The winter season in the Poconos is a magical time of year when the mountains are covered in a glistening layer of wintry delight and cheer. As one of the most popular cold-weather destinations in the country, the Poconos region offers a wide range of exciting activities for winter enthusiasts.
But that's not all; there are plenty of great restaurants, shopping destinations, entertainment venues, and attractions to explore. So, if you plan to visit the Poconos this winter, check out some of these top-rated spots!
Nature's Playground: Outdoor Adventures in the Poconos
Snow tubing and skiing/snowboarding are fun winter activities in the Pocono Mountains.Â
Snow tubing is an easy and enjoyable way to experience the slopes. The Camelback Mountain snow tubing park offers various lanes for all skill levels, and you can enjoy the scenic views while riding to the top of the mountain. They also offer snow tubing at night, with beautiful illuminated lights on the snow!
Pro Tip:Â Getting a good night's sleep before going tubing is essential.
Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts can find challenging slopes at Jack Frost Big Boulder Ski Area, with nearly 150 acres of snow-covered terrain and 35 trails for all levels. The resort also features a ski and snowboard school to help beginners or experienced skiers improve their skills.Â
Both Camelback Mountain and Jack Frost Ski Areas are great options for a fun winter adventure in the Poconos.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to arrive at the ski resort bright and early! You'll be able to enjoy the fresh powder, beat the rush, and have a fantastic day on the slopes!
Ice skating is a popular activity during the winters in the Poconos, thanks to the relaxed and snowy weather.
Whether an experienced skater or a beginner, you will find various options, including indoor and outdoor rinks, frozen streams, and ponds. These locations offer thousands of square feet of smooth ice to enjoy.Â
Pro-tip: Always take necessary precautions and make sure to assess the safety of the ice before skating.
Looking for a unique outdoor ice-skating experience in the Poconos?
I recommend visiting Tobyhanna State Park, Hickory Run State Park, Gouldsboro State Park, or Promised Land State Park. However, remember that the ice thickness at outdoor rinks is not monitored, so skate at your own risk.
Don't let the cold weather dampen your travel plans. Make sure to pack all the essential items for your winter travel. Check out our Winter Packing List and ensure a hassle-free and comfortable trip.
Indoor Adventures and WaterparksÂ
Plan a day out with your loved ones at a local family fun park and chase away the winter blues!Â
Pocono Rocks offers a ninja warrior course and boulder climbing wall for a thrilling experience. If you're a sports enthusiast, Dropshots Pickleball is a must-try, as it combines the best of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. You can also enjoy a ride around the track at S&S Speedways - Indoor Go-Karts or head back in time to play classic games at The Arcade Era.
Looking for an escape from the cold winter weather? Look no further than the indoor waterpark resorts in the Poconos! With a guaranteed tropical temperature of 84 degrees, you can conquer the thrilling slides, brave the wave pool, or simply relax by the cabanas.Â
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions is home to America's largest indoor waterparks, a 220,000-square-foot enclosed paradise.Â
H2Oooohh! Indoor Waterpark at Split Rock Resort features three four-story slides and a Flow Rider for those seeking an adrenaline rush.Â
In their recent multi-million dollar expansion, Great Wolf Lodge has added seven new slides to their impressive roster of slides, pools, play areas, and dump buckets.Â
And after a day on the slopes, you can still enjoy the aquatic adventures at Camelback Lodge & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark. You can either book a day pass or stay overnight to experience everything these resorts offer.
Take a look at our Spring Break essentials list to simplify your packing process!
Perfect Pairings: Brews and Bites
Pennsylvania is home to nearly 300 breweries, making it a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts.
The Pocono Beverage Trail offers a unique experience for craft beverage lovers, combining beer, wine, and spirits trail. You can craft your adventure by exploring the best wineries, breweries, and distilleries throughout the picturesque Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.Â
Susquehanna Brewing Company is a fantastic spot to stay warm and indulge in weekly events, great beer, and mouth-watering food. Picture yourself sitting by the fireplace, sipping on a cold beer, surrounded by the cozy ambiance of the brewery.Â
Enjoy dinner and drinks while admiring the frosty Big Boulder Lake at Boulder View Tavern, or catch the big game and enjoy some burgers at Trackside Station Grill & Bar.
