Lake Wally Families

Category: Blog

  • October fun near Lake Wallenpaupack

    October fun near Lake Wallenpaupack

    October near Lake Wallenpaupack is full of the kind of events that make a regular weekend feel a little more like Fall: downtown festivals, live animals, costumes, and just enough spooky history for kids who are ready for it. But October does not need to be filled with plans. A family hike is a good reason to get outside, too. Shuman Point’s three-mile trail has lake views and is especially nice when the leaves are changing.

    These three events are worth putting on the calendar when you want to add something extra to the weekend.

    Hawley Harvest Hoedown Saturday, October 3, 10 AM-5 PM, and Sunday, October 4, 10 AM-4 PM | Downtown Hawley

    The Hawley Harvest Hoedown is a good pick when your family cannot agree on one thing to do. Downtown Hawley will have food trucks, vendors, music, local shops, yard games, wood-carving demonstrations, and plenty of places to wander without needing a tight plan. Saturday has piglet and goat cuddling, a Western rope show, a dunk tank, an apple pie contest, and a dairy bake-off at 2 PM where attendees get to taste and vote. Sunday is especially good for younger kids: Bingham Park’s Sunday FUNday includes inflatables, with many available free of charge. It is one of those events where it makes sense to arrive hungry, walk around for a while, and let the day unfold. If you only go once, Sunday may be the easier family day because of the kids’ activities in the park. Hawley Harvest Hoedown details

    Downtown Honesdale Ghost Tours Friday, October 9 and Friday, October 16, 7 PM | Downtown Honesdale

    Downtown Honesdale Ghost Tours return for two Friday nights in October. The guided walk heads through historic Honesdale, where guides share stories about the town’s haunted buildings, alleys, and local lore. This is probably best for older elementary-age kids, tweens, and teens who enjoy a spooky story but do not need a full haunted-house experience. Since the tour starts after dark, bring a jacket, wear comfortable walking shoes, and use your judgment on whether your child is ready for ghost stories. It is a nice option for families looking for something beyond pumpkins and trick-or-treating. Check the Greater Honesdale Partnership calendar for ticket information and any updates before heading out. Downtown Honesdale Ghost Tours

    Amazing Animal Adaptations at Van Scott Nature Reserve Saturday, October 24, 10 AM-noon | Van Scott Nature Reserve, 571 Perkins Pond Road, Beach Lake

    Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center will bring live animals to the Van Scott Nature Reserve for a morning program on Pennsylvania wildlife. Kids will get to learn how native animals use physical and behavioral adaptations to survive, and what it looks like to share space with wild neighbors responsibly. Costumes are encouraged, which makes this a fun low-key Halloween outing for families who would rather meet an animal educator than wait in a haunted-house line. The program is held at the reserve, so it is also a good excuse to plan a little outdoor time before or after the presentation. Advance registration is required. This one will likely be a strong fit for animal-loving kids, especially preschoolers through elementary age. Amazing Animal Adaptations registration and details

    October does not need to be packed wall-to-wall with plans. Pick a downtown festival, a spooky Friday walk, or a morning with live wildlife, and you have a pretty solid family weekend with the opportunity to pickup some fresh apple cider along the way. Check each organizer’s page before you leave for weather updates, registration, and last-minute schedule changes.

  • Got Cider?

    Got Cider?

    Here is a quick list to keep with you if you want to stock up on the fresh Apple Cider around Lake Wallenpaupack this Fall. Not only is there fresh cider available at this authentic cider mills, but your find seasonal fruit, squashes, pumpkins and baked treats as well! Plan your trip and you can easily hit all of them in an afternoon.

    Rickard’s Cider Mill (Honesdale)

    Ritter’s Cider Mill (Jefferson Twp)

    Ritter’s Winery & Cidery (Jefferson Twp)

    Klim’s Orchard (Lake Ariel)

    Have another favorite Apple Cider source that satisfies your thirst? Be sure to let us know!

  • September fun near Lake Wallenpaupack

    September around Lake Wallenpaupack has that in-between-season feeling: the lake is still part of the weekend plan, but fairgrounds, fall events, and community gatherings start filling the calendar. If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in the Poconos, these September events give you plenty of reasons to get out of the house before the school-year routine fully takes over.

