Why Honeymoon in the Poconos
The Poconos offer a rare combination of nostalgia, nature and convenience. The region covers more than 2,000 square miles of mountains, forests, lakes and rivers, with the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area protecting a long stretch of the Delaware River.
For honeymooners, the big draw is the couples-only resort experience, where everything from suites to entertainment is designed for two. But the Poconos also suit couples who love the outdoors, with hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, golf and skiing all close at hand. And because it is so accessible from the Northeast corridor, it works beautifully as a mini-moon right after the wedding, saving the big international trip for later.
When to Go
The Poconos are a four-season destination.
- Fall (late September to October) is the most beautiful, with foliage usually peaking in early to mid-October across the mountains and along the Delaware River.
- Summer (June to August) is warm and green, ideal for lakes, pools, waterfalls and rafting.
- Winter (December to March) brings skiing, snow tubing, ice skating and cozy nights by the fire at resorts with fireplaces.
- Spring (April to May) is quieter, with waterfalls at full flow and lower rates, though weather can be changeable.
Weekends and holidays are busiest, so plan midweek stays for better value and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay
Our featured stay is Cove Haven Resort, on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack in Lakeville. It is a couples-only resort with about 200 themed suites, many with heart-shaped whirlpools, round king beds and log-burning fireplaces. The famous Champagne Tower suite has a seven-foot champagne-glass whirlpool, a private heart-shaped pool and a sauna. Packages bundle dining and many activities, from kayaking and archery to mini golf, plus live entertainment at night. Packages usually run a few hundred dollars a night with meals included (approximate).
Go in with the right expectations: the themed suites are retro by design and some feel dated, so Cove Haven suits couples who find the kitsch fun. If you want polish, pick a boutique inn or a modern cabin instead.
Beyond Cove Haven, its sister resort, Paradise Stream, in Mount Pocono, offers a similar couples-only experience. The region also has spa hotels, golf resorts, cozy bed-and-breakfasts and countless cabin rentals, many with hot tubs and fireplaces, especially around lakes such as Wallenpaupack and in towns such as Jim Thorpe and Stroudsburg.
Romantic Things to Do
Soaking in a champagne-glass whirlpool is the signature Poconos experience, but there is much more. Hike to Bushkill Falls, a series of waterfalls connected by wooden walkways and bridges, often called the Niagara of Pennsylvania. Explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, with trails such as Mount Tammany offering long river views, especially in fall.
In Jim Thorpe, a Victorian town tucked into a river gorge, browse shops and ride a scenic train through the Lehigh Gorge. Raft or kayak the Lehigh River in season, or take a boat out on Lake Wallenpaupack. In winter, ski or snow-tube at one of the region's mountain resorts, then warm up by the fire. And for a night out, the region has casino resorts with dining and shows.
Getting There & Around
Most couples drive. The Poconos are roughly two hours from New York City and Philadelphia (with easy access from Interstate 80 and Interstate 380) and within a day's drive of much of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) is the closest airport, about 45 minutes to an hour from many resorts, while Lehigh Valley International (ABE) and the New York and Philadelphia hubs offer more flights.
A car is the best way to get around, since attractions are spread out and public transportation is limited. Taxi and rideshare service can be sparse in rural areas, so plan transportation in advance if you are not driving.
Food & Drink
Poconos dining is comfortable rather than cutting-edge, with classic American fare, Pennsylvania Dutch influences, pizza, diners and cozy taverns. Couples resorts typically include dining in their packages, which keeps things simple.
When you venture out, look for farm-to-table restaurants in towns such as Stroudsburg, Milford and Jim Thorpe, local wineries and craft breweries. Try Pennsylvania specialties such as soft pretzels, pierogi and shoofly pie. Seek out a lakeside or riverside restaurant at sunset. In fall, farm stands sell apples, cider and pumpkins, so pack a picnic for a foliage drive.
Honeymoon Tips
- Book themed suites well ahead for Valentine's Day, fall weekends and holidays.
- Check what your package includes, since alcohol and some activities may be extra.
- Visit midweek for better rates and quieter resorts.
- Pack for changeable mountain weather, with layers and rain gear.
- Time a visit for early to mid-October for the best foliage.
- Embrace the kitsch; the heart-shaped tub photos will be a family treasure.
