Visit Milford

Milford is a borough in Pike County, Pennsylvania, located on the Delaware River. It is known for its historic downtown, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. The town’s history dates back to the late 18th century, when settlers began to arrive in the area.

The Lenape people were the first inhabitants of the Milford area. They were known for their agriculture and their hunting and fishing skills. The arrival of European settlers disrupted their way of life, and they were forced to move westward.

The first European settlers arrived in Milford in the late 1700s. The town was founded by Judge John Biddis, who built a grist mill on the Sawkill Creek in 1796. The town was named after the mill’s location on the “mill ford” of the creek. The arrival of the Delaware and Hudson Canal in 1828 made Milford an important transportation hub. The canal transported coal from the mines in northeastern Pennsylvania to the cities along the Hudson River.

In the mid-19th century, Milford became a popular resort town. The natural beauty of the area, including the Delaware River, the nearby Pocono Mountains, and the Delaware Water Gap, attracted tourists from New York City and Philadelphia. Many grand hotels were built in Milford during this time, including the Hotel Fauchère, which still stands today.

Milford was also a center for the arts during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The town was home to many artists, writers, and musicians, including the landscape painter George Inness and the novelist Stephen Crane. In the 1920s, the American Impressionist painter Edward Willis Redfield moved to Milford and helped establish the town as an artist colony.

Today, Milford is a thriving community with a rich history and culture. Visitors to Milford can explore the town’s historic downtown, which features many restored 19th-century buildings. The Milford Historical Society offers tours of the town’s historic landmarks, including the Gray Towers National Historic Site, the former summer home of the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service. The Columns Museum, located in a Greek Revival-style mansion, features exhibits on local history, including displays on the town’s Native American and colonial eras.

Nature lovers can explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which includes over 70,000 acres of forest and mountains along the Delaware River. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and water activities such as kayaking and fishing. The Grey Towers National Historic Site also has extensive gardens and grounds that visitors can explore.

Milford is also known for its cultural events and festivals. The Milford Music Festival, held annually in June, features live music performances throughout the town. The Milford Readers and Writers Festival, held annually in September, features lectures, readings, and workshops by renowned authors and literary figures.

In conclusion, Milford, Pennsylvania, is a town with a rich history that has preserved much of its 19th-century architecture and charm. Visitors can explore its historic downtown, learn about its past at its many museums, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With its thriving arts and cultural scene, Milford is a destination that offers something for everyone.

Milford, PA, located in Pike County, is a charming small town with a rich history and a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

One of the town’s most popular attractions is Grey Towers National Historic Site. This stunning mansion was the home of Gifford Pinchot, the first chief of the US Forest Service and two-term Governor of Pennsylvania. The mansion and its surrounding gardens are now a National Historic Landmark, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about Pinchot’s life and legacy.

Another must-visit attraction in Milford is the Columns Museum. This museum is housed in a historic 1904 Neo-Classical Revival building and contains a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town’s rich history. Highlights include a Civil War room, a display on the town’s famous resident, Zane Grey, and the famous Lincoln Flag, which was draped over President Lincoln’s box at Ford’s Theatre on the night of his assassination.

Nature lovers will appreciate the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which is just a short drive from Milford. This stunning park features over 70,000 acres of forests, rivers, and waterfalls, and offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping.

Milford is also home to a thriving arts scene, with a number of galleries, studios, and arts organizations in town. The Milford Arts Alliance hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including the Milford Music Festival, which brings together local musicians and artists for a weekend of performances and festivities.

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, Milford’s Main Street is lined with a variety of boutique shops and galleries, offering everything from handmade crafts to antiques and collectibles. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of dining options in town, with everything from classic diners and pizza shops to upscale restaurants and cafes.

Overall, Milford, PA offers visitors a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, arts, and culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s rich history, enjoy outdoor adventures, or simply relax and soak up the small-town charm, Milford is a must-visit destination in Pike County.