Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in East Stroudsburg, PA

  • Published 2022/02/12

East Stroudsburg is a borough located in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.

Daniel Brodhead moved to East Stroudsburg in 1737, and, history has it, he helped establish what was then called “Dansbury.”

By 1755, it had developed into a sizable border town.

On December 11, 1755, a party of Native Indians assaulted and burnt down Daniel Brodhead’s home, barns, and outbuildings.

East Stroudsburg was renamed because of its geographic location when the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad established a station in town.

Even though its name came from the neighboring borough of Stroudsburg, it has nearly double the population.

East Stroudsburg Borough is thriving with businesses and opportunities today more than ever.

It has also long been home to many exciting attractions.

Whether it’s a peaceful movie at the neighborhood theater, a drink or supper at one of the several eateries, or a visit to one of our fun-filled local parks, there’s something for everyone!

Explore the Schisler Museum and McMunn Planetarium

Planets orbit presentation at the mcmunn planetarium.

SMCurator, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You can see more than 140 animals from different parts of the world in the Schisler Museum of Wildlife & Natural History.

These examples include every North American deer species and a wide variety of North American duck species from Africa and North America.

Insects from all around the world are on show, as is a replica of the Delaware River.

In honor of Arthur ’62 and Fannie Greene ’62 Schisler, East Stroudsburg University graduates, the Schisler Museum has been renamed.

People watching a presentation at the schisler museum.

SMCurator, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On April 2, 2016, the museum at East Stroudsburg University opened its doors.

The McMunn Planetarium can show commercial films and creative star shows using a SPITZ digital projection system.

East Stroudsburg University’s science courses use the planetarium in addition to public performances.

East Stroudsburg University alumnus Charles “Tony” and Patricia Lythgoe McMunn founded the McMunn Planetarium in 2008, renamed in their honor.

Earth's horizon show at the mcmunn planetarium.

SMCurator, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Feed Animals at Pocono Snake and Animal Farm

You children will love to bottle-feed the deer, goats, and potbellied piglets or feed monkeys, pet bunnies, and interact with other animals at this “beginning zoo” for the small ones.

This family-owned and operated farm has been operating for over a quarter of a century.

Many animals and reptiles are “donations” since their prior owners couldn’t care for them.

These animals are now living better and healthier lives, and some have even been in front of celebrities like Jack Hanna and Steve “Crocodile Hunter” Irwin!

Blackbeary, a lovable black bear, is one of the many animals featured on the farm.

There are also playful monkeys, a family of sloths, Madagascan ringtailed lemurs, bobcats, raccoons, chinchillas, and countless others.

The farm also features a reptile section.

Have a Retreat at Resica Falls Scout Reservation

Are you planning for a family or group retreat?

Resica Falls Scout Reservation is a 4,200-acre Scouting Paradise located in the stunning Pocono Mountains.

At Resica, scouts may engage in a wide range of exciting activities during and after their time at summer camp, including hiking through the surrounding mountains, swimming in crystal-clear streams, and exploring the many waterfalls.

Over 3,000 Scouts visit this paradise each summer to see hundreds of species of trees, plants, and animals.

Its dining hall can accommodate up to 600 campers each week.

Outside the Dining Hall on the Parade Field, the Ranjo Clock Tower serves as a primary meeting point.

Both male and female campers and leaders can use the camp’s two shower house amenities.

Besides the trampoline, its pool has a three-story water slide.

Meanwhile, Lake Roger is a 27-acre lake that offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking and fishing.

The facility also features a campfire amphitheater, the Richards Arena, with state-of-the-art lighting and audio technology.

Be One with Nature at Mountain Vista Campground

You can best appreciate the Poconos’ natural splendor through the lens of a tent camping vacation.

Mountain Vista Campground is the ideal location for a family vacation.

RV and tent sites are available, as are lovely cabin rentals at Mountain Vista Campground.

