Get ready for a trolley adventure like no other! Welcome to Jim Thorpe, a town that captures your heart with its breathtaking beauty and endless surprises. Lynn and Ed Humphreys stumbled upon this hidden gem during a visit in 2015, and little did they know that their lives were about to change forever. They had explored the rocky inclines on the Switchback with their trusty mountain bikes and enjoyed family outings at Mauch Chunk Lake in the past, but this time was different. They decided to pay a visit to the legendary Asa Packer Mansion, the lavish home of a former railroad magnate, and it was a first-time experience they would never forget.
As Lynn fondly recalls, "It took us several visits to Jim Thorpe before we really discovered the town's hidden treasures. If people don't venture up that hill to the Asa Packer Mansion, they're missing out on so much!" The more they uncovered about the town's rich history and unique attractions, the deeper their love for this mountain getaway grew. In fact, just two years later, Ed and Lynn packed their bags and made Jim Thorpe their permanent home. They couldn't help but wonder if other visitors were also missing out on the town's best-kept secrets. And that's when Ed had a brilliant idea: "You know what this town needs? A trolley tour!" he exclaimed to his wife.
Fast forward to 2021, when two charming open-air trolley buses made their way from Asheville, North Carolina to the eager hands of the Humphreys in Pennsylvania. These buses were given a makeover with new upholstery and proudly adorned with their new identity as the 'Jim Thorpe Trolley Company.' The maiden voyages took place in June of that year, and the rest is history.
So, what makes this trolley tour so special? Well, hop aboard and prepare for an intimate journey through the Historic District without ever having to move your own vehicle. You see, the average tourist parks their car, takes a quick look at the train station, and maybe has a couple of activities planned. But there's so much more to discover! As Ed puts it, "There are hidden gems in Jim Thorpe that often go unnoticed."
The trolley's carefully curated route will take you on a whirlwind adventure through the town's impressive architecture and landmarks, all in just 70 minutes. From the grand courthouse to the opulent Asa Packer Mansion and even the historic Old Jail, you'll witness the integral parts and fascinating history that make Jim Thorpe truly one-of-a-kind.
But the fun doesn't stop there! While the trolley gracefully navigates through the captivating Victorian streets of Broadway and beyond, seize the opportunity to discover renowned landmarks such as the Jim Thorpe Memorial, Mauch Chunk Lake, and Lehigh Gorge State Park. Let the trolley be your gateway to capturing awe-inspiring photos, creating lasting memories along the way.
As you travel between destinations, be prepared to feast your eyes on picturesque landscapes, catch glimpses of the majestic Lehigh River, and breathe in the fresh seasonal air. And if you happen to visit during the fall, get ready for a foliage experience that will leave you in awe.
Now, let's talk about the amazing personalities behind the wheel. Each of the five drivers for the Jim Thorpe Trolley Company is a true entertainer. They will regale you with tales of their favorite landmarks, share fascinating anecdotes, fun facts, and even some quirky local folklore. And who knows? On any given day, you might just find Ed Humphreys himself steering the trolley, ready to impart all the insider knowledge he gained during his days as a tourist. You'll feel his infectious joy.
But wait, there's more! If you're looking to venture beyond the town limits for a couple of hours, the Jim Thorpe Trolley Company has an extra special treat for all you wine lovers out there. Get ready for their one-of-a-kind specialty wine tours, where you can savor the flavors of local wines at multiple highly regarded wineries without having to worry about driving. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the sweeping southern Pocono landscapes, feel the cool breeze on your face, indulge in full tastings at each destination, and of course, enjoy the company of a friendly designated driver.
One of the stops along the wine tour is the renowned Galen Glen Winery, where you simply cannot miss their award-winning Grüner Veltliner. It's a wine lover's dream! And if that's not enough to tempt your taste buds, the Cellar Beast Winehouse is another must-visit spot on the tour. They specialize in dry wines and have a passion for low intervention products and organic farming. And guess what? There's even a third stop for this season at Radical Wine Company, so keep your wine glasses at the ready!
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Jim Thorpe, an adventurous soul who returns year after year, or even a proud local resident, the Jim Thorpe Trolley Company has something truly special to offer you. As Ed Humphreys proudly states, "We have people who take our trolley multiple times, with different drivers, and they have a whole new experience and learn new things each time." So, make sure to put this exciting trolley adventure at the top of your agenda. And if something along the way catches your eye or speaks to your group, don't hesitate to revisit your favorites again and again.
Picture this: You've come to Jim Thorpe for a day filled with the smooth sounds of jazz, or perhaps you've planned an action-packed weekend of white water rafting on the thrilling Lehigh River. What better way to kick off your trip than with a lively trolley tour? Don't worry, taking a ride in one of their 34-seat open-air trolleys won't have you ditching your current favorites. It's the perfect addition to your itinerary, and who knows, you might just get lucky and find Ed Humphreys himself behind the wheel of your tour, ready to make your journey even more memorable.
So, whether you're seeking history, natural beauty, or a taste of local wines, the Jim Thorpe Trolley Company is here to whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to laugh, learn, and make memories as you explore the wonders of this enchanting town. Hop on board and let the trolley be your guide to all the trolley good times waiting for you in Jim Thorpe!
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