Weekend Escape to the Poconos

For Easter weekend, Jimmy and I packed up the car (with everything but the kitchen sink – except diapers. Yes, we forgot diapers :/), buckled the babies in their car seats, and headed northwest to the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania to meet up with Jimmy’s family. If you’re looking for a short drive from New York City (only about two hours depending on traffic) with a family friendly atmosphere, the Skytop Lodge is just the place. From the moment you drive onto the property you spot the castle-like resort sitting atop a hill surrounded by grassy hills and a sparkling stream. Built in 1928, you step right into the old Pocono charm. Rocking chairs line the wrap around porch ready where we enjoyed our morning coffee and the endless views of nature. Wooden beams and leather chairs furnish the lobby and a fresh mountain smell fills the air. It’s truly a relaxing escape from the city.

Both children and adults alike flock to the Tea Room for ice cream, milkshakes, and small snacks. The old fashioned restaurant is known for their milkshakes and I can attest for the chocolate milkshake being one of the best I’ve ever had! Be prepared to wait for your treat as there is always a line! For the kids, there is a game room on the ground level and an indoor and outdoor pool depending on season. We took advantage and swam in the pool all morning; it took James a little while to get used to the water but he loved playing with his cousin, uncles, and Jimmy once he was ready!

Many activities are offered through the hotel. From horseback riding to days at the spa, there is something for everyone. Winter sports such as ice skating, toboganning, snow shoeing, skiing, and ice fishing are offered in the colder months whereas golf, tennis, hiking, boating and paddle boarding are only warmer weather activities. James had so much fun running around outside on the grass. He was smiling and laughing the whole time!

The Library Lounge was one of my favorite spots in the hotel. A gallery of old photos cover the walls of one area while books and a warm fireplace fill up the other. We sipped on crafted cocktails in the cozy chairs all while enjoying each other’s company and conversation. The boys even brought their favorite board game to play!

We stayed in a 4-bedroom cottage on the property only a five minute walk away to the main lodge. It was setup like a hotel where we each had our own separate room with a shared hallway but no common area. Each room had a private outdoor patio with adirondack chairs and a table where we played outdoor games and snacked on homemade treats.