Welcome to Lake Wally Families
Lake Wallenpaupack is full of simple family adventures, scenic stops, and local favorites that can turn an ordinary weekend into a memory-making getaway. At LakeWallyFamilies.com, our goal is to help parents find fun, food, farms, and local shopping around the lake without spending hours searching.
We started this site after years of visiting the area with our two young kids and realizing how helpful it would be to have one easy guide for family-friendly ideas. Whether you are planning a full vacation, a long weekend, or just looking for one great stop nearby, this blog is here to make exploring Lake Wallenpaupack easier.
Lake Wallenpaupack covers a wide area so we are actually giving you two options to consider whether you are closer to the North (Hawley and Honesale) or South (Lake Ariel). Depending on where you’re staying or which part of the lake you’re exploring, you’ll find fantastic options nearby. Here are seven ways to make the most of this beautiful area.
1) Start with Easy Scenic Walks
One of the best parts of visiting the lake is simply taking time to enjoy the views—and you don’t need a strenuous hike to do it. On the South side, head to Lacawac Sanctuary.
This peaceful preserve offers easy walking trails around Lake Lacawac where kids can explore nature. Sign in at the visitor center and pick up a map to find your way around. The trails wind through meadows and woodlands with beautiful views and explanation of some of the history of Lake Wallenpaupack.
If you’re exploring the North side of the lake, Delaware & Hudson Canal Park is a gem. The historic canal towpath provides an easy, mostly flat walk with interesting history built right in. Kids love learning about the old canal while parents enjoy the scenic setting—it’s educational without feeling like a lesson.
Either of these walks are perfect for starting your day and enjoying the fresh Poconos air that make this area so special.
2)Let Kids Play and Explore Naturally
Playgrounds and open spaces matter when you’re traveling with young children and you won’t have to travel any further to give the kids an opportunity to get playful. At Lacawac Sanctuary , beyond the walking trails, there is natural play areas where kids can explore, climb, run through a tunnel in the dirt and just be kids in the outdoors. It’s the kind of place where they’ll play for hours without needing expensive attractions.
On the north side, Delaware & Hudson Canal Park also has open green spaces perfect for families. Kids can run along the canal and explore a wooden frame of a ship set in the old canal. The historic atmosphere adds a unique charm that you won’t find at a typical playground. These natural spaces are often quieter than crowded parks, which families really appreciate.
3) Find Easy Family Meals
One of the best parts of visiting the Lake Wallenpaupack area is discovering casual restaurants that actually welcome families and work for both kids and adults. After hiking and playing in the woods, you kids are likely hungry now no matter how many snacks you brought along.
If you’re on the South side, stop by Mr. Yock’s BBQ. It’s the kind of place where families feel comfortable, the kids’ menu is solid, and everyone in your family will find something they like. BBQ is inherently casual—no fussing about fancy table manners—and Mr. Yock’s gets it. It’s exactly the kind of spot that lets you relax and enjoy a meal without the stress.
On the North side Betty Boop’s Airport Cafe is a local favorite that families love even it is your only stop for the day. It has a fun, quirky atmosphere (kids and adults find the runway entertaining), solid food that won’t empty your wallet, and that genuine small-town diner feel. Either way, you’ll find a welcoming meal that fits your family’s pace and budget.
4) Explore Farms and Local Produce
Families often love the simple experiences most—visiting a farm stand, picking up seasonal goods, or finding local products you can’t get at a big grocery store. It’s the kind of experience that teaches kids where food really comes from.
The South has Kim And Andrews Farm Market, a true working farm market where you’ll find fresh, seasonal produce and local goods. Kids enjoy seeing actual farm operations, and parents love supporting local farmers. It feels authentic because it is.
North side families should visit The Alpine Wurst & Meat House, which specializes in quality meats and local products. While it’s more specialized than a traditional farm stand, it offers the same local, family-run feel. Families often grab items here for a farm-to-table style BBQ meal back at their lodging.
Both options remind us that Lake Wallenpaupack isn’t just about big tourist attractions—it’s about real local businesses that families have supported for years.
5)Grab Quick Snacks and Treats
After a morning of exploring, nothing beats a cold treat or quick snack break. Lake Wallenpaupack has some great options depending on where you are.
Sout side families should head to Moo Moo Time Creamery for ice cream that feels homemade and tastes amazing. Kids light up when they see the options, and parents appreciate quality ice cream that doesn’t taste artificial. It’s a simple pleasure that’s perfect after a hike or activity.
On the North side, Dairy Twist is the classic choice. This isn’t a chain—it’s a real creamery with that nostalgic ice cream shop charm that families have been visiting for years.
Both spots are perfect for that mid-day treat that makes kids smile and gives everyone a moment to rest.
6) Shop for Something Unique to Take Home
Kids love picking out a small souvenir or special item to remember the trip. Local shops offer something you won’t find in chain stores—real character and items that actually reflect the area.
South side shoppers can browse Pieces of the Past Antiques, which has unique items that certainly include a treasure you’re looking for. It’s the kind of place where kids find something unexpectedly cool, and you’re supporting a real local business.
On the north side, Aura Tie-Dye is perfect for families who appreciate handmade, colorful, creative goods. Kids especially love tie-dye—it’s fun, it’s wearable, and it’s a great memory of the lake. Plus, you’re buying from actual artists and creatives in the community.
Both shops add character to your trip and give you something to bring home that tells the story of Lake Wallenpaupack.
7) Experience Something Seasonal
Lake Wallenpaupack offers different experiences depending on the season, and there are attractions designed to make the most of whatever time of year you visit. This post is focused on Summer activities, but we’ll bring content for every season as we get there.
South side families should plan a visit to Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park, a hands-on animal experience that may be more than what you were expecting in the Poconos. Kids love the interactive element, and it’s the kind of place that creates real memories—seeing animals up close, learning about wildlife, and experiencing nature in a guided way.
On the North side, Costas Family Fun Park delivers classic Summer fun. From rides to games and water fun, it’s built specifically for families who want action and excitement. It’s the kind of place where kids don’t want to leave.
Both options ensure that no matter when you visit, there’s something exciting planned.
Our Mission
Our mission is to make it easier for families to discover new places, try local favorites, and enjoy more of what makes Lake Wallenpaupack special. Wherever you are around Lake Wallenpaupack, you’ll find friendly people, good food, beautiful scenery, and experiences that your family will remember.
Our mission is to make it easier for families to discover new places, try local favorites, and enjoy more of what makes Lake Wallenpaupack special.
What You Will Find Here
- Family-friendly activity ideas
- Local food and treat recommendations
- Farm visits and seasonal stops
- Shopping ideas and local finds
- Helpful guides for planning your time around the lake
Plan Your Next Outing
If you love discovering new places with your family, LakeWallyFamilies.com is built for you. Follow along for local guides, seasonal inspiration, and practical ideas that help you spend less time searching and more time enjoying Lake Wallenpaupack together.