    Labor Day weekend at Costa’s Family Fun Park

    September 5-7 | Route 6 east of Hawley

    Costa’s Family Fun Park is open for Labor Day weekend, which makes this a solid last call for a summer-style day out. Water-slide wristbands are available, or families can buy activities individually. That means you can build the day around the things your crew actually wants to do: mini golf, laser tag, go-karts, and the Children’s Playland.

    https://www.costasfamilyfunpark.com/events/labor-day-weekend-hours

    GDS Fair wraps up in Newfoundland

    Through September 6 | Newfoundland

    The GDS Fair runs through Sunday, September 6, bringing rides, livestock, exhibits, food, and arena events to Newfoundland. Admission is $10 Friday through Sunday, with rides included. Parking is free, and children 18 months and younger are admitted free. The fair began more than a century ago through the Greene Dreher Sterling Community Fair Association, with a focus on agricultural life and practical farm skills. That history still comes through in the livestock and exhibit side of the fair.

    https://gdsfair.org/

    Hawley Silk Mill Fiber Festival

    Sunday, September 6, 11 AM-5 PM | 8 Silk Mill Drive, Hawley

    The Hawley Silk Mill Fiber Festival brings makers, live demonstrations, workshops, historical exhibits, music, food, and more than 30 vendors to the Silk Mill. It is a nice change of pace from the louder fairground events, especially for kids who like watching how things are made.

    Families can expect alpacas from Windy Haven Farm to be part of the day, too. Between the animals, hands-on demonstrations, and music, there should be plenty to hold a child’s attention while adults browse the vendor tables. Admission is $10, and children 12 and under are free.

    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hawley-silk-mill-fiber-festival-tickets-1990021561059

    Rails & Tails: Powerful Pups

    Sunday, September 13, 1 PM | The Stourbridge Line, Honesdale

    For the kid who lights up at the sight of a train, Rails & Tails: Powerful Pups is likely the standout of the month. This three-hour Stourbridge Line excursion includes a train ride, cartoon-pup characters, face painting, and outdoor activities at a private venue along the route.

    Tickets are $45 for adults, $40 for children, and free for infants. Food will be available for cash purchase. This one is ticketed, so do not leave the booking to the last minute. Bring a small bag with water and anything your child may need during the ride, and check The Stourbridge Line excursions page for ticket availability and updates.

    https://thestourbridgeline.net/excursions

    SEEDS Free Book Share

    September 19-20 | Wayne County Fairgrounds, Honesdale

    The SEEDS Free Book Share is one of those community events that can turn into a treasure hunt for readers of all ages. It runs from 8 AM Saturday, September 19, through 4 PM Sunday, September 20, at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. Thousands of donated books will be available to take home.

    It is free, family-friendly, and especially useful if you are trying to refresh a child’s bookshelf without adding another expensive errand to the weekend. Bring a sturdy tote or box. You may leave with more books than you planned.

    Read the event details at SEEDS Free Book Share.

    https://tockify.com/waynetomorrow/detail/166/1789819200000

    Paws, Pistons & Propellers

    Saturday, September 19, noon-5 PM | Cherry Ridge Airport, Honesdale

    Cars, planes, food, raffles, trophies, and a 50/50 drawing are on the schedule for a car show at Cherry Ridge Airport. The event benefits Dessin Animal Shelter, and the rain date is September 20.

    Registration is $10. Families with kids who can happily inspect a row of vintage cars or watch airplanes nearby will probably get the most out of this one. Don’t forget there is Betty Boops Cafe there for lunch as well.

    https://pharoahsscranton.com/event/paws-pistons-propellers/

    Run to Read 5K Run/Walk

    Sunday, September 27, 9 AM | Bingham Park, Hawley

    The Hawley Public Library’s Run to Read 5K Run/Walk gives families a chance to close out the month on the move. The event includes a 15-and-under division, participant shirts, awards, and an exceptional-athlete division open to all mobility levels. Registration is $25 in advance and $30 on race day.

    https://www.hawleylibrary.org/run-to-read-5k-2026.html

    September events near Lake Wallenpaupack range from fair rides and alpacas to trains, books, and a community 5K. Check each event website before you leave, especially for weather-related changes, tickets, and updated hours. Have a favorite local event we should add to the calendar? Let us know!

  • August Fun at the Lake: Family-Friendly Events Near Lake Wallenpaupack

    August Fun at the Lake: Family-Friendly Events Near Lake Wallenpaupack

    August is here. The sun is high, the water is warm, and summer’s almost over even though you’d rather not think about it. Lake Wallenpaupack has a lot going on this month—some of it’s worth the trip.

    🌿 Outdoor Adventures & Nature Discovery

    If your kids like getting outside and exploring, Lacawac Sanctuary has a couple of programs worth checking out.

