October 12, 2025, falls on a Sunday, and it's an excellent time to visit Jim Thorpe, PA, as the annual Fall Foliage Festival will be in full swing! This popular festival offers a variety of activities celebrating the autumn season and the town's unique charm.
Here are some things you can do in Jim Thorpe on Sunday, October 12:
Fall Foliage Festival Activities:
* Enjoy Live Music: The festival features free live entertainment on four stages throughout downtown, including the Downtown Gazebo in Josiah White Park, Quarry Street Stage, Race Street Stage at Shozo Park, and the Mauch Chunk Opera House. Performances typically run from noon to 5 p.m.
* Browse Craft and Food Vendors: The streets of Jim Thorpe will be lined with local artisans and food vendors offering unique goods and seasonal treats. You can also explore the town's cozy restaurants, pubs, and cafes for authentic dining options.
* Experience the Autumn Ambiance: Stroll along the cobblestone streets, take in the colorful fall decorations, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
* Family-Friendly Activities: The festival offers various family-friendly activities, including pumpkin painting.
Other Attractions & Activities:
* Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway: Take a breathtaking 45-minute train ride through the Lehigh Gorge to witness the peak autumn foliage. Trains depart hourly from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's recommended to arrive early (by 9 or 9:30 a.m.) to secure tickets, as reservations are not made in advance during leaf-peeping season.
* Historic Site Tours:
* Asa Packer Mansion Museum: Tour this opulent Victorian Italianate mansion. It's open from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with tickets sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
* Old Jail Museum: Explore this fascinating historic site. For Sunday, it's recommended to check for availability as Saturday and Sunday times can sell out, and reservations might need to be made in advance for Friday.
* Episcopal Church of St. Mark & St. John: Visit this National Historical Landmark known for its Gothic Revival architecture, Tiffany windows, and the oldest working Otis elevator in the country. A church service is held at 9 a.m.
* Outdoor Adventures:
* Biking: Rent a bike near the train station and ride along the Lehigh Gorge Trail. You can bike a 5-mile stretch with a two percent grade and return.
* Hiking: Explore scenic overlooks and various hiking trails in the area. Mauch Chunk Lake Park, located west of downtown, offers several miles of hiking and biking trails.
* Whitewater Rafting: Some visitors participate in whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River.
* Shopping: Discover unique shops offering antiques, vinyl records, handcrafted soaps, books, home décor, and one-of-a-kind artisan goods.
* Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center: Learn about the history of the town.
Important Tips for Your Visit:
* Parking: Jim Thorpe can be very busy on Fall Foliage Festival weekends, so parking is limited. Arrive early (by 9 a.m. is recommended) to find parking, especially at the train station, or be prepared to use shuttle lots.
* Visitor Information: The Jim Thorpe Visitors Center, located in the train station, will have extended hours on festival weekends, open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.