Basics: Cell service in the Poconos can be spotty, especially in more remote or mountainous areas. It’s a good idea to plan ahead for directions and activities.
Some local businesses and attractions may only accept cash, so it’s good to have some on hand.

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Minyan: There is only one official shul in the Poconos, Am Echad. However, many hotels and resorts are often rented out for Shabbos Chanukah, Yeshivah Week, and Bein Hazmanim, with many minyan opportunities available at hotels and local attractions. Additionally, some camps located in the Poconos have daily minyanim for their campers and staff.

For more options, Scranton, located about 30 minutes away from the Poconos, has quite a few shuls with different minyan times.

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Kosher Food: Am Echad shul has kosher food available for purchase during the summer months. Poconos Kosher offers takeout and delivery to any resort in Northeast Pennsylvania and the Poconos area. Additionally, some local supermarkets may carry a limited selection of kosher items.

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Scranton has kosher supermarkets and many kosher eateries.

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Lake Como, about an hour away, has Como Pizza and Stop Chop and Roll, both open during the summer months.

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Kingston Kosher Pizza is open on Thursday and Sunday with takeout options for meat and dairy.

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Weather: The weather in the Poconos is typically cooler than in NYC. Even in the summer, evenings can be chilly, so it’s a good idea to bring a sweater.

The weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains, so always check the forecast and bring layers, especially if you plan to hike or spend time outdoors.

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Hotels & Attractions: Holiday Keepers is an online platform for Jewish travelers to the Poconos, offering home rentals with private pools, kosher kitchens, and Jewish-friendly amenities. Additionally, Am Echad’s website provides links to homes within walking distance of the shul.

Many hotels in the Poconos offer additional amenities when booking a room at their resorts, such as waterpark access or reduced rates on activities within their resort.

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With a wide range of activities to choose from, local attractions handle crowds well. We found that we didn’t need to make prior reservations for anything.