4 minute read
Toasting NEPA's Tiny Towns!
Our corner of the world is filled with small towns, each with their own defining characteristics and quirks. Like a friend you haven’t met yet… let’s get to know just a few of them!
Honesdale, PA
Nestled in the heart of Wayne County lies the charming borough of Honesdale. Founded in 1831, the town was named after former NYC Mayor Philip Hone, who also served as president of the Delaware & Hudson (D&H) Canal Company. The town sprawled around the canal as coal was shipped from nearby mines to the Hudson River and eventually to New York City.
The town is lush with historical attractions and is known as “The Birthplace of the American Railroad.” The first steam engine locomotive, “The Stourbridge Lion,” made its maiden run here in 1829. The 300-foot high Irving Cliff (named after author Washington Irving) is home to the trademark star, which shines brightly through the holiday season. Speaking of which... the holiday staple song “Winter Wonderland” was written by resident Richard Smith when he was inspired by snowfall over the town’s Central Park.
Today the town has evolved to become a great place to visit. Restaurants, shops, breweries and even railroad excursions make it the perfect place to stop by. BONUS: the holiday season is truly a wonderful sight to see!
Hawley, PA
Hawley, PA is just a short trip down the road from Woodloch Resort. Like Honesdale, the town was named after the first President of the Pennsylvania Coal Company, Irad Hawley. The town itself has remained relatively small in size through the years, but the surrounding area has blossomed into a recreational haven for water lovers of all sorts!
Lake Wallenpaupack was created almost 100 years ago when the nearby town of Wilsonville was flooded to make way for an electric production dam. The lake spans 13 miles from end to end with over 52 miles of shoreline. Fisherman, water skiers, tubers, and of course, those just looking to enjoy scenic boat tours will love everything about the lake. If you pop into town, check out a show at the famous Ritz Playhouse or have a cocktail by the side of a waterfall at Ledges Hotel.
Milford, PA
Just across the border of the great state of New Jersey resides the town of Milford, Pennsylvania. As the crossroads for folks traveling all over the tri-state area, it certainly sees its share of visitors all year long! Despite the large number of travelers that pass through, the town still only has around 1,000 full time residents.
Perhaps Milford’s most famous “resident” is The Grey Towers historic site. An important landmark in the American conservation movement, this incredible estate was donated to the National Forest Service. President John F. Kennedy himself spoke at the dedication ceremony. The meticulously maintained mansion features beautiful gardens, striking architecture, reflection pools and faultless stonework to say the least! Book a tour to explore the equally impressive interior!
Milford’s geographical location make it the perfect place to settle down and stay for the night. Enjoy a fancy dinner at several esteemed eateries… or keep it casual at an assortment of diners and dives. Call it a night and book a room at your choice of hotels!
Jim Thorpe,PA
If you didn’t know any better, you might mistake the former town of “Mauch Chunk” Pennsylvania for a model village. In fact, it’s been further nicknamed the “Switzerland of America.” Mountains and rivers intersect at this charming town, named after the Olympic hero and NFL champion.
The town has become a bit of a mecca for travelers, and with good reason! Visitors can hop aboard a train, loop around the valley and take in breathtaking sights. Restaurants and coffee shops aplenty await upon return. Great entertainment can be found at the famous Mauch Chunk opera house as well as Penn’s Peak!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GREAT TOWNS OF THE POCONOS HERE!
All photos courtesy Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau
