How to Travel From Philadelphia to the Poconos
While vacations are exciting and rewarding, planning them can sometimes be stressful. You have to arrange for time off, pack, plan what you want to do, where to stay, how to get there—the list can seem endless sometimes, even if you’re not traveling far! If you’re planning a trip from Philadelphia to the Poconos, we’ve done the research on transportation for you. Below are the best ways to get from Philadelphia to the Poconos!
How to Travel From Philadelphia to the Poconos
If you’re looking to make a weekend getaway from Philadelphia or looking to get away from the city without traveling far, the Poconos are a great destination. The distance between the Philadelphia and the Poconos is just over 100 miles, making it a fairly short trip. Despite the relatively short distance, the Poconos can seem like an entirely different world—in place of busy, noisy streets and tall buildings there are pristine natural environments filled with gorgeous trees, rivers, lakes, and views. So, what is the best way to get from Philadelphia to the Poconos?
By Car
A car is the fastest way to get to the Poconos from Philadelphia, as it takes just under two hours if you drive nonstop. If your car is fuel efficient, this may also be the cheapest option.
If you don’t have a car or don’t want to drive yours, you can also use Uber, Lyft, or a similar service. The prices for these services can range, but generally, this basic route costs around $140.
The most direct route is to take Interstate 76 West, which gets you most of the way there—about an hour and a half. Depending on where you want to go in the Poconos, you’ll then want to exit 76 West for Interstate 476 or Interstate 80.
Along the way, keep your eye out for the oldest still-operating drive-in movie theater in America, Shankweiler’s! It’s just off I-476 and has been in operation since 1934. If you get hungry or want to stop for a little while to rest your eyes and stretch your legs, stop by the Country View Diner and Family Restaurant in Lehighton! You can expect delicious comfort food and friendly service at this no-frills, laid-back eatery.
By Bus
Greyhound offers bus trips that run directly from Philadelphia to Mt Pocono that take around three and a half hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops the bus makes. Martz Trailways also has a route that can take you from Philadelphia to Mt Pocono. This route requires one bus transfer, and it takes about four and a half hours. Bus tickets tend to run around $40 one way, but this price is, of course, subject to change.
It is technically possible to reach the Poconos from Philadelphia via plane, but it isn’t advisable as it would be far more expensive, take much longer, and be much more complicated.
Stay at Mountaintop Lodge
Make our inviting lodge your home base during your stay in the Poconos, and you’re sure to have a relaxing vacation. You’ll be close to all the best things to do in the Poconos while still enjoying a quiet retreat. Our cozy quarters provide a calm place to unwind and escape from fast-paced city life for a while. Each suite is decorated simply, featuring just what you need to recharge—luxurious beds fitted with Comphy linens, private bathrooms stocked with lemongrass bath products, and windows to let in lots of natural light.
If you’re looking for entertainment but don’t want to go out, there is much to do on our grounds. Stop by the coffee shop that is attached to our lodge, or relax on our large porch. Just down the road, you’ll find Lake Naomi Club—a Platinum rated club featuring all kinds of outdoor and indoor recreation. You typically need to be a member to enjoy their amenities, but as a guest of Mountaintop Lodge, access to Lake Naomi Club is complimentary! You’ll also enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast each morning.
What are you waiting for? Your relaxing vacation in the Poconos awaits you! Be sure to browse all our accommodations, and book your stay at Mountaintop Lodge today!