Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids
If you are planning a trip to the Poconos in Pennsylvania as a family vacation there are so many things to do. This list of things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with kids will help you with your trip planning.
Things to do with Kids in the Pocono Mountains
If you are taking a trip to the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania with kids there are many Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kidsthat the whole family will enjoy.
Depending on the time of year that you are visiting the Poconos there are different Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids. When you are planning a family vacation to the Poconos with kids there are plenty of outside activities. There are also many indoor things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids that the whole family will enjoy on a getaway to the Poconos.
I grew up living in the Poconos. After spending about 10 years living in New Jersey I moved my family back to the Poconos. In this list of Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids, you are going to find many things that are not on other lists of Things to do in the Poconos.
Where are the Pocono Mountains Located?
The Pocono Mountains are located in northeastern Pennsylvania, primarily in Monroe County. The region extends across parts of several other counties as well, including Pike, Wayne, and Carbon. There are many towns in this area that are included as a part of being in the Poconos. Some of the towns in this area are Stroudsburg, East Stroudsburg, Hawley, Mount Pocono, Tannersville, and Bartonsville. This list of things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids includes places in the different towns of the Poconos.
What is the Pocono Mountains?
The Pocono Mountains are a popular destination known for scenic beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and resorts. They are within a few hours’ drive from major cities like New York City and Philadelphia. This makes visiting easily accessible for visitors from those areas.
Is the Poconos a good place to visit with kids?
Yes! The Poconos is an excellent destination for a family vacation with kids. There are many things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids. The region offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different age groups and interests, ensuring there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
From water parks and outdoor adventures to wildlife encounters and educational experiences, the Pocono Mountains provide a diverse array of Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids. Whether you’re seeking thrilling rides, scenic hikes, interactive museums, or simply quality time in nature, the Poconos has it all.
Things to do in the Poconos With Kids
There are many things that you can do all year round when you are visiting the Poconos with kids. If you are coming during the winter season or the summer season there are other options of things to do with kids in the Poconos. There are plenty of Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids no matter what time of year you are visiting.
Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Waterpark
Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos is a family-friendly resort and indoor water park that is great for kids of all ages. Located in Scotrun, Pa Great Wolf Lodge is a resort that offers family-friendly amenities and activities including an indoor waterpark.
The highlight is the expansive indoor water park. Visitors can zip down thrilling water slides, float along lazy rivers, splash in wave pools, and explore interactive play areas. Beyond the water park, families can enjoy a range of other attractions and entertainment options, such as mini-golf, arcade games, a ropes course, and a kids’ spa.
The resort also offers comfortable accommodations, including themed suites and cozy cabins, to suit different family sizes and preferences. There are multiple dining options, a dedicated kids’ club, and regular interactive shows. Great Wolf Lodge in the Poconos ensures a fun-filled and immersive experience for the entire family.
Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark
Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark is located within Camelback Resort in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. The water park is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy its attractions regardless of the weather outside.
With a diverse range of attractions, visitors can plunge down thrilling water slides, navigate winding waterways, and conquer exhilarating wave pools. The park’s unique features include the Venus Slydetrap slide, Storm Chaser, and the incredible Bombora FlowRider for simulated surfing. Aquatopia also caters to younger guests with kid-friendly play areas featuring interactive water features and mini slides.
From the exciting Adventure River to the blissful hot tubs, Aquatopia offers something for everyone. There are multiple dining options, an arcade, and more that the whole family will enjoy. This makes it a great place for family fun and relaxation.
Kalahari Indoor Waterpark
Kalahari Waterpark is located in Pocono Manor, Pa. This African-themed water park offers an array of thrilling slides, exhilarating water coasters, and exciting water play areas for all ages. From the thrilling Victoria Falls raft ride to the high-speed Anaconda water roller coaster, there are adrenaline-pumping attractions for the daring. Younger visitors can enjoy the interactive play areas, splash pads, and gentle slides designed just for them.
The park also features a massive wave pool, lazy river, whirlpools, and relaxing hot tubs for those seeking a more laid-back experience. With its African-themed decor, a variety of dining options, and a range of amenities, Kalahari Indoor Waterpark provides great fun for the whole family.
