Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, across the Delaware River from New Jersey and north of Philadelphia, the Pocono Mountains have been a hotspot for over a hundred years. It is a very convenient distance from New York City and the tri-state area in general, which also makes it affordable, to the point where many frequent visitors own a vacation home or timeshare in the area. .
The summer months are a particularly good time to visit, especially if you’re looking for fun for the whole family. The Poconos boasts several amazing water parks, including Camelbeach, Great Wolf Lodge, and Split Rock. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, while not exactly in the Poconos, is less than an hour south in the Bethlehem/Allentown area of the Lehigh Valley. Any of these water parks will fascinate young and old and allow you to escape the heat at a bargain price. In all of them you can buy daily and seasonal tickets.
When even the most avid kid gets tired of the water, places like Great Wolf Lodge and Dorney Park have other activities to offer. Dorney is one of the largest amusement parks in the area, with constantly changing rides ranging from mild cardiac arrest to full cardiac arrest. Great Wolf has a quest aimed primarily at younger kids, though older kids will probably enjoy it too. Participants will receive a magic wand that will unlock puzzles and allow children to work magic for hours of entertainment. Meanwhile mom and dad can enjoy other activities in the same place, or nearby.
Of course, the Poconos has plenty of great restaurants and bars, and you’ll find every type of cuisine you’ve ever heard of, and then some. However, don’t forget to try the local food, which is somewhat influenced by the Pennsylvania Dutch population. And if that’s something you enjoy, even if it’s only a few hours away, the Pennsylvania Dutch region will fascinate those who yearn for simpler times.
Hiking opportunities abound at any of our state parks. We highly recommend Tobyhanna State Park, but you may want to try some of the others as well. There really are no bad guys. For more serious hikers, the Appalachian Trail traverses the Delaware Water Gap, which is your first exit (310) into Pennsylvania from Interstate 80. Bring sturdy shoes and a cane. Lots of wildlife including deer, raccoons, opossums, bald eagles and other birds of prey, and even bears. Don’t bother them, and they won’t bother you.
As you walk the trails in late summer, feel free to gorge on wild strawberries and raspberries. Cool off barefoot in one of the many streams that criss-cross the trail and take in incredible views of the landscape below, once you’ve climbed to the top of the ridge.
On your way down, don’t forget to stop by one of the many antique shops, where you’ll find great bargains. If old stuff isn’t your thing, Tannersville is home to The Crossings, a major shopping complex that offers world-renowned brands at bargain prices. You can easily spend a day there and not notice the passage of time.
If all that puts a dent in your pocket, the Mohegan Sun Casino is nearby and offers slots, table games and several restaurants within its premises. They also regularly host concerts and stand-up comedy, and with your own hotel you may not even want to leave, once you’ve checked in.
And that’s just a taste of summer in the Poconos. Stay tuned for more seasons soon.
