Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains is an affordable destination brimming with activities for any type of traveler, any time of year. There are so many things to do in the Poconos, that it appears hard to achieve them all! It will require some planning to visit its quaint villages, hike the many wooded trails, ski in the winter, and pop into some lively festivals. Which is where we come in.
While it might seem like a lot, it’s actually easy to capture all that the Poconos has to offer by planning a road trip in a rental van! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, the Poconos has something for everyone. Read on for 20 of the best things to do and, when you’re ready to plan your Poconos road trip, explore our vans.
Free things to do in the Poconos
Traveling on a budget? We get it. Family road trips often call for tight budgets. Don’t worry, the Poconos has plenty of family-friendly activities and captivating places to enjoy nature’s beauty, free of charge. Here are a few of our favorite free things to do in the Poconos:
Bushkill Falls
What’s the nicest part of the Poconos? For many, it’s the trail at Bushkill Falls. Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” the path leads you through lush forests, over wooden bridges, and to thunderous waterfalls. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, a pack of tissues, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views!
Big Pocono State Park
Big Pocono State Park, located on the summit of Camelback Mountain, is a delightful destination in spring, summer, and fall. Its rugged terrain lends itself to awesome mountain biking and horseback rides. Both avid hikers and peaceful walkers will like the variety of trails, each leading to sweeping lookout points that showcase the vast landscapes of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
Promised Land State Park
One of the best free things to do in the Poconos is spend a day at Promised Land State Park. It’s a great place to picnic with your family after a leisurely stroll around the lake or witness the park’s abundant wildlife at a designated observation area. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy cross-country skiing and sledding here with friends.
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss one of the largest CCC museums in the area, the Masker Museum, which houses an exhibit of the program’s focus on conservation projects in national and state parks.
Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap is a stunning natural wonder found snugly between the borders of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. You’ll be in awe of its towering cliffs and lush forests, a vista enhanced by views of the Delaware River cutting through.
There are many ways to spend a day at this entry-free park, hiking its winding trails, picnics at the riverbank, and birdwatching. Traveling by van gives you and your family the chance to take a picturesque drive along the sparkling Delaware River.
Downtown Stroudsburg
Vibrant downtown Stroudsburg is one of Pocono’s highlights! It’s quaint, colonial, and brimming with eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and historical architecture. The family will delight in a browse through the Olde Engine Works, a historic building of antique shops and art galleries. Stroudsburg is a foodie town, known to satisfy everyone’s palette, boasting Thai, Indian, and Italian options as well as spirited breweries like Newberry’s Yard of Ale or wine bars like Mountain View Vineyard.
Things to do in the Poconos in the summer
When the sun shines, the Poconos come alive! There are plenty of things to do in the Poconos in the summer to cool the whole family down. Jump into Lake Wallenpaupack for a swim before a zipline above the trees on Camelback Mountain.
Whether you’re after the rush of a mountain coaster or the tranquility of a new place to go fishing, the Poconos cater to every thrill and chill. Make this a summer to remember by adding the Poconos to your family road trip!
Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack’s 52 miles of shoreline designate it the third largest body of water in the state. Surrounding the reservoir are rolling hills, lush forests, and mountain views. It spans almost 6,000 acres, offering plenty of opportunity for fun on the water! Rent a boat or kayak, try your hand at fishing, or, if water sports aren’t your thing, hike the graceful trails around you. Jump in the van for a quick ride to Hawley, a charming village, or to the area’s nearby waterfalls.
Camelback Mountain Adventures
There is so much fun to be had with Camelback Mountain Adventures, we believe it’s one of the best things to do in the Poconos. Give the family the memorable experience of the Appalachian Express Coaster, a roller coaster that twists and turns through the mountainous landscape. Take a thrilling downhill ride on the Pocono Pipeline Mountain Slide. Challenge yourself with an electrifying zipline adventure above the treetops. To boot, there’s mountain biking, horseback riding, and epic hiking.
Shawnee Mountain Festivals
It’s always a party at Shawnee Mountain! The region’s exuberant atmosphere is sure to appeal to everyone in your clan, from young to old. Plan your road trip around one of the exciting festivals held each summer. From May to October watch colorful fireworks light up the night sky at the Shawnee Fireworks Display. The Independence Day festival is more than a dazzling fireworks show; expect lots of family-friendly games, live music, and local food stalls. Not to mention, the views are spectacular and well worth a stop on your road trip!
Monroe Farmers’ Market
The Monroe Farmers’ Market in downtown Monroe is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Local farmers sell juicy berries, heirloom tomatoes, leafy greens, fragrant herbs, and whatever else is in season! The farmers take great pride in their sustainable and organic farming practices, ensuring that the produce is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. Check out the local crafts section, where artists show off their skills in woodworking, pottery, jewelry making, and more.
The market is an ideal way to spend a Saturday morning with the family, whether you’re hungry for fresh, flavorful ingredients or seeking a unique art piece for your home.
Hickory Run State Park
Camping or glamping? Either way, you’re covered at Hickory Run State Park, where camping experiences run the gamut from rustic to modern, tents to cabins. Discover an extensive network of trails all leading to incredible overlooks and cascading waterfalls.
Make sure to take your family to Boulder Field, a unique geological wonder that can be dated to the Ice Age. The vast expanse of rocks stretches for over 400 acres and is a breathtaking sight to behold.
