coal mine tour jim thorpe

No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum

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No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Fri - Sun 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• (0.48 mi) Poconos Mountains ★ Jim Thorpe ★ Extended Stay ★ ST Luke's ★ LVHN ★ Geisinger ★
• (8.27 mi) The Inn at Birch Wilds
• (8.56 mi) The Times House
• (8.37 mi) The Dolon House
• (8.63 mi) Inn at Jim Thorpe
• (0.44 mi) Coal Miners' bar and grill
• (0.45 mi) Cabreras Pizzeria & Restaurant
• (0.66 mi) Marco's Pizza
• (0.70 mi) Bobo Garden Chinese Restaurant
• (8.59 mi) Moya

Touring the Number 9 Coal Mine: The World’s Longest-Operating Coal Mine

Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Coal Region is well known for having the largest deposit of anthracite coal in the Americas. While there are still coal operations throughout the region, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coal was a powerful economic driver in the region and drove tens of thousands of immigrants to this corner of the state.

Today, a few sites have been set up to tell the story of this history and offer a look at what life was like for coal miners. One such site is the Number 9 Coal Mine and Museum in Lansford, PA.

The Number 9 Coal Mine was opened in 1855 by the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company. The mine featured miles of tunnels and went as far as 800 feet below the surface. It produced a significant amount of anthracite coal from the Panther Valley’s Mammoth Vein in Carbon County, PA .

In 1972, the mine was officially closed. However, its 117 years of operation makes it still the longest continuously operating anthracite coal mine in the world.

In 1992, 20 years after closing for business, the Number 9 Coal Mine was opened for tours to those wanting to learn more about this industry that built Northeastern Pennsylvania. Believe it or not, this is the oldest former coal mine that can be toured in the United States.

Tours of the Number 9 Coal Mine start off in the museum adjacent to the mine’s entrance. While not as in-depth as what you’ll find at the Anthracite Heritage Museum in Scranton , the museum is definitely larger than those at the other coal mine tours I’ve done in PA.

The museum is filled with artifacts relating to the coal industry in the region. While more signage would have really helped to better explain the items on display, it’s still really neat to see what has been gathered here.

While you could spend hours exploring every item in the museum, there were a few highlights that are worth checking out.

The first was a large model of the Number 8 Breaker that was an important step in the process of making the coal mined here useable. While the building itself is gone, this model allows you to better understand the process of turning coal into a useable product.

I also really enjoyed the collection of jewelry and other items that were made out of coal. Given how often you see and think of coal as just being for fuel, it was really neat to see items that used coal in decorative ways.

Tours of the mine itself last about an hour and run every hour on the hour (with the last tour one hour before the site closes). Depending on when you arrive, you might have to spend a bit of time checking out the museum after your tour.

Tours of the mine start from the museum where visitors are offered both a coat and a hard hat. I recommend bringing a coat or sweatshirt with you, though so you don’t have to worry about the sizes available. As for the hard hats, while the ceilings are generally high, I still recommend wearing one, especially if you are tall as there are a few spots where you’ll need to duck.

After climbing in the mining car (definitely the physically hardest part of the tour), your tour guide will drive it a quarter mile into the mountainside.

Unlike the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour in Scranton where the path into the mine is on a steep slope, the ride here is quite flat, though very bumpy, like you’ll experience at the nearby Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine Tour and the Tour-Ed Mine near Pittsburgh .

After riding a quarter mile into the mountain, the train stops and you exit the car nearly 200 feet below the earth’s surface.

Once you’ve managed to squeeze out of the car that brought you into the mine, the guide offers a great overview of the mine and its history.

The tour doesn’t cover a significant amount of distance but does offer the chance to see several areas of the mine.

As you are guided through the space, guides provide a wealth of knowledge about how mining worked during the era it was open and how mining changed over the years. 

One of my favorite spots was the mine’s old cage shaft, which worked much like an elevator. This incredible piece of engineering once took miners as much as 600 additional feet below ground. If you look between the cracks in the cages, you can see deep into the mine, which is flooded approximately 200 feet further down the shaft.

