Need a peaceful Poconos getaway or charming lakeside retreat? Head to Hawley, PA! Nestled along the Lackawaxen River and near Lake Wallenpaupack, Hawley is a small town packed with historic charm, boutique shopping, outdoor fun, and cozy accommodations. Whether you're seeking art, kayaking, or crisp mountain air, Hawley is a hidden gem in the Pocono Mountains.
Hawley, PA Highlights:
- Stroll Downtown Hawley: Explore Victorian buildings filled with galleries, shops, and inviting cafés.
- Relax at Lake Wallenpaupack: Enjoy boating, fishing, or lakeside picnics on this 5,700-acre waterway.
- Tour the Hawley Silk Mill: Browse artisan shops, grab coffee, or take a class in this restored industrial landmark.
- Bike or walk the Lackawaxen River Trails: Follow scenic riverside paths ideal for spotting wildlife and foliage.
- Catch a show at The Ritz Company Playhouse: Enjoy community theater in a historic downtown venue.
When I like to visit Hawley, PA
The best time to visit Hawley is from late spring through fall (May to October). Warm weather is perfect for lakeside activities and outdoor markets, while fall foliage brings vibrant color to every hillside. Winter also offers skiing and festive events nearby.
My tips for getting to Hawley, PA
- If you are traveling by car: Hawley is located along Route 6, about 2.5 hours from New York City and 2 hours from Scranton or Allentown.
- By Bus: Martz Trailways offers service to nearby Honesdale and Milford from NYC and Scranton.
- By Train: No direct train, but NJ Transit and Martz combo routes can get you close with a short taxi or rideshare connection.
Where I like to stay in Hawley, PA
- The Lodge at Woodloch – Luxurious adults-only spa resort with wellness programming and fine dining.
- Silver Birches Resort – Lakefront accommodations with vintage charm and scenic views.
- Ledges Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel set in a historic glass factory overlooking a waterfall gorge.
Best Things to Do in Hawley, PA
1. Ritz Playhouse
"Enjoy live performances in a charming, historic theater setting."
Ritz Playhouse is a community theatre in Hawley, Pennsylvania, established in 1973 at the former Hawley's Ritz Company Playhouse, once a popular local movie and vaudeville theatre. The Ritz Players, as the company team called themselves opened their first season with the musical production "Brigadoon". Ever since, this passionate group of volunteer community theatre enthusiasts dedicated themselves to providing high quality live theatre productions to their community. Over the years, many theatre performers have gone on to study music, theatre, dance and film arts at various drama schools and colleges. The Ritz Theatre works with a number of local organizations and businesses to establish a number of different evening shows including a train/theatre trips and dinner and theatre arrangements.
512 Keystone St, Hawley, PA 18428, Phone: 570-226-9752
2. Queen of Peace Roman Catholic Church
"Admire beautiful architecture and experience a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere."
Until 1962, Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace Church was called St. Philomena’s church and had a long, rich history. St. Philomena's Parish was founded in April, 1852 by Rev. William O'Hara, who became its first pastor. A small wooden church was built on the corner of the current property with a seating capacity of 400. On July 22, 1900, the construction of the present building started and was blessed by a Hawley native Most Reverend Michael Hoban, Bishop of Scranton. The present Rectory was completed in 1911. One of the oldest cemetery in the Diocese of Scranton, St. Philomena's/ Queen of Peace Cemetery, was established in 1849. In 2001, the Gate of Heaven Section was added. Over the past 159 years, seventeen pastors have been assigned to Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace church. The present pastor is Rev. Richard W. Beck.
314 Chestnut Ave, Hawley, PA 18428, Phone: 570-226-3183
Attractions for Couples
3. Hawley Skill Mill
If you think like me:
"Explore a historic site showcasing local craftsmanship and industry."
