With its unique plateau land formations and deep coal and railroad history, the Poconos region has become a world-class destination. New York Magazine named it “the new Hamptons” for its proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. In fact, it’s been estimated that nearly 80 percent of all Pennsylvania resorts are right here in the Poconos!

Much of what’s here is old - Victorian architecture in Jim Thorpe, railroad relics in Lehigh Gorge, the fantastic natural spectacle of the Delaware Water Gap. But there’s also a terrific blend of modern fun. Waterparks, hiking, biking, historical adventures - you won’t find a more diverse selection of family-friendly, outdoor and romantic pursuits than in the Poconos.

One particularly celebrated dining genre in the Poconos is the old-fashioned brew-pub, in part because of the area’s lakes, streams and rivers. Yet this was a melting-pot of immigration in the early 1800s, so you can expect to find quite a few delightful ethnic Pocono Mountains restaurants. Here’s a sampling!

How to Get Here

The Pocono Mountains occupy the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, 90 minutes from New York City and less than 2 hours from Philadelphia. The main Interstate highways are I-80, I-81, I-84, and the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. By air, the main airline is US Airways serving Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.

Getting Around

Since the Poconos do not have a major hub or city and there is very little public transportation, perhaps the best way to travel is by car. Routes 115 and 940 as well as I-80 and I-380 can take you to most of the Pocono Mountains destinations you choose.