Jim Thorpe PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.
1. Asa Packer Mansion
HISTORIC FAMILY ESTATE
The Asa Packer Mansion stands as one of Jim Thorpe's top attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of this influential railroad magnate and philanthropist. Visitors can enjoy guided tours highlighting the Packer family legacy amidst iconic Victorian architecture and original furnishings.
2. Episcopal Parish of St. Mark and St. John
HISTORIC CHURCH WITH STAINED GLASS
The Episcopal Parish of St. Mark and St. John features remarkable stained glass windows and historic church tours highlighting the Packer family legacy. Visitors can admire the church's iconic architecture, art, and original Otis elevators during their visit.
3. Old Jail Museum
HISTORIC PRESERVED JAILHOUSE
The Old Jail Museum provides a fascinating look at a historic jailhouse with a focus on the Molly Maguires, offering self-guided exploration through the preserved cells and corridors. Visitors can learn about the detailed history of the facility and may even experience one of the occasional ghost tours that take place at this atmospheric location.
4. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
RIVERSIDE TRAIN EXCURSION
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway departs from the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey train station, offering visitors either 45 or 70-minute sightseeing tours depending on the season. The train excursion provides a relaxing way to explore the scenic banks of the Lehigh River upstream of town, showcasing the natural beauty of the gorge.
5. Stabin Museum
UNIQUE ART GALLERY
The Stabin Museum features 10,000 square feet of gallery space highlighting the work of artist Victor Stabin in a spacious venue on the outskirts of town. Visitors can appreciate the unique and varied art displayed throughout the museum, with informative signage that tells the story behind these amazing pieces, and can also enjoy the on-site jazz bar and restaurant.
6. Beltzville State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Beltzville State Park spans nearly 3,000 acres a short drive from Jim Thorpe, featuring a large lake with a fantastic swimming area perfect for hot summer days. Visitors can explore several miles of hiking trails, including paths to the popular Wild Creek Falls and one of only two covered bridges in Carbon County.
7. Jim Thorpe's Grave
OLYMPIC LEGEND MEMORIAL
Jim Thorpe's Grave offers visitors a chance to pay respects to the legendary Olympic athlete after whom the town was renamed. The memorial site honors the legacy of this famous multi-sport athlete who was once considered the world's greatest athlete.
8. D&L Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The D&L Trail provides visitors with a scenic path for hiking and biking along the Lehigh River, offering beautiful views of the surrounding Lehigh Gorge. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the proximity to nature while exploring this well-maintained trail that connects with the larger Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.
9. Number 9 Coal Mine and Museum
HISTORIC MINING EXPERIENCE
The Number 9 Coal Mine and Museum offers visitors an immersive look into the region's rich mining history through underground tours of a genuine coal mine. Guests can experience what life was like for miners as they descend into the oldest continuously operated anthracite coal mine in the world until its closure.
10. Mauch Chunk Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Mauch Chunk Museum showcases the fascinating history of Jim Thorpe, which was formerly known as Mauch Chunk before being renamed. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the town's development, industrial past, and the story behind its unusual name change in honor of the famous athlete.
11. Lehigh Gorge State Park
WHITEWATER ADVENTURE HUB
Lehigh Gorge State Park surrounds the picturesque town of Jim Thorpe, offering thrilling whitewater rafting adventures on the Lehigh River. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the rushing waters, dramatic rock formations, and lush forests that make this park a premier destination for adventure seekers.
12. Harry Packer Mansion
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Harry Packer Mansion stands as an impressive Victorian landmark in Jim Thorpe, known for its gothic architecture that reportedly inspired Disney's Haunted Mansion design. Visitors can tour this historic building to admire its period furnishings and architectural details, or even stay overnight as it now operates as a bed and breakfast.
13. Downtown Jim Thorpe
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Jim Thorpe enchants visitors with its beautiful old-world streets lined with eclectic shops and restaurants in a charming Victorian setting. Travelers can browse unique boutiques, enjoy local cuisine, and snap photos of the historic architecture that has earned the town its nickname as the 'Switzerland of America.'
14. Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary
INTERACTIVE NATURE EXPERIENCE
Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary provides visitors with an up-close encounter with hundreds of free-flying butterflies in a controlled indoor environment near Jim Thorpe. Guests can learn about butterfly life cycles and conservation while experiencing these delicate creatures landing on them during their educational visit.
15. Glen Onoko Falls Trail
CHALLENGING WATERFALL HIKE
Glen Onoko Falls Trail offers adventurous hikers a challenging path to view spectacular waterfalls cascading through the Lehigh Gorge near Jim Thorpe. Nature enthusiasts can experience the rugged beauty of this trail while witnessing multiple waterfall drops surrounded by lush forest scenery.