There is a camp store, wash facilities, free Wi-Fi, and more to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

You’ll never run out of things to do here.

In addition to an in-ground pool, horseshoe pits, beach volleyball, and tennis courts, the Mountain Vista Campground features sand volleyball and a stocked fishing pond.

Dog owners will like the facility’s on-site dog run.

Discover the Region’s Past at Pocono Indian Museum

Front view of Pocono Indian Museum

Linda Harms / Shutterstock.com

The Pocono Indian Museum shows historical artifacts, weapons, and tools that represent the region’s inhabitants throughout centuries.

All of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s other museums are devoted to different cultures.

You’ll learn a lot from the museum, but you may also be surprised.

Northeastern Pennsylvania’s history is evident in this exhibit, which begins 10,500 years ago and ends before the American Revolution.

One hundred years after European man arrived, he wiped out nearly all Native Americans’ existence signs.

Extensive gift store items include ceramics, dolls, and jewelry from Native American cultures.

Meanwhile, the bookstore features over 650 volumes on Native American tribes, history, traditions, and remedies.

Feel the Thrill at Pocono Go-Karts and Play Park

Opened in May 1994, Pocono Go-Karts is a family-run business.

It was the first full-sized Go-Kart track in the Northeast.

Adult and kiddie karting are the two options available at this circuit.

A tunnel runs beneath a full-size track bridge on our Adult track, 1,400+ feet long.

Summer evening racing is now possible thanks to complete nighttime illumination.

Its two-seater karts and single-seater karts are always available for racing.

With the help of their parents, kids may join the fun and go for the gold.

The park also features an 18-hole mini-golf course and a target paintball range.

Drinks and small refreshments are available for purchase at the amusement park.

A big picnic area is open year-round for your enjoyment.

Conquer Different Courses at Pocono TreeVentures

Climb, balance, and zip your way around the Pocono TreeVentures ropes course for a fun-filled day in the trees.

Using a series of little platforms built at varying heights and with over 90 different pieces, you may work your way through the forest at eight different levels of difficulty.

Aerial tightropes, swinging log stairs, the Tru Blues, and rope ladders are just a few of the challenges that await visitors at Pocono TreeVentures.

The family outdoor aerial forest adventure includes five courses with varying degrees of difficulty, making it suitable for all levels of outdoor lovers, from beginners to experts.

Pocono KidVentures (for children ages 4–7), Pocono Zip Quest (for youth ages 8–12), and Pocono Racer (1,000 ft dual racing zip lines) are all included in the park.

The most challenging course’s highest point is almost 40 feet in the air, so be prepared to experience the world from above.

Have a Picnic at Dansbury Park

The Dansbury Park Pool is a renowned destination for locals and tourists alike throughout the year’s warm months.

Different kinds of facilities are available at the park, including a playground and a swimming pool.

You may also access Brodhead Creek’s Levee Loop Trail from the park’s parking lot.

Lunch at the picnic pavilion and summer concession stand is an option if you’d want to make a day of your visit.

Water slides, splash pads, a lap swimming area, and zero-depth entry are all included in this heated pool.

Throughout the year, Dansbury Park holds various events for the whole family, including summer camps for children.

Enjoy the Snow at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area

View of the snow covered shawnee mountain.

Ekem, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Thrill-seekers and families go to Shawnee Mountain Ski Area in East Stroudsburg for a day of skiing, riding, and tubing.

During December through March, this Pocono Mountains ski resort offers various terrain parks, slopes, and tubing areas.

Many parents take advantage of Camp Shawnee’s babysitting services because the lifts are open for 10, 11, or 12 hours a day.

Its ski shop provides everything you need, from the latest coats and leggings to layering items, caps, gloves, helmets, and goggles.

Salomon’s skis and bindings, ski poles by Dalbello, and Dalbello boots may all be purchased.

The Tune & Repair Shop is available to those who bring their equipment.

