Things To Do Near Mount Airy Casino

You’ve just wrapped up a four-hour session at the blackjack tables, or maybe you hit a jackpot on the slots and decided to call it a night early. Either way, you’re in the Poconos, and while the action at Mount Airy Casino Resort is solid, cabin fever can set in fast if you don't plan a few side trips. The area surrounding the casino isn't just thick woods and winding roads—it’s packed with activities that range from high-speed outdoor adventure to surprisingly upscale wine tasting.

Whether you are looking for family-friendly distractions to justify the trip to your spouse, or you just need a break from the casino floor, here is what is actually worth your time within a short drive of the casino.

Outdoor Adventures in the Poconos

If you have spent too many hours breathing recycled casino air, the remedy is usually a healthy dose of the Pocono Mountains. The region is famous for its resorts, but the real draw for active visitors is the terrain.

Camelback Mountain Adventures is probably the biggest draw nearby. It is located just a short drive from the casino and offers year-round entertainment. In the winter, it is all about skiing and snowboarding, but when the snow melts, the mountain transforms. They have a massive outdoor waterpark, but for adults, the Tree Top Adventures zipline course is the main attraction. It is an aerial obstacle course that lets you fly through the canopy—arguably a bigger adrenaline rush than a max bet on a single roulette number.

If you prefer water to heights, Whitewater Rafting on the Lehigh River is a staple summer activity. Several outfitters operate about 30 minutes from the resort, offering guided trips that range from lazy family floats to class II and III rapids that will soak you through. It is a great way to kill a half-day before heading back to the tables for the evening session.

Golf Courses Near Mount Airy

For many casino-goers, a trip isn’t complete without 18 holes. The Poconos has a deep golf culture, and you don't have to travel far to find well-manicured fairways.

Right on the property, Mount Airy Golf Course is a convenient option. It’s an 18-hole championship course that winds through the mature woodlands of the resort. It’s well-maintained and offers a relaxed pace, perfect if you want to stay close to your hotel room. The greens fees are reasonable, and you can usually walk on without a reservation during the week.

If you want a bit more of a challenge or a change of scenery, Great Bear Golf & Country Club is a nearby premier option. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this is a semi-private club that offers a high-end experience. It’s tighter, tougher, and demands more precision than the resort course—ideal for low-handicappers looking to test their game.

Wine Tasting and Local Distilleries

The Poconos has quietly developed a respectable wine and spirits scene, offering a more laid-back vibe compared to the bars inside the casino. It is an excellent way to unwind without the sound of slot machines jingling in the background.

Sorrenti Family Estate Winery is a standout. Located just a 15-minute drive from Mount Airy, this is a fully operational vineyard and winery. They produce a wide variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet fruit wines, and the tasting room is situated in a converted barn that offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere. They often have live music on weekends, making it a solid evening alternative if you feel like taking a night off from gambling.

For those who prefer clear spirits, Bluebird Distilling and Mountain View Vineyard (which also brews beer and distills spirits) are worth the short drive. Mountain View is particularly unique because it is a winery, brewery, and distillery all in one. You can grab a flight of craft beer, sip on some local wine, or taste their in-house distilled vodka and whiskey all in one sitting.

Family Attractions and Shopping

If you are traveling with family who aren't exactly thrilled about spending their day watching you play poker, you need distractions that can occupy a few hours.

The Crossings Premium Outlets in Tannersville is the shopping destination of choice. It is located about 20 minutes from Mount Airy and features over 100 name-brand stores. If you need to burn through some of your winnings—or shop away your losses—this is the place. It has all the major brands like Nike, Coach, and Calvin Klein, and it is easily accessible right off Interstate 80.

For something a bit more interactive, check out Claws 'N' Paws Wild Animal Park. It’s a smaller, walk-through zoo that focuses heavily on interactive experiences. You can feed giraffes and lorikeets, and it is generally less crowded and more intimate than the massive city zoos. It is a hit with kids but interesting enough for adults to enjoy a slow stroll through the exhibits.

Another nearby gem is the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm. This is a working farm museum where staff dress in period clothing and demonstrate what life was like in the 19th century. It sounds dry, but it is actually fascinating to see the old techniques and animals. It is a slower pace, perfect for clearing your head before heading back to the high-energy environment of the casino.

Dining Options Beyond the Casino Buffet

Mount Airy has some decent dining options inside the resort, including a steakhouse and a Chipotle (for when you need quick fuel), but the local food scene offers flavors that are worth the drive.

Barley Creek Brewing Company is a local institution. It is a microbrewery and restaurant that serves up hearty pub food alongside their craft beers. The vibe is casual, the portions are huge, and the beer is fresh. It is a favorite après-ski spot in winter and a sunny patio spot in summer.

For something more romantic or upscale, Sycamore Grille in Delaware Water Gap offers an excellent menu in a historic inn setting. It is further out, about 25 minutes away, but the drive is scenic and the food—focusing on American cuisine with a modern twist—makes it worthwhile. It’s the kind of place you go to celebrate a big win.

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