11 Amazing Poconos Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive
The Pocono Mountains sit in northeastern Pennsylvania and are bordered by the Lehigh River. Consisting of flat-topped mountains that stretch until reaching the Catskill Mountains, the Poconos are known for their natural beauty. Forested plateaus sit over rivers and nearby lowlands, inviting nature lovers to visit the area. Yet there are also plenty of historic destinations and fun entertainment to be had. Nearby Philadelphia is the perfect starting spot for anyone day-tripping in the area. Philadelphia International Airport is a common way for people to arrive in the region, and day-tripping destinations are typically reachable from there in under two hours. If you are visiting the state, consider adding one of these nine destinations to your day trip itinerary.
Hickory Run State Park
Hickory Run State Park is a 15,990-acre park situated less than two hours outside of Philadelphia, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a day trip into the great outdoors. Upon first arrival, you may want to head to the visitor center, where a 2,400-square-foot self-guided exhibit highlights the park's history. The exhibit is an easy way to become familiar with the park before heading out for a day of hiking, picnicking, swimming, and fishing. Approximately 40 miles of hiking trails run between some of the park's geographic highlights, such as the waterfalls and streams that crisscross the park. Boulder Field is a particularly famous landmark, consisting of huge rocks that formed during the melting of glaciers in the area during the Ice Age. Visitors can also set out on the Lehigh River and enjoy a day of fishing from stocked trout streams, while those hoping to cool off can jump into the waters of Sand Spring Lake.
Pocono Raceway
Anyone who wants to enjoy an exciting day at the races will want to travel to the Pocono Raceway, which has been operating since 1969. The raceway hosts the Pocono 400 and several NASCAR races, with events taking place throughout the year. Pocono Raceway is particularly renowned for its distinctive track layout, known as the Tricky Triangle. Designed by two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Rodger Ward, the triangle is the same length as the Daytona International Speedway, but its unique three-turn design makes it a distinctive track for drivers. Famed drivers such as Bobby Allison, Jeff Gordon, and Joe Gibbs have all raced the track, and visitors today can enjoy free track tours to learn more about these historic races. Visitors may also want to consider buying tickets to the Paddock, where they can enjoy perfect views of the starting line, a close view of the victory lane, and food and beverage options from both food trucks and the café.
Asa Packer Mansion Museum
Those hoping to get a taste of the history of the Poconos will want to stop by the historic Asa Packer Mansion Museum, the former home of Asa Packer, a wealthy coal and railroad magnate. This lovely mansion, built in the gorgeous Victorian Italianate architecture, is nationally recognized as a historic landmark by the National Park Service. Asa Packer was once called the wealthiest man in the Commonwealth, and the mansion reflects those riches, but also provides a window into the area's history. Visitors will find the mansion much as it was during Packer's lifetime, appointed with gorgeous furniture, elegant chandeliers, and cascading curtains. Tours last approximately 45 minutes, and visitors will discover woodwork, ornate architecture, and priceless objects originally owned by the Packer family.
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm
The Quiet Valley Farm is yet another unique historic destination that history lovers will enjoy on a day trip to the Poconos. Visitors will appreciate a unique glimpse into the past as farm employees dressed in period-accurate costumes share what life was like on a 19th-century farm. Visitors have the opportunity to witness workers cooking over the hearth, preserving foods, spinning and weaving, and even caring for animals in the barn. Depending on when you visit, there may also be unique events happening at the farm. Spooky days are hosted on Halloween, while Christmas is celebrated on the farm on the weekends in early December. There are also popular festivals that draw people from throughout the Poconos, such as the Pocono State Craft Festival. This unique festival offers a chance to enjoy the farm's distinctive sights while shopping for arts and crafts, enjoying live music, and savoring a bite to eat.
