The first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Poconos in the winter is skiing, right? While the slopes at nearby Shawnee Mountain Ski Area are incredible for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, there are a variety of other things to do in the Poconos in the winter.
Check out this list of our favorite things to do once the snow starts to fall!
Skiing
The Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is located just three miles from Shawnee Inn. With 25 trails across 125 skiable acres, two terrain parks, and 100% snowmaking, it’s the perfect place for beginner skiers and seasoned skiers alike. Skiing is one of the most popular things to do in the Poconos in the winter, and this ski area is dedicated to making sure everyone is safe while they enjoy this awesome winter activity – ski patrol is on the mountain at all times during opening hours. Pick from these Poconos ski resorts packages to add an extra bonus to your visit!
Snow Tubing
Want to have some snowy fun without worrying about taking a dive? Hop aboard a snow tube at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area and glide down the hills created just for snow tubing. No need for practice or equipment with this winter activity in the Poconos – just reserve your ticket in advance (no in-person ticketing for tubing) and show up ready to have fun! Two surface lifts are available to whisk you back to the top of the hill for another go, and tubes that accommodate an adult and child are available – but kids must be 4 or older to ride.
Snowboarding
Also available at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is snowboarding, another classic winter activity in the Poconos. The variety of trails at the ski area mean you can shred the slopes at high speed or take your time down gentler declines. No matter what snowboarding adventure you choose, the Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is the place to do it!
ShawneeCraft Brewery
Visit ShawneeCraft Brewery for an inside look at the process followed by the property’s brewmasters, offering up to 16 housemade craft beverages on tap at a time. The brewery also offers a variety of cans and bottle-aged beers, delicious local wines, and merchandise so you can rep your new favorite brewery after your visit, where you can stay warm from the inside with craft brews. Book a tour, or stop by to enjoy the expansive Beer Garden and a bite from their farm-to-table menu.
Snowshoe
Looking to get out in the snow on foot? Rent snowshoes and hit the trails! There are many trails around the area to explore, with local companies offering guided tours and curated itineraries to make your snowshoe adventure a hit. After a long day outdoors, hit the Shawnee Spa and Salon for a relaxing massage or facial.
Christmas Tram Tour
Take the Shawnee Inn’s version of The Polar Express this winter in the Poconos! Ride along a beautifully-lit trail to Santa’s Workshop in a cozy, heated tram. You’ll hop out at Santa’s Workshop and enjoy a toasty warm fire pit, singing carols, s’mores and hot chocolate, cookies, and more!
Shawnee Holiday Market
Still have some holiday shopping to take care of? Visit the Shawnee Holiday Market, open Wednesday through Sunday from December 6th through December 23rd. The magic of the season comes to life with talented local vendors, business owners, and artisans offering special treasures and the perfect gifts for everyone on your Nice List.
Holiday Tea
Treat yourself to the tradition of Holiday Tea at Shawnee Inn this winter. This timeless event lets you savor a delightful selection of teas, from seasonal to classic flavors with delicious treats to supplement them. The tea room is decked out in festive decor, with Christmas cheer and charm around every corner, making this one of the best things to do in the winter in the Poconos.
Breakfast with Santa
With three opportunities to meet the jolly man himself, Breakfast with Santa at the Shawnee Inn is the ultimate winter activity in the Poconos – if you still believe, that is. You can enjoy a magical morning with Santa Claus and a delicious breakfast while you create lasting memories with the whole family. Santa will be at the Shawnee Inn for breakfast on December 2nd, 9th, and 16th from 9 am to 11 am.
Pocono Beverage Trail
The Pocono Beverage Trail is a beer trail, wine trail, and spirits trail all in one! Check in with your mobile “passport” at various locations along the trail to earn points, and enjoy various discounts and deals the more locations you visit. Check out our curated Pocono wine tour. Find family-owned breweries, inventive distilleries, farmhouse brews, and more when you explore the whole trail – and you can start at ShawneeCraft Brewery!
ShawneePlayhouse
When you’re ready to spend some time out of the snow, book your tickets for a show at ShawneePlayhouse. This winter’s show, A Christmas Story, brings the classic 1983 movie to life on stage as a musical rather than your living room television. Early bird tickets to ShawneePlayhouse’s 2024 shows are available now.
When it’s time to plan your winter trip to the Poconos, let your first decision be your Pocono resort accommodations – and choose Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort for easy access to the area’s best winter activities, plus a host of on-site holiday activities that can’t be beat. We look forward to seeing you this winter!