Jim Thorpe Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Often called the “Switzerland of America,” Jim Thorpe is a picturesque borough nestled in the steep valley of the Lehigh Gorge in Pennsylvania. This town is a time capsule of the Victorian era, where colorful mansions and stone row houses cling to the mountainside, reminding visitors of the immense wealth generated here during the industrial coal boom. It is a place where history meets dramatic natural beauty.

Beyond its architectural charm, Jim Thorpe serves as the gateway to the Pocono Mountains’ most exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you are looking to ride a vintage train along the river, cycle down an old railbed, or explore the haunting history of the Molly Maguires, this walkable town offers a unique escape from the modern world. The blend of rugged mountain terrain and refined 19th-century culture creates an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

A Legacy Carved in Coal

Jim Thorpe was originally known as Mauch Chunk, a Lenape Native American name meaning “Bear Mountain.” In the 19th century, it was home to more millionaires per capita than anywhere else in the country, thanks to the booming anthracite coal industry and the Lehigh Valley Railroad. The town was famously renamed in 1954 to honor the Native American Olympic athlete Jim Thorpe, whose remains rest in a memorial on the edge of town.

Walking through the historic district feels like stepping onto a movie set. The winding, hilly streets are lined with eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and museums housed in buildings that date back to the 1800s. The geography of the town is unique; because it sits in a deep gorge, the layout is compact and vertical, offering stunning viewpoints from the upper streets looking down upon the Lehigh River and the active railroad tracks below.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway - A vintage train ride that departs from the center of town. The 70-minute round trip follows the Lehigh River into the state park. Tickets generally cost around $22 USD for adults.

Asa Packer Mansion - The home of the founder of Lehigh University. This National Historic Landmark is open for guided tours that reveal the lavish lifestyle of the Victorian industrialist. Located on Packer Hill, admission is approximately $12 USD.

The Old Jail Museum - Famous for the hanging of the Molly Maguires in the 1870s. Tours take you through the cells, warden’s quarters, and the gallows. It is located on West Broadway, with tickets costing around $15 USD.

Mauch Chunk Opera House - One of America’s oldest vaudeville theaters, now a premier concert venue. Located on Broadway, it hosts rock, folk, and jazz acts year-round, with ticket prices varying by performance.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Jim Thorpe is a scenic drive, located about 90 minutes from Philadelphia and two hours from New York City. The most critical tip for visiting is to arrive early, especially on weekends and during the fall foliage season. The municipal parking lot at the train station ($10-$15 USD) fills up rapidly by mid-morning. If the main lot is full, you may be directed to satellite parking with a shuttle service.

Once you park, the town is extremely walkable, though be prepared for steep hills. Comfortable walking shoes are a necessity, not a suggestion. While many businesses accept credit cards, some smaller antique shops and snack vendors may prefer cash. If you plan on biking the rail trail, you can bring your own gear or rent from several outfitters located directly at the base of the trailhead.

Jim Thorpe is a destination that changes dramatically with the seasons. While the Fall Foliage Festival in October draws the biggest crowds for its spectacular autumn colors, the summer offers the best conditions for rafting and hiking. Winter brings a quiet, snowy charm perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, and spring offers the excitement of high water levels for whitewater enthusiasts. No matter when you visit, the town’s historic allure remains constant.