As someone who was born and raised in Philadelphia, going to the Poconos during ski season is just what is done. Just as normal as birds sitting on tree branches.
So I can tell you that if you’re on the East Coast and are looking for someplace to enjoy the winter OR summer season, the Poconos is one of the places you should put on your list.
Some things you should be know when planning a stay in the Poconos:
- The mountains are good for skiing even though not as high as west coast mountains
- Many rivers, some good for white water rafting
- Only about 2 hours from Philadelphia
- Summer activities are as abundant as winter activities
What To Do in the Poconos
Skiing is the number one activity in the winter season in the Poconos.
Snowfall happens just about every winter. In the event that snowfall isn’t as high as needed, the resorts make their own snow.
So there’s always opportunity to ski in the Poconos.
Vacation Essentials
Tech & Entertainment | Travel Essentials | Beach Items | Skincare and Wellness |
---|---|---|---|
TP-Link Deco Travel Router – Creates a private, secure Wi-Fi network in your resort room. | Inateck Electronics Organizer Travel Case – Organizes chargers, cables, and small tech. | Dock & Bay Microfiber Beach Towel – Quick-drying and sand-resistant. | Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase – Reduces friction and protects skin overnight. |
Bluetooth Key Finder – Compact tracker for keys or other small items. | Hanging Toiletry Bag by BagSmart – Keeps toiletries organized and accessible. | Speedo Swim Goggles – Ideal for snorkeling or swimming. | Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Spray – Water-resistant for long-lasting protection. |
Amazon Basics 4-Port USB Wall Charger – Compact and convenient for charging multiple devices simultaneously. | Osprey Daylite Daypack – Lightweight backpack for outings. | Waterproof Phone Case by JOTO – Protects phones while swimming or snorkeling. | Face Mask by Dr. Jart+ – Rehydrates and revitalizes skin after a long day. |
Solar Charger Power Bank – High-capacity charger for keeping all your devices powered on the go. | Zoppen Travel Wallet and Organizer – Keeps all your travel documents secure. | Sea Star Beachcomber Espadrilles – Water-friendly and comfortable footwear. | Herbivore After-Sun Mist – Cools and soothes skin after sun exposure. |
Summer Activities – White Water Rafting
As I stated above, there are a lot of rivers in the Poconos.
That provides opportunities to go white water rafting.
The class of white water rafting in the Poconos ranges from Class I to Class III.
I took a trip to Jim Thorpe, PA (in the Pocono Mountains) and did a Class II white water rafting experience.
I’ve got to stay, I was a little nervous at first. I swim “OK” and was worried what would happen as we went down the river.
The day we took our trip, they opened the dam so that we got a longer trip down the river.
I can tell you this: It was one of the best experiences of my life!
So if you’ve never been white water rafting and are worried you’ll get tossed out the raft, you can put those fears aside.
A Class II white water rafting experience is actually mild. Many parts of the river was just paddling down stream.
Summer Activities – Water Parks
When I first was invited to go to the Poconos it was summertime.
I thought, “What are we supposed to do in the Poconos in the summer?”
I was pleasantly surprised when we arrived at the resort and saw all the waterslides and other theme park activities.
Just about every ski resort in the Poconos turns their ski resort into a water park.
So it really doesn’t matter when you have availability to visit the Poconos, you’re sure to have plenty to do.
Romanic Encounters
Another thing that draws people to the Poconos is as a honeymoon/romantic destination.
As you might be able to guess, I’ve stayed in the Poconos for an anniversary.
You’ve heard of the Champaigne glass shaped hot tubs.
And yeah, it’s a thing.
We didn’t stay in one of those rooms.
Instead, we had a heart-shaped pool IN our room!
It was a unique experience that I haven’t experienced at any hotel room – not even in Las Vegas!
Plan Your Stay in the Poconos
Hopefully you can see, there’s a lot to do in the Poconos regardless of whether you visit in the winter or summer.
Here are some places we think you’ll like to stay when you visit the Poconos.