Visit Hawley

Hawley is a borough in Pike County, Pennsylvania, and it is located in the Poconos Mountains region. The borough has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s, with its name originating from the Philadelphia lawyer and politician Joseph Hawley. Hawley was originally founded as a hub for the transportation of coal, and its position along the Lackawaxen River allowed for easy access to the Delaware and Hudson Canal. Today, Hawley is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational activities.

The history of Hawley begins in the early 1800s, when coal was discovered in the region. The discovery of coal led to the founding of the Pennsylvania Coal Company, which was responsible for the development of the region’s coal mines. The coal mines brought an influx of workers to the area, and the Lackawaxen River became an important transportation route for the coal. In 1826, the Delaware and Hudson Canal was built, which connected the coal fields of Pennsylvania to the markets in New York City. The canal ran through Hawley, and it played a significant role in the borough’s development.

Hawley was officially incorporated as a borough in 1884, and it quickly became a popular destination for tourists. The town’s natural beauty and location in the Poconos Mountains made it a popular destination for city-dwellers seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The town’s proximity to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River also made it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Over the years, Hawley has been home to a number of notable residents, including Zane Grey, the famous Western author, and William H. Seward, who served as the Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln. In addition to its famous residents, Hawley has also been the site of several historic events. During the Civil War, the town was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and many fugitive slaves found refuge there.

Today, Hawley is a thriving community that offers a wide range of cultural attractions and outdoor recreational activities. The Hawley Silk Mill, which was built in 1880, is now a retail and office space that houses a number of shops and restaurants. The mill is also home to the Hawley Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts.

Hawley is also home to several art galleries, including the Ritz Company Playhouse, which offers a range of theatrical productions throughout the year. The Dorflinger Glass Museum, which is located just outside of Hawley, showcases the history of the region’s glass-making industry. The museum houses a collection of glassware from the Dorflinger Glass Works, which operated in the region from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Hawley offers a wide range of recreational activities. The town is surrounded by the Pocono Mountains, which provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing. The Lackawaxen River is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, and the nearby Lake Wallenpaupack offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and water sports.

In conclusion, Hawley, Pennsylvania, is a small but historically rich borough located in Pike County. From its humble beginnings as a coal hub to its current status as a popular tourist destination, Hawley has come a long way. Its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational activities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best that Pennsylvania has to offer.

Hawley is a great destination for visitors who love outdoor activities, shopping, and cultural experiences. Here are some things visitors can do in Hawley:

1. Outdoor Recreation: Hawley is surrounded by beautiful natural areas, including Lake Wallenpaupack and the Pocono Mountains, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, and canoeing. You can also visit the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which boasts more than 70,000 acres of protected wilderness.

2. Shopping: Hawley is home to a variety of unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries, offering everything from handmade crafts and artisanal foods to vintage clothing and antiques. One popular shopping destination is The Hawley Silk Mill, a restored 19th-century silk factory that now houses an array of specialty shops, a fitness center, and a café.

3. Cultural Attractions: Visitors to Hawley can also enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibits. The Ritz Company Playhouse is a popular venue for community theater productions, while the Hawley Public Library hosts regular readings and author events. Art lovers can visit the Hawley Artisan Gallery to view and purchase works by local artists.

4. Festivals and Events: Hawley hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from the town’s rich history to its vibrant arts and culture scene. The Hawley Harvest Hoedown is an annual fall festival that features live music, artisanal foods, and local crafts, while the Winterfest celebration offers ice sculptures, dog sled demonstrations, and a chili cook-off.

5. Dining: Hawley is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from classic American fare to ethnic cuisine. There are plenty of great restaurants in town, including The Settlers Inn, a historic hotel with a farm-to-table restaurant, and Glass-wine.bar.kitchen, a contemporary eatery specializing in small plates and craft cocktails.

6. Historical Sites: Visitors to Hawley can also explore the town’s rich history by visiting its many historical sites and landmarks. The Hawley Silk Mill, for example, is a beautifully restored factory that played a significant role in the town’s economic development. The Dorflinger Glass Museum showcases the work of Christian Dorflinger, a prominent glassmaker who helped put Hawley on the map in the late 19th century. Other notable historic sites in the area include the Zane Grey Museum, the Old Stone Jail, and the Hawley Cemetery.

In conclusion, Hawley is a charming and welcoming town that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From outdoor recreation and shopping to cultural attractions and dining, there’s something for everyone in Hawley.