Family Events in the Poconos this Summer

There is no doubt; the Poconos are one of the best areas for family fun in the summertime. The vast area offers a wide variety of family entertainment for everyone. Experience the wooded hills and valleys, the fantastic resorts for fishing or swimming and many other outdoor recreation getaways. In truth, there are 2,400 square miles wilderness and escarpment that overlook the Delaware Water Gap and River in the east to the great mountains in the north by Lake Wallenpaupack. And in the south you have the beautiful Lehigh Valley and the west offering the Coal Region and the Wyoming Valley.

Bushkill Falls

Route 209, Bushkill, PA

Generally referred to as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania", these magnificent falls are 1000 feet high. Although Bushkill Falls are not as impressive as Niagara Falls, they are definitely worth seeing. In point of fact, there are a series of eight waterfalls, all of which are accessible by walking trails and bridges.

In addition, the area has a nice variety of shops, a few small lakes for fishing or paddle boating, miniature golf, a trading post and a snack bar. There are also picnic tables with access to grills for fine outdoor cooking.

Claws 'N' Paws Wild Animal Park

1475 Ledgedale Road, Lake Ariel, PA

Open May to mid-October, this outdoor animal park has more than 120 species of animals that will mystify your kids. Enjoy seeing a variety of exotic animals like alligators, bears, lions, tigers, giraffes, snakes and reptiles. There are also daily animal feedings, a petting zoo and fossil hunts.

Great Wolf Lodge

1 Great Wolf Drive, Scotrun, PA

The Great Wolf Lodge has the largest indoor water park in the northeast. It extends 78,000-square-foot with a smaller outdoor pool area. Indoors, you will discover a park with an interactive treehouse water fort that has 12 levels, a lazy river, a gigantic wave pool, two whirlpools (one is for the adults), water hoops for games, two body slides, four tube slides, water roller coaster and kiddie slides.

After having fun with water sports, the whole family can enjoy family bowling. From teens or toddlers to adults, everyone will have fun playing on half-length lanes using five-pound balls.

Pocono Raceway

Long Pond Road, Long Pond, PA

If your family loves NASCAR then a pit stop at Pocono Raceway should be on the agenda. Indeed, it is known as one of NASCAR's most competitive race tracks. And if so inclined, you can extend your visit and do some camping at the Pocono Campground. Aside from the races, there are daily tours, Tricky's Kit Kamp and more.

About the Author: Tiffany is a guest blogger from The French Manor Inn and Spa, a spa and inn in the Poconos.