Historic Jim Thorpe

About 30 minutes from Lake Harmony, Jim Thorpe is one of the prettiest towns in Pennsylvania, often called the Switzerland of America for its setting in a steep mountain valley.

The walkable downtown is lined with Victorian buildings full of independent shops, galleries, wine tasting rooms and cafes. It's a perfect rain-or-shine day trip: spend the morning browsing, then duck inside for a tour of the Asa Packer Mansion or the Old Jail Museum.

For the more active members of your group, Jim Thorpe is also the gateway to the Lehigh Gorge, with the scenic railroad, rail-trail biking and whitewater rafting all close by.

Parking downtown fills up on busy weekends, so arrive early, wear comfortable shoes for the hills, and check museum hours before you go.