Just when the seasoned Mid-Atlantic traveler thinks Northern Pennsylvania has revealed all its treasures and small-town secrets, along comes Milford — population 1,629, according to the 2007 census update.
A compact town, one-half of a square mile in area, Milford is the designated seat of Pike County. This little borough in the northeastern Pocono Mountains boasts spectacular scenery and countless outdoor activities.
“Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area covers a 40-mile stretch of the river that passes by Milford and reaches to the town of Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania,” said Cara O’Donnell, a PR spokesperson for Pennsylvania Tourism. “Anything from sightseeing, swimming, boating, camping, fishing, hiking and cycling make it a favorite place for locals and visitors.”
O’Donnell suggests that travelers on Route 209 drive through the recreation area on their way to Milford and stop at any number of places to view the river and its series of breathtaking waterfalls.
In town, visitors can count on a heavy dose of Victorian charm, both in its architecture and on the wide tree-lined streets filled with specialty antique shops, art galleries, cafes and boutiques.
» From Baltimore, 220 miles; from D.C., 259 miles
» www.visitpa.com; www.milfordpa.us; www.pikechamber.com
History, as one might imagine of a town founded in the late 1700s, is ubiquitous in Milford. The Columns Museum houses a fine collection of arts and artifacts including historic farm tools, vintage gowns and uniforms, musical instruments of the period and kitchenware.
“The most unique exhibit includes a ‘bloody Lincoln Flag’ which is believed to have cushioned the dying president’s head after he was shot at Ford’s Theatre in April of 1865,” O’Donnell said.
Grey Towers National Landmark was built in 1886 as the home of Gifford Pinchot, former governor of Pennsylvania and a great conservationist. Dedicated as a National Historic Site by President Kennedy in 1963, its magnificent grounds are open daily to the public. House tours are conducted May through October.
Walking maps for all of the historic sights, as well as a visitors guide, are available at the Pike County Chamber of Commerce on East Harford Street downtown.
Milford and the surrounding area offer a number of fine restaurants, hotels and bed and breakfasts.
The Hotel Fauchere, a completely restored luxury boutique hotel, was built as an inn in 1852 and, according to Donny Sullivan, director of food and beverage, “was known to be a favorite establishment for [Abraham] Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt.”
Once the vacation resort of choice for the wealthy during America’s Gilded Age, Milford still shines brightly today and all are welcome.
