Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the Little Switzerland of Pennsylvania draws visitors from all over with its quaint downtown, charming shops, and darling restaurants. No matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll discover unique events and plenty to do, whether you want to stay in a haunted inn or you head to a restaurant with stunning views. You’ll find a little bit of everything in Jim Thorpe.
Previously named one of the best small-town vacations in America, Jim Thorpe oozes old-fashioned charm with its darling downtown and friendly townspeople.
No matter what time of the year you visit, you'll find the mini Switzerland in Pennsylvania brimming with fun things to do.
Home to fewer than 5,000 Pennsylvanians, Jim Thorpe has long been known as the Switzerland of America for its enchanting downtown, sweeping mountain views, and historic architecture.
Got a bucket list? You must add a stop at the Poconos Little Switzerland during the height of the fall foliage. The small town in Pennsylvania hosts an annual Fall Foliage Festival, too.
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If you’re visiting for the first time, stroll around town, where you’ll find a generous selection of restaurants and shops. Feel as though you’ve journeyed back in time, for example, at Mauch Chunk 5 & 10, an old-school five and dime.
Carve out a few hours just to explore the shops downtown. You never know what gems you'll uncover in this charming Pennsylvania town.
Get a glimpse of the rich history of this small town with a visit to the Mauch Chunk Museum, the Asa Packer Mansion, and the Old Jail Museum, the latter of which is said to be haunted.
If you believe in the paranormal, you have several chances to perhaps experience it in this darling town in Pennsylvania.
Speaking of haunted, since you’re staying the weekend, book at stay at the historic Inn at Jim Thorpe. Enjoy cozy, luxurious accommodations, and maybe even experience the paranormal. The inn, after all, is notoriously haunted.
One resident, a nurse, seemingly loved the haunted inn in Pennsylvania so much that she never checked out. Guests tell of seeing her darting by while others have felt a touch on their shoulder. Some guests have gone to bed, only to wake up to furniture that's been rearranged.
On hot summer days, spend a few hours on the sandy beach at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Then, when you need to cool down, wade in the water.
Take everything you need - an umbrella, beach towels, chairs, and a picnic - for a day on the beach.
For another unforgettable adventure, hop aboard a train with the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. It offers scenic train rides and hosts special events throughout the year.
While you’re in town, make sure you head over to Lehigh Gorge State Park. From hiking and whitewater activities to gorgeous waterfalls, the park offers something for everyone.
Lehigh Gorge State Park is also home to Glen Onoko Falls, perhaps the most notorious waterfall in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, it permanently closed to visitors in 2019. The treacherous path has resulted in numerous deaths.
Jim Thorpe is also home to a generous selection of restaurants, where you’ll find everything from steakhouses and pizzerias to pubs and fine dining.
Check out this gorgeous drone footage of Jim Thorpe by Drone Fanatic.
Have you visited the Little Switzerland of Pennsylvania? Share your experience in the comments! Then take a peek at a few more of the most beautiful small towns in Pennsylvania.
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More to Explore
Small Towns In Pennsylvania
Beth Price-Williams|March 10, 2023
Are there any other charming small towns in Pennsylvania?
Small towns in Pennsylvania are some of the best places to live and visit. After visiting the Switzerland of Pennsylvania, be sure to check out these small towns in Pennsylvania, too:
Eagles Mere. An adorable Pennsylvania village with a year-round population of around 150, Eagles Mere is home to shops, restaurants, and museums.
If you crave peace and quiet, find it in Renovo, the most remote town in Pennsylvania.
The Christmas City is beautiful all year, but be sure to visit during Christmastime when it’s jam-packed with holiday activities.
Mount Gretna. If you’re looking for an old-school beach on which to relax, you’ve found it. Mount Gretna’s lake/beach is a popular summertime destination.
Get your chocolate fix and have a ton of family-friendly fun in Hershey, home to Hersheypark and Chocolate World.