Built in 1880, the Silk Mill in Hawley, Pennsylvania, has been an important part of the community in all its many incarnations: as a silk factory that used the most modern technology of the day, then later a textile factory, and an antique center. Today, the repurposed factory is envisioned as a gathering center for the folks of the Pocono Lake Region, a place where the residents and visitors can come to shop, hang out, eat, exercise, and learn. The ground floor Retail Center was designed by the renowned architect Peter Bohlin, The glass partitions separates the spaces, allowing the natural light from the River Gorge behind the Mill to illuminate the retail spaces. This space is occupied by a market and bakery, shop selling specialty beers, several art galleries, unique small shops selling clothing, shoes, antiques and home decor. There is also a bicycle shop and the Lake Region Fitness Center. The entire top floor of the Mill is occupied by the Lackawanna College, the only campus is Wayne and Pike Counties.
8 Old Rte 6, Hawley, PA 18428, Phone: 570-226-6130
Where to Eat:
4. The Settlers Inn
"Relax in a cozy, historic inn offering farm-to-table dining."
The Settlers Inn in Hawley, Pennsylvania, is located in a beautiful 1944 classic Arts and Crafts building, overlooking the Bingham Park, about 13.8 miles from Promised Land State Park. Charming warm rooms are furnished with period-style furnishings and have whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, cable TV, air-conditioning and free WiFi access. The inn’s farm-to-table restaurant is an elegant, cozy space with a fireplace, where Chef Ben Sutter offers innovative menus shaped by the seasons and what is available on local farms, pastures and producers. The inn has an award-winning wine list and craft brews from local, regional and international breweries. The sunny front porch is a wonderful place for morning coffee.
4 Main Ave, Hawley, PA 18428, Phone: 570-226-2993
5. The Boathouse Restaurant
My top 5:
"Savor delicious lakeside dining with scenic water views."
Located on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, in Hawley ,Pennsylvania, at the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, The Boathouse Restaurant is a popular local eatery and the place where locals and visitors like to relax, socialize and enjoy a delicious meal. Spacious and bright dining room, with nautical theme and plenty of flat-screen TVS for following the latest game, is a perfect background for a meal of fresh seafood, juicy steaks and classic American fare. There is also a large , lovely shaded outdoor terrace and live entertainment on Friday nights. Full bar offers original and classic cocktails, beer on draft and in bottles and wines by the glass.
141 PA-507, Hawley, PA 18428, Phone: 570-226-5027
If you are interested in local events:
- Hawley Harvest Hoedown (October) – Celebrate autumn with music, hayrides, crafts, and food vendors downtown.
- Wally Lake Fest (August) – Lake Wallenpaupack’s biggest summer celebration with water sports, live music, and fireworks.
- Winterfest (December) – Holiday market, ice carving, and family-friendly fun across Hawley’s historic downtown.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Hawley, Pennsylvania:
- Honesdale (20–25 min) – Historic railroad town with boutiques, museums, and a vibrant arts scene.
- Promised Land State Park (25–30 min) – Hike forest trails, swim in lakes, or watch for bald eagles.
- Milford (30 min) – Victorian architecture, fine dining, and Grey Towers National Historic Site.
- Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park (20 min) – Family-friendly zoo with up-close animal encounters.
- Skytop Lodge (30 min) – Elegant resort offering golf, spa services, and guided outdoor adventures.
- Lackawaxen (25 min) – Explore Zane Grey’s home, river tubing, and scenic Delaware River views.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
Where is Hawley located?
- Hawley is a small borough on the Lackawaxen River in Wayne County, Pennsylvania.
-
What was the early industry in Hawley focused on?
- Early industry in Hawley focused on supporting nearby coal mines and manufacturing facilities.
-
What is significant about the Bellemonte Silk Mill?
- The former Bellemonte Silk Mill is the largest bluestone building in the world.
- The 1880 Silk Mill has been beautifully refurbished and converted into a shopping center.
-
What entertainment options are available in Hawley?
- The Ritz Playhouse is a popular community theatre located in the former movie and vaudeville theatre.
-
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy near Hawley?
- Nearby Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip