On the southern edge of the Pocono Mountains lies Jim Thorpe, a town named after the famous athlete who became the first Native American to win a gold medal for the US in the Olympics of 1912. Known as the “Little Switzerland of America,” this town may just be one of the Keystone State’s best-kept secrets.
Growing up in South Central Pennsylvania, this corner of the state wasn’t on our radar, and it wasn’t until moving away from the area that we realized that this quaint little town was right under our noses our entire lives! Although we had a rather short stay in Jim Thorpe over Memorial Day weekend, we fell in love with the area, and we’ve since urged our entire families, friends, and really anyone who will listen, to visit posthaste!
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Things To Do in Jim Thorpe, PA
–Shop around the multiple unique little stores on West Broadway on the south side of the Lehigh River. This part of Jim Thorpe is what I would call the “historic district” as it has maintained its old-timey, somewhat Victorian charm of years past.
–Book a train ride through the mountains on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Tickets cost $17 for adults and include a 70-minute scenic ride that parallels the Lehigh River. If you are looking for a more active experience, you can ride the train 25 miles north to White Haven, PA, and return to Downtown Jim Thorpe by bike on a trail that runs slightly downhill.
– Explore the bolder field (pictured above) in the northeastern corner of Hickory Run State Park. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Jim Thorpe, this park also is home to waterfalls, trout streams, and over 40 miles of hiking trails.
-Visit Lehigh Gorge State Park to walk or bike the path past Luke’s Falls and Buttermilk Falls. If the weather is good, there are multiple vendors that will take you on a kayaking/rafting excursion down the Lehigh River.
-Walk or bike the Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail, along the Lehigh River. No bike? No problem. Rent one right across the street from the trail at Pocono Biking. Be sure to cross the Mansion House Pedestrian Bridge over the Lehigh River and take in the views!
– Check out the Old Jail Museum which dates back to 1871. Book a tour and enjoy some haunting history.
Where to Eat in Jim Thorpe, PA
-Grab a drink from the sidewalk bar of The Albright Room Speakeasy and enjoy it in the streets. According to our bartender, open containers are a perfectly legal indulgence in Jim Thorpe!
-Grab a coffee at Mugglets Mug. This magical Harry Potter-themed café is right in town and provides the perfect ambiance for grabbing a morning bite (and kicking the hangover you may have gotten from the speakeasy).
-Have dinner or lunch at Molly Miguire’s. This laidback Irish pub has great food and beer at even better prices and boasts live music every Thursday!
-Make an after-dark reservation at Stone Row Pub and Eatery and dine on the deck beside the old stables in the woods. It makes for quite a romantic experience – complete with fairy lights!
-Be sure to get some Bloody Mary’s and grub from Union Publik House. This little bar has some amazing food and is not to be missed…. just ask the locals.
Other Tips for Visiting Jim Thorpe, PA
–Stay: Parking can be tricky downtown, so it may be advantageous to stay in the area. This Airbnb is located in town, sleeps four, and comes with two off-street parking spots. There are ample other affordable places to stay as well, but no matter where you choose, be sure to book well in advance. Jim Thorpe is an extremely popular tourist destination for leaf peepers and Christmas-cheer-seekers. The town hosts a Fall Foliage festival in October and an Olde Time Christmas extravaganza in December, and from what we’ve heard, they are both not to be missed!
Jim Thorpe is, without a doubt, a must-visit PA destination. With its mix of historic charm, outdoor adventure, and cozy local spots to eat and unwind, it’s the perfect weekend getaway. So if you’re looking for your next road trip destination, or just need a refreshing escape from city life, add Jim Thorpe to your list—you’ll be glad you did.