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm is a unique and immersive attraction nestled in the serene countryside of the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. This living history museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rural farm life of the 19th century. Spanning over 100 acres, the farm showcases original buildings, restored structures, and a working farm where visitors can experience authentic demonstrations and hands-on activities.
As you explore the farm, you can interact with costumed interpreters who skillfully recreate the daily tasks and chores of a bygone era. From tending to farm animals and cultivating crops to blacksmithing and hearth cooking, you can engage in various activities that offer a true sense of the challenges and triumphs of early farm life.
Go Roller Skating at Big Wheel
Big Wheel is known for its roller skating rink. They provide a spacious and well-maintained roller skating area where visitors can enjoy skating with friends and family. The rink is suitable for both beginners and experienced skaters.
Visit Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” is a breathtaking natural attraction nestled in the Pocono Mountains. Known for its awe-inspiring beauty, Bushkill Falls is a series of eight cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the well-maintained trails that wind through the forest, offering spectacular views of the falls from various vantage points.
The main falls, known as the “Main Falls,” plummet down a 100-foot drop, creating a mesmerizing sight and a soothing sound of rushing water. Along the way, you can discover smaller falls, bridges, and lookout points that provide stunning photo opportunities. The trails cater to all levels of hikers, with options for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes.
Horseback Riding
Even if you have never ridden a horse before you can take a trail ride at Mountain Creek Riding Stables in Cresco, Pa. With a variety of scenic trails to choose from, riders of all experience levels can enjoy a memorable equestrian adventure.
The stables provide well-trained horses that are suitable for riders of different abilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. As you embark on your trail ride, you’ll meander through lush forests, meadows, and serene landscapes, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Camelbeach Outdoor waterpark
Camelbeach offers a wide array of water attractions and rides for visitors of all ages. From exhilarating water slides, such as the Triple Venom and Titan, to relaxing lazy rivers and wave pools, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park also features a variety of splash zones and play areas specifically designed for younger guests, ensuring a fun and safe experience for the whole family.
See a Nascar Race at Pocono Raceway
Depending on when you are visiting you may be able to catch a Nascar race happening at Pocono Raceway.
The NASCAR race at Pocono Raceway is an adrenaline-fueled event that attracts racing enthusiasts from around the country. Located in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, Pocono Raceway is a unique tri-oval track known for its challenging layout and thrilling racing action. The race, officially known as the “Pocono 400,” showcases the best drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series as they battle for victory on this iconic track. Fans can witness high-speed racing, daring overtakes, and intense competition as drivers navigate the three distinctive turns and long straightaways.
Camelback Adventures
Camelback Adventures offers a wide range of thrilling activities and experiences for adventurers of all ages. From adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and mountain coaster rides to treetop courses and rock climbing, there’s no shortage of heart-pounding fun.
The park also features the exhilarating Appalachian Express Mountain Coaster, where riders can navigate twists, turns, and drops at their own speed. For those seeking a unique challenge, the aerial obstacle courses and zip lines provide a thrilling and immersive experience amidst the stunning natural surroundings.
Camelback Adventures also offers exciting options for younger visitors, including a climbing wall, Euro bungee, and mini-golf.
Go Fruit Picking
One of my favorite Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids is picking fruit. There are many places where you can pick your own fruits and veggies in the Pocono area.
Gulick’s Fruit Farm. This farm is located in Bangor Pennsylvania and they have a few different picking seasons each year. They have cherry picking and apple picking depending on the season.
Gould’s Produce and Farm Market. This farm is located in Broadheadsville Pa and you can pick your own strawberries.
Heckman Orchards. Located in Effort, PA, Heckman Orchards is a family-owned orchard that offers apple picking during the harvest season.
Pocono Go-Karts and Play Park
This family-friendly amusement park offers an array of exciting activities that will keep kids entertained for hours. The main attraction is the exhilarating go-kart racing experience, where young drivers can put their skills to the test on the twisting tracks. In addition to go-karts, the park features a challenging mini-golf course where families can enjoy friendly competition.
For those seeking water-based adventures, bumper boats provide a splash-filled experience. The park also offers a range of arcade games, allowing kids to win prizes and showcase their gaming prowess.
