There are a 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 up the kids for a family-friendly weekend in the Poconos, or catching up with old friends for a Saturday on the town, the DiscoverNEPA Itinerary Series has you covered. You might be amazed at just how much affordable NEPA fun you can squeeze into a day right here in our own backyard.
Make It All About Fall with a Fun-Filled Day in Jim Thorpe
Autumn in NEPA is all about being outside with them kind of cool, but kind of still warm vibes. Come mid-September, we’re slappin’ that slay button for lattes, light vests and long walks among the freshly-turned foliage. We’re heading out on the trails, peepin’ those leaves and gobbling up that fall festival fare. And we don’t have to travel far to do it.
This autumn, we’re experiencing it all in Jim Thorpe. Whether you’re bringing the kids or planning that grown-up getaway, this must-see town has everything from unique attractions to quaint shops to train rides to a home-grown brewery and so much more.
Use our handy itinerary as a guide and start soaking up the season in beautiful Jim Thorpe. And, if you can help it, try to plan your trip around the town’s famous annual Fall Foliage Festival during the first four weekends in October.
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Start your fall visit to historic Jim Thorpe with a little pick-me-up from this popular Harry Potter-themed coffee shop. Enjoy hand-crafted, hot or cold coffee or tea concoctions alongside delicious, fresh-baked pastries, cupcakes, muffins and more.
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Get out on the trail early and take in the autumn splendor of the southern Pocono Mountains on this easy-grade 26-mile rail trail located inside Lehigh Gorge State Park. Enjoy scenic views over the raging whitewater of the Lehigh River. And look out for rafters, historic canals and gorgeous waterfalls along the way.
Local Tip: Enjoy the trail on two wheels with a bike rental from Pocono Biking in Jim Thorpe.
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Refuel after all that walking or biking with a few pub classics at this unique stop on the top of Broadway. Grab a seat outside or cozy up by the bar for tasty burgers, wings and some of the best fries in the Poconos.
Local Tip: The house sangria tends to hit the spot.
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Grab tickets and hop on the old red trolley for a historic tour of one of NEPA’s most famous towns. The narrated, 70-minute tour offers interesting local facts and history about some of the town’s most storied locations. Hop on/hop off tickets may also be purchased for all-day use.
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No visit to Jim Thorpe is complete without a little shopping. The town’s famous Broadway and Race St. feature over 50 unique, locally-owned shops. Find everything from homemade soaps and clothing to antiques and records and so much more.
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End the day at one of the town’s most happening hot spots for fine dining, art and jazz. This unique restaurant and jazz club makes its home within an industrial-era wire and rope factory and shares the space with a museum and gallery featuring the whimsical works of renowned “eco-surrealist” painter, Victor Stabin.
Local Tip: Plan your visit to include one of Café Arielle’s popular Jazz Nights featuring world-renowned musicians.