5 winter activities in the Poconos
When winter blankets the Poconos in snow, the mountains explode with life. Snowboarders flock to Camelback Mountain, ice fishers dart to Tobyhanna State Park, and aspiring figure skaters glide across the ice at Skytop Lodge. No matter what your favorite winter activity is, pick up one of our rental vans, throw your gear in the back, and set out on your Poconos winter road trip!
Camelback Mountain Resort
Camelback Mountain Resort is a fantastic destination to visit any time of year. However, with its well-groomed slopes, thrilling snowboarding opportunities, and exciting snow tubing, it’s truly a winter paradise. Try your hand at snowmobiling or check out the fun Winter Festival. If hours frolicking in the cold doesn’t pique your interest, swap your skis for a swimsuit and splash around the resort’s indoor water park.
Jack Frost Big Boulder Ski Resort
With two mountains’ worth of skiing and snowboarding opportunities, visitors to Jack Frost are offered an abundance of exhilarating slopes to master. When you’re ready to take a break from the board, laugh your way down any of the amusing snow tubing lanes. The resort has convenient amenities such as equipment rentals and lessons, so both beginners and seasoned sportsters can enjoy a day in the snow.
Tobyhanna State Park
Tobyhanna State Park is a must for families looking to truly immerse in the beauty of winter. Pack your poles in the back of the van if ice fishing on the lake sounds enticing, or indulge in a day of cross-country skiing before warming up together around a cozy campfire! If you really want to experience the winter wilderness at its most pure, reserve a camping experience inside the park where both modern and rustic options are available.
Skytop Lodge
A family favorite on every winter road trip in the Poconos, Skytop Lodge has a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. One of the highlights is the resort’s picturesque outdoor ice-skating rink with splendid views of the mountains.
Looking for an exhilarating family experience? Zip down the slopes designated for sledding. What’s more, there’s an opportunity to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, leaving no chance for boredom.
Eagle Watching in Lackawaxen
By far one of the most unique things to do in the Poconos in the winter, eagle-watching will certainly be a hot topic of conversation in the van!
The Delaware River in Lackawaxen is known to attract a large number of bald eagles seeking food and shelter. You’re almost guaranteed to spot one, two, or many of these majestic birds as they perch along the riverbanks or soar through the sky. The Eagle Institute onsite offers educational programs and guided tours so all bird lovers will get the most out of this one-of-a-kind experience.
Things to do in the Poconos in the fall
As the leaves change and the masses head to New England for a leaf-peeping adventure, the Poconos transforms into a quiet kaleidoscope of fall colors. Imagine its rolling hills, immense mountains, and wooded trails bursting with yellow, red, and orange foliage.
Don’t miss the sensational chance to soak in all the vivid vistas on an autumn road trip with your family. Snag your rental van in Richmond and hit the road for a front-row seat to all things fall.
Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Weekends
For the first three weekends of October, Jim Thorpe throws a seasonal street party! Attendees can enjoy artisan crafts, kids’ activities, scenic train rides, and delicious food while exploring the local shops, galleries, and restaurants offering seasonal specials. The festival goes all out with spooky ghost tours, zip-lining adventures, and kayaking trips. And, of course, it wouldn’t be fall without corn mazes and hayrides. With the backdrop of mountains adorned in vibrant fall colors, Jim Thorpe is a gorgeous stop on your fall road trip.
The Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival
The Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival is a beloved autumn event, especially for kids. There’s pumpkin picking in a sprawling pumpkin patch, intricate corn mazes, pony rides, and face painting. In addition, local food vendors fill the space with delicious treats.
As the sun sets, the festival transforms into a magical wonderland with pumpkin illuminations, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere that should not be missed on a family fall vacation with the little ones!
Hawley Harvest Hoedown
The Hawley Harvest Hoedown is a lively fall festival with a little bit of everything for all ages. If you’re a family of shoppers, there are a myriad of crafts and artisan vendors selling handcrafted products. Exciting activities like pumpkin painting, hayrides, and a petting zoo will live on in your kids’ memories for years. The festival also showcases live music and theatrical performances, keeping everyone entertained for hours.
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
One of the more peaceful things to do in the Poconos, Mauch Chunk Lake Park in Jim Thorpe is a lovely alternative to the more vibrant festivals that sprinkle the region. Families can go picnicking amidst the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees while taking in the serene beauty of the lake. The park also provides boat rentals to those who’d rather picnic on the water.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day surrounded by nature or seeking outdoor activities, Mauch Chunk Lake Park is the perfect destination to embrace the beauty of fall.
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm Harvest Festival
Take a step back in time at the Quiet Valley Historical Farm Harvest Festival, where the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of 19th-century farm traditions come to life. It is a celebration of the history of the Poconos, featuring heritage crafts, historical reenactments, classic cooking methods, and music from the 1800s. It’s the perfect opportunity for you and your family to drop into the past, learn a little history, and gain a new appreciation for the rich local culture.
Plan your Poconos adventure with Greenvans
When it comes to exploring the Poconos, there’s no better way to experience its beauty and charm than by embarking on a road trip with Greenvans. Whether you’re visiting in the vibrant hues of fall, the snowy wonderland of winter, or the sunny days of summer, a 15-passenger van offers the perfect mode of transportation for you and your companions. Its ample space and comfort allow you to visit the region’s stunning natural attractions while discovering hidden gems along the way.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Poconos adventure with the help of our expert team at Greenvans!
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