The mountains of the Poconos. The very mention of the word evokes images of cheesy romanticism, remote cottages nestled amid lush hills, and, of course, the instantly recognizable heart-shaped bathtubs. As the “Honeymoon Capital of the World,” the Poconos have rightfully claimed a special position in the American romantic landscape for many generations, including my own. But as the calendar pages turned, the vibrant postcard of the Poconos began to fade. What happened to this haven of honeymooners?
For many, the memories are deeply personal. The Poconos have a particular meaning for me; they are a relic of an innocent, carefree love that I became engaged in at Penn Hills Resort. Penn Hills, with its expansive grounds and unique allure, surely left an empty spot when it closed. Did its downfall serve as an indicator of a broader change in the Poconos’ allure? It’s certainly tempting to see it as a turning point, a symbolic end to the heyday of those uniquely themed resorts. Penn Hills, like many of its contemporaries, thrived on a specific brand of romance that, while wildly popular for decades, eventually began to feel dated to a new generation of travelers.
The Poconos’ ascent and fall as the honeymoon capital is a complex tale interwoven with shifting tourism patterns, evolving cultural preferences, and the emergence of competing destinations. Couples, especially those hailing from the East Coast, could easily and affordably go to the Poconos in the middle of the twentieth century. A strong selling point was the assurance of seclusion, complemented by the allure of themed rooms and the now-iconic heart-shaped bathtubs. Romantic vacations were soon associated with names like Paradise Stream, Cove Haven, and Mount Airy Lodge (the original, not the present casino resort), all of which conjured images of secluded, personal times that guests would never forget.
However, as plane tickets became cheaper and more people could fly all over the globe, couples began to search further away for their romantic getaways. Eventually, the exotic beaches, European towns, and exciting locations started to outshine the Poconos’ kitsch. Simultaneously, the once-playfully romantic destination began to feel increasingly dated to younger generations seeking a different kind of luxury and experience.
The Poconos, however, did not disappear entirely. Although honeymoon destinations have evolved significantly over the years, the stunning scenery remains a significant draw. The Poconos are changing and evolving to meet the needs of contemporary tourists. Many of the old resorts have changed their names, closed, or undergone remodeling to make them more accessible.
As far as the four remaining resorts are concerned, they are Cove Haven Resort, Paradise Stream Resort, Pocono Palace Resort, and The Lodge at Woodloch. Determining which is “better” is subjective and depends entirely on individual preferences.
- Cove Haven Resort, Paradise Stream Resort, and Pocono Palace Resort are all part of the same Cove Haven Entertainment Resorts group and retain much of the original spirit of the Poconos’ romantic past. They still feature those iconic heart-shaped tubs and offer all-inclusive packages geared towards couples. All of them are special in their way, but in general, they’re perfect for couples looking for a nostalgic, fun, and romantic getaway.
- The Lodge at Woodloch, on the other hand, represents a significant departure from the classic Poconos honeymoon aesthetic. It is an award-winning, adults-only luxury spa resort focused on wellness, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Although it offers a peaceful and romantic retreat, it lacks the lively and themed ambiance of Cove Haven properties, instead focusing on holistic experiences and serenity. Thus, it’s “better” for couples looking for an upscale retreat with an emphasis on wellness, rather than the more conventional Poconos honeymoon.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a casino in the Poconos, your only option is Mount Airy Casino Resort. When it comes to casino gambling in the area, Mount Airy is head and shoulders above the competition, even though some of its rivals may have smaller gaming spaces. The opening of Mount Airy in 2007 marked another significant shift in the Poconos’ identity, diversifying its appeal beyond just romantic getaways to include gaming and entertainment.
The Poconos of yesteryear may never be the same again, what with all the emphasis on honeymoon romance and the unique heart-shaped imagery. Nonetheless, the area is dynamic and ever-changing, offering a variety of adventures for tourists of all types. The natural splendor, outdoor pursuits, and yes, even a sliver of that timeless romantic allure persist, even if the champagne glass tubs are less common. Rather than disappearing, the Poconos have evolved and are now penning a new chapter in their rich and legendary past.
Ready to rediscover the romance? The Poconos are beckoning if you’re in search of tranquil spa getaways or the echoes of heart-shaped spas. Infuse your love story with new memories as the mountains whisper them to you.
Savor the last golden days of summer with a romantic Pocono escape. Book now through Expedia and support Neckie’s Great Adventures with every dreamy stay. Cozy cabins, sunset hikes, and mountain air await.
