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By: Emily Whalen
Coming to the Pocono Mountains next month and don’t know what to do? We’ve got lots of ideas of activities to enjoy this December in the Poconos, whether you want to hit the slopes or stay cozy inside!
With the arrival of winter comes holiday festivities, family activities, and snow. Pack in a few last adventures before the end of the year! Read on for 10 things to do in the Poconos in December.
- Holiday Events
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with family and friends. Holiday events kick off late November and continue throughout December. Whether you want to explore decorated towns, marvel at the drive-through Pocono Lights display at Poconos Park in Bushkill, or meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus as you celebrate Christmas in the Pocono Mountains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Head to Yenser’s Tree Farm or Walker’s Tree Farm early in the month to choose the perfect tannenbaum before they run out. Get into the small-town festive spirit during Milford’s Annual Tree Lighting, Hawley Winterfest , Jim Thorpe’s Olde Time Christmas , or Lehighton’s Hometown Vintage Christmas . From Creches From Around The World to the new Christmas Tram Tours which wind through a twinkling lights display leading to Santa’s Workshop, enjoy a variety of yuletide traditions on the grounds of the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort .
- Delicious Dining
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a tasty meal next month! Dine in or order takeout or delivery at family restaurants, brew pubs and ethnic favorites that feature authentic flavors from around the world. Enjoy dinner and drinks as you gaze out over a frosty Big Boulder Lake at Boulder View Tavern or grab burgers and catch the big game at the Trackside Station Grill & Bar . Specializing in southern comfort food, Willie Mae’s Place also offers catering, perfect for holiday parties and group gatherings.
- Local Shopping
‘Tis the season to go shopping! From craft and specialty shops to local outlets, stores throughout the region are perfect for picking out presents for everyone on your list. The Pocono Premium Outlets in Tannersville features 100 designer and name brand stores with great deals. Find gifts for him at spots like Pocono Mountain Harley-Davidson and Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitter or gifts for her at Faded Lace Boutique and Wallflower . Alpine Ski & Gift Shop offers fun souvenirs as well as rentals for the mountain.
- Winter Spa Visit
What better way to warm up this winter than with a spa visit or healing and yoga session? Relax and get in some well-deserved rest this season in the Pocono Mountains. Choose from a wide range of treatments and therapies, from facials and salon services to hot stone massages and body wraps. Turn your attention inward at Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center with innovative and refreshing day treatments. Whether you’re just coming in for a massage or are taking the whole weekend to unwind, discover ultimate pampering in a peaceful countryside setting at French Manor Inn & Spa.
- Escape Rooms
Think you’ve got what it takes to solve the mystery? Grab the gang and head to an escape room this December! Follow a series of themed clues to try and get out in just 60 minutes. Trust us, you’ll want to experience this if you haven’t already. Put your teamwork and communications skills to the test at Jokers Are Wild Game Cafe in your race against time. Work together to unravel the puzzle as you follow the white rabbit at Wonderland on Broadway or try to navigate through the Wrath of Anubis or Planet Obscura in the Escape Rooms at Kalahari .
- Shooting Range
Step out of your comfort zone, and try something different this season. Stop by a shooting range to learn firearms education, safety, and training. While shooting at the gun range, friendly instructors assist in teaching best practices. At Sunset Hill Shooting Range , families with children at least 13 years of age (air guns are offered for ages 8 and up) and beginners are always welcome to come learn. If you prefer to try your aim with bow and arrow, head to Archery Addictions in Lehighton.
- Casino Nightlife
Step onto the magnificent, 65,144-square-foot gaming floor of Mount Airy Casino Resort this December. The casino offers over 1,800 slots featuring favorites like Wheel of Fortune and Blazin 7s. If you prefer live action, try your luck at 80 game tables including Blackjack, Craps and more. Always remember to gamble responsibly. Working up an appetite? Casino dining provides a plethora of tasty options from Italian fine dining to Pan-Asian cuisine.
- Pocono Beverage Trail
If you haven’t tried the region’s craft beverages, make sure you take time for a trip along the Pocono Beverage Trail before the end of the year, and don’t forget to sign up for the free Pocono Beverage Trail digital passport. Microbreweries are dotted across the region, each bringing their own distinct flavors. Seasonal stouts and crisp pilsners await! Scenic wineries and distilleries are open year-round as well. Pocono Brewery Company in Swiftwater serves beers by the glass, flight and growler as well as wood-fired pizza. Try Appalachian spring-fed distilled spirits and award-winning vintages at the Sorrenti Family Estate Winery and Distillery in Saylorsburg.
- Snow Tubing
Cue the snowflakes, it’s time to fly down the mountainside! Snow tubing is the easiest way to conquer the slopes. Suitable for just about everyone, you’re sure to have a good time. Most Pocono ski resorts offer snow tubing on premises, with magic carpet lifts for effortless transportation back to the top of the hill. Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain offers 500 feet of fun on their snow tubing hill, while Shawnee Mountain Ski Area has both single and tandem tubes available. Hit the lanes after dark at Camelback Mountain or Blue Mountain Resort to slide over the snow to neon lights and music.
- Horseback Riding
Bundle up and enjoy the crisp winter weather while horseback riding. Mountain Creek Riding Stable in Cresco is open year-round and offers relaxing trail rides and romantic carriage rentals. Beginners are welcome at stables throughout the region including Daisy Field Farm and Bushkill Riding Stables . With a little help from mother nature, sleigh rides are also available in the Poconos. Happy Trails Stables offers horse-drawn sleigh rides through the freshly-fallen snow, the perfect way to enjoy a winter wonderland.
Check out our winter page for additional resources as you plan your December trip to the Pocono Mountains. Find vacation rentals and places to stay where the whole family can gather to celebrate the holidays. Ski and snow activities start in December, so be sure to keep an eye on the area’s snow conditions if you’re planning some downhill action. See you in the Poconos!
