Escape the City: Pocono Mountains, PA

Image by Nicholas A. Tonelli
Image by Nicholas A. Tonelli

Isn’t it great that, as Philadelphians, we don’t have to travel far to enjoy a wonderful weekend in the mountains? Snowcapped or not, the mountain tops are absolutely beautiful in the winter. Cozy up in a rented cabin or stay in town at one of many hotels within the Pocono area. The Pocono Mountains offer a lot this time of year, with winter being their second most popular season. The Poconos is just a quick hour and half drive north of Philadelphia, or you can easily hop on a Greyhound if you prefer not to drive.

This area carries a completely different vibe than the city. The chilly weather invites you to snuggle up near a fireplace or adventure out to take part in winter activities. The official website of the Pocono Mountains list just about everything you need to plan the perfect escape.

LODGING

Camelback is the highest summit within the Pocono mountain range, and is one of the most popular attractions in the region, complete with its own resort. Camelback Resort is modern family lodge that has over 450 guest suites. They have many package deals like their “Ski, Stay and Save,” which includes $30 lift tickets; or the “Zoom and Zip” package that take your through the mountain via mountain coaster or zip line.

If you want to stay away from the action, take a ride through the windy, tree lined roads and you will find cabins and cottages placed ever so perfectly within the scenery. TripAdvisor compiled a list of the ten best Pocono Mountain Cabin Rentals. Choose from modern built to traditional log style rentals.

Image via Tripadvisor
Image via Tripadvisor

ACTIVITIES

Everyone knows about skiing, tubing, and snowboarding – but there are other fun activities to partake in during your time in northeastern Pennsylvania. Camelback Resort has an indoor waterpark, Aquatopia that puts you right back in the summer season. Visit the Harry Packer Mansion for a tour of the Victorian style home that sits elevated on Packer Hill in Jim Thorpe. The mansion was one of the  inspirations for the Haunted Mansion in Walt Disney World!

There’s always the option to shop ‘til you drop. Shopping at The Crossings Premium Outlets offers 100 brand names and designer shops. If you feeling playful, join a team and battle it out at Skirmish Paintball – one of the best paintballing facilities in the world with 50 different fields.

FOOD

The Poconos has its fair share of eateries. So once you finish your activity of choice, you’ll have plenty of options on where to chow down. Trackside Bar and Grill is known for their Derailed chicken wings. Choose from six sauces, including citrus chipotle and ginger teriyaki. The quaint Italian, family-owned business, Bloomin’ Onion Restaurant, always provides a good selection. They even do a BBQ on the weekends. Or enjoy live music while you dine at The Pour House. At this log cabin, you’ll find a generous list of comfort food and cocktail drinks.

What do you like to do in the Poconos? You have plans to make a trip up there this winter?