Another neat area is the hospital that was carved directly out of the rock. This hospital was part of the concessions that workers got over the years as working conditions slowly began to improve. However, as guides usually point out, there wasn’t a significant amount medical supplies available in these mine hospitals.

After learning about the history of mining inside the Number 9 Coal Mine, you return to the mining train cars for the ride back out of this historic mine.

I’ve visited several different coal mines in Pennsylvania and each offers something a bit different and a unique reason to visit it.

For the Number 9 Coal Mine and Museum, I was most impressed by some of the historic elements that still existed within the mine and the quality of their museum. Even if you’ve visited other coal mines in PA or beyond, this is still a great spot to visit.

Looking for more places to visit nearby? Check out Eckley’s Miners Village , the Greater Hazleton Historical Society Museum , Locust Lake State Park , and the best things to do in Jim Thorpe, PA .

Number 9 Coal Mine and Museum

See map below for other area attractions., great places to stay nearby.

• The Inn at Jim Thrope - A 19th-century inn is located in the heart of Jim Thorpe
• Hill Crest Bed & Breakfast - A cozy bed and breakfast with mountain views
• The Parsonage Bed & Breakfast - Rated the best B&B in Jim Thorpe on Trip Advisor.
• Mountain View Suites - Each room comes with a balcony with mountain views
• Find more great places to stay on Airbnb!

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Touring the Asa Packer Mansion in Jim Thorpe, PA

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Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

3 thoughts on “Touring the Number 9 Coal Mine: The World’s Longest-Operating Coal Mine”

I agree with your story Great place to visit. As a tour guide from Tour-Ed Mine & Museum I enjoyed the tour guides and displays.

My family & I lived in nearby Coaldale, where the coal breaker was located, just a few hundred feet away from the mine. I remember both actively operating when I was a kid. The No. 9 mine is a great place to visit and get a genuine view of the history of the area.

My Great-grandfather was a fifty year employee at the mine and lived nearby. He actually has a brick with his name on it on display. Great Tour..very realistic.I think they have a weekend festival in the summer

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No. 9 Coal Mine

No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum is a museum and coal mine in Lansford, Pennsylvania that has the distinction of being the world’s oldest continuously operated anthracite coal mine. Here, visitors can tour the mine by riding a train and seeing what it was like to be a miner during the 200 years it was in operation. Read on below for more information about No. 9 Coal Mine and what makes it such a special attraction to visit during your Poconos vacation!

A Fascinating Look at the History of Coal Mining

No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum first began as an anthracite coal mine opened in 1855, established to harvest 90,000 tons of anthracite coal each year, the most popular type of fuel for heating homes and businesses in the Northeast at the time. From that year until 1972, No. 9 Mine operated continuously.

30 years after the mine closed, it was reopened in 2002 as a way to promote tourism and give visitors an educational look at the mining industry that dominated the region for two centuries. The mine is now preserved, and guided tours that take you and your guests 1,600 feet into the mountain are available. See the original 900 foot elevator shaft, the mule-way, and the miner’s hospital, all of which give great insight into the daily lives of the miners who worked here.

The accompanying Mine Museum showcases artifacts from the mine and its miners, from tools and fuel cans to blasting equipment and a wash shanty for clothes. Historical photos, models, and paintings are also displayed.

Admission prices range from $3.00 – $10.00 depending on age, whether you are traveling with a group of 20 or more people, and whether you choose to visit the museum only or the mine and the museum. Tours are given each hour between 11:00am and 3:00pm.

No. 9 Coal Mine is located at 9 Dock St., Lansford, PA 18232. You can find out more information about the mine and museum by calling (570) 645-7074, by emailing [email protected], or by speaking with one of our reservation specialists at Pocono Mountain Rentals.

The Town the Coal Mines Built

The history of Lansford is, as to be expected, one that intersects with the coal mine. Without the mine, this town may not have come into existence! Today it is a sleepy village in which many of its residents begin their days with coffee and breakfast at Cabrera’s, found at 161 W Ridge Street. Gossip is exchanged, coffee is exclaimed over, and simple breakfasts are gulped down before heading to work or school.

