By: Emily Whalen
Ladies, we all know how good it feels to finally get the gang back together for some fun. Start that group text: it’s time for a girls’ trip, and the Pocono Mountains is the perfect place to meet up!
From renowned spa offerings to outdoor adventure to incredible shopping, we’ve assembled the ultimate girlfriends’ getaway guide. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature on our hiking trails or sample local, hand-crafted wines on our beverage trail, you won’t have to lift a finger to plan your Poconos trip. Pick and choose your favorites from the suggestions below for ways to make new, lasting memories with your besties. These itinerary ideas are geared towards the weekend, but why wait? Take some well-earned vacation time and organize your reunion in the middle of the week to take advantage of lighter crowds and great deals.
- Friday: PAMPER
- Saturday: PLAY
- Sunday: RELAX
Friday: PAMPER
Morning: Start your trip off with some shopping all over town. Our region boasts a wide variety of one-of-a-kind stores to choose from. Be inspired to start a new project at American Ribbon Craft and Fabric in downtown Stroudsburg, then pop into the adjacent Potting Shed for a new house plant or charming decor to take home.
Head to Paradise Lavender Farm and Ross & Ross Nursery in Cresco, PA to stock up on sweet-smelling goods or go antique hunting and uncover local treasures at places like Grapevine Antiques & Crafts Mall in Brodheadsville, PA.
With over 100 brand-name stores at The Crossings Premium Outlets in Tannersville, you can find new looks and great deals!
Afternoon: When we said pamper, we meant it. Indulge in a variety of treatments at our incredible destination spas. The Lodge at Woodloch is an adults-only retreat with an incredible luxury spa. After a massage, facial, manicure or pedicure, take advantage of the eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna or Hydromassage WaterWalls, then savor a gourmet spa cuisine lunch at Tree Restaurant and Bar.
Le Spa Forêt at the French Manor Inn and Spa utilizes Swedish-style massage methods and offers unique facials like the Huckleberry Mountain Signature Facial or the Chocolate and Champagne Facial. Guests can soak in the Green Spa facilities and wonderful complimentary amenities for ultimate relaxation.
Evening: Let your hair down for an evening of entertainment! Whether you want to dance the night away or simply kick back, there are many options for a girls’ night on the town. Journey to Mount Airy Casino Resort and enjoy the slots before heading to Gypsy’s Nightclub. If you want a low-key evening, stop by the Deer Head Inn to listen to their renowned live jazz music on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.
Stay the night at either Mount Airy Casino Resort or the Deer Head Inn, and you won’t have to worry about getting a designated driver. Party on!
Saturday: PLAY
Morning: You may get a slow start to your morning after last night’s festivities, but some playtime is in order. When you’re ready to start the day, venture out to an adventure park. Call ahead or book online to schedule a timeslot for you and the girls at the Adventure Center at Skytop Lodge or Blue Mountain Resort – Summit Aerial Park. Take on the aerial tree courses, zip lines and rock walls for a memorable group getaway.
Afternoon: Make your way over to the Delaware River, and set out on a canoeing or kayaking excursion. Grab a canoe, kayak, tube or raft rental from Adventure Sports or Edge of the Woods Outfitters. Whether you’re looking to float for a few hours or are up for an all-day quest, they can accommodate your trip with reservations.
Evening: Time to refuel! Stop by the nearby Gem and Keystone Brewpub for tasty tavern food and drinks. The ShawneeCraft Brewery, also located on the grounds of the historic Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, offers brewery tours and features live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons.
After a day full of adventure, you’ve earned some peace and quiet! Escape to the private cottages right on the grounds of The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort or at retreats like Babbling Brook Cottages, Magnolia Streamside Resort or Sylvania Tree Farm & Country Lodging.
Sunday: RELAX
Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a lazy, late morning, then rise and shine to enjoy a peaceful forest ramble. You can’t come to the Pocono Mountains without hiking or biking through our beautiful parks, like the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area or Big Pocono State Park. Bring your own bike or rent one from area outfitters. Don’t forget to stop for a photo with the magnificent views you’ll encounter.
Afternoon: Slow down and enjoy the finer things in life. It’s time for some wine tasting! Experience hand-crafted flavors and vintages that are exclusive to the Pocono Mountains. The tasting room at Blue Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery overlooks the sprawling vineyards. For larger groups, be sure to call ahead!
Enjoy a meal while at the wineries. Sorrenti Family Estate Winery, Distillery & Pizzeria and Mountain View Vineyard Winery & Brewery offer food on-site in addition to their beverages.
Evening: End your girlfriend extravaganza with a nice sit-down meal at a farm-to-table restaurant. Reminisce about your weekend’s antics over a deliciously healthy dinner. Make a reservation at The Delmonico Room at the Hotel Fauchere in Milford, or head to The Settlers Inn in Hawley. Bon Appetit!
Both Hotel Fauchere and The Settlers Inn offer cozy, small town accommodations, the perfect place to finish off your trip.
Want to experience even more activities? Be sure to check out what events are happening while you and your friends are exploring the Pocono Mountains. Find deals on activities like outdoor adventure and dining, and save on your stay with special offers.
