Suggested Itineraries

Itinerary: Lehigh River Gorge Region

Visit Historic Jim Thorpe, the home of Asa Packer, the founding father of the Lehigh Valley Railroad and Lehigh University.  Jim Thorpe, formerly called Mauch Chunk for its' original meaning, "Mountain of the Sleeping Bear," was later named after the native American Hero of the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm.  Jim Thorpe is the perfect destination for the avid historian or recreation seeker and known best for its' history, fabulous views and recreational activities.  Unique shopping boutiques, antiquing, dining and more await visitors and are sure to satisfy all members of the family.

Whether you're looking for a small, private bed and breakfast located in an authentic, Victorian home or the luxury of a beautifully restored 19th-century downtown hotel or inn, you'll sleep in comfort and style in Jim Thorpe.

A perfect getaway for the weekend or day-trip:

• Tour the Historic Victorian town of Jim Thorpe, also known to many as the "Switzerland of America." Area attractions include:
• Exploring The Old Jail Museum for the lore of the Molly Maguires.
• See an actual working model of the famed Switchback Railroad at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center.
• Browse the collections at the Dimmick Memorial Library.
• Walk along Race Street past St. Mark's Church and Stone Row and visit the numerous shops and restaurants.
• Take a ride on the Lehigh Valley Scenic Railway.
• Visit the Old Mauch Chunk Model Train Display.
• Then visit the Asa Packer Mansion, founder of the first railroad in America.
• Take a drive across town to the Jim Thorpe Memorial.
• Explore the coal heritage and take a tour of the No. 9 Mine and Museum.
• Check out a live performance from your favorite artist at Penn's Peak.
• Unique dining opportunities await visitors to Jim Thorpe. From a romantic dinner overlooking the galleries and shops of historic Race Street to a great breakfast in an authentic train car diner, Jim Thorpe provides an exciting variety of dining choices.
• Plan your visit to include a special event offered by nearby Penn's Peak or The Mauch Chunk Opera House.
• Interested in spending time in the great outdoors? Try some of these recreational activities:
• Mountain Biking along the Lehigh Gorge Rail Trai
• Whitewater rafting, canoeing or kayaking on the Lehigh River
• Hiking through the Lehigh Gorge
• Horseback Riding
• Golfing
• Fishing
• Bird watching
• Visit the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary Art & Education Center

Bike, Wine & Dine on Broadway... in Jim Thorpe that is.

A day-trip filled with spectacular scenery, exceptional food, fine wine, laughter and great shopping.  This trip is a one-stop event to soak in the adventures and highlights of Jim Thorpe.

• Day-trip includes:
• 9-mile downhill bike trip on the Switchback Trail leading to the picturesque Broadway in Jim Thorpe.
• A Mediterranean vegetarian lunch at the Café Origins.
• Wine tasting at Big Creek Vineyard.
• Stroll and browse the charming shops and galleries of the historic district of Jim Thorpe.

Itinerary: Delaware River Region - Getting Back to Nature and then some!

Familiar to many as the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, the key word here is recreation.  This region offers something for everyone, in particular, a chance to unwind, naturally.  Containing approx. 67,000 acres of valley, 40 miles of river adventure, 100 miles of trails and 200 miles of scenic drives, you are sure to not just spend time outdoors with family and friends, but experience being in the midst of a natural, pristine environment.  Activities, such as, canoeing, rafting, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, bird watching, eagle observation, hunting, golfing, skiing, snowshoeing and horseback riding are all available from the Delaware Water Gap, north to the town of Milford.  Too much to see and do in a day, or a week, this area will have you coming back time after time.

Stay in any variety of comfortable accommodations from nationally recognized hotel chains to charming resorts, hotels, B&Bs and country inns that can be found nowhere else.  In addition, cottages and camp sites are available to suit your outdoor pleasures.

Dazzle your taste buds with an array of dining options from exclusive, romantic fine dining establishments to cozy coffee shops and café's. 

