1. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area:
Considered one of the natural wonders of the world, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is eye candy for sore eyes. With rhododendrons blooming in early spring and surrounded by large vegetation of native hemlocks, this recreational area is a dream amongst city-dwellers.
Declared a National Recreational Area in 1978 to maintain and protect the ecological integrity of the place, this area is a favorite among those who love a relaxing drive and even to those who have sworn to raise their adrenaline rush to a subliminal level.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a huge park credited with almost 40 miles of the Delaware River. The 67,000 acres of mountains have millions of untold tales lost in the dense efflorescence, valleys and chasms.
If you are a wildlife photographer or love wildlife in general, then this place is your paradise. Affluent in various species of wildlife including bears, foxes, lynxes and chipmunks, the scenic drive is a muse in itself as you drive through more than 100 miles of picturesque views.
As much as this recreational area has a relaxed vibe, it is also perfect for the adrenaline junkies out there. With a range of invigorating activities such as zip lining, hiking, fishing, canoeing and a lot more, the recreational area is a one-stop solution for all.
2. No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum:
Priding itself as one of the oldest continuously running anthracite coal mines in Lansford, Pennsylvania, the No.9 Coal Mine and Museum gives you first-hand experience of the infamous world of coal mining.
Rich with history, the mine was operated between 1855-2022. Now that it has been converted into a tourist attraction, the professional guides take you through the mine as they explain how the town was founded on the basis of coal mines and the horrors ancestors had to endure as they strived to earn a piece of bread working in those mines.
The horrors of mine workers have given rise to the sleepy little village of Lansford whose residents now wake up to the waft of freshly brewed coffee and delicious, simple breakfasts.
3. Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark:
One of the most underrated places in the Poconos, the Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark is a great treat for your entire family. Located in Scotrun, a small town in the heart of Mt. Pocono and Tannersville, this waterpark has some of the great amenities one could ask for.
Relax in the soothing warm pool of North Hot Springs or brave yourself through Hydro plunge as you roller coaster through water, the rides are all yours. Treat your adrenaline-filled alter ego at this waterpark and let your future self thank you.
4. Claws ‘N’ Paws:
Another animal lovers haven, this zoo with its adorable name has the most adorable residents as well. Right from deer, lambs, and goats to parrots, reptiles, alligators ad pythons, Claws ‘N’ Paws boasts of housing over 120 species of fauna.
You can take a brisk walk through the zoo as you interact with the very amiable deer and lambs. Feed parrots with the help of professionals as you sip through your favorite beverage or snack on popcorn yourself. You can also spend quality time with your kids as you dig for fossils in the interactive space of Dinosaur Outpost.
5. Mount Airy Casino:
Giving a modern hue to the scenic mountains of Poconos, the Mount Airy Casino gives a respectable salud to the relaxing vibe of the hills. Located in the town of Mount Poconos, the Mount Airy Casino is a well-designed area of recreation with a touch of the modern lodge style.
Boasting 188 rooms, 1800 table games, slot machines, 4 restaurants and a beauty salon and spa, this casino is a wild ride for party lovers. Its well-architectured lakefront 18-course golf club is a great place for all golf lovers. Lose yourself in the trippy dance floors of Mount Airy Casino as you savor lip-smacking food and the best of drinks.
This is a list of just the top 5 places you should visit in the Poconos. However, Poconos is more than just a list of a handful of places. You can search for more places to visit in the Poconos, Pennsylvania that are totally worth it.