The mountains and valleys of the Poconos are home to different historical sites and are full of stories dating back centuries. There are more than 50 different historical sites, districts, libraries, museums and theaters located throughout the area. Visit some of the area's first school houses dating back to the early 1870s, including the Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery (DutotMuseum.com), Bell School House (MonroeHistorical.org) and the Bethel School (WayneHistoryPA.org). Different means of transportation were developed in the area in the late 1800s and can be rediscovered at local museums. Historical transportation sites in the area include Cresco Station Museum (no website; Sand Spring Road & Pennsylvania Route 390, Cresco; 570-595-7643), Dingman's Bridge (DingmansBridge.com) and Driebe Freight Station (MonroeHistorical.org).
Though there is no Nascar race at the Pocono Raceway (PoconoRaceway.com) over Memorial Day weekend, there are still racing related activities in the area. Stop by the track and take a tour or stop in the gift shop to pick up racing souvenirs. There are also different racing experiences offered at the raceway, including driving around the track. Get the family together and sign up for a three or four hour team go kart racing program at the track.
The mountains, valleys and waterways in the Poconos offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can hike, go horseback riding or ride an ATV through wooded areas. Marinas on the lakes and rivers offer boat rentals, fishing excursions and water sports. Guided river trips and white water rafting tours are also available in the area.
Guests visiting the area over Memorial Day weekend will be treated to different holiday weekend events and activities. The Memorial Day Family Nature Getaway Spring Fling happens at the Pocono Environmental Education Center offering a weekend filled with animal presentations, campfires and guided hikes. The weekend event includes three nights of lodging and meals. As of 2011 this event cost $190 per person. The Emerald Isles and Scottish Highlands event offers Celtic music, crafts, Irish dancing and food during a two-day event. Spend this Memorial Day weekend at Lake Wallenpaupack on a guided tour. As of 2011 tickets were $14 for adults, $13 for seniors and $10 for children.