A Day of Sights:

• Start the day at Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, former home to Gifford Pinchot, Father of American Conservation and twice Governor of Pennsylvania in the 1920s. Pinchot Falls can be found off the beaten path from the grounds of Grey Towers. The viewing-point is situated almost close enough to reach out and touch the falling water.
• Visit Milford, a historical town developed by the milling industry, now a growing center of arts, dining and music.
• Shop in Milford's many art galleries, quaint stores and shops.
• Plan your visit around one of Milford's annual festivals, perhaps the Music Festival in June or the Black Bear Film Festival in October.

A Day of  Nature:

• Hike the many trails along local waterfalls such as
• Resica Falls
• Winona Falls
• Bushkill Falls, the "Niagara of Pennsylvania"
• Dingmans Falls
• Silverthread Falls
• Raymondskill Falls
• Deer Leap Falls
• Factory Falls
• Fulmer Falls
• Shohola Falls
• Stop at Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) for activities and nature talks that tell you about the flora and fauna of the Pocono Mountains region. Experienced guides can offer group tours to explore the local eagle population or other local bird species or educate about the local ecology. Team building events and lodging also available
• Visit the Pocono Indian Museum and shop at some of the small antique, craft or Native American Indian shops in the area.

Day on the Water:

• Plan a day of canoeing or even tubing on the Delaware River. Enjoy the serene waters of the Middle Delaware --you can choose the length of your trip.
• Consider fishing on the Delaware River for pike, bass, perch, walleye, shad, bluegill, catfish and trout. Guides are available to find the best locations.

Shopping Anyone?

• Start the day in the Delaware Water Gap, aboard the Water Gap Trolley as trained guides take you back to learn history and see the many points of interest. Learn about the Native Americans and the early settlers of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
• Then hit the streets of downtown Stroudsburg for unique shops and restaurants or drive through the Mountain Region using the Shopping or Antique Tour Guide.
• Take advantage of the discounted finds at The Crossings Premium Outlets in Tannersville, featuring over 100 name-brand factory outlets with savings of 25% to 65%.
• End your day with a dining experience at a local restaurant or micro-brewery pub and restaurant.

Jazz It Up:

• Hear the soulful sounds of jazz music surrounding the Pocono Mountains, especially the Delaware Water Gap.
• Visit local restaurants that provide live jazz entertainment, such as the Deer Head Inn, which features numerous national, regional and local performers.
• Make it a jazz weekend with the Annual Jazz and Arts Festival held in September in the Delaware Water Gap.

Itinerary: The Lake Region - A unique location steeped with Rail and Canal history. 

The Lake region surrounds stunning Lake Wallenpaupack.  This man-made lake built in 1927 covers 5,700 acres and is 13 ½ miles long with 52 miles of shoreline.  The lake has six public recreation areas featuring hundreds of acres of forest lands, wildlife, walking trails, campsites and boat slips.  The Lake Region offers opportunity for boating, fishing, swimming and horseback riding and is also near entertainment venues, recreational cooking schools, full service resorts and small intimate country inns and bed and breakfasts.

Experience the Pocono Mountains Lake Region

Day 1: 

• Arrive the first evening to relax and prepare for your weekend getaway. Choose your style of lodging - the area has accommodations from luxury resorts to charming country inns and quaint B&Bs.
• Dine at one of the local restaurants, choosing from romantic fine dining to pubs filled with "local" flavor.

Day 2: 

• Start your day exploring the local shops and antique trails in Hawley.
• Book your ticket to take the Stourbridge Line Rail Excursion along the Lackawaxen Creek to Historic Honesdale for more shopping and sightseeing then return by rail to Hawley.
• On the way back to your accommodations visit the Dorflinger Glass Museum and see some of the finest lead crystal creations in the country created by French glassmaker Christian Dorflinger.
• Visit the Museum Shop and the Gallery for local history and contemporary regional artists.
• Schedule your visit between June and August to experience the Wildflower Festival of Music & Art.
• Finish your evening with a dinner and show package available from some of your local restaurants and playhouses.