During our stroll along Race Street in Jim Thorpe, we were lucky enough to discover Nomad Distillery. This place offers not only tastings and bottle sales but much more. I ordered a warm Naughty Nog - a spiced bourbon and coffee concoction - and it did not disappoint. Absolutely delicious!
Fuel Your Adventures: Must-Visit Coffee Shops in the Poconos
Are you a coffee lover who enjoys exploring new cafes and coffee shops? If you find yourself in the Pocono Mountains, you're in luck!Â
The local cafes and coffee spots here are known for crafting unique and delicious seasonal specialties using ethically sourced, small-batch beans. There's something for every coffee enthusiast, from cold brew to single-origin and the ever-popular lattes.Â
Four local establishments stand out for their exceptional coffee quality and welcoming atmospheres.Â
Camp Umpy's Bagels and Stuff is a cozy cafe in the heart of Stroudsburg. They offer various bagels and baked goods, but their coffee is the real star. The beans are locally roasted, and the baristas are knowledgeable and friendly.Â
Chantilly Goods is a charming boutique cafe in Hawley serving an impressive selection of specialty drinks and food. Their coffee is sourced from a local roaster and offers unique syrups and flavors to add to your drink.Â
Cocoon Coffeehouse & Bakery in Hawley offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with plenty of seating and a warm fireplace. Their coffee is roasted in-house and has plenty of baked goods and breakfast options to accompany your drink.
Moka Origins is a coffee roaster and cafe located in Honesdale. They source their beans directly from farmers worldwide and roast them in small batches for maximum flavor. They offer unique blends and single-origin options that impress any coffee lover.Â
If you're looking for the perfect cup of coffee in the Pocono Mountains, check out these local cafes!Â
Snowy Night InÂ
The Pocono Mountains are a perfect winter weekend getaway destination in northeastern Pennsylvania. Known for its beautiful snowy forests and rocky peaks, serene river valleys, and glacial lakes, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, birdwatching, and whitewater rafting.
When traveling, I always rent a place rather than stay in a hotel. It is a more authentic experience that immerses me in the local culture. Plus, having a comfortable and private relaxing place is always a huge bonus.
 To help you find a suitable accommodation, we have compiled a list of Airbnb rentals:
Poconos Basecamp
Poconos Basecamp offers families the ultimate vacation experience. This cozy cabin is in the Arrowhead Lake Community, where comfort, adventure, and relaxation await amidst the lush trees. The Basecamp is located less than 20 minutes away Jack Frost Big Boulder Ski Resort as well as Camelback Resort and Indoor Waterpark
Location: Coolbaugh, PA
Sleeps: 8 guests · 3 bedrooms · 5 beds · 2 baths
Pet friendly:Â Pets allowedÂ
Amenities: The property boasts various amenities, including a lovely porch connected to a fully- modernized kitchen.
The indoor fireplace creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a favorite feature in the home. Additionally, the living room offers plenty of comfortable seating options, allowing us to relax and unwind easily.
The gaming area is fully equipped with a variety of family-friendly games.Â
Moving outside, you will discover a fire pit with plenty of seats to accommodate multiple guests, kayaks that can be used to explore the nearby lakes and an outdoor dining area with a grill for cooking.
Moreover, there are two nearby lakes, four beaches, three outdoor heated pools, multiple playgrounds, sports courts, and a fitness center for you to enjoy.
Monarch Cottage
Monarch Cottage is a cozy cabin in Locust Lake Village, a private community that provides families with the ultimate vacation experience. The cottage is minutes from popular Camelback and Jack Frost resorts and Kalahari, the world's largest indoor water park!
This charming cottage seamlessly blends classic chalet vibes with modern comfort, making it the perfect getaway retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a private lake community. Immerse yourself in relaxation as you soak in the brand-new hot tub or unwind in the hammock.
