Family vacations in the Pocono Mountains offer something for every member of the family. There’s outdoor adventure, fun-filled activities and engaging attractions. Be sure to take some time during your stay to explore all our area has to offer. Download our Free Vacation Guide to find more places to see and things to do during your Pocono Mountains getaway.
Go Wild!
At Claws ‘n Paws you can take a walk on the wild side. The zoo in the woods in nearby Hamlin, PA is home to over 120 exotic species and 300 animals in all. Visitors can explore winding forest trails to check out the animals that live in large, natural enclosures.
Lions & Tigers & Bears Oh My!
Animals who call the zoo home include African Lions, American Alligators, Patas Monkeys, a Black Bear, Camel, Bengal Tiger, Gibbon Monkeys, Jaguars, Wolves, Lemurs and many more. Jethro the Giraffe is one of its most popular residents. During specified times throughout the day, visitors may feed the gentle giant.
Fur Real!
The up-close experience also includes a number of animal encounters. There’s a petting zoo populated by friendly deer, goats
and sheep. The area is open all day and visitors may feed and pet the animals. In Turtle Town, visitors have the chance to mingle with African Tortoises. They’re the third largest species of tortoise in the world and can weigh over 100 pounds. Guests to Turtle Town can pet the animals and take photos. Claws ‘n Paws was the first zoo on the East Coast to offer a Lory Parrot Feeding Area. Visitors enter the aviary and may hand-feed apple chunks to the birds. Gentle and inquisitive, it’s not uncommon for the Parrots to perch themselves on guests to the aviary- talk about a photo op!
Nature Know-How
Once a day, zookeepers offer a fun, educational show in the wildlife theater. It’s a great opportunity for visitors to get to know some of the animal ambassadors and learn about wildlife from the experts. The Dino Outpost is another popular spot in the animal park. Children can get their hands dirty with a Dino Dig, uncover fossils, take a photo with a Triceratops and even solve puzzles. For an in-depth look at the zoo, visitors can book a VIP Tour. Ride along with a senior zookeeper for an exclusive one-hour fun and fact-filled excursion through the park. Stop along the way for special animal feedings and a private feeding with Jethro the Giraffe.
Feeding Time
A snack bar and picnic area centrally located in the zoo is an ideal place to relax in the quiet, forest setting. There’s also a large gift shop featuring toys, clothing, accessories and souvenirs. Claws ‘n Paws is open daily through October.
Stay & Play
After exploring the Pocono Mountains, return to Silver Birches Resort and enjoy family time at Lake Wallenpaupack. Splash in the lakeside pool, gather round the firepit for S’mores, play a board game on the porch of your private cottage or relax with a movie in your cozy guestroom. Don’t wait to make precious family memories. Check availability and book your Pocono Mountains getaway today.