10 Things to Do in the Pocono Mountains This Summer

Giggles, Gobbles and Gulps

Summer is here and it’s time for family vacations. Because I live on the East Coast it is easy to be just about anywhere within a few hours of driving. One of my favorite winter destinations, the Poconos Mountains, makes an ideal spot for summertime fun.

Here are some recommendations for summer activities in the Pocono Mountains:

  1. Festival Season

    Warm weather hails outdoor events and plenty of festivals. The Pocono Mountains is the perfect location for festivals, pairing scenic views with entertainment for all ages. Food, wine, crafts, rides, nature, outdoor celebrations, live music—can it get any better? 

  1. Small Town Flair

    That special small-town sensation is felt throughout the Pocono Mountains. Quaint walkaround towns like Milford, Jim Thorpe, Honesdale, and Stroudsburg pair well with a day of exploring local shops, eating at outdoor cafes, and finding hidden gems in the downtown areas. 

  1. National and State Parks

    Take a breath of fresh air. Explore the 2,400 square miles of natural areas in the Pocono Mountains including nine state parks, two national parks, and hundreds of acres of state game lands. These parks are a preservation of land perfect for hiking, horseback riding, camping, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. 

  1. Fun on the River

    Whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and inner tubing down the Delaware River and Lehigh River have long been popular activities to soak up the summer sun while enjoying quality time disconnected from the everyday hustle, to reconnect with family and friends. 

  1. Fly and Climb Through the Trees

    Adventure parks are becoming an increasingly popular activity in the Pocono Mountains, containing family-friendly activities like ropes courses, all-season tubing lanes, coasters, climbing walls and zip lines. 

  1. Splash Around

    Waterparks are the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. Explore waterslides, rides, and attractions under the summer sky. Or, with a collection of indoor waterparks in the Pocono Mountains, the fun doesn’t need to end on a rainy day; bring the party inside and splash the day away regardless of the weather! 

    pool

  1. Ready, Set, GO!

    You can find races of all kinds in the Pocono Mountains. From challenging 5ks and adventure races, to NASCAR races, the need for speed is real. You can even get behind the wheel yourself in a stock car to lay down some rubber.   

  1. Lake Life

    Boating, jet skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and even parasailing are just a few ways to enjoy the lake life in the Pocono Mountains. At night, visitors can kick up their feet and watch some of the best sunsets over the blue water. 

    Photo credit: PoconoMountains.com.
    Photo credit: PoconoMountains.com.
  1. Golf & Spas

    Numerous golf courses can be found in the Pocono Mountains, from small private clubs and practice areas to sprawling resort systems designed by the greats. The varied landscape ensures plenty of challenges, and the scenery never disappoints. Rich in health and wellness options, from day spas to yoga classes, fitness clubs and overnight destination spas, the Pocono region is a genuine paradise for spas. 

  1. Waterfalls

    Walk or hike to one of the many waterfalls in the Pocono Mountains for a natural, inexpensive way to beat the heat this summer. Most waterfalls are easy to access and free or almost free to view. These gorgeous cascades can be found in each of the four counties that make up the Pocono region.

    Waterfalls-Bushkill-Falls-17-PoconoMtns
    Photo credit: PoconoMountains.com.

    We can’t wait to hit the road to enjoy one of our favorite destinations. Come see why the Pocono Mountains is a great Summer destination of your family and friends.

List was prepared in partnership with PoconoMountains.com

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