One of NEPA’s best kept secrets (for now).

The peaceful, little borough of Honesdale doesn’t make much of a mark on the map. It’s a small, valley town at the fork of the Lackawaxen River and Dyberry Creek. In fact, it was originally called Dyberry Forks during the borough’s heyday as a central hub for the railroad transport of Pennsylvania coal. For what this vibrant, little town lacks in geographical stature, however, it more than makes up for in character.

Honesdale’s Main Street serves as the beating heart of the entire town. The wide sidewalks and colorful Italianate architecture lend a particular charm to any stroll. It may even begin to feel like walking down a hidden bohemian avenue in some much larger city. But the brief view of the lush Pocono Mountains at every cross street reminds that this picturesque town is surrounded for miles by NEPA’s pristine natural splendor.

A simple design from a simpler time.

From its early days, Honesdale was designed to be a walkable town. South-running Main Street covers a stretch of about eight, small blocks. Both sides of the relatively quiet street feature plenty of small, bustling shops, restaurant and cafes. Looping around onto Church Street, which runs parallel, yet in the opposite direction, you’ll find an even quieter side to the quaint borough. Here, Honesdale’s stunning churches and Central Park mingle amongst some of the town’s original residences.

Lake Wallenpaupack, Prompton State Park, the famed Woodloch Resort and the Pennsylvania/New York border are all within a few miles of Honesdale. PA Route 6 strikes directly through town, making commutes to Scranton and Wilkes-Barre quite convenient. And Route 191 will get you to most stops in the interior Pocono Mountains with ease.

A peaceful mixture of rural quiet, small-town convenience and plenty of nature.

Most of residential Honesdale radiates from the downtown area and into the surrounding hillsides. You’ll find a good mix of affordable, single-family homes, multi-family duplexes, downtown apartments and rural estates. Just about every angle offers a view to the lush Pocono Mountains.

The borough is protected by the Honesdale Borough Police Department and the all-volunteer Honesdale Fire Department, which consists of four separate fire companies. Wayne Memorial Hospital, one of the largest in the Poconos, sits at the entrance to the borough.

Honesdale is also served by the Wayne Highlands School District – the second largest geographical school district in the state. Honesdale is home to the Wayne Highlands Middle School, Honesdale High School, Honesdale Performing Arts Center and nearby Lakeside Elementary School and Stourbridge Elementary School.

Out & About in Honesdale

So much to do & see in such a small space.

There’s a lot to do in this little town. From unique local shops and restaurants to an inspiring art scene, it’s all walkable. Honesdale tends to bridge generational divides with unique antique shops, a hip craft brewpub, exquisite fine dining and laid-back cafes.

But it’s not all about food and shopping. Honesdale also supports a thriving arts community with regular, local performances, art exhibits and streets full of stunning public art. History is also a major player in this town. You can hop on the Stourbridge Line for a hands-on experience with the town’s rich, railroading history, or to plan a visit to The Old Stone Jail. And, of course, no visit is complete without a visit to the number one view in town – Irving Cliff.