Nestled in northeastern PA among the Pocono Mountains, the quaint town of Jim Thorpe takes center stage when a hint of a fall breeze hits the air. Known as the “Little Switzerland of America,” the town is ranked as one of the most picturesque places in the country to experience fall foliage by publications including Travel + Leisure and USA Today. While Jim Thorpe is a great year-round destination, autumn transforms it into a stunning tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows hues, making it the perfect time to visit.
Just a 2.5-hour drive from New York City, 2-hour drive from Philadelphia, and 4-hour drive from Washington, D.C., Jim Thorpe is the quintessential backdrop for a long weekend getaway in the fall. To make the most of your short visit to northeastern PA, use our 72-hour getaway guide that maps out the things for first timers and getaway goers to see, do, and devour.
Please note, this itinerary is meant to serve as a general guide. We strongly recommend checking seasonal hours of operation and available offerings of the listed businesses ahead of your trip.
DAY ONE
Afternoon — Arrive in Jim Thorpe and head to your accommodations (keep scrolling for our picks at the bottom of this page).
Once you’ve settled in—or if you need to kill time before check-in—enjoy lunch at Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub, a must-visit in downtown serving up classic, authentic pub fare like Sheppard’s Pie and pints of draft beer. Home to the largest outdoor eating area in the county, it’s the perfect spot to admire the surrounding foliage.
Next, get the lay of the land during Jim Thorpe Trolley Company’s live narrated Historic Trolley Tour. This 70-minute ride is a great way to take in the town’s beautiful natural scenery and historic buildings along Broadway. The company also offers longer, special experiences like their Wine and Suds Tasting Tour, Historic Trolley Tour, and Ghosts and Graveyard Tour.
Evening — Before dinner, take a guided tour of the Old Jail Museum to hear about Jim Thorpe’s haunted history. Embrace spooky season as you listen to stories and witness what prisoners endured during their stay in one of the 27 cells. You’ll be able to see the gallows where the infamous Molly Maguires were hung and, if you dare step into Cell 17, find the mysterious handprint on the wall left by one of them.
End the night at Broadway Grille + Underground which sits in one of the town’s most historic and beautiful buildings connected to The Inn at Jim Thorpe. Awarded OpenTable’s Diner’s Choice of 2023, this reliable pub never disappoints with their unique twists on the classics like their Broadway Burger with hot pepper bacon raspberry jam. Best of all, they regularly host live music and events, so be sure to check out the schedule on their website before booking your reservation.
DAY TWO
Morning — Get a sweet start to your first full morning in Jim Thorpe at Donerds Donuts. Indulge in a fall-themed maple bacon donut or savor a pumpkin latte, to kick off your days’ worth of fall festivities. For those who prefer savory bites, they also serve hearty breakfast burritos, plus have a full coffee and beverage menu for a caffeine kick ahead of your day of foliage filled adventures.
While downtown, spend some time window shopping along Broadway and pop into eclectic stores like Rainbows End and Antiques on Broadway. Or, head north to view the statue of Jim Thorpe with a football in hand and then take a short drive to visit his grave located on the outskirts of town.
Afternoon — Get an adrenaline fix in the afternoon as you tackle the ultimate whitewater rafting experience with Pocono Whitewater Adventures. Known as the best in the tri-state area, the company offers a variety of excursions, including a guided, 3–4-hour family-style whitewater rafting adventure. This 8-mile, Class I and II whitewater rafting of the Lehigh River is ideal for everyone; beginners, kids (ages four and older), school groups, as well as adults who just want to kick back and enjoy the great outdoors during autumn in the Pocono Mountains. During the fall season in September and October, the excursion includes a free all you can eat riverside BBQ lunch.
Evening — Make a dinner reservation at Moya, serving up eclectic, gourmet cuisine. Chef and owner Heriberto Yunda’s plates are executed in a relaxed, designed-to-be-shared style with an emphasis on flavor and freshness. His menu is constantly changing to accommodate seasonal, local products and palate.