Local residents are proud of their history, as shown by the museum, but the anthracite antiques and collectibles store located at 200 W Bertsch Street offers another example of this pride. Filled with collectibles and artifacts that tell the story of Lansford, the proprietor’s love for collecting shows in each object he offers for sale. The store isn’t one that you can wander in off the street and browse, though. Open by appointment only, you can call 484-268-0806 and set up an appointment in advance, exploring the mine earlier in the day and seeking out treasures after.

If you prefer to be spontaneous, Lansford is only a few miles from Jim Thorpe, which offers a selection of stores to explore! Antiques on Broadway, found at 52 Broadway in Jim Thorpe, has some of the prettiest quilts you’ve ever seen, in addition to an extensive selection of collectables and treasures. Sellers Books & Art at 65 Broadway specializes in used books and stunning art. The Dreisbach House (62 Broadway) is a vintage clothing store featuring the funky and the fantastic!

Culinary Adventures in Jim Thorpe

After a day of antique and museum browsing, most visitors are ready for a big meal, and when in Jim Thorpe, you’ll have plenty of spots to choose from! The Stone Row Pub and Eatery, found at 45 Race Street, is located inside a building constructed in the 1880s, offering a historical atmosphere to go along with their pub food and cold beers. Not afraid to venture outside the box, their wasabi eggs, while not world famous, are loved by all who taste them! When you seek a dining experience, not just a casual night out, Moya at 24 Race Street never fails to please. Here is where you will find thick and juicy steaks, rich and flavorful sauces, and fresh and sweet seafood, as well as a strong wine menu offering the perfect accompaniment to every dinner choice.

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To learn more about No. 9 Coal Mine and other fascinating attractions that the Poconos have to offer during your stay, contact our representatives and ask about booking your accommodations in one of our amazing vacation rentals today!

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Walk This Way Tours is the place to find a range of exciting tours through Jim Thorpe. They regularly hold overview tours about the history of the area, and ghost tours on Saturday nights. There is also a Walk, Talk, and, Taste tour allowing you to sample food and drink from a variety of downtown restaurants while listening to the history of Jim Thorpe. Large group or private tours are available as are custom tour packages.

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LACKAWANNA COAL MINE TOUR

Travel 300 feet beneath the earth's surface and experience the National Award Winning Historical Attraction - the Lackawanna County Coal Mine Tour. The once abandoned and now restored hard coal mine is a cool 53 degrees year round, and provides you the opportunity to see a day-in-the-life of the area's workers that powered the Industrial Revolution.

Originally opened in 1860, the coal mine tour takes you through the winding underground gangways and rock tunnel, past three different veins of hard coal, the mule boy, the nipper, the monkey vein and the dead chute. each tour group is led by a miner, who, while walking you through the tour, explains the fascinating methods used, and the heroic efforts involved, in deep mining's history..

The 300 feet descent down the slope takes 3-4 minutes, while the walking portion is approximately one half-mile and lasts one hour. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, and light jackets are available to rent for anyone who does not bring his or her own.

The mine is handicapped accessible with some restrictions. A handout is also available for the hearing-impaired who are not accompanied by an interpreter. Please contact our office for specific limitations on accessibility.

CURRENT RATES

Group rates are also available for schools, motor coaches and civic groups of 20 or more based on advance reservations., parking is free in the lots adjacent to the coal mine tour main building, the shifting shanty. handicapped and motor coach parking is also available., hours of operation, the coal mine tour will be open april 1st – nov 23rd 2023,  friday, saturday, sunday, and monday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, last tour : 2:45 pm must arrive by 2:00pm.

Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18504 1-800-238-7245 | 570-963-6463 | [email protected] www.lackawannacounty.org  

2024 Insider’s Travel Guide to Jim Thorpe

Located in northeastern PA in the Pocono Mountains, the quaint town of Jim Thorpe has made a name for itself. Known as the “Little Switzerland of America,” the town is ranked as one of the most picturesque places in the country to experience fall foliage by publications including Travel + Leisure and USA Today . While the town is a great year-round destination, Jim Thorpe is simply stunning against the vibrant backdrop of autumn.