Day 3:  (many options to choose from)

• For the horse lovers plan a morning horseback trail ride through the woods, taking in all the glorious sighs of nature.
• For those that prefer the water, rent boats for fishing or just enjoy a leisurely scenic boat tour of Lake Wallenpaupack.
• Depending on the season visit family fun attractions or spend the day on the slopes skiing or tubing.
• Step it up in the kitchen and visit this regions renowned cooking school, Torte Knox. Torte Knox founder, Sheelah Kaye-Stepkin was recently named as Celebrity Cruise Line's celebrity chef. Come experience her own special brand of hospitality and indulge in the best of fine dining. Learn to prepare a few recipes yourself! Sheelah and Torte Knox have been featured in periodicals such as Bon Appetit, The New York Times, Country Living as well as on stations like HGTV, The Food Network, CNN and NBC. Now you'll get the Torte Knox experience in person!

Itinerary: Mountain Region

The Mountain Region is a great place to explore during your vacation in the Pocono Mountains.  Renowned for its downhill skiing or snow boarding, tubing down the slopes and other winter fun, the mountain region is a gem in the summer months too.  Drive down a back country road with views of mountain ranges or through beautiful woodlands to your country accommodations.  If you like to rough-it in a campground, stay in a quaint country inn, a quiet retreat, or get the finest most luxurious of hotels, the Mountain region has something for you.

Enjoy antiques, looking for the perfect homemade craft or want designer items at the best of prices?  Explore and visit some of the region's fabulous country stores and specialty shops highlighting, cheesecake, homemade candies, pottery and candles.  Sometimes these unique shops offer free demonstrations.  Discount shopping for fireworks and catalog closeouts are a great find.  Visit The Crossings Premium Outlets for brand named items from Nike, Ann Taylor, Jones of New York and The Gap just to name a few of over 100 stores to visit. Stop in the town of Stroudsburg for browsing and visit some of the fabulous dining establishments.

• Wine and Pub around the area when you visit Sorrenti's Cherry Valley Wineries or tour Barley Creek Brewing Company.
• Plan a day at one of the local Playpark and Waterparks or take the fast lane and try your hand at Go-Karting.
• Try horseback riding or experience the excitement of paintball wars.
• Spend time in the state parks, hiking the variety of trails available.
• Take part in a sporting clay event.
• Choose from a variety of ski resorts in the area for your family or group.

The four-county region boasts more than 35 golf courses, which are home to hundreds of holes, including championship courses built by Donald Ross, Jack Nicklaus and A.W. Tillinghast.

• Plan a day of golf then finish your day relaxing at one of the day spas or relax at one of a local pub, inn, family restaurant or an exclusive gourmet dining experience at one of the many local dining establishments. A variety of options for everyone's tastes.

Something for the children:

• Start the day at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm where you can experience the real workings of 18^th century farm.
• Spend the day at one of the regions fabulous waterparks either indoor or outdoor...it's the perfect way to cool down.
• Stop by the Claws ‘N" Paws Wild Animal Park for some relaxed time with the animals which includes an opportunity to pet and feed the animals.
• For the teens try Go Karts or Live Fire Paintball.

Itinerary: Upper Delaware River Region

The Upper Delaware River region borders New York from Pennsylvania.  This area is rustic and full of the great outdoors that the Pocono Mountains is known for.   It offers gorgeous scenic roadways, fabulous whitewater and plenty to do for the outdoor enthusiast with lots of areas for cross-country skiing, camping and hiking, snowmobiling, bird and eagle watching, biking or just site-seeing and relaxing.  Part of the Anthracite coal region,  the Upper Delaware River region was strategic for transporting coal from the area by rail and canal to the lower states.

• Honesdale "Home of America's Railroads," Roebling Bridge, the oldest existing wire cable suspension bridge in the nation built in 1848 and D&H Towpath provide great opportunities for exploring this part of our nation's history.
• Other attractions such as Zane Gray Museum and the Dorflinger-Suydam Glass Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary are a few other great points of interest for any group.
• Exploring the PA Route 6 Trail: US Route 6 is one of the nation's first transcontinental highways, which runs through the Upper Delaware River Region in Wayne and Pike County. What a great start for any voyage!

This area is a great day excursion from other areas in the Pocono Mountains or stay at some of the areas local resorts, B&Bs, country inns or pack your tent or your camper and stay awhile.