After dinner, catch a show at Mauch Chunk Opera House. Built in 1881, the opera house is one of America’s oldest vaudeville theaters. Listen to performances of your favorite music genres, from classic rock and jazz to folk and theater. View the full list of shows coming to the theater to book your tickets before your fall getaway.
Day Three
Morning — Begin your day at Curiosities Coffee and Ice House, a Victorian-style coffeehouse that also serves teas, hot chocolate, and iced drinks along with delicious baked goods and newly-added breakfast sandwiches. With a cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to savor a spiced chai latte and enjoy the welcoming café atmosphere.
Then, take a short drive to the D&L Trail, where you can hike or bike to explore Jim Thorpe’s natural beauty and take in the award-winning scenes of the season. Keep your eyes peeled for fantastic views of an old coal canal on one side and the Lehigh River on the other. Bikers can find rentals from Pocono Biking or Bronson EBikes, depending on your preference.
Afternoon — Grab lunch at Marion Hose Bar, a unique eatery that was once a firehouse and now hosts guests for trendy drinks and good eats. While admiring the historic architecture, munch on casual fare that includes Marion’s Mac & Cheese and Bavarian Beer Pretzels while sipping whiskey, wine, or a refreshing cocktail.
End your Jim Thorpe getaway by hopping aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway to get one last glimpse of the breathtaking Pocono views. Also known to locals and visitors as one of the best ways to admire the fall colors of Jim Thorpe, the vintage train runs daily with 70-minute rides and is perfect for young ones and furry friends alike.
Add A Day
Not quite ready to end your great northeastern PA getaway? Extend your stay to explore even more fun in the nearby small towns of Lehighton, Palmerton, and Lansford, where you’ll find unique spots such as Country Junction, The World’s Largest General Store in Lehighton, and the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum in Lansford.
If you’re looking for more action-packed activities, make the 30-minute drive to catch a NASCAR series at the Pocono Raceway or travel a little over an hour to take advantage of America’s largest free admission amusement park, Knoebels.
Places to Stay
Hotel Switzerland — Located in the heart of Jim Thorpe and known as the oldest operating commercial building in town, Hotel Switzerland offers an unforgettable, affordable stay. Just steps away from popular shops and restaurants, you can also pop downstairs to the well-known Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub for a pint or two. Rooms sell out fast, especially in the fall, so book your getaway today!
The Inn at Jim Thorpe — A landmark building of the area, the Inn at Jim Thorpe offers guests charming accommodations in the center of historic downtown. Named a 2023 Traveler’s Choice by Trip Advisor, the inn lets you choose from elegant mini suites or standard rooms spread across three buildings. During your stay, rejuvenate at their spa with a variety of services and try their new repechage facials. Parking is free and you can get a $10 breakfast voucher when you book directly on their website.
The Dolon House — Located on what is known as “Millionaires’ Row,” The Dolon House was once the home of a local doctor who operated a thriving practice right on the premises. Staying at this bed and breakfast will transport you back in time with its historic detailing featuring jeweled stained-glass windows, stunning hand-carved woodwork, a grand staircase, and an Italianesque mosaic entry floor. Find comfort and elegance in each of the five suites and enjoy their complimentary “Coal Cracker Spa Cuisine” which utilizes the freshest, local ingredients for a hearty breakfast before you take on a days’ worth of adventures.
The Harry Packer Mansion — The inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion, the Harry Packer Mansion is perched atop Packer Hill and its great views of downtown Jim Thorpe. With a style that can only be described as gothic-flare-meets-comfort, both the mansion and adjoining carriage house are filled with period antiques, luxurious fabrics, and artwork. Choose from a variety of suite options to suit your getaway needs, enjoy their complimentary breakfast, and join in the fun during one of their on-site Murder Mystery Weekends (if you dare!).
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