Get the most out of the fall season in Jim Thorpe with their Fall Foliage Forecast Tracker .

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Top Things to Do in Jim Thorpe

Fall Foliage Festival Experience an array of autumn activities at Jim Thorpe’s Fall Foliage Festival . Held every weekend during the month of October, the town is transformed into an epicenter of fall fun. Take a scenic train ride, create your very own homemade arts and crafts treasure, savor delicious foods, experience a spooky ghost tour, and enjoy seasonal specials from local restaurants, shops, and galleries. The fall vibes are high at this annual festival in downtown Jim Thorpe.

Jim Thorpe Trolley Company Sit back and enjoy a live narrated tour in an open-air trolley with the Jim Thorpe Trolley Company ! Become familiar with the history of the area during their standard tour or book a special experience such as their Wine and Shine Tasting Tour. If you prefer to explore on foot, check out the seasonal Jim Thorpe Walking Tour for a step into the small town’s past.

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Book your ticket and hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway to surround yourself with breathtaking views of fall foliage during an autumn leaf train tour. Known to locals and visitors as one of the best ways to admire the fall colors of Jim Thorpe, the vintage train runs daily with 40 and 75-minute rides and is perfect for young ones and furry friends alike. 

D&L Trail Hike, bike, and explore Jim Thorpe’s D&L Trail as you bask in the fall breeze and picturesque scenes of the season. Rent a bike from Pocono Biking or get a little assistance from Bronson EBikes and hit the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for fantastic views of an old coal canal on one side and the Lehigh River on the other. You can also bike into other nearby small towns along the route.

Pocono Whitewater Adventures The ultimate whitewater rafting experience gets even cooler in the fall thanks to the season’s unbeatable scenery. Pocono Whitewater Adventures offers a variety of excursions from the mild to wild with dam release whitewater trips and family-friendly options. Known as the best whitewater rafting in the tri-state area, get ready to paddle your way through northeastern PA on a thrilling outdoor adventure. 

Old Jail Museum Take a guided tour of the Old Jail Museum to discover Jim Thorpe’s haunted history. Listen to stories and witness what prisoners endured during their stay in one of the 27 cells. You’ll be able to see the actual cells and gallows where the Molly Maguires were hung and, if you dare step into Cell 17, you’ll find the mysterious handprint on the wall left by one of them. You may have some additional friends join you on your tour — keep your eyes peeled for the jail’s friendly ghosts. 

Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz Experience Jim Thorpe in style with Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz ! A member of the United Sidecar Association and the Antique Motorcycle Club of America, this organization’s exhilarating motorcycle tours allow you to choose your route from several packages including a countryside scenic tour, a mountainside tour, and a wine tasting tour. Feel the air whip through your hair as your cruise some of the area’s most epic sightseeing experiences riding in a classic or vintage sidecar.

Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center Before it was Jim Thorpe, this Pocono Mountains town was known as Mauch Chunk. Discover the largest collection of local history and take a journey back to PA’s industrial age at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center . Make your way through a guided tour to learn about how the state’s landscape was forever changed by coal mining and the need to build waterways and railroads. Wend your way through the museum for a first-hand look at the evolution of Jim Thorpe’s legacy and beauty.

Mauch Chunk Opera House Built in 1881, the Mauch Chunk Opera House is one of America’s oldest vaudeville theaters providing entertainment to the town’s visitors and residents for close to 150 years. As one of the largest buildings in Jim Thorpe, it stands out against the quaint shops and eateries that line the Victorian village of downtown Jim Thorpe. Listen to performances of your favorite music genres, from classic rock and jazz to folk and theater. View the full list of shows coming to the theater before you plan your getaway.

