Make the most of vacations in the Pocono Mountains’ Lake Region with these 8 great things to do in Hawley this summer. There’s more to see and do away from the water that can fill your days with adventure, culture and good old-fashioned fun. Dive in and get started with this handy guide.
1. Pennsylvania Rail Bike
Hawley is home to the only recreational railbiking adventure in the Poconos. Pedal on tracks aboard custom built two or four-person rail bikes. The eight-mile route along the Lackawaxen River takes approximately two hours. Along the way expect to see plenty of wildlife, scenic views and historical landmarks. Several trips are available throughout the day with rides offered every weekend and most weekdays through Labor Day.
2. Harmony in the Woods
The newest live performance venue in the Lake Region is carved out of the hillside. A tiered landscape creates a natural amphitheater. Visitors should bring their own blankets, chairs and refreshments to sit amid the trees and rocks. Pick up sandwiches and wine at Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery and have a picnic at the concert or enjoy a leisurely dinner at The Settlers Inn after the show. The covered stage was designed to blend into the environment. Friday and Saturday evenings in July and August bring an array of professional entertainers covering a variety of genres. Sundays feature local performers as well as children’s programming.
3. Hawley Trail
Find out about Hawley’s evolution from Gravity Railroad hub to its burgeoning glass and textile industries and the rise of tourism on this three-mile recreational trail. Access is available on The Settlers Inn property where hikers and walkers can travel the former D & H Canal towpath and connect to Lock 31 Trail in Canal Park on one end as well as existing trails in Bingham Park and Riverside Park on the other. There are 10 interpretive signs spaced along the entire length of the trail to relate Hawley’s history, information about the river and wildlife in the area.
4. Hawley Farmer’s Market
Every Friday afternoon, Bingham Park overflows with the freshest produce from local growers. Browse over 20 booths offering everything from fruits and vegetables to meat, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, cheese and more of what’s in season. The Farmer’s Market is open from 2-5 p.m. on Fridays from May to October.
5. Hawley Silk Mill
You can’t miss this landmark in Hawley. Not only is it the largest Bluestone structure in the world, it’s a hub of community activity in the Lake Region. Once a massive silk mill factory, the building was restored and repurposed into a lifestyle center. Shop a collection of fine retail stores on the main level. Find everything from children’s clothes and toys to custom candles made on site, distinctive home décor and gifts, the latest in fashion and accessories as well as works by locally known, regional and national artists. Hawley Silk Mill is also home to a state-of-the-art fitness center, Lake Region Fitness, numerous businesses and the Wayne County campus of Lackawanna College.
6. Stourbridge Line
Relive the heyday of railroading in America. The Stourbridg Line offers scenic excursions and the convenience of boarding right here in Hawley. Hop aboard for a relaxing trip to Lackawaxen, PA in one of four vintage coaches. There are two open window coaches that date to the 1920s. The table car offers booth seating and the 1950s Coach features more streamlined accommodations. Themed summer excursions include the Glen Eyre Express, Lackawaxen Express and a Dinner and Theater Train.
7. Costa’s Family Fun Park
All the summer fun packed into one place. Spend a few hours or a whole day. Activities and attractions offer something for every age. Choose from the family-oriented go-kart track, water slides or laser tag. There’s also a challenging 18-hole miniature golf course, bumper boats and children’s playland. For the sports lovers there’s a 19-stall driving range and batting cages. Costa’s Family Fun Park is open daily through Labor Day.
8. Wally Lake Fest
Send off summer with a three-day bash filled with music, food and festivities. Held August 25-27, there are over 60 activities in and around Hawley. Some signature events include the Artisan Craft Fair at the Hawley Silk Mill, Wallypalooza, a floating stage on Lake Wallenpaupack that hosts continuous free live entertainment and Wally Lake Fest Brunch at The Settlers Inn. There’s also Lakeside Live at Silver Birches, shows at the Ritz Company Playhouse, Blues, Brews and BBQ at Glass- wine.bar.kitchen. and a large vendor fair and market at Wallenpaupack High School.
Where to Stay
Stay at one of the distinctive properties of Settlers Hospitality during your next getaway to Northeast PA. See how many of the 8 great things to do in Hawley this summer you can check off the list. There are five accommodations throughout the Lake Region, Lackawanna County and Bethlehem. Each offers superior service, luxurious guestrooms and first-class amenities.