Gaze at Frazetta’s Works at Frazetta Art Museum

If you are a fan of Frank Frazetta’s works or art in general, you must visit this museum to see several of his original paintings in their entirety.

You can find one of the world’s most significant collections of Frazetta originals in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

In 2013, Frank Frazetta Jr. reopened this museum with 37 original oil paintings and innumerable pencil, pen, ink, and watercolor works.

It also features personal artifacts such as his sports equipment, camera collection, easel, pallet, and much more.

Since 1971, Frank has painted several of his most famous works at this home.

Although purchased in 1971, the estate property has remained untouched, only to be groomed and manicured to make it as stunning as possible.

The museum does not sell original works unless required for museum preservation or its maintenance.

If you find a Frazetta sold online or somewhere, the chances of being original are pretty slim.

After all, a museum would be nothing without its collection of artwork!

Play Disk Golf at Yetter Park

East Stroudsburg’s Yetter Park sits on the banks of Brodhead Creek and is a great place to relax.

The disc golf course, which has 18 holes, is a big draw.

A fantastic spot to stroll, run, or cycle is Yetter Park.

The Levee Loop Trail, a 4.5-mile hike through the park’s woods, is a great way to get some exercise.

Dogs are more than welcome at this park.

The Stroud Region, Open Space & Recreation Commission, provides a park map for those who want to try disc golf.

There are fantastic walking paths on the disc golf field and a beautiful creek to swim in.

Go on a Romantic Staycation at Pocono Palace Resort

Pocono Palace Resort, a romantic hideaway in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, exudes the calm ambiance of a private club.

It is about an hour’s drive from the George Washington Bridge.

Applause Nightclub and 188 suites make this resort ideal for honeymooners and couples who want to enjoy all four seasons together.

The Pocono Palace experience is now more thrilling than ever before because of recent enhancements to the property, including modifications to all seven of the hotel’s suites.

During the day, you may enjoy racquetball, mini-golf, basketball, tennis, billiards, and arcade games in the Indoor Activity Zone.

Meanwhile, you may enjoy live entertainment in the Lakeview Dining Room at night following a romantic date night supper.

Taste the Spirits of Silverback Distillery

Silverback Distillery, owned and operated by a mother and her daughters, creates multi-awarded spirits.

Silverback Distillery makes a variety of distinctive spirits using local grains, mountain water, and plain ol’ American craft(woman)ship, like its citrusy gin, genuine whiskey infused with honey liqueur, and the butterscotch bourbon.

From the Pocono Mountains to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Silverback can provide a unique experience for its visitors.

It doesn’t matter if you want a cocktail flight, barrel-smoked cocktail, or whiskey neat.

This distillery has something for everyone’s palate.

Peruse Antique Booths and More at Pocono Bazaar Marketplace

There are hundreds of sellers at the Pocono Bazaar Flea Market.

If you’re looking for an addition to your home, look no further!

Over 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor retail space are available.

Shop until you drop!

It’s also a wonderful place to spend time with loved ones.

It features everything from food trucks to antique vendors to new products for all ages and different walks of life.

Everything is worth the price, even if some are pricier.

Bring Home a Piece of East Stroudsburg from Country Kettle

North-eastern Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains are home to our 1986-founded business at 2523 Milford Road, east of East Stroudsburg.

Candy, candles, souvenirs, and crafts are just a few of the many items you’ll find in our quaint retail store in the Pocono Mountains.

One of the most popular shopping destinations, Country Kettle has become a worldwide distributor thanks to the Internet.

Pocono Mountains attractions, such as Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, are all within driving distance.

Country Kettle offers a unique shopping experience, so don’t miss it!

Final Thoughts

While East Stroudsburg may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of places to visit in Northeastern Pennsylvania, it’s a quaint town that is worth stopping by.

With our list of the best things to do in East Stroudsburg, you’re sure to have a great time, whether you’re up for an indoor or outdoor adventure.

© All rights reserved.