Jim Thorpe’s Mausoleum and Memorial Although named after the Olympian, Jim Thorpe himself never visited the town. It was back in 1954 when Mauch Chunk and East Mauch Chunk were exploring merging the two towns. Mrs. Thorpe was seeking a place to pay homage to her late husband and the deal was made. Shortly after, the athlete’s remains were moved to the town, and the rest is history. View the statue of Jim Thorpe with a football in hand north of downtown or visit his grave located on the outskirts of town.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Jim Thorpe

Broadway Inn & Grille Connected to The Inn at Jim Thorpe, Broadway Inn & Grille sits in one of the town’s most historic and beautiful buildings. Having won OpenTable’s Diner’s Choice of 2023, this reliable pub never disappoints. Serving up classics with a twist such as their Broadway Burger with hot pepper bacon raspberry jam, you can dine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or come for live music and festive events including their Haunted Historical Halloween dinner.

Marion Hose Bar Marion Hose Bar is a unique eatery that was once a firehouse and now hosts guests for trendy drinks and good eats. While admiring the historic architecture, munch on casual fare that includes Marion’s Mac & Cheese and Bavarian Beer Pretzels while sipping whiskey, wine, or a refreshing cocktail.

Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub A must-visit in downtown Jim Thorpe, Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub offers an authentic pub experience. With the building dating back to 1830, the pub acts as a time-machine to the past where you can sip pints of draft beer as you feast on classic Irish eats including Sheppard’s Pie. The pub is home to the largest outdoor eating area in the county, so take advantage and sip your lager amongst the changing leaves.

Pocono Beverage Trail Nothing says fall like sampling local beverages as you soak up the incredible seasonal views of the town. Follow the Pocono Beverage Trail to some of the best breweries, distilleries, and wineries in the area, such as Bright Path Brewing, Nomad Distilling Co., Wild Elder Wine and Cider Co., and Mad Hatter Winery and Smokehouse. Sip your way through the season in Jim Thorpe and the surrounding area.

Places to Stay in Jim Thorpe

Hotel Switzerland Located in the heart of Jim Thorpe and known as the oldest operating commercial building in town, Hotel Switzerland offers an unforgettable, affordable stay. Just steps away from popular shops and restaurants, you can also pop downstairs to the well-known Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub for a pint or two. Rooms sell out fast, especially in the fall, so book your getaway today!

The Inn at Jim Thorpe A landmark building in the town, the Inn at Jim Thorpe offers guests charming accommodations in the center of historic downtown. Named a 2023 Traveler’s Choice by Trip Advisor, the inn lets you choose from elegant mini suites or standard rooms spread across three buildings. During your stay, rejuvenate at their spa with a variety of services and try their new repechage facials. Parking is free and you can get a $10 breakfast voucher when you book directly on their website .

The Dolon House Located on what is known as “Millionaires’ Row,” The Dolon House was once the home of a local doctor who operated a thriving practice right on the premises. Staying at this bed and breakfast will transport you back in time with its historic detailing featuring jeweled stained-glass windows, stunning hand carved woodwork, a grand staircase, and an Italianesque mosaic entry floor. Find comfort and elegance in each of the five suites and enjoy their complimentary “Coal Cracker Spa Cuisine” that utilizes the freshest, local ingredients for a hearty breakfast before you take on a days’ worth of adventures.

The Harry Packer Mansion The inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion, the Harry Packer Mansion is perched atop Packer Hill and its great views of downtown Jim Thorpe. With a style that can only be described as gothic-flare-meets-comfort, both the mansion and adjoining carriage house are filled with period antiques, luxurious fabrics, and artwork. Choose from a variety of suite options to suit your getaway needs, enjoy their complimentary breakfast, and join in the fun during one of their on-site Murder Mystery Weekends (if you dare!).

While in the Poconos, find even more fun and foliage-filled fall activities in the nearby towns of Lehighton, Palmerton, and Lansford. These small towns make for a great day trip if you’re staying in Jim Thorpe or the surrounding area. Explore unique spots such as Country Junction, The World’s Largest General Store in Lehighton or the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum in Lansford. The possibilities of fall fun are endless in the Pocono Mountains!

