Jim Thorpe, popularly known as ‘The Switzerland of America’, is a quaint town in the Poconos, Pennsylvania. Jim Thorpe is brimming with culture and history, offering diverse activities for all. The town’s distinct attractions highlight its rich character and cultural heritage. There are plenty of things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA. 

The town Jim Thorpe got its name in 1953 to honour the famous athlete, James Francis Thorpe, amending its original name, Mauch Chunk, to Jim Thorpe. Jim Thorpe isn’t just about its name; it’s a place steeped in history and memories.

Jim Thorpe is the perfect destination for those interested in local culture, history, or community activities. If you’re seeking things to do in Jim Thorpe, you’ll discover many activities to keep you entertained and create lasting memories.

11 Best Things to Do in Jim Thorpe, PA, in 2024

#1 Hop Aboard The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

Experience one of the amazing things to do in Jim Thorpe at the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, a 16-mile round-trip adventure through the beautiful Lehigh Gorge State Park near Jim Thorpe. Originally a coal transport route established in 1827, it has been a tourist attraction since 2005, offering narrated tours on both diesel and steam trains.

Departing from Jim Thorpe Station, each 70-minute journey showcases the stunning scenery, with special events and themed trips adding to the excitement year-round.

Address: 1 Susquehanna St, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#2 Tour The Harry Packer Mansion

The Harry Packer Mansion in Jim Thorpe is a stunning three-story red-brick mansion built by architect Addison Hutton in 1874. It was a gift from Asa Packer to his son, Harry, and sits in the town’s historic district. Famous for its appearance in movies and resemblance to Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion, it’s also on the National Register of Historic Places. One of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA.

Address: 19 Packer Hill Ave, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#3 Visit The Jim Thorpe Memorial

The Jim Thorpe Memorial is a public park and burial site honouring the legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, after whom the town was named. Thorpe, a Sac and Fox Nation member, excelled in football, basketball, and baseball and won gold at the 1912 Olympics.

Despite never visiting Jim Thorpe, the town renamed itself in his honour after he died in 1953. The memorial offers visitors a place to enjoy nature, commemorate their achievements, and try out the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA.

#4 Stop By The Asa Packer Mansion Museum

The Asa Packer Mansion, designed by Samuel Sloane and completed in 1861, was the residence of Asa Packer. Packer was a significant figure in Pennsylvania’s railway and coal industries and the founder of Lehigh University. This grand three-story, 18-room mansion showcases Italianate-style architecture with ornate details like arched valances and intricate lacework. Inside, visitors can explore its opulent Victorian-era decor and antique furnishings.

Recognized for its historical significance, the mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark. Today, it serves as a living museum, attracting many visitors and is one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA.

Address: Packer Hill Ave, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#5 Stroll Along The Broadway Street

Broadway Street runs through the centre of downtown Jim Thorpe, covering about two city blocks. It has opera houses, art galleries, museums, bars, restaurants, and unique shops. Since coal was discovered in 1791, Broadway Street has been key to the town’s growth and success. In the late 1800s, it was called “Millionaire’s Row” and featured impressive Victorian homes and buildings.

Many of these structures have been restored today, adding to the street’s charm and making it a favourite spot for tourists to enjoy strolls. Seeing these stunning buildings is one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA.

#6 Interact With Nature At The Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary

The Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary, located near downtown Jim Thorpe, offers an engaging hands-on experience for visitors of all ages. Opened in 2002, it boasts an impressive collection of butterflies and other critters to admire. The sanctuary features indoor and outdoor attractions, including art and activity rooms, a gift store, and an indoor flight room called the “Flutterarium.” 

Located 6 miles from downtown Jim Thorpe, the sanctuary offers workshops and camps where visitors can engage with rare butterfly species. It’s a fun and educational spot for families and travellers, making it one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe.

Address: 18 Church Rd, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#7 Experience The Old Jail Museum

The Old Jail Museum in Jim Thorpe has a rich history as the former home to Carbon County’s most infamous criminals from the 19th to the 20th centuries. Built-in 1871, it operated as a jail for over a century until its closure in 1995. 

Now a Pennsylvania landmark, the museum offers fascinating displays and exhibits, showcasing its historical and cultural significance. For those intrigued by the paranormal, the museum also hosts ghost tours around Halloween, adding to its allure for visitors seeking an eerie experience, which makes visiting this place one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe.

Address: 128 W Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#8 Stop By The Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center

The Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center, named after Jim Thorpe’s former name, is a unique cultural hub in town. Opened in 1993, it blends event space with museum exhibits, providing insights into the region’s 19th-century history and industrial development. Visitors can explore exhibits on the Switchback Railroad, the town’s Victorian era, and the life of Jim Thorpe.

With a diverse collection of artefacts and historical items, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the booms, busts, and resurgences of Jim Thorpe and Mauch Chunk and one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA.

Address: 41 W Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#9 Tour The Imaginative Stabin Museum

The Stabin Museum, located in a renovated 19th-century factory on Broadway Street in downtown Jim Thorpe, showcases the unique art of American artist Victor Stabin. Stabin’s unconventional and thought-provoking works draw comparisons to Dali and Dr. Seuss, and some of his notable pieces are on display here. 

Beyond being an art gallery, the museum also houses “Vic’s Jazz Loft,” a popular jazz bar, and “Café Arielle,” adding to its appeal as a cultural destination in Jim Thorpe and is one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA. 

Address: 268 W Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

#10 Unwind At Hickory Run State Park

Hickory Run State Park, located 19 miles north of downtown Jim Thorpe, spans 16,000 acres and includes three distinct natural areas. Established in 1945, it’s recognized as one of Pennsylvania’s top state parks. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, seasonal hunting, hiking, and cross-country skiing.

The park’s 40+ miles of nature trails lead to attractions like Stony Point Fire Tower and Hawk Falls, offering ideal opportunities for hiking or cycling through the picturesque Pennsylvania countryside. Hence, it is one of the best things to do in Jim Thorpe.

Address: 3613 PA-534, White Haven, PA 18661.

#11 Stop By Mauch Chunk Lake Park

Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers year-round outdoor fun centred around its 345-acre freshwater lake. The lake is a favourite spot for swimming, fishing, and boating in the summer. The park is conveniently located near the Switchback Railroad Trail, allowing visitors to explore Jim Thorpe and Summit Hill on foot easily. 

With several designated hiking trails, such as the scenic Shoreline Trail and the moderately challenging Fireline Trail, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast at Mauch Chunk Lake Park and the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA.

Address:  625 Lentz Trail, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

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