Known as the “Little Switzerland of America,” Jim Thorpe was once the second most popular tourist destination in the United States!
Although it no longer holds that title, it still draws in visitors from all over the world—and it’s no wonder why! Its unique history, beautiful architecture, and gorgeous location make it a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
There are plenty of things to do in Jim Thorpe, whether you enjoy spending time outdoors or shopping, eating, and visiting museums. There is something for everyone in this small town.
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A Little History About Jim Thorpe
Coal mining and the first industrial railroad in the United States (developed by the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Co.) brought industry and people to what is now known as Jim Thorpe.
Originally Mauch Chunk (Lenni Lenape for “Bear Mountain”) and East Mauch Chunk, the boroughs combined and were renamed Jim Thorpe after the famous Native American athlete. The towns combined and changed the name after an agreement was made with the late athlete’s wife.
There was some controversy about the town’s name change and Jim Thorpe’s burial in Pennsylvania since he lived in Oklahoma. In 2015, the US Supreme Court ruled that his remains would stay put after the athlete’s family fought for five years to move his final resting place.
Fun Things to Do in Jim Thorpe
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
If you ask anyone what is the best thing to do in Jim Thorpe, the first answer will always be, “Take a train ride!”. And it’s no wonder! The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers 70-minute train rides (45 minutes in the fall) along the beautiful Lehigh River.
There are several seating options, including open-air cars and vista dome cars, so you and your family can enjoy the view in a way that best suits you.
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is also dog-friendly! Dogs can ride for FREE. They even get their own ticket.
Mauch Chunk Museum
If you’re interested in how Mauch Chunk became Jim Thorpe and everything else that made the town what it is today, then you’ll want to visit the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center.
This small museum offers guided and self-guided tours and provides information about the Lenape Indians, the Switchback Gravity Railroad, and more. It is open seasonally (closed in January and February).
Biking the D&L Trail
When the weather is nice, biking on the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor is an ideal way to explore Jim Thorpe.
The trail follows the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers from Bristol to Wilkes-Barre. Just over two miles from town, visitors can bike to Glen Okono in Lehigh Gorge State Park, or you can take the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway bike train to White Haven and bike the 25 miles back to Jim Thorpe.
Bike rentals are available in town if you didn’t bring yours!
Asa Packer Mansion
Asa Packer brought the Lehigh Valley Railroad to Jim Thorpe, changing how coal was transported from the area. His legacy continues as visitors flock to his Victorian-style mansion to learn more about the man and his impact on the surrounding area.
Tours of the mansion are offered seasonally (closed January – March). They highlight the architectural details and the life of Asa Packer and his family and provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of 19th-century industrialists.
Fun Fact: The Asa Packer mansion inspired the look of the Haunted Mansion in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.
Ghost Tours of Jim Thorpe
If you’re visiting Jim Thorpe in the fall, you might want to take a spooky (but not too scary) ghost walk around town. The guided walks explore the town’s haunted history and share chilling tales and legends from its past.
The tours are offered by the Jim Thorpe Rotary weekends from September through November.
Whitewater Rafting on the Lehigh River
Jim Thorpe straddles the Lehigh River, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water, including whitewater rafting, a popular activity in the Poconos.
Whether you’re new to whitewater rafting or want an intense experience, you have plenty of options with Jim Thorpe River Adventures. You can schedule your trip for a dam release day or visit on one of the calmer days. The choice is yours!
Tour the Historic District
Jim Thorpe is one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania, thanks in part to its historic district with charming architecture, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. It’s the perfect place to walk around and admire the beautifully preserved buildings, many of which date back to the 19th century.
Another way to explore Jim Thorpe’s beauty and history is by taking a trolley tour. The 70-minute tour takes you through the historic district, providing information and fun history about the town.
Visit the Jim Thorpe Memorial
Pay homage to the town’s namesake at the Jim Thorpe Memorial, located in picturesque Oscar Lusa Park.
The memorial honors the legendary Native American athlete with informative plaques and a statue celebrating his incredible achievements. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on and appreciate the legacy of one of America’s greatest sports figures.
Old Jail Museum
The Old Jail Museum, a popular attraction in Jim Thorpe, was the Carbon County Jail until 1995, when the McBride family purchased it. Now, it shares the history of the Molly Maguires, seven Irish coal miners who were hanged in the jail.
Visitors are taken on a tour of the jail, including the cells and the basement dungeon. Tours are offered seasonally. Weekday tours can be booked beforehand, but weekend tours are first come, first served.
Hiking at Glen Onoko
Jim Thorpe is adjacent to Lehigh Gorge State Park, specifically the Glen Onoko access area. Here, visitors can launch boats into the Lehigh River and also hike to an overlook in State Game Lands 141.
The loop at Glen Onoko is about 3.5 miles and is considered hard due to the trail’s incline. But the views from the top and Jim Thorpe in the distance make it worth it!
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Mauch Chunk Lake is a 345-acre man-made lake a few miles west of historic Jim Thorpe. The park offers several outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, hiking, and fishing.
You can also camp at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. They have sites for tent camping and even cottages you can rent.
Other Fun Things to Do Near Jim Thorpe
Skirmish USA Paintball
Not far from Jim Thorpe is Skirmish USA, one of the largest paintball facilities in the country.
With various game scenarios and themed fields, it’s a fun way to spend a day with friends or family. Safety gear is provided, and all skill levels are welcome, making it an exciting outing for everyone.
No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum
Jim Thorpe was built on coal mining, so it’s only fitting to visit a coal mine museum while in Jim Thorpe.
The No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum is about 20 minutes from Jim Thorpe and offers visitors a chance to explore an abandoned anthracite coal mine that the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company once owned.
Tours are offered seasonally, typically Friday – Sunday in April and November and Wednesday – Sunday from May through October.
Beltzville State Park
The next closest state park to Jim Thorpe is Beltzville State Park, which is about 15 minutes from the historic town and offers several fun ways to spend the day outdoors.
During the summer months, guests can swim in Beltzville Lake. Boating and fishing are also available.
Visitors can enjoy the several miles of hiking trails, mountain biking, and other activities year-round. You can even cross-country ski in the winter!
Country Junction
When you’re less than 20 minutes from the “World’s Largest General Store,” you have to plan a visit!
Country Junction is a fun and unique place near Jim Thorpe that you have to visit at least once. With everything you could possibly want to buy under one roof, plus animatronics that sing and tell jokes, it’s a must-do.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Country Junction also has family-friendly activities like bowling, an arcade, and a petting zoo.
Best Activities in Jim Thorpe Wrap-Up
Although Jim Thorpe is a small town, it still packs a punch with plenty of things to do.
Whether you enjoy shopping and eating on Broadway, taking in the sights while riding the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, or enjoying the natural beauty of the Lehigh River and Lehigh Gorge State Park, there is something for you.
The next time you plan on visiting the Poconos, take the time to explore this charming town!
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