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Cara O'Donnell Spring 2019

With a storied past, the quaint charms of a European village and the outdoor recreation of a mountain sports destination, the town of Jim Thorpe is a must-see town tucked into the Pocono Mountains. Originally known as Mauch Chunk, Jim Thorpe is a destination rich with history and is often called the “Switzerland of America” because of its scenic views and charm. Its unique Victorian architecture pays homage to its roots of coal mining and industrialism, and today those Victorian structures house unique shops and eateries, museums and galleries and popular entertainment venues. With nostalgic charm coupled with unique history and exciting recreation, Jim Thorpe is a favorite for weekend getaways for many types of travelers.

But to truly understand Jim Thorpe’s charm, one must first look at its roots. Originally named Mauch Chunk, the town was pivotal to America’s industrial development as a main transport area for coal mining. The coal mined throughout what’s now known as the Pocono Mountains was transported from Mauch Chunk to eastern markets via the Lehigh River, which helped to build the local economy and establish the community as an independent leader in a growing industrial market. Many of the transportation systems of the era, including canals, locks, dams and early gravity railroads, are still a strong part of the community’s culture today.

Historic Stone Row in Jim Thorpe

That focus on coal and modern transportation methods brought early 19 th -century entrepreneurs to the area, including Asa Packer, a Connecticut native and carpenter by trade. Packer realized the opportunity the coal region held and used his skills to build and repair canal boats to transport coal, eventually establishing the firm of A. & R. W. Packer, which built canal boats and locks for the Lehigh Coal & Navigation Company. Packer and his family settled in Mauch Chunk.

But Packer’s sights were set even higher on finding ways to use technology to transport the region’s rich coal resources. In the mid-1850s, Packer took control of a railway line from Mauch Chunk to Easton and connected railway lines to the coal mines in Luzerne and Schuylkill counties. Known as the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company, the line eventually extended into the Susquehanna Valley and New York state to connect with the Erie Railroad, effectively growing the region’s industrial reach even further and establishing Mauch Chunk as a center of industrial commerce, tourism and entertainment.

Today, visitors can experience a glimpse of Packer’s success with a visit to the Asa Packer Mansion (shown), a National Historic Landmark that overlooks the Lehigh River and Mauch Chunk National Historic District and that remains much like it did when first constructed in 1861 as a memorial to Packer and his accomplishments. Visitors can learn more about Packer’s successes as a businessman and his work as a philanthropist through guided tours held throughout the day of the 17-room Italianate villa.

Visitors can also experience a little of what it was really like to live as a Packer with a stay at the Harry Packer Mansion Inn , just down the street from the Asa Packer Mansion. Harry Packer, the elder Packer’s son, lived in the Victorian mansion, complete with 15-foot ceilings, marble fireplaces and gilded mirrors reflecting the elegance of the Victorian age. Guests can enjoy period furnishings and artwork at the inn and even take part in special wine tasting or murder mystery weekends, a nod to the fact that the home was the inspiration for Walt Disney World’s “Haunted Mansion.”

By the middle of the 20 th century, Mauch Chunk had fallen on hard economic times. In the 1950s, the town was approached by the widow of Olympic athlete Jim Thorpe, looking for a place to honor her late husband and his sports achievements. (His home state of Oklahoma had refused to erect a memorial in his honor.) She and town officials struck a deal, and the athlete’s remains were moved to Mauch Chunk, which was then renamed Jim Thorpe. Each year, the town has a two-day event to honor the athlete who excelled in track and field, football and baseball. Interestingly, Thorpe himself never visited the town, but reports say he did start his athletic career at an industrial school about 100 miles away.

Today, visitors have plenty of opportunities to learn more about the Packers, the railroading history and the unique stories of Jim Thorpe. Take a self-guided walking tour or Segway tour to learn more about some of the historic downtown, or hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway , an excellent way to explore the region from the viewpoint of its industrial history. Visit the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center to learn more about the town’s history, where there’s even a working model of the Switchback Railroad, one of the very earliest in the region.