With three inviting bedrooms, including a spacious 4-bed bunk room with a TV lounge, there's ample space for everyone.
The sun-drenched great room and expansive deck offer plenty of room for everyone to find their quiet corner. Use community amenities, including three private lakes, sandy beaches, playgrounds, tennis courts, fishing, ski slopes, and sledding hills. Monarch Cottage is truly a four-season destination!Â
Location: Locust Lake Village, PA
Sleeps: 6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 6 beds · 1 baths
Amenities: Â The property features a new hot tub, deck with hammock, and firepit outside. Inside is a 4-bedroom bunk room with classic video games, a TV lounge, a high chair, and a play-and-pack.
The spacious and bright living area, complete with a cozy fireplace, is perfect for relaxing and spending time with loved ones. A fully equipped kitchen will help you make meals and memories with your family and friends!
Check out our recent Cozy Cabin Chat interview with Monarch Cottages super hosts Travis and Tenille.
Firefly Stay
The Firefly Stay is a recently renovated mountain home in the picturesque Indian Mountain Lakes Community of the Pocono Mountains. Whether planning a family reunion or a gathering with friends, this spacious and trendy escape offers the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure, making you feel at home. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and mountain vibes, and capture picture-perfect moments to cherish forever!
With four bedrooms (and a fantastic bunk room) and a range of bed options, we ensure that everyone in your group feels comfortable.Â
Location: Albrightsville, Pennsylvania
Sleeps: 10 guests · 4 bedrooms · 7 beds· 2 baths
Amenities: Â Imagine relaxing by a cozy fire pit, roasting marshmallows, and laughing with friends. The hot tub fits 7 people, and you can unwind surrounded by nature and daily deer visits. The whimsical design of the home includes a 3D plant wall with a neon sign. The oversized cloud sectional is ideal for gathering, while the 75" backlit TV brings fantastical tales to life. Cook burgers on the grill and enjoy sides prepared in the fully stocked kitchen areas. Then, sit at the custom dining table beneath the breathtaking 'cloud' lighting and cascading flowers. Every room in this home promises magical moments and cherished memories for years.
If you prefer to spend a cozy night at an Airbnb, grab a few bottles of beer or wine from a local brewery and whip up a delicious home-cooked meal. This is a perfect way to unwind and relax after a long day exploring the city.Â
You can also enjoy the comfort of your Airbnb and have a fun night with friends and family while savoring the local brews and flavors. This option saves you money and allows you to try your cooking skills and experiment with local ingredients.
We've got you covered if you're looking for foodie inspiration. Check out the delicious meals we've cooked during our various Airbnb stays - they're sure to make your mouth water!
When you visit a winter destination, it can take a toll on your body and mind. Therefore, it's crucial to allocate sufficient time for rest and recovery. You will cherish returning to your cozy accommodation, where you can unwind, prop up your feet, and enjoy a movie on one of the streaming services available.
With the arrival of cold weather and a long day of adventures, it's time to indulge in the ultimate winter experience. Picture this: a warm blanket wrapped around you, a delicious cup of hot cocoa in your hand, and your loved one by your side.
The perfect winter movie to complete the cozy ambiance is the only thing missing. Choose the ideal wintertime film to make your indoor retreat even more magical by utilizing one of the streaming services available.Â
Additional Resources To Make Your Getaway Extra Cozy
You should embrace the simple pleasures of each season, even in winter. Even though cold weather might not be your favorite, many beautiful and unique things can be appreciated. Don't miss out on the chance to enjoy the fresh snowfall, savor a cup of coffee while sweet deer pass by your window, listen to the crackle of the fireplace, and notice all the unique things about winter in the Poconos. Take pleasure in the little joys that come your way, and don't forget to let your heart smile.
The winter season can be just as enjoyable as any other as long as you have the right mindset and know how to appreciate it. For more winter resources, refer to this section on the blog!
And if you’re looking for help planning your next winter getaway, we’d love to help.Â