There’s lot of things to do all over NEPA. And we’re here to make accessing all that fun a little bit easier. Whether you’re gathering the kids for a family-friendly weekend, or catching up with friends for a day on the town, the DiscoverNEPA Itinerary Series has you covered. You’ll be amazed at just how much affordable NEPA fun you can squeeze into a day right here in our own backyard.
Autumn Adventures Await You In Historic, Eclectic Honesdale
Pack a day bag. Pile into the car. Drive where the long and windy backroads of Northeastern, Pa take you. The journey is as much a part of the trip as the destination when the autumnal landscape is all around you. The crisp air is almost enchanting. The wondrous leaf-strewn orchards, pumpkin patches and farms are a canopy of scarlet reds, amber golds and auburn browns. The foliage is vibrant in its abundant glory.
When the road finally does reach your intended getaway, you’ll be met with the most charming, historic location just 30 miles northeast of Scranton. Stroll down Main Street Honesdale and find historic architecture, restaurants, cafes, and shops. You’ll also be surrounded by parks, trains – the first commercial steam locomotive in the U.S. – and waterways, including the Lackawaxen River, which flows through the heart of the town.
Use our itinerary guide below to plan your next getaway in scenic, historic Honesdale. It’s the perfect escape for everyone – couples and families, alike.
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If rich and delicious coffee or cappuccino is the only way you start the day, begin your journey at Black & Brass. This isn’t your everyday coffee shop. Artisans are hand-selecting the perfect beans to create the ultimate morning pick-me-up. You can also enjoy an assortment of breakfast pastries sourced from local bakeries to fuel you for the fun day ahead.
Local Tip: Try the toasted marshmallow latte – sweet, warm and cozy autumn vibes in a cup.
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You came to the Pocono Mountains to experience the sights of fall in NEPA and these guided tours will do just that. Explore the Lackawaxen river or lakes by kayak. Hit Prompton State Park or Irving Cliff with a hiking or mountain biking tour. Don’t fret! They have options from beginner to novice, so there’s something for everyone.
Local tip: Sawmill Cycles, Northeast Wilderness Experience’s sister shop, has rental services for bikes, kayaks and paddleboards if you prefer to venture out on your own.
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A craft brew is calling your name after your morning adventures. With a variety of house brews on tap and a whimsical menu featuring some of your all-time favorite American fare. From pizza to duck fat fries to housemade rigatoni, this spot is full of rustic charm in an industrial setting.
Local tip: Build a flight of 3oz beers and purchase a growler of your favorite to go.
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After lunch, hop aboard and ride the rails while experiencing the lush landscapes of Wayne County along the Lackawaxen River. The Fall Foliage Express is a 25-mile excursion, inside an old-fashioned locomotive with restored railcars, that gets you up close and personal with the vibrant colors of fall in NEPA.
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After an exciting day on the rails or the trails, stop off at one of the many small business shops downtown on your way to dinner. From vintage antiques to outdoor gear and apparel to one-of-a-kind gifts, you’ll unwind with some retail therapy. Finally, take a moment to relax over dinner at this elegant farm-to-table restaurant. Whatever your dinner choice, know that only the freshest produce, meats and cheeses featured in their selections are sourced locally from Wayne County farms.
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For a family friendly sweet nightcap, a scoop of Manning’s Ice Cream always hits the spot from this old-fashioned ice cream parlor and candy shop. Get a scoop of their fall favorites, like apple crisp or pumpkin, and a bagful of penny candy for the road.
