From Honeymoon Havens to Family Fun: How Entertainment in the Poconos Has Changed Since the 1960s

The Pocono Mountains have always been a place where people escape the everyday to relax, recharge, and be entertained. But what that entertainment looks like has changed dramatically over the decades. From the heyday of the 1960s honeymoon resorts to today’s diverse mix of family attractions, live shows, and adventure tourism, the Poconos has reinvented itself to match the times.

The 1960s: The Honeymoon Capital of the World

In the 1960s, the Poconos became famous as “The Honeymoon Capital of the World.” Resorts like Caesars Cove Haven, Mount Airy Lodge, and others drew couples from across the Northeast. Entertainment during this era revolved around romantic getaways: heart-shaped tubs, champagne glass whirlpools, lounge singers, and live bands playing in hotel ballrooms.

The focus was on romance, luxury, and a bit of glitz—big-city glamour tucked away in the Pennsylvania mountains. These resorts weren’t just about lodging; they were about the full experience, with nightly shows, banquets, and entertainment built into the stay.

The 1980s and 1990s: The Era of Decline and Transition

By the 1980s and 1990s, the honeymoon resort model began to lose steam. Younger generations weren’t as interested in all-inclusive romantic getaways, and the rise of affordable air travel opened up other destinations like Florida, the Caribbean, and Europe.

Entertainment in the Poconos started to shift. Resorts scaled back on glitzy productions, focusing instead on regional tourism and family-friendly activities. Skiing, snow tubing, and waterparks began to take center stage, laying the groundwork for the area’s next transformation.

The 2000s: Outdoor Adventure and Casinos Arrive

In the 2000s, the Poconos leaned into its natural strengths. Hiking, camping, rafting, and outdoor adventure parks grew in popularity. The opening of the Mount Airy Casino in 2007 also marked a new chapter, bringing nightlife, concerts, and Vegas-style entertainment into the mix.

This era was about diversifying—no longer just a honeymoon destination, the Poconos became a place for families, groups, and adventure-seekers.

Today: A Blend of Family, Adventure, and Live Entertainment

Today, the Poconos offers a wide variety of entertainment that reflects how travel has changed:

• Indoor and Outdoor Waterparks like Kalahari, Camelback, and Great Wolf Lodge draw families year-round.

• Shows and Events—we are helping to bring back the tradition of live entertainment, but with a modern twist - Jason Bishop: Straight Up Magic is proud to be part of this resurgence in entertainment, giving visitors a theatrical experience right here in the mountains.

• Adventure Tourism—ziplining, ATV tours, mountain coasters, and hiking trails—cater to the thrill-seekers.

• Food and Craft Culture—breweries, wineries, and farm-to-table dining experiences highlight the region’s local charm.

The Poconos has become more than a single-identity destination; it’s now a multi-faceted experience for families, couples, and groups of all ages.

Final Thoughts: Reinventing the Magic of the Poconos

From candlelit honeymoon dinners and ballroom crooners to water slides, casinos, and live magic shows, the Poconos has always understood the importance of entertainment. While the heart-shaped tubs might be more of a nostalgic memory now, the region’s ability to adapt and reinvent itself has kept it a beloved destination for generations.

The magic is still here—it just looks a little different than it did in 1965.  Make sure to catch our show Jason Bishop: Straight Up Magic live at Camelback Resort.

If you would like to read more about why Jason Bishop: Straight Up Magic is a must see in the Poconos check out this blog post.