Winter Destinations in the Pocono Mountains
3 days - 13 Stops
As the temperatures drop, experience a winter wonderland getaway in the Pocono Mountains! Less than two hours from New York City and Philadelphia, you’ll find many slopes, trails, and lakes on a beautiful countryside. After a day of taking in the winter beauty, discover the quaint shops in the historical downtown areas.
Day 1
Blue Mountain Resort | Big Boulder Ski Area | Jack Frost Mountain
Kick off your winter getaway on the slopes! Pocono skiing and snowboarding activities come alive in the wintertime. Make sure to reserve your spot bright and early to get first dibs on the freshly groomed trails at Blue Mountain Resort, Big Boulder Ski Area and Jack Frost Mountain, which open as early as 8 a.m. on the weekends in late December.
Skirmish Paintball
Next, travel just over 20 minutes to gear up for a paintball adventure at Skirmish Paintball, the world's premier paintball facility with more than 50 of the best paintball maps on the planet and spanning 750 acres of prime Pocono Mountains real estate. Team up with your family and friends, and head out on the snowy battlefield to defend your army. A game is sure to keep you warm this winter, but don’t forget to bundle up!
Jim Thorpe
Worked up an appetite? Head north on route 534 and refuel with a takeout order from Lake View Tavern on the shores of Lake Harmony at Split Rock Resort. Another popular dining spot is Roadies Restaurant and Bar located in historic Jim Thorpe. The restaurant offers valley views, delicious fare, and curbside pickup.
Cap off your evening by discovering the ins and outs of Jim Thorpe. A town full of Victorian charm, Jim Thorpe is no stranger to captivating, turn-of-the-century accommodations. Stay the night at a historic lodging, we suggest: Hotel Switzerland, the Inn at Jim Thorpe, or the The Dolon House.
Day 2
Bodyworks Spa Studios
Excitement and leisure awaits in the mountains on day two. Travel more than 40 miles northeast on route 903 to treat yourself to a pampering day at the spa! From body wraps to water therapies, indulge in total relaxation. Bodyworks Spa Studios provides tailored, personalized treatments with the finest resources at the spas at the Mt. Airy Casino, Skytop Lodge, and Crystal Street.
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions
Need a break from the snowflakes? Splash around at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions where it’s always 84 degrees and sunny. Zoom down water slides, lounge in the lazy river, wade in the wave pool, and enjoy adult beverages at the swim-up bar. With so much to experience, everyone finds their oasis at America’s largest indoor waterpark.
Barley Creek Brewing Company | Gem and Keystone Brewpub
Don’t forget to eat! Embark on a delicious adventure at a Pocono Mountains brewery. Both Barley Creek Brewing Company and the The ShawneeCraft Brewery at Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort offer craft beer and appetizing food available to go.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area
Wrap up your day and bundle up for nighttime snow tubing! Slide down the slopes and experience an adrenaline rush as you fly down the mountains in the crisp winter air. Shawnee Mountain Ski Area and White Lightning Tubing offer snow tubing during the day and into the evening hours. Tip: Snow tubing tickets will be sold online only so be sure to order your ticket before you arrive.
Camelback Mountain
Interested in a tubing encounter that’s out of this world? Camelback Mountain has Galactic snowtubing, which displays music and an LED lightshow that lights up the lanes after dark.
Split Rock Resort | Great Wolf Lodge
Stay close to the action at Split Rock resort and Great Wolf Lodge. Both resorts are close to Pocono ski areas, restaurants, and waterparks.
Day 3
Delaware Highlands Conservancy
Start your morning with bald eagle watching, a popular winter pastime in the Upper Delaware Riverregion. Hit route 402 and travel more than 40 minutes to join the Delaware Highlands Conservancy for an eagle-watching tour on select dates and catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures from some of the area’s most special viewing spots including the Upper Delaware Scenic Recreation River and Lackawaxen River. The eagles migrate to the Pocono Mountains during the winter months for an optimum, eco-friendly habitat. Bald eagle watching takes flight December through March.
Glass – Wine.Bar.Kitchen
Journey south to Hawley and visit Glass – Wine.Bar.Kitchen in the Ledges Hotel for stunning views of a cascading waterfall backdrop. The restaurant is currently offering its full menu for takeout, too.
Hawley Silk Mill
Just a stone’s throw away, Hawley Silk Mill is home to exquisite shops and galleries. Peruse the Mill, and find clothing and shoes, antiques, home accessories, and even specialty beer. Browse the beautiful artwork of some of the best locally talented artists showcased in The Looking Glass Art Gallery.
Academy Street Bed & Breakfast | James Manning House B&B | Mansion at Noble Lane
After your stroll, spend the night at a charming bed and breakfast. We suggest: Academy Street Bed & Breakfast, the James Manning House B&B, and the Mansion at Noble Lane.