Visit A Park or Playground
There are many parks in the area that are fun for the kids to run around and play. The playgrounds have playground equipment that is fun for the kids to play on. These are our favorite playgrounds in the Poconos to take the kids to.
- Dansbury Park in East Stroudsburg
- Resica Park in East Stroudsburg
- Mountainview Park in Tannersville
- Echo Lake Park in East Stroudsburg
- Seven Pines Park in Cresco
Go Whitewater Rafting
While this activity won’t be one that is suitable for younger children this is one that the older kids will love. At Pocono Whitewater, they specialize in whitewater rafting, kayaking, biking, and hiking experiences.
Visit Promised Land State Park
Promised Land State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. These include hiking, camping, picnicking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching. The park features numerous trails of varying lengths and difficulties, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.
The park has amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, a swimming beach, boat launches, and a visitor center with exhibits and information about the park’s natural and cultural resources.
Easy Hiking Trails in The Poconos
If you are wanting to go hiking with the kid and want easy-to-do trails and nature walk areas there are plenty in the Poconos. There are a few of our favorite places to visit for a hike with kids in the Poconos.
- Mt. Nebo Hiking trail
- Tannersville Cranberry Bog Preserve
- Bushkill Falls
- Big Pocono State Park
- Minsi Lake Nature Trail
Take a Ride down the Delaware River
Plan a day spent with Edge of the Woods, located in Delaware Water Gap Pa. This outdoor adventure spot offers Canoe, Kayak, or Raft trips down the Delaware River. They have many different options for river tours that you and the whole family can experience.
Pocono Environmental Education Center
The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) is an environmental education center. It is located in Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Families can enjoy guided hikes or self-guided walks along the trails, observing the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. Interpretive signs along the trails provide educational information. PEEC offers programs that allow families to explore the ponds and wetlands in the area. Participants can learn about aquatic ecosystems, and observe various plant and animal species. You can also participate in hands-on activities like catching and identifying pond creatures. Along with many other activities.
The specific activities and programs offered at PEEC may vary depending on the season, availability, and scheduling. Be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information regarding their family activities and programs.
Paint Pottery at Poke-a-Nose Pottery
Painting pottery at Poke-A-Nose pottery is a great activity for the whole family. You can get crafty with some pottery and pick out a piece of pottery to paint. After painting them they handle glazing and firing it. If you need it shipped to your home because you are not local they will do that too!
Swim in the Delaware River
The Delaware Water Gap is a vast National Recreation Area that spans 70,000 acres, encompassing parts of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River. This picturesque area offers a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. In addition to its extensive network of hiking and biking trails, the region is well-suited for boating and fishing enthusiasts. However, one of the most popular pastimes here is swimming, thanks to the presence of three inviting beaches.
On the Pennsylvania side, visitors can take advantage of the amenities offered at Milford Beach and Smithfield Beach. These well-maintained beaches provide convenient access to restroom facilities, boat launches, and picnic areas (although grills are not provided, you are welcome to bring your own).
From these beach locations, visitors can easily connect to the Joseph M. McDade Recreational Trail. This trail is a treat for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking river views and accommodating hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or an invigorating adventure, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides an idyllic setting for outdoor exploration and recreation.
Hickory Run State Park
The park is known for its diverse natural features, including forests, streams, waterfalls, and unique geological formations. One of its highlights is the Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark, which is a vast expanse of rocks and boulders formed over 20,000 years ago.
The Park offers a network of trails that wind through the park’s diverse landscapes. The trails range from easy to challenging, providing opportunities for all skill levels.
There is a swimming area with a sandy beach along the shores of Sand Spring Lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the designated area during the summer months, although lifeguards may not be present at all times, so caution is advised.
If you are wanting to go Camping in the Poconos, they have camping facilities, including tent and RV sites, as well as rustic cabins. The campsites offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby restroom facilities. The cabins are equipped with basic amenities and are available for rent.
