Best Things To Do Milford PA Weekend Getaway

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Milford PA is one of our favorite small towns near the Poconos and the Delaware Water Gap. We have lived part-time in the area for the past six years and have spent many wonderful hours hiking, dining, shopping, and attending cultural events. For a small town, Milford packs a surprising punch—hiking, swimming, fishing, cultural/historic activities, antiques, and artisan shops. Plus, a few lovely restaurants round out the experience. Here is our list of the best things to do in Milford PA.

Where Is Milford PA?

With a population of slightly more than 1,000 people, Milford is located in Pike County, PA, about 75 miles from New York City. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people until they were driven out of the area by the settlers.

Milford was founded in 1796 and has the advantage of being near both the Poconos and the Delaware Water Gap, making it a great place for all things outdoor.

Route 84 runs right by Milford so it is easily reached by car. Buses also run from New York’s Port Authority to Milford. The nearest train stops in Port Jervis, about a 20-minute drive from the center of town.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 (the coronavirus) pandemic, we are not recommending international or domestics travel at this time.  Travel For Life Now covers local and international travel for future planning purposes. We recommend checking local regulations pertaining to sites, shops, restaurants, and other activities before making any decisions about travel. As always, we are guided by the CDC, local restrictions, and health professionals in our decision making.

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Best Things To Do Milford PA Outdoors

Waterfalls, hikes, kayaking, fishing and camping—take your pick and you’ll find it in Milford. The closest hikes are part of the Delaware Water Gap. Since waterfalls are our favorites, we’ll visit those first.

Waterfalls Near Milford

The best waterfalls near Milford are Dingmans Falls, Raymondskill Falls, and Silverthread Falls. All are within 20 minutes of Milford. In addition, George Childs Park in Dingmans Ferry has three waterfalls (Factory Falls, Fulmer Falls, and Deer Leap Falls) but the park has been closed for three years since a late winter storm brought down a lot of trees in the park. If you want to go farther afield, Buttermilk Falls, Silver Spray Falls, and Tillman Ravine in New Jersey are a short detour on the way to or from NYC.

Dingmans Falls & Silverthread Falls

Dingmans Falls is 130 feet tall and very easily accessed by a half-mile wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. It is very popular and gets very busy on the weekends. You can also see Silverthread Falls on this walk. If you want more of a hike, climb the stairs to the top of Dingmans Falls. It’s worth the climb.

Location: Dingmans Falls Road, Dingmans Ferry

Raymondskill Falls

At nearly 180 feet, Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in PA. There are a lot of steps and some uneven patches on this trail. You’ll see the upper part of the falls from the viewing platform midway. We recommend going down the steps to get the best view of the falls. You can also walk (away from the crowds) along the creek. Raymondskill gets crowded on the weekends.

Location: 917 Raymondskill Rd, Milford, PA 18337

George Childs Park

As noted above, George Childs has been closed for a while. It has a short hike to the lovely waterfalls and is very popular. Check the website for opening information.

Milford PA Hiking Trails

There are tons of hikes to do near Milford. Some of the closest and most popular are the McDade Trail, Milford Knob, and Cliff Trail.

Hike Along The Delaware River On The McDade Trail

The McDade Trail runs for 30 miles along the Delaware River from Hialeah, New Jersey to Milford. Hiking, biking, and cross country skiing are available along the full length. The area nearest to Milford is best for hiking or biking. The trail is easy and level with some uneven terrain. It’s not a loop trail, so keep in mind that you’ll have to walk back to your car.

Location: There are numerous trailheads off of Route 209 or Federal Road.

Milford Knob

The Milford Knob Trail is a 3.5 mile trail just outside of downtown Milford. You’ll be hiking up a slope (elevation gain is nearly 500 feet) over uneven terrain. Hiking shoes and walking sticks are helpful. At the top, the views of the countryside and the Delaware River are well worth the effort, especially during the fall when the leaves are changing.

Cliff Trail

If you are looking for a longer hike, the Cliff Trail is loop trail of just under 6 miles. Over the course of the hike, there is an elevation gain of about 600 feet. You can also connect with the Milford Knob and other trails.

Hiking shoes, a walking stick, water, and insect repellent are a good idea for all of these hikes. You can also try out Buchanan Trail, Hackers Trial, Pond Loop Trail, and Quarry Path.

Milford Beach

Milford Beach is a popular spot and not far from the center of town. It is a beach without sand. The grass leads down to the Delaware River. Beware of the strong currents in the River. The beach has picnic areas, a pavilion, restrooms, and a boat launch.

Kayaking the Delaware River

If you are interested in experiencing the Delaware River from a different perspective, try seeing it from the water in a canoe or kayak. Several companies offer river trips of varying lengths and difficulties. The rates are reasonable and they provide kayaks, paddles, and safety equipment. In addition, they transport you back to the starting point.

Milford Historical Sites

Milford has three notable historic sites: Grey Towers, the Columns Museum, and the Marie Zimmerman Farm. In addition, the entire downtown area is registered as a historic place. Walk off the main street into the residential area and you will find beautifully restored historic Victorian homes.

Grey Towers

Built in 1886, Grey Towers was the summer estate of James Pinchot. His son, Gifford Pinchot, was the governor of Pennsylvania and founder of the US Forest Service. Cornelia Bryce Pinchot, his wife, was a suffragist and political activist. The grounds and mansion are lovely. Make sure to see The Finger Bowl, a unique dining table where dishes floated in water in the center.

