A Guide to Wayne County Tourism

The Hawley, PA home of The Settlers Inn is in the playground of the Pocono Mountains: Wayne County. Tourists seek out Wayne County for its unsurpassed natural environment and quaint, historic towns. Wayne County’s proximity to New York City and other urban centers make it a natural choice for an escape from the fast paced city lifestyle. Wayne County tourism is thriving today based on these factors. Let’s take a minute to reflect on how Wayne County got to where it is today in this guide to Wayne County tourism.

Wayne County History

There were many commercial enterprises that built the economy of Wayne County before tourism. Farming, ice harvesting, lumbering, tanneries, children’s summer camps and boarding homes all played a part. This northeast corner of Pennsylvania originally gained notoriety for the discovery of anthracite coal in the early 1800’s. The discovery precipitated the need for avenues of transportation between the mountains to New York City, thus giving birth to the Delaware and Hudson Canal and the American Railroad. The borough of Honesdale, the county seat of Wayne County, was also established as a result of the coal discovery. Today, farming, lumbering and tourism employ the majority of Wayne County residents.

Wayne County Tourism

Wayne County tourism perhaps grew out of the summer camps and boarding homes established there for children. Children so enjoyed the escape from city life that their parents began to catch on to the wonders of the Pocono Mountains and wanted in on the adventure. Quaint bed and breakfasts were established to accommodate those looking to explore the mountain region. The government stepped in to establish protected parks and recreation spaces. Outdoor adventure companies began offering horseback riding, kayaking and other fun activities. Antique shops opened to accommodate the growing Wayne County tourism industry as well.

Wayne County Towns

Wayne County is comprised of seven incorporated towns, each with its own personality and tourism opportunities. Beach Lake features a clean, natural spring-fed lake. Cargo train enthusiasts from around the country visit the Wayne County town of Equinuk to see 50-car trains chugging alongside the Delaware River. The town of Honesdale is known for its Victorian-age architecture. Lake Ariel and Hamlin feature beautiful scenery and the Lacawac Sanctuary: perfect for nature lovers. Newfoundland is known for its warm-hearted community events including the GDS Fair and Hometown Farm Show. Waymart is another friendly, fun-filled village in Wayne County. Our favorite Wayne County town, however, is, of course, Hawley.

Visiting Wayne County

When you visit Wayne County, we suggest you stay with us in Hawley, PA. Hawley is an active town with gourmet dining, a thriving art community, beautifully restored antebellum homes and 24 acres of protected green space. The Settlers Inn is centrally located in Hawley at the gateway to Main Street at Bingham Park. The inn encompasses all of the appeal of Wayne County tourism: an authentic Arts & Crafts lodge, farm-to-table menus, a multitude of area activities and pristine, natural beauty. We hope that you’ll support Wayne County tourism and book your stay at The Settlers Inn today!

Photo courtesy of Nicholas A. Tonelli.