Weekend Getaway in the Poconos

_{^{Note: This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here}}

Because sometimes you just need fresh air, flannel, and a fire crackling louder than your inbox notifications.

Why the Poconos Should Be Your Next Weekend Getaway

If your soul’s been craving the smell of pine trees and the sound of nothing but your own thoughts (and maybe a few chickadees), you’re in the right place. The Poconos, a mountain region tucked in northeastern Pennsylvania, offer that perfect mix of cozy cabins, outdoor adventures, and nostalgic small-town charm. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, sipping wine by the fire, or just escaping your Wi-Fi, this guide will help you plan the perfect weekend getaway in the Poconos.

Let’s Dig In.

The Quick Answer: How to Plan the Perfect Poconos Weekend

If you only have two or three days, here’s the ultimate Poconos weekend itinerary to maximize your mountain time:

• Stay: Book a cozy cabin like Pocono Mountain Farms or other accommodations near Lake Harmony or Jim Thorpe for easy access to trails and restaurants.
  
• Play: Visit Bushkill Falls, hike the Lehigh Gorge Trail, and unwind at a local spa.
  
• Eat: Enjoy breakfast at Café Duet, lunch at Barley Creek Brewing Company, and dinner at The Frogtown Chophouse.
  
• Relax: End your night in a hot tub under the stars. (Trust me—this is the move.)
  

But to really soak in the Poconos experience, let’s dive deeper into where to go, what to eat, and how to make your mountain retreat one for the books.

 1. Finding Your Perfect Poconos Cabin Retreat

There’s something undeniably magical about waking up to misty mountains outside your window and a steaming mug of coffee in your hand. Cabins in the Poconos come in every flavor—luxury lodges, rustic hideaways, and everything in between.

Lake Harmony:
Perfect for couples or families who want a mix of lakeside relaxation and nearby adventure. You’ll find Airbnbs with fireplaces, decks, and even kayaks waiting by the dock.

Jim Thorpe:
This town feels like you stumbled into a Victorian snow globe. Its colorful architecture, cobblestone streets, and boutique inns are perfect for travelers who love charm with a side of history.

Pro Tip:
Book cabins early for fall weekends—especially mid-October, when the leaves are pure fire (literally, they look like flames in tree form).

 2. Outdoor Adventures You Can’t Miss in the Poconos

Sure, cozying up inside is great, but the Poconos are made to be explored. The region’s trails, waterfalls, and wildlife turn any weekend into a mini adventure.

Bushkill Falls (“The Niagara of Pennsylvania”):
Eight cascading waterfalls wind through forest trails that range from easy strolls to heart-pumping hikes. The Green Trail (shown in the photo) has steep steps and can be slippery but worth the “hike”.

Lehigh Gorge Trail:
Perfect for bikers and hikers, this trail follows an old railroad path with scenic river views. You might even spot a bald eagle if you’re lucky.

Winter Sports:
If you’re visiting in colder months, hit Camelback Mountain or Jack Frost Big Boulder for skiing, tubing, and snowboarding—because hot cocoa tastes better after a day on the slopes.

Pro Tip:
Pack layers. The Poconos weather changes faster than your GPS reroutes when you miss an exit.

3. Eat, Sip, and Snack Your Way Through the Mountains

One of the best surprises in the Poconos? The food scene. From cozy diners to craft breweries, you’ll never go hungry—or thirsty.

Breakfast:
Start your day at Café Duet in Stroudsburg. Locally roasted coffee, Le Chocolat, and a playlist that makes you want to stay all morning.

Lunch:
Head to Barley Creek Brewing Company for mountain-style pub fare and locally brewed beer. Try the jumbo soft pretzel or the fried pickles if you like things on the spicy side; you’ll thank me later.

Dinner:
End the day with a soft light dinner at The Frogtown Chophouse, a local favorite for upscale comfort food. Their seafood trio or mushroom risotto is the stuff of dreams.

Pro Tip:
Make reservations if you’re traveling during ski season or leaf-peeping weekends. These spots fill up fast!

🧘 4. Where to Relax and Recharge

After all that hiking and eating (which, let’s be honest, is the best kind of cardio), you’ll need a little downtime.

Spa Day:
Check out The Lodge at Woodloch, an award-winning destination spa that blends nature and luxury. Even if you’re not staying overnight, their day passes are worth every penny.

Lake Time:
Rent a kayak or paddleboard on Lake Wallenpaupack for a lazy afternoon on the water. The views? Unreal.

Stargazing:
End your night outside your cabin with a blanket and a thermos of cocoa. The sky in the Poconos is so clear you can actually see the Milky Way. Bonus: no city noise, just crickets.

5. Hidden Gems & Local Finds You’ll Want to Bring Home

Beyond the scenic trails and spa robes, the Poconos hide some enjoyable shopping and sightseeing.

Downtown Stroudsburg:
A treasure chest of antique shops, art galleries, and mom-and-pop cafés. Olde Engine Works has the kind of vintage finds you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.

Callie’s Candy Kitchen:
A sweet stop that’s been making fudge and chocolates since the 1950s. Warning: you’ll walk out with more than you planned.

Pro Tip:
Save a little trunk space for souvenirs—you’ll regret not grabbing that local maple syrup or hand-thrown mug.

6. When to Visit the Poconos

The beauty of the Poconos is that every season offers something different:

• Fall: Vibrant foliage and crisp hikes.
  
• Winter: Skiing, tubing, and fireside snuggles.
  
• Spring: Waterfalls at full flow.
  
• Summer: Lakeside adventures and farmers’ markets.

If you love a cozy vibe and fewer crowds, aim for late September through early November. That’s prime leaf-peeping and cabin season.

Your Mountain Reset Awaits

A weekend getaway in the Poconos is more than a trip; it’s a breath of fresh mountain air for your mind, body, and taste buds. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, sipping wine, or simply watching the fog roll over the pines, you’ll leave feeling lighter, calmer, and ready for whatever Monday throws your way.

And if this trip has you thinking about exploring more on your own, check out my post How to Build Confidence While Traveling Solo as a Woman, it’s full of tips to help you embrace independence and adventure, no matter where the road leads.

So pack your flannel, bring your curiosity, and plan that cabin escape. The Poconos are calling—and trust me, they’re worth answering.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

– Beth