Additional parking can be found at Sam Miller Field and Immaculate Conception Church. Note: Parking can be an issue during peak times. There are lots of shops and restaurants, along with outdoor adventure outfitters that will take you river rafting and exploring the hills. Deep within the Lehigh Gorge, this Victorian-era mining town serves as a hub to the area’s hiking trails that lead to some of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls. The former Mauch Chunk was renamed for the great Native American athlete Jim Thorpe (although he grew up in Oklahoma). Named one of America’s 50 Most Beautiful Small Towns by Architectural Digest in 2022. Lehigh Gorge State Park is known for its thrilling white-water rafting on the Lehigh River as well as two popular waterfalls and trails galore.

Home to less than 5,000 Pennsylvanians, Jim Thorpe has long been known for its enchanting downtown, sweeping mountain views, and historic architecture. Descending into the town via winding roads, you’ll come upon the opera house, Richardsonian federal buildings, Greek revival mansions, and small streets with little stone houses reminiscent of Dublin, Ireland.

Jim Thorpe is often called “The Switzerland of America” due to its European-style architecture and mountain setting in the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge.

Lehigh valley mauch chunk opera house