Tobyhanna State Park
This state park offers a wide array of recreational activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The centerpiece of the park is the stunning 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake, where visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the clear waters. The park features multiple picnic areas, complete with grills and playgrounds, providing the perfect setting for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon in nature. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the park’s extensive trail system, which offers varying levels of difficulty and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
See a Play at Shawnee Playhouse
Seeing a play at the Shawnee Playhouse is a delightful experience that brings the magic of live theater to the Pocono Mountains. Located in Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania, this historic playhouse has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years. The theater offers a diverse lineup of productions, including comedies, dramas, musicals, and children’s shows, catering to a wide range of tastes and ages. From classic plays to contemporary performances, talented actors and actresses bring captivating stories to life on stage, captivating audiences with their talent and dedication. The intimate setting of the playhouse allows for an immersive experience, where the audience can feel connected to the performances.
Visit Pocono Snake & Animal Farm
Pocono Snake & Animal Farm is a popular family-friendly attraction located in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. The farm is home to a variety of animals, including reptiles, mammals, birds, and farm animals. Visitors can observe and learn about different species, such as snakes, alligators, turtles, lizards, monkeys, kangaroos, deer, goats, sheep, and more. The animal exhibits provide an opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with the animals and learn interesting facts about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation.
Pocono Indian Museum
The Pocono Indian Museum is a fascinating cultural attraction located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania. This museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and heritage of the Native American tribes that once inhabited the region. The museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and displays that provide insight into the daily lives, customs, and traditions of the Lenape (Delaware) Indians.
From intricately crafted pottery and tools to traditional clothing and artwork, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the indigenous culture. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s history, language, hunting practices, and spiritual beliefs through informative guided tours or self-guided exploration.
Visit a Candy Store
There are some really great candy stores in the Poconos that the kids are sure to love.
Grandpa Joe’s. This store is a whimsical and nostalgic haven for candy enthusiasts of all ages. As soon as you step through the doors, you’ll be transported back to a bygone era, surrounded by shelves filled with an incredible variety of candies from all over the world. From classic favorites to hard-to-find treats, Grandpa Joe’s has it all. Explore the store and discover a treasure trove of colorful sweets, including retro candies, unique sodas, novelty items, and even a selection of international treats.
Country Kettle. This charming candy store offers a wide variety of delectable treats that will satisfy any craving. Step inside and be greeted by the sight and aroma of colorful candies, chocolates, and confections. From handmade fudge and gourmet chocolates to nostalgic candies and unique flavors, Country Kettle has something to please every palate.
Callie’s Candy Kitchen. It is a delightful destination for candy enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike. Stepping into the store, you’ll be greeted by the enchanting aroma of freshly made confections. This family-owned candy shop offers a wide array of handmade treats that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From creamy fudge and delectable truffles to melt-in-your-mouth caramel apples and a variety of nostalgic candies, Callie’s Candy Kitchen has something for everyone.
Do an Escape Room
There are many Escape rooms in the Poconos that are great for Families. One of my kid’s favorite Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids is going to Escape Rooms.
Klues Escape Room. Located in Stroudsburg, PA, Klues Escape Room offers a variety of themed rooms, including “Pirates of Pocono,” “The Jungle,” and “Mission Impossible.”. Each room has its own set of challenges and puzzles.
Big Screen Escape Rooms. There are 2 locations, one in Mount Pocono and one in Tannersville Pa. Each one offers family-friendly escape rooms that the whole family can enjoy doing together.
Trap Door Escape Rooms. Located in Bartonsville, Pa this escape room is geared to older children and adults.
Go Skiing and Snowboarding
You have a few options when it comes to skiing in the Poconos. Shawnee Mountain located in east Stroudsburg Pa and Camelback Mountain located in Tannersville Pa, are 2 family-friendly options for skiing and snowboarding.
Both mountains have the option for lessons, so if the kids have never been skiing or snowboarding they can take a lesson and learn how to. They also offer lessons for adults.
We have been to both mountains and prefer Shawnee for its smaller more family-feeling atmosphere.
Go Snowtubing
Snowtubing in the Poconos is a popular winter activity that offers exhilarating fun for individuals and families. Snowtubing involves sliding down hills on inflated tubes, providing a thrilling ride without the need for any specialized equipment or skills. Participants can enjoy the excitement of gliding down the slopes, feeling the rush of the wind as they descend.
We have gone snow tubing at 2 different locations in the Poconos, Camelback Mountain, and Shawnee Mountain.
