Many people associate the Poconos with camping, hiking, and other fun outdoor activities. But that’s not all there is to the area. The Pennsylvania region boasts restaurants, museums, and tourist destinations galore! Whether you prefer to get your adrenaline pumping or spend a quiet night in, you’ll be sure to find something to do here.
When you visit for the race this weekend, make sure to check out these top 8 hot spots around the Pocono Raceway!
Skirmish USA Paintball
Albrightsville, Pennsylvania
If you’re the type to seek out an adrenaline rush, Skirmish is for you! Strap on your gear and be prepared for some serious fun. With 50 different playing fields spanning 700 acres, you’ll find hours of entertainment here. Defending Tippmann Castle is a crowd favorite, but we also recommend trying out their newest field, Cargo. Skirmish has a staff team dedicated to giving you the best possible experience. So, whether you organize a group outing or go alone, you’ll have a fantastic time!
Mount Airy Casino and Resort
Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania
While you’re in the area, be sure to try your luck at Mount Airy. Bringing the Las Vegas feel to the East, Mount Airy has the latest and greatest slot machines, hopping table games, and so much more. The resort also boasts some top notch restaurants, including one from the well-known Food Network star called Guy Fieri’s Mt. Pocono Kitchen. If you order the 14 Hour Brisket, you’ll be in for some good eats. Head on over to Nostalgia Candy Store afterwards to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This weekend, they’re also hosting the “Links and Laces Golf Tour.” If you decide to visit Mount Airy this weekend, hopefully you’ll leave saying, “Winner, winner, chicken dinner.”
Nick’s Lake House
Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania
The family owned Nick’s Lake House is the ultimate place to go for rest and relaxation in the Poconos. If you stay in the lodge, ask for a room with a view (trust us – you’ll want to watch the sunset over the lake!). If you’re just passing by for a quick meal, ask to be seated outside so you can take in the atmosphere at the lakefront restaurant. Crowd favorites include the cheesesteak and fried clam strips. The Lake House regularly hosts live entertainment, which also makes for a lively time. This is a can’t miss stop for your Pocono getaway!
Jubilee Restaurant
Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania
When you arrive, you’ll instantly feel at home as the friendly staff greets you at the door of this cabin-like restaurant. With fluffy pancakes, decadent French toast, and hearty omelets, you’ll wuickly learn why this place is referred to as the “Breakfast King.”
But the locally owned restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, so, if you can squeeze in a quick breakfast before the race, make sure to stop by later on to get the Jubilee experience. You can sit under the twinkling lights on the patio, listen to some live music, and enjoy a cocktail with your meal as you recap the race.
Camelback Mountain Adventures
Tannersville, Pennsylvania
Camelback Mountain is the perfect place for outdoorsmen. Race a friend down the mountain on the twin zip-flyers, or zoom down it in the Appalachian Express Coaster or Pipeline Mountain Slide. True adrenaline junkies will enjoy the freefall or Euro bungee. If you’re weary after a hot day at the track, you can cool off at the adjoining Camelbeach Waterpark, which has some of the best water rides in the country. Don’t believe us? Check out Sandstorm or Triple Venom to see what we mean. At Camelback Mountain, you’ll definitely find adventures the whole family can enjoy.
Barley Creek Brewing Company
Tannersville, Pennsylvania
Craving a cold one after a weekend of NASCAR fun? Check out Barley Creek. This brewing company makes some of the best brews around, and even has some guest beers on tap to boot! Take a brewery tour to see where the magic happens, and find out how your favorite beers are made.
Guests recommend the meatloaf sandwich, which is a house specialty, and Tour the World, which features a selection of sausages, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes that pair well with heavier beers. Do your taste buds a favor and check this place out!
Old Jail Museum
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Some truly haunting things have happened at the Old Jail Museum, which looms over the town of Jim Thorpe. A mysterious, and seemingly permanent, handprint, an eerie dungeon, and rumored hauntings of Civil War era ghosts draw in visitors from across the country.
The beautiful, 72 room stone structure once held the area’s criminals, but now stands as a monument to the area’s history. Take a step back in time on a tour of the old jail. Past visitors say the spine tingling environment seems to be “right out of a movie,” and others say the artifacts and grounds are fascinating, if a bit “unnerving.” If you’re brave enough, this is a great stop to make during your Pocono vacation.
Pocono Rodeo
Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania
Grab your cowboy hat, strap on your boots, and get ready for a good time at the Pocono Rodeo! Bull riding and barrel racing are the big draws, but there’s so much more to see and do.
Every Saturday, you’ll find mouth-watering barbecue, fun kids’ activities, and, of course, the famed rodeo. After the rodeo, live country bands kick off a lively after party, complete with line dancing, bonfires, and libations. The Pocono Rodeo makes for a thrilling addition to your weekend, so be sure to stop on by!
What are your favorite places to visit when you travel to the Poconos? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you!