Old Jail Museum

The railroading history, the Packers’ story and the eccentric tale of the name change of Jim Thorpe aren’t where the historical stories end, however. Don’t miss the Old Jail Museum in Jim Thorpe, considered the central location for the story of the Molly Maguires. Here, visitors can tour the jail and hanging site of the seven accused coal miners known as the Mollies in the 1870s, complete reconstructed gallows and the mysterious, enduring handprint of a prisoner who proclaimed his innocence.

Even just a stroll through downtown from one of Jim Thorpe’s quaint B&Bs or historic inns evokes nostalgic charm. Pass by Historic Stone Row, a series of stone row houses Asa Packer built for his engineers and foremen of the Lehigh Valley Railroad, to find Victorian buildings along Broadway now housing cute shops offering everything from handmade soaps and pottery to wine tasting rooms, antiques and art galleries. Don’t miss Somersault Letterpress , a vintage letterpress shoppe, or Rainbow’s End, a quaint corner candy shop sure to amaze kids (and kids at heart).

Dining is just as varied. While shopping downtown, stop by Café Arielle at the Stabin Museum, a destination restaurant housed in an old wireworks factory and silk mill, complete with an underground stream and outdoor garden patio. The popular Broadway Grille & Pub is a favorite for locals and visitors, and Stella’s Secret Speakeasy above Tony Stella’s Encore restaurant is the perfect place for an evening cocktail – just make sure you know the password.

Outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy an entirely different aspect of Jim Thorpe, no matter what the season. After all, the many railways and waterways of the area’s storied past make for excellent outdoor recreation today. Take a 9-mile downhill bike trip on the Switchback Trail to the picturesque Broadway in downtown Jim Thorpe. Bike or hike through the Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail for some truly spectacular scenery, or visit any of the numerous local trailheads accessible from town. Take to the water for a challenging whitewater rafting ride or take a scenic kayak paddle through the gorge and surrounding waterways. Several companies are available to arrange tours to explore the region’s waters. Naturalists may want to spend a relaxing afternoon at the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary .

Romantic small-town charm, entrepreneurship, legendary pasts and scenic vistas all make their home in the Pocono Mountains’ Jim Thorpe. Discover this unique spot for a weekend getaway in the Switzerland of America. Visit www.jimthorpe.org  or the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau website for more information.

Note: some of the attractions mentioned in the article aren’t open until later in the Spring. Please check websites for days and hours of operation. 

Photos by Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau

Photo by Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau

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No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum

this is were all the blasting powder was stored

the men that open the mine after it was close in ---- they reopen it in---- and thees are the men

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INCLEMENT WEATHER: Some locations may be affected by inclement weather 2/13/2024

For more than 45 years, we've made taking trips fun for the entire group. Leave the driving to us and enjoy one-day excursions, weekend getaways or week long bus trips. With a deluxe motorcoach experience that typically includes reclining seats and a restroom onboard, you can enjoy your trip the moment you step on board. View our upcoming trips and pricing below.

Day Bus Trips: View and request pricing

Atlantic city, jim thorpe, pa, manheim, pa, patterson, new jersey, spring lake, new jersey, overnight bus trips: view and request pricing, north carolina, south carolina, wildwood nj.

Interested in a trip not mentioned here? Email us at [email protected] and let us know what trip you would like to take! If you have a group of 30 or more and would like to plan your own getaway, email our Group Travel Department at [email protected]

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JT - attractions - fall

Attractions in Jim Thorpe

Come experience the "switzerland of america".

Whether discovering outdoor recreation in the Lehigh Gorge or enjoying the town’s shops and dining , visitors discover so many unique things to do in beautiful Jim Thorpe that many come back year after year. Enjoy the proximity of the Lehigh River and Lehigh Gorge with a whitewater rafting trip or a hike or bike ride along the D&L Trail. Visit Mauch Chunk Lake and the surrounding area for more fresh air and outdoor activities like fishing and swimming .

Take a stroll downtown to snap photos against the historic architecture or soak in the arts & culture and entertainment . From trains to trolleys, there are lots of unique tours to get a new perspective on the area. Seasonal and holiday events are also a big draw in town. At the end of the day, unwind at specialty wine & spirits hot spots.