Camelback offers a dedicated snow tubing park called “Galactic Snowtubing.” It features multiple tubing lanes, a magic carpet lift, and exciting nighttime tubing sessions with LED lights and music.
Shawnee Mountain offers a snow tubing park with eight chutes and two magic carpets for convenient uphill transportation. The park is suitable for all ages and provides a thrilling tubing experience.
Exploria Resort Snowtubing. Indulge in a day of wintertime magic at the Winter Fun Center’s snow tubing hill, where your winter wonderland adventure awaits! With our ability to create our own snow, there’s no need to worry about waiting for natural snowfall.
Blue Lightening Tubing
Experience the exclusive year-round tubing destination in the picturesque Pocono Mountains! This exceptional attraction features two 400-foot tubing lanes, accompanied by a convenient Magic Carpet lift. Ascend effortlessly to the top of the tubing hill while grasping your tube, thanks to the innovative moving carpet. Once at the summit, simply step off and take a seat on your tube. You will then embark on an exhilarating ride down the specially designed Neveplast runs. These advanced surfaces enable tubing without the need for snow or water. They make it so you can enjoy the same thrill as winter tubing with the added bonus of all-season fun.
Tree Ventures
Designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, this family-friendly aerial forest experience boasts five distinct courses, each offering its own level of difficulty. Pocono TreeVentures aerial ropes course, Pocono Zip Racer, Pocono Zip Quest, and Pocono KidVentures operate year-round, weather permitting.
The heart-pounding Pocono Zip Racer awaits, featuring dual racing zip lines stretching an impressive 1,000 feet. Younger adventurers aged 4 to 7 can delight in the Pocono KidVentures course tailored just for them. Meanwhile, the exhilarating Pocono Zip Quest beckons with nine zip lines interconnected by bridges and ladders.
Every course presents a dynamic array of rope, cable, and wooden configurations, challenging your balance and agility. Prepare to conquer aerial tightropes, swinging log steps, Tru Blues, and rope ladders as you make your way between tree platforms. The advanced course even offers breathtaking views from heights exceeding 40 feet above the ground.
Kittany Canoes
Get ready to soar high above the treetops, suspended 150 feet in the air. With a heart-pounding drop equivalent to 36 stories, you’ll feel the rush of adrenaline as you embark on this thrilling descent. As you zoom through the air, spanning an impressive distance of 3,000 feet, marvel at the breathtaking bird’s eye view of the majestic river below.
Paintball Asylum
Paintball Asylum is located in Tannersville, pa. The facility offers a range of outdoor playing fields specifically designed for paintball games. These fields include wooded areas, open fields, and various structures that provide cover and strategic elements for players.
The facility provides equipment rental for players who do not have their own gear. This typically includes paintball markers (guns), masks, air tanks, and other necessary safety equipment. Rental packages are available for individuals or groups.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Train Ride
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is a popular tourist attraction located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, within the Poconos region. The railway offers scenic train rides through the picturesque Lehigh Gorge State Park.
The train ride covers approximately 16 miles round trip, taking passengers on a journey along the historic railroad tracks of the Lehigh Valley Railroad. The route offers stunning views of the Lehigh River, dense forests, and the surrounding mountains.
Pocono Mountains FAQ
There are some things that will be helpful to know when you are planning the Things to do in the Pocono Mountains Pa with Kids for your trip.
Do I need a car when visiting the Pocono Mountains with Kids?
When you are exploring this area you will want to have a car. Public transportation options are limited. The Pocono Mountains cover a wide area with various attractions and natural sites spread out. Having a car allows you to easily access different destinations, including hiking trails, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and other outdoor recreational areas. It also enables you to explore nearby towns, dine at local restaurants, and visit attractions that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.
What airports are near the Pocono Mountains?
There are several airports in close proximity to the Pocono Mountains that visitors can consider for their travel plans. There is no airport in the local area so you will want to make sure you plan the drive time. All of the airports are between 1 hour to about 3 hours from the Poconos.
- Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, this airport is about an hour’s drive from the Pocono Mountains.
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): This airport is located in Newark, New Jersey. This international airport is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the Pocono Mountains.
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): This airport is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This international airport is approximately a 2-hour drive from the Pocono Mountains.
