Things To Do
in Chestnuthill
Chestnuthill Township sits in Monroe County in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, offering a rural blend of farmland, woodlands, and small historic communities. It acts as a gateway to outdoor adventures while remaining rooted in quiet village life. The area is known for its easy access to hiking, fishing, and scenic drives, all within a short ride of larger PA towns.
Visitors typically come for a slower pace, natural beauty, and opportunities to explore the broader Pocono region from a peaceful base.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Chestnuthill Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich local history and view fascinating artifacts. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming downtown area, enjoying the early morning sun and the quaint architecture. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast featuring homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Chestnut Ridge Park for a scenic hike along the well-marked trails, surrounded by beautiful fall foliage. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch in one of the park's designated areas, soaking in the natural beauty around you. As the afternoon continues, consider visiting local art galleries and shops that showcase the work of regional artists.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local restaurant that offers farm-to-table dining, where you can savor seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the historic district to admire the beautifully lit buildings and perhaps catch a glimpse of a local theater production. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar known for its craft beers and local wines.
Begin your day with an early morning visit to the Chestnuthill Nature Center, where you can participate in a guided birdwatching tour. As you explore the trails, be on the lookout for local wildlife and learn about the native plants from knowledgeable naturalists. Enjoy a light breakfast at the center’s café, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where you can hike along the beautiful river trails. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water's edge, surrounded by stunning views and the sounds of nature. After lunch, rent a canoe or kayak to experience the serene waters up close.
As the day winds down, return to Chestnuthill and treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the sunset over the water. After your meal, consider taking a guided night walk in the nature center to experience the sounds and sights of nocturnal wildlife. End your evening by stargazing in a quiet area, appreciating the clear skies away from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-180 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🎟️Local attraction or activity | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural scenery and access to the Pocono Mountains
- Quiet, relaxed pace with easy day trips to larger towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options in the township itself
- Public transportation is sparse; a car is highly recommended
Places to Visit in Chestnuthill
Visit one of these nice places.
Rolling farmland and woodlands framed by early morning or late golden-hour light; ideal for wide landscape shots and rural textures.
Water reflections, river bends, and forested banks provide classic river-town imagery with a Pocono vibe.
A stark, otherworldly rock expanse surrounded by pines; dramatic in overcast skies or post-snow light.
Water, reeds, and silhouettes of trees at dusk create serene lake-scape photographs.
Food in Chestnuthill
Chestnuthill Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Pennsylvania Dutch dessert pie with a molasses-sweet crust, often served with coffee or vanilla ice cream.
Must-Try!
Warm baked apples wrapped in dough, a nod to the area's orchard heritage and seasonal fruit availability.
A comforting, flaky pie filled with farm vegetables and sometimes chicken, sourced from nearby farms.
Hearty dumplings common in regional eateries, often paired with onions and sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from local farms and small vendors.
Seasonal stands along rural routes offering fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, and maple products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local privacy and keep noise levels down, especially in rural or residential areas.
Stay on marked trails, yield to hikers and horses where posted, and pack out trash.
A simple handshake or friendly nod is typical when meeting locals.
Safety
Tipping in Chestnuthill
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard in the U.S.: 15-20% at table-service restaurants; $1-2 per bag for bellhops; $0.50-1 per drink at bars; rounding up on small purchases is common but not required.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small purchases or markets. Mobile payments are increasingly common at larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with lush greenery; expect intermittent rain. Trails can be muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Warm days with frequent sun; ideal for outdoor activities and lake visits. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Peak foliage season; vibrant colors along country roads and hiking trails. Pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Cold, snowy conditions are common; some roads may be challenging. Great for snow sports nearby and quiet, scenic scenes.
Chestnuthill at Night
Hiking in Chestnuthill
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic field of boulders with forested surroundings; a must-see for landscape photography and geology fans.
A flat, scenic trail along the Lehigh River ideal for easy day hikes and biking.
Lakeside paths with forest views and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Lake-adjacent trails with varying difficulty and rewarding water views.
Airports
How to reach Chestnuthill by plane.
Allentown–Easton area; about a 1–1.5 hour drive to Chestnuthill; offers domestic flights and car rental access for onward travel.
Scranton–Wilkes-Barre area; typically a 1.5–2 hour drive; convenient for regional connections and short trips.
New Jersey hub with broad domestic and international connections; about a 2–3 hour drive depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families seeking outdoor activities and a slower pace are common in the area.
Hikers, anglers, and nature lovers drawn to state parks and scenic drives.
People who own vacation homes or visit seasonally for recreation.
Those seeking a quiet retreat with easy access to nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby Pocono resorts offer winter sports with family-friendly terrain.
Several state parks and forested areas provide scenic routes year-round.
Rivers and lakes in the region support freshwater fishing on warm days.
Local courses in the wider Pocono area provide scenic, relaxed rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chestnuthill.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In this region, vegetarians can find vegetable-forward dishes, dairy-based options, salads, and meatless entrees at most cafés and diners; ask for swaps like veggie burgers, pasta with olive oil and vegetables, and seasonal veggie sides.