The Lake Region’s Lifestyle Center

Just off of Route 6, the massive, castle-like fortress of the Hawley Silk Mill rises from the Pocono hills. It’s an unexpected sight among the summer cottages and marinas of Lake Wallenpaupack, but behind the bluestone walls, there are even more surprises in store.

This repurposed factory has been transformed into a 75,000-square-foot lifestyle center where boutique shops, salons and an art gallery line the historic halls. You’ll find everything from fitness studios to a brewery, all under one roof.

It’s an eclectic mix, but a love for all things local ties these small businesses together. Let’s take an inside look at the shops and services that make the Hawley Silk Mill a destination for locals and visitors alike.

 

The Past Meets the Present

 

 

The Silk Mill has been at the heart of the community since 1880.

The building originally served at the Bellemonte Silk Mill. The factory created textiles for decades, passing through many hands and surviving a devastating fire along the way. Eventually, the industrial era dwindled, the hum of machinery fell silent and the building turned into an antique business.

In 2009, the building sold at auction and began its new life as the Hawley Silk Mill, a hub for shopping, arts and innovation. The first floor features a sleek retail space created by Peter Bohlin, the architect behind the Apple stores. The second level is dedicated to professional office space, while the entire third floor is home to Lackawanna College’s Lake Region Center. Whether you visit to shop, dine, exercise, learn or simply hang out, the possibilities are endless at the Hawley Silk Mill.

 

Shops & Boutiques

 

 

These specialty stores offer gifts and goods that you can’t find at the mall.

Each shop at the Silk Mill has its own character and a carefully curated selection to match. If you’re searching that perfect piece of home décor or a truly one-of-a-kind gift, this is the place. You’ll find handmade goods, artisanal products and cool niche brands at these local stores.

The largest retail shop is Art on the Edge, which specializes in local fine art, home décor and unique gifts. A minimal, clean and tasteful style defines their selection, like stunning paintings and stylish home goods like pillows and candles. Their clothing and jewelry are always on-trend, and a children’s section is filled with toys and games.

Sul Lago is connected to Art on the Edge. This shop just recently opened and offers a fine collection of home goods, seasonal décor and handmade wreaths. Creative gifts, children’s toys and more make this a fun stop for all ages.

Another new tenant is Lake Lights Candles. After being laid off from work during the pandemic, the Lewis family decided to turn their longtime hobby of candle making into a business. They opened up a storefront at the Silk Mill and started selling hand-poured candles, along with fresh flowers and gifts made by local artisans. The candles come in tons of different scents and vessels, including planters, mugs, bowls and more.

Alice & Hamish is a go-to place for the kids (and the young at heart). This whimsical children’s boutique caters to newborns through age twelve, with some fun items for parents too. They carry adorable clothing like pint-sized band tees and mismatched Pal Socks. Puzzles and games are tons of fun, while parents will love the selection of local tea and honey.

Treat yourself and stop by Uplift Practical Luxuries by Waterpure. This bath and body shop sells paraben-free and chemical-free products that are healthy for your skin and kind to Mother Nature too. They have luxurious lotions, soaps, sugar scrubs, hair care products, pain gel and other products from around the globe.

 

Fine Art

 

 

The entire Silk Mill has a creative, artistic vibe.

Artwork is everywhere at the Hawley Silk Mill, from the sculptures outside the building to paintings and photographs adorning the lobby and hallways. But a visit wouldn’t be complete without stopping at The Looking Glass Art Gallery.

The Looking Glass has been a staple in Hawley for 22 years, showcasing original paintings, photography and sculptures. The gallery is owned by Juan H. Espino, a local artist who specializes in naïf art. Many of his folk-style paintings are on display, and if you look closely, you’ll discover lots of local scenes and landmarks. You can also view his piece “Beacon of Hope,” which is part of the Musee International d’Art Naïf’s digital exhibit about the life during the coronavirus.

 

Food & Drink

 

 

After a day at the shops, sit down for a treat and a local brew.

Cocoon Coffee House & Bakery is the Hawley Silk Mill’s dining destination. This café is nestled in a stone outbuilding that used to store the silk cocoons for the mill. Now, it’s the perfect place to cozy up with a hot drink and a bite to eat. Breakfast sandwiches and grab-and-go snacks are a great morning pick-me-up, while their fresh sandwiches, salads and soups offer quick and healthy lunch options. Oh, and you can’t pass up the gorgeous pastries and baked goods waiting in the bakery case.

The coffee isn’t the only thing brewing at the Silk Mill. Head down to the lower level, and you’ll find Hopping Eagle Brewing Company. This nanobrewery and taproom features a rotation of eight draft beers. They specialize in small batches, which means that there’s always a fresh lineup to try. Order a pint, sample a whole flight and make sure to grab some cans to take home.

 

Health & Wellness

 

 

Fitness studios and salons will help you feel your best, inside and out.

Wellness is a key part of the experience at the Hawley Silk Mill. Keep up with your workouts at Lake Region Fitness, a gym filled with state-of-the-art cardio machines, free weights and strength equipment. Or you can tone and strengthen at Mountain Laurel Pilates Studio. They offer private, semi-private and group training in authentic, classical Pilates.

Sometimes, you just need to relax and pamper yourself. Book a hair appointment at Carmella Sarah Salon, or treat yourself to a manicure at Polished Possessions. Nourish the mind, body and spirit at Heavenly Hands Massage & Reiki, a holistic wellness center that will leave you feeling refreshed and restored.

 

Plan Your Visit

 

 

The Hawley Silk Mill is open for holiday shopping.

With so much to see, you can easily spend a whole afternoon browsing. The shops are currently decked out for Christmas and stocked with tons of unique gifts. The Silk Mill is also hosting the Hawley Holiday Market on December 12 and 13, where the stores and guest vendors will help you wrap up any last-minute shopping.

The Hawley Silk Mill is also available for private events at the Boiler Room. This event space can accommodate weddings, meetings, parties and more with stunning overlooks of the Wallenpaupack Creek waterfall.

Follow the Hawley Silk Mill on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news. You can also check out their YouTube channel for virtual tours and spotlights on the shops.