Planning your next weekend getaway as soon as the COVID-19 crisis is over? We’re doing the same, and way ahead into our winter holiday plans as well. If you’re looking for where to eat and sleep in Jim Thorpe (PA) – you reached a good place. Named after the coveted Olympic athlete, the town of Jim Thorpe or “America’s Little Switzerland,” was a location considered famous for many things at the turn of the last century: the site of the country’s first roller coaster and railroad, and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, for instance.
One of history’s hidden gems, the scenic mountainside town of Jim Thorpe has kept its antiquated charm and country comforts.
Get Outdoors: For Your Next Winter Vacation
Rent skis and organize a shuttle to the mountain with local shop Blue Mountain Sports.
Wondering whether to ski at Jack Frost or Blue Mountain? We highlight the best resorts of the Poconos in our Poconos Winter Mini Guide.
The Best Places to Eat in Jim Thorpe
Through the Looking Glass
111 Broadway | ttlgrestaurant.com
For your calorie fuel-up en route to Blue Mountain, this restaurant named after Alice in Wonderland is the place. The banana walnut pancakes are lightly sweetened and splattered with the perfect number of bananas and walnuts both in and on top of the stack. The French toast has the perfect consistency, with a nice, crispy outside. Orange juice is $1.85 for a good-sized glass plus free refills, and the $2 bacon strips are reason enough to visit. In case you’re not one for small talk, or need help finding a suitable subject matter, between the legs of each small glass-topped table lies a stack of magazines and books to browse while waiting for the meal. Pro tip: order a to-go sandwich to eat slopeside.
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Country Cottage
37 Race Street
We went for the pickles and left with much more. A local favorite shop full of handcrafted goods, expect to find shelves carrying varying shapes, sizes, and flavors of pickles, homemade strawberry and banana jams, and the latest jalapeño salsa.
The Muggles Mug
79 Broadway
Harry Potter fans will delight in this magically themed coffee shop decorated with everything from wands to owls. Grab a butterbeer latte or pepperup portion as you argue over the best Hogwarts House (note: it’s Ravenclaw).
The Best Place to Stay in Jim Thorpe
The Parsonage Bed & Breakfast
61 West Broadway
For a comfortable and affordable B&B, The Parsonage is ideal. Housed in a historic building from 1844, the B&B is decorated to the brim with paintings, miniatures and other oddities it is both cozy and interesting. The rooms are nicely sized, clean, and include free Wifi. Expect farm fresh and free-range food for breakfast in their communal dining room. Room rates start at $115 per room/night on weekdays. The B&B does not allow anyone under 18.
How To Get There: Check susquehannabus.com for schedules and information on the round-trip bus routes from NYC. The Jim Thorpe stop is one block away from the Inn at Jim Thorpe. Once in town, walk to local shops and restaurants and use the Blue Mountain Sports shuttle to get to your favorite adventure. For taxi needs, use local 903 Taxi.
Header photo by Chris Connelly.