Stroudsburg and The Poconos Invite Seniors

Here is a new wrinkle for a travel blog. I woke up early this AM and the name Stroudsburg jumped into this senior’s head.  Why? I don’t know, but was reason enough for research on this city.

I discovered that Stroudsburg is a borough in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. The city was laid out by Col. Jacob Stoud (1735–1806) in 1799. Currently Stroudsburg has an estimated population of about 7,000 inhabitants.

It is located in the world famous Poconos region of the state, approximately five miles from the Delaware Water Gap, at the confluence of the Brodhead and Pocono Creeks. The Pocono region remains Pennsylvania’s biggest tourist attraction with over 8 million visitors annually. So set your GPS for Stroudsburg, senior travelers.

Historic and Traditional, Downtown Invites Seniors

Downtown Stroudsburg is known for its wide tree-lined Main Street and historically rich architecture.  Senior visitors will discover in this traditional downtown area, 30 specialty shops, numerous antique stores, about 30 restaurants, 10 banks and financial centers, 9 art galleries, 8 churches and a famous theater.

Downtown is the anchor for the more and more modern shopping centers that are being built around the area, wanting to be in or near the historic downtown. TripAdvisor suggests that you start off your visit with the Sherman Theater, a major attraction in town. Senior travelers will find a host of classic B&Bs all over the area to make your stay memorable.

The Monroe County Historical Association has offices located in the historic Stroud Mansion, built in 1795 by the family that founded Stroudsburg. The rooms of the Stroud Mansion are open to the public as a museum filled with exhibits and local artifacts from times gone by.

Hiking Trails, Farmer’s Markets and Wildlife Sanctuary…

Just up the road on Route 209 is East Stroudsburg, home to the Warriors of East Stroudsburg University. You will find plenty of hiking trails in the area plus several Farmer’s Markets.

The Kettle Creek Wildlife Sanctuary is a 166 acre preserve not to be missed. Now owned by the County, this interesting arena for outdoor programs has an old field, mature deciduous forest, evergreen stands, and two ponds. Over 2 1/2 miles of maintained and well marked trails are open for public use year-round, 7 days a week.

You will discover attractions all across the state of Pennsylvania. I challenge you to find Stroudsburg. Hint. Look straight North of Philly.

Put on your hiking boots, bring your appetite for some of the finest restaurants in the area and enjoy the many amenities of Stroudsburg. -jeb