Millionaires’ Row. Many of these buildings now house museums, inns, and shops, giving you a tangible sense of 19th-century prosperity.
In 1954, the town was renamed Jim Thorpe in honor of the Olympic gold medalist and Native American athlete, whose mausoleum just outside town remains a point of interest for visitors.
Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Exploration
Jim Thorpe is an ideal base for outdoor exploration. Lehigh Gorge State Park stretches over 6,000 acres along the Lehigh River, with steep rock walls, dense forests, and waterfalls connected by hiking and biking trails. The Lehigh Gorge Trail, part of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, offers a crushed-stone path perfect for both hikers and cyclists.
Nearby, Glen Onoko Falls provides dramatic views, even though the upper trails are closed for safety. For a calmer outing, head to Mauch Chunk Lake Park, where you can kayak, paddleboard, fish, or swim, while trails around the lake and hills give you sweeping valley views.
Whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River is also a must, with guided trips from outfitters like Whitewater Challengers. The most exciting runs happen during dam releases from the Francis E. Walter Dam, typically from spring through fall. You can also experience the town’s river culture at Lehigh RiverFest, held each summer with rafting, live music, and family-friendly activities.
If you prefer a slower pace, hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, which runs year-round from downtown and follows the river into the gorge, passing forests and historic rail corridors. Fall foliage rides and seasonal holiday trips offer particularly stunning views. In winter, nearby trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowboarding, especially in quieter areas like the Mauch Chunk watershed.
Dining, Shops, & Local Culture
Despite its small size, Jim Thorpe has plenty of dining and shopping options. Grab breakfast or classic American fare at Broadway Grille inside the historic Inn at Jim Thorpe, where specials and occasional live music add to the experience. Nearby, Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub serves draft beers and hearty dishes on a deck open most of the year, while a short drive brings you to Roadies Restaurant & Bar at Penn’s Peak for comfort food with sweeping valley views. Afterward, stop by Jingle Bells Christmas Shoppe for ornaments and nostalgic gifts year-round. Local Fair offers handmade jewelry and crafts, and Jim Thorpe Olive Oil Co. lets you sample gourmet oils, vinegars, and regional specialty foods.
Explore the town’s history at the Asa Packer Mansion Museum, where guided tours showcase the Victorian home of the railroad magnate and Lehigh University founder. Just a short walk away, the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center traces the town’s coal-mining roots to the present with artifacts, photos, and interactive exhibits. Check hours for both before visiting.
Jim Thorpe comes alive during events like the Fall Foliage Festival and Olde Time Christmas, when streets fill with decorations, music, and traditions that highlight the town’s small-town charm.
Nearby Towns Worth Exploring
A few miles south of Jim Thorpe, Lehighton gives you more access to the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, the Lehigh River, and Beltzville State Park. While you’re there, grab comfort food at Bonnie & Clyde Pub and Grill, with its 1930s vintage vibe.
To the north, Weatherly offers a quiet mountain escape and easy access to state lands and hiking areas, including trailheads connected to Hickory Run State Park, home to the Boulder Field and miles of wooded trails.
West of Jim Thorpe, Tamaqua showcases coal-era history with its historic downtown, the Tamaqua Arts Center, and the nearby No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum. Outdoor options include Owl Creek Reservoir and rail-trail routes along the Schuylkill River corridor.
An Easy Escape With Lasting Appeal
Jim Thorpe is a town that invites you to linger without feeling crowded. Wander its compact streets to explore historic sites like the Asa Packer Mansion Museum, quirky stores like Jingle Bells Christmas Shoppe, and local eateries like the Broadway Grille. Step outside the town and you’ll find scenic trails, dramatic hills, and the winding Lehigh River, with outdoor adventures waiting at Lehigh Gorge State Park or Mauch Chunk Lake Park. This Pennsylvania town blends history, nature, and small-town charm, making it a destination you’ll want to visit at least once and likely return to again.