Columns Museum

The Columns Museum (Pike County Historical Society) is famous for its display of the flag that President Abraham Lincoln was wrapped in after he was shot. The collection includes Civil War artifacts. It’s small and can be seen in an hour for most people.

There is a farmer’s market outside the museum on Sundays in the Summer.

Marie Zimmerman Farm

There are very limited opportunities to see the Zimmerman Farm. If one opens up, take advantage of it. Marie Zimmerman was a trailblazing metalworker, jeweler, and designer who received national acclaim in the early 1900s. Marie designed the farmhouse and was an out lesbian at a time when it was challenging to be so.

As you walk around town, don’t miss the Old Jail House built in 1814. It is the second oldest courthouse in Pennsylvania.

Milford Cultural Happenings

For a small town, Milford has a fair number of cultural events. Due to the coronavirus, some of these events are rescheduled, changed or moved outdoors. Check the websites before you decide to attend.

Black Bear Film Festival

The Black Bear Film Festival celebrates independent films and takes place in October. Screenings (short and full length) take place all over town. There are many panel discussions with some of the directors and other events.

Milford Music Festival

Held in June, the Milford Music Festival fills the town with music. It started as a Jazz festival, but now features blues, pop, rock, folk music and more. The festival is free and takes place in locations throughout the town. Beer, ice cream, and food are served along the way—it’s really a communitywide party.

Kindred Spirits

We try never to miss a Kindred Spirits event in Milford. The eclectic performances range from flamenco to classical to Irish folk band to a harpist playing on the lawn at Grey Towers. Most recently, Kindred Spirits hosted a Drive-in concert. Tickets a cheap and the experiences are first rate.

LGBTQ+

There is an active LGBTQ+ community in Milford and the surrounding area. The Triversity Center for Gender and Sexual Diversity (201 West Harford St) hosts events and is located in the center of town.  PALS (Pocono Action Lambda Society) also hosts events in the Milford and Poconos areas. There are no bars, but there are a number of LGBTQ owned businesses and restaurants.

Shopping and Arts

The center of Milford is at Hartford Street (State Route 6) and Broad Street. Take a stroll along the streets in any direction and you will find antique and artisan shops, and restaurants. Some of our favorites are below.

The Milford Artisan Exchange

The Milford Artisan Exchange sells the work of local artists. You’ll find everything from jewelry to chimes to kaleidoscopes.

Location: 219 Broad Street

The Craft Show

You will find an eclectic collection of clothes, jewelry, bird feeders and much more in this store.

Location: 120 East Harford Street

Gheggeri’s Fine Olive Oils and Balsamics

Gheggeri’s has an amazing collection of olive oil and Balsamic vinegar. You’ll find everything from walnut oil to spicy harissa olive oil to any kind of balsamic vinegar that you can imagine. They encourage tastings and a trip there is a culinary adventure. Their gift shop also sells specialty teas, teapots, candles, dried pasta, and other items.

Location: 220 Broad Street

Ann Street Antiques

Looking for some antiques, check out Ann Street. It’s a small space, but full of interesting finds. There are a number of other antique stores in the surrounding blocks.

Location: 109 East Ann Street

Food And Drink

Milford has a variety of places to eat from the upscale Hotel Fauchere to the down-to-earth Milford Diner.

Milford Diner

The Milford Diner was our go-to place while we were house hunting in the area. Good solid diner food at a reasonable price. Expect to be called “hon” by your server. Lots of regulars along with the weekenders.

Frisky Goat

A wonderful coffee and pastry café on the side of Action Bikes and Outdoors. The parking lot is also where the CoachUSA bus picks up and drops off passengers to Milford.

Hotel Fauchere

In addition to being a boutique hotel, Hotel Fauchere has the Delmonico Room and Bar Louis for drinks and food. Both are on the pricier side, but the food is worth every penny. On a nice evening, ask for a table on the porch. At Bar Louis, try the sushi pizza (raw tuna on a crust made of rice) or the malanga chip basket.

Waterwheel Café Bakery & Bar

Waterwheel offers Asian fusion for dinner and a wide variety of breakfast and brunch options. The lunch menu features banh mi, salads, and ore. They serve vegetarian, vegan, and meat entrees for dinner. We love their crispy duckling entrée and kabobs. Don’t forget to check out their desserts. Converted from a water mill, the restaurant opened in 1989, and tours of the mill are encouraged. There is also a bar at the back where weekly performances are hosted. You can also request a table outside by the creek.

Dimmick Inn

The first thing you see at Dimmick is the wrap around porch. It is a lovely place for an alfresco meal or drink. Try the fish tacos, salmon or ribs. The food is reasonably priced and the service is good. It’s a family-owned restaurant and many locals frequent the Inn.

Tequila Sunrise

If you are looking for Mexican food in Milford, Tequila Sunrise is the place to go. It’s located on the east side of Hartford and easy to miss. Food is good and the portions are big.

Holy Crepes

Holy Crepes is our go-to place for crepes. Unfortunately, it seems not to have survived the COVID-19 closure. Keep your eye out in case it re-opens down the road.

Fork Lift Cafe

Outside of Milford, our favorite is the Fork Lift Cafe in Dingmans Ferry. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Milford and worth the trip. Breakfast is excellent and the salads and quiches are always a good choice.

Milford PA is an excellent day or weekend trip from New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, or a number of places on the east coast.

Cooperstown NY is another great weekend getaway from NYC, Philly or Boston.

Did You Like Getting To Know Milford PA? Planning A Visit? Let Us Know.

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