7 Fun and Free Things to Do in the Poconos

1. Take a Downtown Stroll

Whether you're just passing through for an afternoon or staying in accommodations nearby, our region's picture-perfect small towns are well worth the visit. Step back in time in the quaint borough of Delaware Water Gap, located along the Appalachian Trail, or do some window shopping in Lehighton, located along the D&L Trail. Wander through the charming streets and admire the historic architecture in our county seats of Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford and Honesdale.

2. Attend a Free Summer Concert

Join the community for some live music during one of several free summer concert series happening throughout the Poconos! Listen to talented local musicians select dates June through August during the Wayne County Creative Arts Council Summer Concert Series in Honesdale on Mondays and Thursdays, Concerts in the Square on Thursday nights in Stroudsburg, St. Paul's Summer Concerts every Saturday afternoon in Hawley, as well as Lansford Music in the Park on Sunday evenings in Kennedy Park. The Milford Music Festival and the Honesdale Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival are also great opportunities to enjoy toe tapping live performances for free. Don't forget to check out our events calendar for free seasonal festivals and community celebrations all year round.

3. Visit a National Landmark

Learn about the history of the United States with a visit to the National Historic Landmarks in our region. Located along the Upper Delaware River, the Roebling Aqueduct Bridge is the oldest existing wire suspension bridge and is designated as both a National Historic Landmark and a National Civil Engineering Landmark. It was designed in 1847 by engineer John A. Roebling, who went on to create the Brooklyn Bridge. The beautiful Grey Towers National Historic Landmark in Milford once belonged to Gifford Pinchot, known as the "Father of the American Conservation Movement," and offers free parking and admission to the beautiful estate grounds. There is a ticket cost for the indoor mansion tours, but free visitor films are offered on tour days in the historic Baitbox. To dive into the ancient past, head to Boulder Field at Hickory Run State Park. Formed from glacier melt, this unique landscape is a National Natural Landmark and has remained relatively unchanged for more than 20,000 years. For even more significant sites, check out our guide to historical markers in the Poconos and more museums in the area.

4. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bike)

Bring your own set of wheels and fly through lush, historic biking paths in the Pocono Mountains. Notable trails include the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, also known as the D&L Trail, which stretches 165 miles from New Jersey through Pennsylvania. Catch glimpse's of our region's mining history as you cycle the 37 miles of the D&L which lie within the Poconos. Both the Levee Loop Trail in East Stroudsburg running parallel to the Brodhead Creek and the McDade Recreational Trail in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area running parallel to the Delaware River are popular with bikers. Looking for mountain biking in the Poconos? Challenge yourself to the 26 miles of trails at Prompton State Park.

5. Watch for Wildlife

Meet the "locals" during your time in the Poconos: catch a glimpse of our indigenous wildlife. Encompassing over 500 acres, Lacawac Sanctuary provides a home for numerous species of birds. Wander the nine miles of trails and see how many you can spot: don't forget your binoculars! Lilliana's Nature Discovery Area at Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center is a great place for kids to discover nature, and the two and half miles of trails and observation dock on the two ponds provide plenty of vantage points to spot wildlife on land and in the water. See how many creatures you can spot on the approximately 600 acres at the Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary in White Mills or the over 700 acres at the Lehigh Gap Nature Center.

6. Meet Local Farmers

As you drive through the Poconos, you'll pass many pastoral fields belonging to local farms and markets. Why not make a stop to see their produce and learn more about their work? Walker's Tree Farm in Lehighton stretches approximately 200 acres and is hosting a free Christmas in July event. Saturday markets like the Monroe Farmer's Market in Stroudsburg's Courthouse Square are a feast for the eyes. Take a stroll to browse the colorful food stalls and locally-grown products. The Cooperage Project hosts community events and performances as well as seasonal markets.

7. Plan a Picnic and Hike

Open sunrise to sunset, our national, state and local parks are accessible year-round. Pack some snacks or a picnic lunch and head to Big Pocono State Park, Delaware State Forest, Gouldsboro State Park, or Promised Land State Park. These four are also pet-friendly, so you can bring along your dog! Enjoy your meal al fresco against the rolling hills, pristine lakes and beautiful scenery of the region. Remember to take any trash with you and leave no trace.

Find more ways to save money on your Poconos vacation: take a look at our special offers on both day activities and accommodations. From campsites to hotels, check out places to stay for every price point and plan an overnight visit so you can experience as much as possible. Find even more things to do and browse local restaurants to plan out what delicious food you'll try during your trip. See you in the Poconos!