    • Rendezvous with Rachel Revere
      • When: August 2, 2026 | 2 PM
      • Where: Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel, PA
      • Cost: $15 (non-members) / $10 (members) / FREE for veterans
      • Why your kids will love it: An interactive history performance. Kids act out scenes from the American Revolution.
      • https://lacawac.org/nature-programs/
    • Pollinator Power! Family Program
      • When: August 15, 2026 | 10 AM
      • Where: Lacawac Sanctuary, Lake Ariel, PA
      • Cost: $10/family (non-members) / $5/family (members)
      • Why your kids will love it: A guided nature walk for elementary-aged kids. They hunt for bees and butterflies and learn how the ecosystem actually works.
      • https://lacawac.org/nature-programs/ 

    🎡Fair Fun

    The county fair is the thing to do in the Poconos in August.

    • Wayne County Fair
      • When: August 7–15, 2026
      • Where: Wayne County Fairgrounds, Honesdale, PA
      • Cost: $12 for ages 24 months and up (includes parking)
      • Why your kids will love it: Over 20 rides. Kiddie land for the younger ones. Games, live music, tractor pulls, harness racing, 4-H competitions.
      • https://waynecountyfair.com
    • GDS Fair 2026
      • When: August 28 – September 6, 2026
      • Where: Newfoundland, PA
      • Cost: $8–10 admission (includes rides on weekends!)
      • Why your kids will love it: Family fun with carnival rides, livestock shows and demolition derby.
      • https://gdsfair.org/ 

    🎶Music & Food

    Wrap up the month with high energy and great eats!

    • Wally Lake Fest – Wallypalooza Live Music Festival
      • When: August 29, 2026 | 11 AM – 4 PM
      • Where: Live stage on the water, visible from the Tafton Dike and Palmyra Township Public Beach. Boaters can anchor nearby.
      • Cost: Free
      • Why your kids will love it: Live music, food trucks, the usual family fair atmosphere.

    Plan Your August

    Pack the sunscreen and hit the lake. If you’ve got a favorite local event or spot, let us know at      LakeWallyFamilies.com.

  • Welcome

    Welcome

    Welcome to Lake Wally Families!

    We’re so excited to open our new home on the web and share all the hidden gems, family‑friendly adventures, and seasonal moments that make Lake Wallenpaupack a truly special place to visit and explore. As a family‑owned guide, we’re here to help you and your loved ones plan the perfect day—or the whole season—right from the comfort of your own living room.
    Why We Started

    My family and I have been visitors to Lake Wallenpaupack for the past six years, spending countless hours at our lake‑front cabin and discovering the best that this beautiful part of the Poconos has to offer. With two young kids, we quickly found that while there are plenty of great activities around the lake, it can be hard to keep track of them all. We didn’t want to spend hours scrolling through endless pages of listings, so we decided to create one easy, reliable resource: Lake Wally Families.

    What to Expect

    Our site is designed as a simple trip planner. Pick a category—Activities, Farms, Food, or Shopping—scan the quick blurbs and family‑friendly notes, and then save your stops to build a custom outing that fits your timing, budget, and kids’ ages. We’re also adding a blog where we’ll share seasonal guides, local stories, and insider tips—so keep an eye out for that!


    Things We’re Looking Forward to This Summer:

    • July 4th Fireworks: The sky over Lake Wallenpaupack will sparkle brighter than ever for our country’s 250th birthday, and we can’t wait to see the community gather for this patriotic celebration.
    • Wayne County Fair: With rides, games, and local vendors, this fair is a must‑visit for families who love a good carnival.
    • Hikes at Lacawac: Whether you’re tackling the full trail or just enjoying a quick nature walk, Lacawac’s scenic paths offer a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle.

    All that and our 7 year old son really loves to dig holes 🙂

    A Little About Us

    We’re from New Jersey and Lake Wallenpaupack is our special place all year long. While we love trips to the Jersey Shore too, the drive to Lake Wallenpaupack feels like a breath of fresh air in comparison. Instead of the usual traffic‑jammed Parkway, the road to the Poconos is winding, scenic, and incredibly relaxing—setting the perfect tone for a family getaway.

    Thank you for stopping by. We hope our guide makes your Lake Wallenpaupack adventures smoother, more fun, and full of unforgettable memories during every season. Stay tuned upcoming blog post—full of local insights, upcoming events, and the best family-friendly spots around the lake.

    Here’s to many more years of exploring, learning, and enjoying the magic of Lake Wallenpaupack together!

  • 7 Family-Friendly Ways to Enjoy Lake Wallenpaupack This Season

    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.