East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania: Gateway to the Poconos, Rich History, and Family Adventure

Situated at the edge of the scenic Pocono Mountains, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, offers a unique blend of small-town hospitality, rich local history, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly amenities. As one of Monroe County’s vibrant hubs, East Stroudsburg is more than a pass-through on the way to mountain resorts; it is a compelling destination filled with attractions, memorable eateries, heritage sites, parks, and shopping destinations. This article will guide you through everything East Stroudsburg has to offer—from history buffs to families and outdoor lovers.

History of East Stroudsburg

The roots of East Stroudsburg go back to the early 18th century, when Judge Daniel Brodhead settled here in 1737, dubbing the area Dansbury after himself. The Brodhead family’s settlement became a hub for trade and local governance, but the town faced challenges, including a major attack during the French and Indian War. In 1856, with the construction of the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad, the area was renamed East Stroudsburg to reflect its position east of neighboring Stroudsburg and to distinguish the new rail station from others. Over time, East Stroudsburg flourished as a key transportation and manufacturing center, earning status as a borough in 1870. Today, iconic structures like the East Stroudsburg Armory and the historic railroad station (both listed on the National Register of Historic Places) stand as reminders of this industrious past.​

Notable Historical Sites and Landmarks

• East Stroudsburg Armory: Built in 1928, this striking stone building is both architecturally significant and historically cherished.
  • 271 Washington St, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
• East Stroudsburg Railroad Station: Once a busy rail hub, this structure (on Crystal St) holds a special place in local memory as a symbol of the town’s railroad heritage.
• Daniel Brodhead Historical Markers: Around the borough, markers and interpretive plaques celebrate the area’s early Dutch settlers, indigenous Lenape heritage, and Brodhead’s founding of Dansbury.​

Top Attractions and Family-Friendly Places

Pocono Snake & Animal Farm

A delightful destination for families, this compact “mini-zoo” features a surprising array of reptiles, small mammals, and exotic animals. It has charmed visitors for over five decades.

• Address: 424 Seven Bridge Rd, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
• Phone: (570) 223-8653
• Pocono Snake & Animal Farm​

Frazetta Art Museum

For art lovers, this specialized museum celebrates the work of fantasy artist Frank Frazetta, showcasing original paintings, prints, and the artist’s story.

• Address: 141 Museum Rd, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
• Phone: (570) 242-3270
• Frazetta Art Museum​

Pocono Indian Museum

This museum educates visitors about northeastern Pennsylvania’s Native American history, with extensive displays and a three-level gift shop featuring regional crafts.

• Address: 5425 Milford Rd, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
• Phone: (570) 588-9338
• Pocono Indian Museum​

Resica Falls Scout Reservation

Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic waterfall and hiking opportunities on the private scout reservation (public visitors are welcome at the falls area).

• Address: 1200 Resica Falls Rd, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
• Phone: (570) 421-1008​

Dansbury Park & Levee Loop Trail

The community’s primary recreation hub, Dansbury Park offers an accessible playground, sports fields, skate park, heated pool with slides, and event pavilion. The Levee Loop Trail, a four-mile scenic path along Brodhead Creek, is perfect for walking and cycling, surrounded by wildlife and seasonal flowers.​

• Address: 15 Day St, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
• Dansbury Park​
• Borough Parks​

Additional Outdoor Recreation

East Stroudsburg sits at the doorstep of larger regional attractions—Bushkill Falls (“the Niagara of Pennsylvania”), Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and Camelback Mountain Resort offer hiking, biking, skiing, waterparks, and wildlife watching year-round.​

Dining: Popular Restaurants & Eateries

East Stroudsburg’s restaurant scene blends classic American comfort, world cuisine, and local craft flavors. Highlights include:

Many of these eateries welcome families and groups, and offer everything from burgers to ethnic specialties.​

Shopping Malls and Retail Areas

• Stroud Mall (Next door in Stroudsburg): The principal enclosed mall for the area, featuring big-box stores, an AMC movie theater, local boutiques, and food court options for a quick bite.
  • 344 Stroud Mall Rd, Stroudsburg, PA 18360
  • Stroud Mall​
• Pocono Bazaar Marketplace: Open year-round on weekends, this indoor/outdoor flea market features a lively collection of vendors, crafts, antiques, and food.
  • 1 Municipal Dr, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
  • Pocono Bazaar​
• Downtown East Stroudsburg: Crystal Street is the main drag, lined with bookstores, vintage shops, yoga studios, and boutiques—don’t miss Nadia’s Euro Deli for specialty groceries.​

Relaxation and Family-Friendly Spots

• Dansbury Park and Pool: Beyond its recreational amenities, it’s ideal for picnics and summer cookouts.
• Levee Loop & Brodhead Creek: Walking and bike trails, wildlife habitats, and fishing spots bring calm for nature enthusiasts.​
• Nearby Waterparks & Adventure Parks: Enjoy year-round fun at nearby Great Wolf Lodge (1 Great Wolf Dr, Scotrun, PA 18355) and Kalahari Resort (250 Kalahari Blvd, Pocono Manor, PA 18349).

Two Closing Thoughts

East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, shines as a vibrant, accessible base for exploration in the Pocono Mountains. From its deep colonial roots to modern attractions and the warm bustle of restaurants and shops on Crystal Street, the town provides adventure, history, and hospitality in equal measure. Visitors can step into living history at local landmarks, relax along Brodhead Creek, or take the family from immersive animal adventures to creative museums and parks—all in one town.

As East Stroudsburg continues to evolve with a keen sense of tradition and community, it remains a gateway not only to the spectacular landscapes of the Poconos but to the heart of Pennsylvania heritage. For more about East Stroudsburg and other destinations across the state, visit My Philly Connection.