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Jim Thorpe is one of the prettiest and most surprising little towns in Pennsylvania.
Tucked into the Pocono Mountains and packed with history, charm and outdoor adventure, it’s no wonder it’s become such a popular getaway!
It had been on my list of places to visit for years and I recently finally managed, however I have to admit that because I knew it was a small town, I didn’t think that I needed to plan that much.
Well I was wrong. Because it’s so popular, a little planning actually goes a long way.
Here are the 10 things I really wish I’d known before visiting Jim Thorpe and that I think will be helpful for you.
⏰ 1. Get there early
This is my number one tip. Jim Thorpe is a small town that gets very busy, especially in summer and on fall weekends, so the earlier you arrive, the better.
Getting there early means you’ll snag a parking spot more easily, beat the crowds at the main attractions, and have time to book the popular activities (if you haven’t done so online yet) before they sell out.
It genuinely makes all the difference to your day.
🚗 2. Parking is tricky, so take the first spot you find
Parking is honestly the trickiest part of visiting Jim Thorpe. There’s a main parking lot by the visitor center, but it fills up fast.
My advice? Take the very first spot you see and don’t hold out for something closer.
It’s a small town, so nowhere is really far to walk.
You can also find spots along the side of the road as you drive down Susquehanna Street.
No matter what, just know that there is basically no such thing as free parking in Jim Thorpe so you’ll have to bite the bullet whichever way.
🎟️ 3. Book your train journey as soon as you get there
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is the most popular thing to do in Jim Thorpe, and tickets can sell out, especially in peak season.
My first tip would be to book in advance however I understand that it’s not always possible.
If you get there and still haven’t booked then just know you can’t do it online anymore, it has to be at the ticket booth.
So as soon as you arrive, head to the ticket office to lock in your train time. That way you can plan the rest of your day around it and won’t be disappointed.
🚂 4. Opt for the open-air carriage on the scenic railway
If you do take the train, I’d really recommend booking the open-air car or the caboose.
You get the best views and the most atmospheric experience this way.
I’d steer clear of the Crown carriage, which is technically an upgrade, but the windows don’t open, so the experience and views just aren’t as good.
The traditional carriages are the way to go in my opinion.
🕐 5. Double-check the opening times for the attractions
This is a big one. Several of Jim Thorpe’s main attractions keep short or unusual hours, so it’s really easy to miss out if you don’t plan ahead.
The Old Jail Museum, for example, doesn’t open until midday, and the Asa Packer Mansion runs tours from late morning with the last one in the afternoon.
The trolley tours also wrap up in the afternoon. Check the latest times before you go and build your day around them.
👟 6. Wear good walking shoes
You’ll be walking around quite a bit when visiting Jim Thorpe. The historic downtown is not particularly big but there is a steep street.
And if you’re planning to explore the surrounding state parks or hike up Mount Pisgah, you’ll definitely want proper hiking shoes with good grip. Leave the flip-flops at home!
If you are not planning on doing any hiking or outdoor activities, you won’t need hiking shoes but I would still recommend wearing shoes that provide a good support as there will be a fair bit of walking involved.
🩱 7. Bring your swimming gear
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, pack your swimwear.
Between the white water rafting, the Lehigh River, the waterfalls and nearby Mauch Chunk Lake, there are lots of lovely spots to cool off.
You’ll kick yourself if you’re standing by a gorgeous swimming hole without it.
👥 8. Be prepared for crowds (and book ahead for fall)
Jim Thorpe is beautiful all year-round, but fall is when it really shines, and that’s also when it’s the busiest.
If you’re planning a fall foliage trip, expect big crowds and book everything (trains, tours, accommodation) well in advance.
It’s absolutely worth visiting in autumn, you just need to plan for it.
Ghost tours also sell out quickly for Halloween.
📅 9. Visit on a weekday if you can
If your schedule allows, come during the week rather than on a weekend.
Weekends (and holidays) are when Jim Thorpe gets the most crowded.
On a weekday, everything feels calmer and much easier to enjoy at your own pace.
🌙 10. Consider staying overnight
There’s more to do in Jim Thorpe than you might think, so if you can, stay at least one night.
An overnight stay means you’re not rushing to fit everything in, you get to experience the town once the day-trippers have left, and you can even do an evening ghost tour.
That will also give you the opportunity to do more outdoor activities and explore the different state parks and waterfalls around.
For something really special, the Harry Packer Mansion Inn (the inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion) is a magical place to stay.
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