No. 9 Coal Mine And Museum
Yet another unique destination for the day tripper hoping to learn about the history of the Poconos is the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum. The coal mine itself was first established in 1855, and grew to cover over 1,600 feet of mine car track. By 1857, the mine was hauling 90,000 tons of Anthracite coal, and it operated continuously until 1972. Following two decades of closure, the mine underwent restoration, and tours were introduced in 2002. Today, visitors can enjoy a rail ride along the tracks before embarking on a 600-foot guided walking tour, during which they can see the mine shaft itself as well as a miner's hospital that once served the employees. Apart from the tour, visitors can also enjoy the museum, which is constructed in what was once the "Wash Shanty," originally erected in 1923. The museum features a collection of mining equipment, including blasting devices, tools, and everyday household items.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
There are few more unique day trips for nature lovers than the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. The train operates out of Jim Thorpe, which enjoys a history dating back to the Lenape Indians. Located on Flagstaff Mountain, this area was once a lookout for the indigenous people of the region. By the late 1800s, a gravity-powered railway had been established in the area to transport coal from the nearby mountain mines. Over time, the railway was converted to passenger trains. As early as 1985, short journeys were possible through surrounding Berks County. Today, those rides have expanded to specialize in passenger rides. Open-air cars offer a perfect view of the surrounding countryside, with seats facing outward to take in the natural surroundings. Standard coach cars are also available, featuring forward-facing seats and nearby window views. Visitors who want to enjoy a premier experience can also join the Mauch Chunk Club and ride in a first-class lounge car. These unique cars operate sporadically throughout the year, but riders can enjoy luxury armchairs and restaurant booth seating, as well as a snack bar. Other classes of riding cars also exist, with all rides carrying riders through the regional mountain scenery and exquisite forests of the surrounding Pennsylvania area.
Pocono Helitours
Day trippers who want to get a bird's-eye view of the Poconos need not look any further than Pocono Helitours. These helicopters are capable of carrying three passengers as they hover over the surrounding mountains and forest range. Tours depart from the Poconos Mountains Municipal Airport and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Multiple tours are also available. The Delaware Water Gap Tour takes guests to regional hotspots, such as Mt. Airy Casino, and to incredible natural destinations, including the Delaware Water Gap. The Pocono Raceway Tour, on the other hand, offers guests an unsurpassed view of nearby Pocono Raceway and vacation destinations, including Camelback Resort. The longest and perhaps most scenic tour takes riders from the Francis Walter Dam to beautiful Lake Harmony.
Lake Wallenpaupack
Nature lovers escaping the city will not want to miss Lake Wallenpaupack, one of the state's largest reservoirs that stretches for 13 miles and is lined by 52 miles of shoreline. Created in the 1920s for hydroelectric power, today it is a tourist's dream. Six recreation areas surround the lake, which is surrounded by forests packed with hiking trails where visitors can spot the nearby wildlife. Those hitting the water can launch their vessels from the lake's boat slips or contract with a fishing charter in search of the lake's bass, crappie, bluegill, and various other fish species. Kayaking and paddleboarding are both available for those striking out on the water, as well. Those staying on land will find plenty of picnic areas to enjoy lunch while taking in the views of the water, while those looking to get a bit more active may want to head out biking in the surrounding area.
Bushkill Falls
Deemed "The Niagara of Pennsylvania," Bushkill Falls is one final must-see destination for day trippers heading into the Poconos. These unique falls are actually eight waterfalls, and visitors to the area will find natural pathways leading to an observation deck of the Main Falls. Hiking trails also extend through the area, offering multiple views of the various falls. Four categories of difficulty categorize the trails, with the Green Trail leading ot the Main Falls in only about 15 minutes. The Yellow Trail leads to the Lower Falls, Larel Glen, and Upper Canyon, and requires a brisk 45-minute walk. The Blue Tail leads guests on a 1-hour, 15-minute walk to see Pennell Falls. For those who want to catch every view, the Red Trail offers a two-hour journey to see Bridal Veil Falls. Anglers visiting the area hoping for a day of fishing may want to enjoy a brief trip on the Green Trail before returning to the shores of nearby Twin Lakes, where they can cast their line out on the water. Guests can even take on the role of gold miners by visiting the mining station for a day, panning for gems.
Fantastic Destinations For Day Tripping
The beauty of the Poconos lies not only in its numerous natural destinations but also in its many unique cultural and historic hotspots. Visitors can enjoy lovely walks around Lake Wallenpaupack or take in the surrounding mountain views by train or helicopter tour. With so much to see and do in the area, there is no shortage of things to do. If you are visiting Philadelphia and feel like a day trip to the Poconos, you should take advantage of any of these incredible destinations during your day out.
