The Poconos is a beautiful destination, tucked away in the majestic mountains, evergreen forests, scenic landscapes and free-flowing rivers. The charm of the Pocono Mountains changes according to the season, making it a year-round destination. Every season offers a unique shade and has a fair share in attracting tourists from all across the globe, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
If you are in New York, and are looking for a swift getaway with complete solace, The Poconos is the perfect place to be! Stay with us throughout the blog, as we will be providing a brief outline of how to travel to Poconos from New York. Let the journey begin!
Why Do New Yorkers Prefer Vacationing the Poconos?
Poconos is a great destination for a quick retreat that is close to New York. The Northeastern Pennsylvania Mountains’ has been a go-to place for the New Yorkers, thanks to the close proximity and many transportation facilities. Poconos Mountains offers a fantastic retreat for families, large groups and couples, and boasts an array of unique experiences. Many urban dwellers prefer taking a break in nearby recreational areas/ vacation places like for their weekend getaways, usually during summer or winter break.
A lot of people want to travel from New York City to Pocono Mountains, periodically to enjoy the serene beauty of this pristine location. The warm weather welcomes guests who want to savor outdoor adventure activities like hiking, fishing and rafting, while the winter season opens the doors to enticing activities like skiing and snowboarding.
Different Modes of Travel From New York to Poconos
Let’s have a look at all the options to reach the Poconos from New York for an unforgettable vacation.
1. By Car – Your Wheels, Your Way
Traveling by car is genuinely a superior decision you can make! The Poconos is approximately 126 miles, and driving around would take around 2 hours 16 minutes. Make sure that you fill up the gas and create a perfect playlist or favorite podcast and snacks for your short journey! You might as well have a chance to witness the breathtaking scenery on your way!
The quickest way to reach the Poconos is to take up I-280W, and the most direct route is I-80W, which takes you directly to the Pocono Mountains. I-76 and 1-78 will cost around 20 dollars in tolls, but it also depends on the bridge you take. According to Google Maps, if you take the I-80, you can minimize the tolls by less than 5% and have just a 5-minute travel difference. It also depends on what part of NY you start from and what part of the Poconos you are driving to.
2. By Bus: An Efficient Journey
Probably the easiest and cheapest way is to take a bus from NYC to Pocono Mountains. These buses might take you through popular spots like Stroudsburg, Mount Pocono, Delaware Water Gap, and other popular locations. The bus journey from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Mount Poconos is around 1 hour 45 minutes and covers a distance of 147 km.
Nearly 135 buses run weekly, while there can be variations during holidays. You can also go with Greyhound Lines Transport for excellent bus service. With 24/7 operation, Monday through Sunday, also covering holidays, you get to enjoy your vacation anytime, any day.
3. Private Charter Jets: For a Luxurious Getaway
While flights serve as the quickest and most convenient way, unfortunately there are no direct flights from New York to Poconos, and not many operate or fly directly from NYC. Given the scenario, if you really want to fly to this mythical destination seamlessly, prioritizing your privacy, you can opt for private charter jets.
Operators like Paramount Business Jets and many others are a great choice. There are more than 400 private jets operating back and forth from Poconos almost every day. Their accessibility across towns and all the major airports nearby to the Poconos make it a desirable choice, be it business or leisure.
Travel Summary
| Mode | Average Time | Remarks |
| Car | 1.5- 2 hrs | Most popular and recommend option |
| Bus | 2 hrs | Efficient and affordable option |
| Charter Jet | 40 mins | Quickest, but an expensive option |
Winding Up!
The Poconos offer an enchanting getaway from New York. Be it a long vacation, a weekend getaway, a romantic escape, or a family get-together, this destination is versatile and offers an array of vibrant experiences. This place is also considered a prime spot to host a private party or go on an adventure tour.
Wondering where to stay during your visit? Choose HolidayKeepers! We provide luxury vacation rentals in Poconos with excellent amenities that offer ultimate comfort. Our houses are strategically placed in proximity to many attractions. Choose from an array of options like cabins, lakefront houses, and luxury mansions that can even accommodate large groups.
Get in touch with us today and stand a chance to avail festive discounts!
FAQs
Q: List a few bus services that operate from New York City to Poconos.
A: Martz Trailways, OurBus and Greyhound are a few popular bus operators providing services from NYC to the Poconos.
Q: Is Poconos suitable for a weekend family trip?
A: Poconos is more than suitable for a weekend trip with family; its huge bandwidth of activities and places to visit are simply impressive and suitable for every type of traveler.
Q: What is the best time to visit Pocono Mountains?
A: The best time to visit the Poconos is during the winter season. One can enjoy exclusive winter activities like skiing, snowboarding and ice fishing.
Q: Is there an Amtrak to Poconos available?
A: Currently, there is no dedicated Amtrak lane operating between New York and Poconos. However, the state is working on the possibility of establishing one in the future.
