We had the opportunity to visit this region of Northeastern Pennsylvania in early December, and we had a wonderful time.
Dietrich Theater
Our first stop was Dietrich Theater, which was beautifully decorated for the holiday season with trees, ornaments, and sparkling miniature villages. The theater shows independent films as well as popular new releases, and offers concessions. It also features community events throughout the year, and was showing “12 films of Christmas” when we visited, featuring free holiday films. We got to watch one of our favorites – Elf!
Stone Hedge Golf Course Festival of Lights
Stone Hedge Golf Course is in the same town of Tunkhannock, and it offers a beautiful drive-through light show with over a million lights. In addition to sparkling arches and twinkling trees, you’ll spot many of your favorite characters. We loved seeing Mario and Princess Peach, Anna and Elsa, the Flintstones, and many more. There was a zoo full of dazzling animals, a musical area full of glittering instruments, and an ocean full of glowing sea creatures. You can also spot some local landmarks in lights if you look carefully! The ride took about 40 minutes and cost $35 per vehicle. Don’t forget to park afterwards and get your s’more kit and other goodies at the pavillion, included with admission.
Christmas in Montrose
We visited Christmas in Montrose, an annual celebration that takes place on the courthouse green and surrounding areas. Thirty vendors gather on the green in beautifully decorated booths to sell a variety of unique crafts, treats, and other goods, similar to a European Christmas market. There are various events throughout the weekend, including a Christmas parade, music and tours at the Susquehanna County Historical Society, visits with Santa and his reindeer, train and carriage rides, and more. You can find the schedule of events at the Christmas in Montrose website so you don’t miss anything!
Just beyond the green located at the courthouse, you’ll find Montrose’s historic firehouse. This is where you can meet Santa and his reindeer during the festival. The firehouse was beautifully decorated for St. Nick, and there were plenty of cookies to go around. Two of Santa’s reindeer were in a pen in the post office parking lot next door, and the children all enjoyed interacting with them and their caretakers, who were happy to share information about them.
We were also able to tour the lovely Susquehanna County Historical Society museum nestled in historic Montrose. It is a wealth of information about the local area. During our visit, costumed guides shared interesting stories about the area. Our kids were especially interested in the antique toys which were made in the county years ago. We also enjoyed hearing a concert of local fiddle music on the floor below. Check the hours of the museum on the website before you go, and if you have a group, call ahead for a tour.
Salt Springs State Park
Just outside of the town of Montrose is beautiful Salt Springs State Park, if you’re ready to enjoy the snow that is frequent in the area. We parked in the first parking lot and climbed the snow covered hill, following the path to the gorge. We walked along the rim of the gorge (snowball fighting along the way, of course, and keeping plenty of distance from the edge) until we came to the waterfall. It looked like white lace surrounded by the snow and icicles. There are wide, clear hills that are great for sledding, which is allowed. There are also trails that work well for cross country skiing or snowboarding.
D&H Rail Trail
Another great opportunity for outdoor recreation is the D&H Rail Trail, a 38 mile trail that can be accessed at Simpson, PA and taken all the way to the New York border. It is a wide gravel trail that is great for strollers or bikes. We saw runners and hikers enjoying the trail, admired the Lackawanna River rushing along beside us, and spent some time climbing rocks and throwing snowballs along the way. You can scan a QR code on a sign along the way that will take you to nearby trail friendly businesses if you’re looking to hop off the trail and check out the town.
Elk Mountain Ski Resort
Elk Mountain Ski Resort typically opens for the season in mid-December. Although it wasn’t open for skiing when we stopped in, we were able to check out the lodge and trails. The lodge is beautiful and we would love to go back and dine at the Winter Garden Restaurant, which is open to the public, even if you’re not skiing. There are a wide variety of slopes from blue to black diamond and 9 different lifts, so people of all skill levels can find great options. Elk Mountain is highly rated for snowboarding and skiing.
Since the restaurant wasn’t serving food, we headed over to Chet’s Place, a cozy restaurant featuring delicious homemade food located just a few minutes from the resort. Small plates of comfort food like pierogies and mozzarella sticks are sure to please everyone. They have a nice selection of different soups to warm you up after a chilly winter hike. You can also enjoy an arcade game or a game of pool. Cash only, but there is an ATM available in the restaurant. You may want bring change for the arcade.
We stayed in a lovely Airbnb on the shores of Tingley Lake. It was cozy with a beautiful view, and was within easy driving distance of all the items on this itinerary.