Arts & Culture/Entertainment

Wine & spirits, kemmerer memorial park.

Located on the wooded hillside overlooking the Lehigh River and historic downtown Jim Thorpe, Kemmerer Memorial Park is the town’s hidden gem. Donated by the Kemmerer family to the People of Mauch Chunk (now Jim Thorpe) in 1927, the grounds once held an impressive hillside mansion, carriage house, fountain and several outbuildings. The estate was designed like a park, with trails, bridal paths, terraces and carriage roads. The property went from being a family estate to a town park and recreational facility, and today has a tennis court, basketball court and an outdoor play area.

The paths and trails remain, weaving through beautifully landscaped grounds where strategically located benches along the trails offer a pleasant shaded place to stop, rest, maybe read a book while watching the park’s wildlife go about their activities. And during the summer season, visit the beautifully restored Carriage House for a primer on the history of the front hill families (Kemmerer, White, Hazard, Packer, Lentz, Leisenring and Wentz).

The park’s upper entrance is located a short walk up Packer Hill Road, opposite the Harry Packer Mansion . The lower entrance, along the original carriage road to the Kemmerer Mansion, is on Lehigh Avenue, near the Post Office and across the highway from the train station parking lot .

There's always something exciting coming up on the calendar in Jim Thorpe. Take advantage of fun happenings in and around this…

Making Memories in Jim Thorpe

Tag #PoconoMtns or @PoconoTourism on Instagram to have your adventures featured on our page.

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• Moscow Travel and City Excursions

Our 20 Best Moscow Day Tours of 2022

See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square , St. Basil’s , the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system , we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe’s largest city. Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre, and the former KGB headquarters...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 20:00
• Languages English-speaking guide is guaranteed. Other languages are on request.
• Walking tours Transportation is not included
• PRIVATE TOUR This is a private tour, there won't be other people in your group

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will escort you on a route that includes Vorobyevi...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 18:00
• Tours by car Transportation by private car/minivan is included

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious life of different Jewish families, as well...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 11:00 - 20:00 Friday 10:00 - 14:00 Saturday not available

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened to two and a half times its original size,...

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to the victims of the repression. You will then...

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the street’s many craftsmen....

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury and the workplace of the Russian President....

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday not available

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and 19th century including works by Rublyov, Karavak,...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10:00 - 20:00

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure served as a convent for women of noble birth...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 17:00

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians themselves and for visitors from abroad....

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 17:00

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was here that Donskoi celebrated his victory over...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 18:00

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra) was built in the first half of the 1340s by...

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic gothic style. The complex includes a landscape...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 19:00 Sunday 11:00 - 18:00

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history dates back to 1715, when the village of Kuskovo...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday not available Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 18:00

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone centuries. You will get to know the story...

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 19:00

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy and his family including books and personal...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday 12:00 - 19:00

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's collection includes more than three thousand...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 19:00 Thursday 14:00 - 21:00

Express to Russia specializes in Moscow city excursions, an essential part of your Moscow travel itinerary. We offer a large variety of day excursions throughout Moscow and its suburbs. From  Red Square  and the  Kremlin  to a city tour of Moscow’s  Old Arbat Street  or the  Moscow metro , an excursion specializing in Stalin and the KGB and much more. No travel to Moscow is complete without taking a few of our day tours that most meet your interest in Russia.

Moscow City Tours

Our Moscow day excursions can be organized on foot or with transport. All of our excursions are led by an experienced guide, specializing in the subject matter of the tour. Excursions are privately run and can be booked for 1 traveler all the way up to large groups of travelers. We run our Moscow city tours in every season. This is because travel to Moscow is excellent in any season. In the summer take a stroll through  Gorky Park  or take a riverboat tour along the Moskva River. In the winter, see Moscow’s winter wonderland of ice and snow and then settle in for a cozy lunch or dinner with a hot bowl of borsht. In winter, spring and fall, you can beat the crowds at all of Moscow’s main attractions and museums. Regardless of when you come, Express to Russia will make sure that your trip is one of your best vacations ever.

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Express to Russia

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