Monroe County, Pennsylvania

Monroe County, Pennsylvania, known as the 'Honeymoon Capitol of the World' for its outstanding beauty and romantic charm, lies in the lovely Pocono Mountains of the eastern corner of the state of PA.

Over 600 square miles of undulating hills, forested peaks and rural farmland valleys comprise this exquisite County.  The famous Appalachian Trail runs through Blue Mountain on its southern border, while the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers form the eastern and western edges.  Founded in 1836, the Monroe County region was settled in the early 1700's and many original buildings and architecture remain from that slower-paced era.  The first settlers were German Moravians, but today the area holds a wonderful religious and ethnic mixture of residents including Jewish, Roman Catholic, African-Methodist Church, Greek Orthodox and those of the Hindu faith. More than 138,000 people call Monroe County home, according to the Census 2000.

Tourism has always been a major portion of the region's economy, though agriculture and the lumber industry played a large role in its early history.  Like most of Pennsylvania, the Industrial Revolution brought many manufacturing firms to Monroe County.  As the second fastest growing County in the state, today's major industries are tourism as well as construction.  More and more people come to visit Monroe County and simply choose to stay.  Only 75 miles west of New York and 95 miles north of Philadelphia, the region lies ideally situated for new or relocating firms.

Twelve boroughs and townships comprise the area, with historic Stroudsburg as the county seat.  Both the Northampton Community College and the East Stroudsburg University provide excellent higher education for Monroe County students.  98% of high school graduates choose to continue their education in colleges or other institutes , giving the County a finely educated work force.

Every season in the Poconos brings its own distinct shade of beauty and delight.  Spring and summer are the times to enjoy Monroe County's miles of hiking trails, or to sit quietly and gaze at the many waterfalls that tumble through the region.  White-water rafting, mountain biking and some fine fishing bring residents and tourists outdoors.  The white wonder of winter transforms the region into a glittering playground for skiers, snowmobiles or a romantic old-fashioned sleigh ride through the hills.  Three state parks grace the County: Big Pocono, Gouldsboro and Tobyhanna State Parks offer acres of woodlands and pristine lakes to enjoy.

Having been a leader in the tourist service industry for so long, today's Monroe County provides the very best in dining, shopping and lodging.  There is no better place to go for a romantic weekend getaway, the start of a marriage, or the beginning of a new life surrounded by the exquisite beauty of Monroe County, Pennsylvania.

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