Fall Day Trips to the Poconos (2024)

Morning: Take a scenic train ride up the Lehigh Gorge for 25 miles, then bike back down at your own pace. Pairing leisure with adventure, this all-day outing is an exhilarating way to see the trees around Jim Thorpe. Bike train events are scheduled select dates in September and November. Just want to relax? The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers round-trip autumn excursions as well.

Afternoon: Tour and explore! Visit mansions, museums and galleries around Jim Thorpe in the southern color zone. A background of fall foliage makes these beauties stand out. We suggest the Asa Packer Mansion and the Old Jail Museum, perfect for the haunted season!

While in Jim Thorpe, stop into one of the pubs for dinner. Both the and feature tasty comfort food with a historic flair.

Evening: Step back in time and take a guided tour throughout the Victorian streets of the downtown with Jim Thorpe Walking Tours. Enjoy sightseeing, shopping and culture, and browse even more things to see and do in Jim Thorpe to make your fall day trip unforgettable.

Why rush away? Cozy up at charming accommodations in Jim Thorpe and Carbon County to give yourself a restful and refreshing fall break.

Morning: Get up close and personal with the fall foliage during a visit to an adventure park! Take on treetops ropes courses and ziplines at spots like the Adventure Center at Skytop Lodge and Camelback Mountain Adventures.

Downtown Stroudsburg is the perfect place to refuel after a morning in the fresh air! Whether you're picking up a healthy drink at Quench Cafe and Juice Bar or plan to treat yourself to a cute fall cupcake at Just Like Magic Bakery, you'll find plenty of eateries to choose from in this charming small town.

Afternoon: Hop aboardThe Pocono Historic Trolley Tour to learn about the storied history of the area as you wind along country roads near Delaware Water Gap. Sit back, relax and soak in the flaming leaves all around you.

Evening: End your day trip with some live music! Book tickets to see a show at the Sherman Theater or listen to legendary jazz at the Deer Head Inn.

Give yourself a little extra time to enjoy the season in Stroudsburg and Monroe County! Browse hotels in the area for an autumn overnight escape.

Morning: Take leaf peeping to the next level with outfitters like Kittatinny Canoes or Lander's River Trips. Start your fall day trip on the Delaware River and savor unmatched views of the autumn leaves as you canoe, kayak or raft with the current.

Afternoon: Fall is the perfect time to celebrate the arts is beautiful Milford, with the Milford Readers and Writers Festival in September and the Black Bear Film Festival in October, peak fall foliage time! Expect workshops, panel discussions, vendors and more at these annual celebration. Explore the historic town with these activity maps.

Hungry yet? You don't have to lose sight of the foliage while you eat! Take a seat on the porch at delicious downtown eateries like Tom Quick Inn Restaurant or Bar Louis at the Hotel Fauchere and watch the leaves drift down to the sidewalks as you enjoy your meal.

Evening: Hike to a waterfall! The central color zone is home to many of the Pocono Mountains’ most iconic waterfalls. Pocono Environmental Education Center offers a wide variety of trails as well as programs and classes for all ages. Bushkill Falls is another top spot for waterfall viewing. Take a look through the Fall Foliage Map to find more waterfalls in the central color zone.

Have time to extend your day trip into an overnight trip? Places to stay near Milford in Pike County include cozy cabins in the woods where you'll be surrounded by the beautiful hues of the fall leaves.

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive in the northern color zone. Take historic Route 6 toward Hawley for award-winning views of the fall foliage. Route 507 around Lake Wallenpaupack was named one of Travel Channel’s Best Fall Foliage Road Trips.

Afternoon: Get festive in one of our small towns! Both Hawley and Honesdale host events like the Hawley Harvest Hoedown and Harvest and Heritage Day in the month of October around Columbus Day weekend. Highlights include hayrides, children’s activities, vendors, demonstrations, tours, tastings and exhibits at local attractions.

Fall is the perfect time to feast on the bounty of the season at farm-to-table restaurants. Savor fresh flavors at or The Settlers Inn, which serves up seasonal dishes like apple butter and butternut squash soup.

Evening: Take time for yourself this fall. Rejuvenate with restful programs at the Himalayan Institute or sign up for yoga classes at The Eddy Studio. Whether it's a spa visit or healing and yoga offerings, the Poconos has lots of opportunities for wellness.

One day is not enough! Don't miss out on welcoming accommodations in the Honesdale area and Pike County, from family-friendly lodging to rustic and romantic inns.

Whether it's just for the day or a little longer, the Poconos is the perfect destination for a fall getaway. Take a look at deals and special offers as well as our full calendar of upcoming fall events and activities as you plan your itinerary.