Want to feel like you’re a world away but don’t want to invest in a plane ticket or hours in the air or on the road? Plan a visit to one of Pennsylvania’s gems: Jim Thorpe.
The quaint, Victorian-esque village is nestled in the Lehigh Gorge and is steeped with history. It’s perfect for the person looking for some quiet time, for the independent shopping enthusiast, and for outdoor adventurers, too.
Photo courtesy The Times House
The Times House
Checking In
Once you arrive in Jim Thorpe, you’ll realize it’s perfectly fitting that accommodations in the village are mostly comprised of charming bed and breakfasts. We recommend one sitting at the very top of reviewers’ lists: The Times House, in the heart of town on Race Street, a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence “Hall of Fame” property.
Innkeepers Diane and Chris Prokop are the perfect hosts of a perfect property. Enter the circa-1870 building, enjoy a spot of tea or cup of coffee, and get acquainted with your room. All are individual (there are only 5 on site, including one suite) and all are impeccably designed and equipped with such amenities as electric fireplaces and private baths, some with whirlpool tubs.
The Times House also boasts a unique dining style, serving up breakfast to enjoy in your own room versus in a common area at a specific time with other guests. timesjimthorpe.com
Photo courtesy Asa Packer Mansion
Asa Packer Mansion
Go Exploring
Though it will may be difficult to leave The Times House, be sure to pry yourself away to explore all the small town has to offer. It’s really as easy as walking out the front door. From the bed and breakfast, it’s easy to walk to everything, really.
Head to the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway train station for a ride. It’s one of the town’s most popular attractions, particularly in the fall when you can take in an incredible view of the trees’ leaves changing colors. Want to learn about some of the history? Take the 70-minute narrated tour over a 16-mile round-trip in a vintage coach, be it enclosed or open-air. lgsry.com
Looking for another way of touring the town? Try a ride with Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz. The unique experience puts you in a BMW motorcycle sidecar rig to journey through local winding roads. Goggles and helmets are provided for all passengers. jimthorpesidecartourz.com
Don’t miss the other historic attractions the town is known for while visiting. The Asa Packer Mansion was once home to the founder of Lehigh University, railroad magnate and philanthropist Asa Packer. asapackermansion.com. If you enjoy music, try to catch a show at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, an amazing venue hosting concerts from all genres. mcohjt.com
Photo by Nikki M. Murry
Moya
Dine in Style
Looking for a decadent dining experience? It’s just steps down Race Street from The Times House at Moya. Owner and Chef Heriberto Yunda serves up delicious and unique dishes in an enjoyable environment at Jim Thorpe’s top-rated restaurant. The plates are meant for sharing, so you’ll want to enjoy a few. Offerings change often, depending on the freshness and availability of ingredients, but might include such dishes as octopus salad, Prosciutto flatbread, handmade lamb ravioli and pan roasted Branzino filet.
If you love wine, there is plenty to enjoy at Moya as well, by the glass or bottle, including the extravagant Dom Perignon. Beer fans will find unique offerings, too!
Reservations are recommended to ensure your dining time. jimthorpemoya.com
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Shopping opportunities in Jim Thorpe are as unique as the town. Stroll and visit toy shops, a 5 & 10 general store, women’s clothing stores, a Christmas decorating store, a pickle shop, a homemade soap shop, antiques offerings and so much more.
And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss the wizarding world-themed coffee shop Muggle’s Mug, where the films are shown on loop, and order a cup of Joe from local roasters Greenstreet Coffee Co.
Day trips to the area are a great way to get away, but be sure to invest a bit more time sometime and spend a night or two in Jim Thorpe to really soak up the village’s charm and relaxed atmosphere. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and recharged and probably thinking of planning your next stay.
