Here in the country, life moves at a slower pace. We like to pause and enjoy the simple things in life, from summer days swimming in the creek to sweet treats from the country store to quiet nights relaxing on the porch. These timeless traditions will help you re-live your childhood memories (and share them with the next generation).
Old-Fashioned General Stores
Back in the day, general stores were the hub of the community. In some of our small towns, that’s still the case!
“Conveniently located in the middle of nowhere” is the slogan at Baumunk’s General Store, but it’s well worth the drive to rural Shunk. This store truly does it all; they have a gift shop, groceries, hardware, a restaurant, a gas station, and the town post office all in one. Their sandwiches, pizzas, cheesesteaks, and ice cream hit the spot after a day of exploring. And don’t forget to pick up Shunk souvenirs and locally made products to take home.
McCarty Mercantile is another community staple that has served Hillsgrove since 1878. Inside, you’ll find everything you need and more, like local gifts, snacks, and household staples. The Tannery Café serves up delicious homestyle meals. Keep an eye out for pizza specials and Saturday Night Jams, featuring live music and dinner.
Nostalgic Eats
At Jolly Trolley Variety in Dushore, take a seat at the ‘50s-style lunch counter for breakfast or lunch (a burger and a shake can’t be beat!). This local diner is a favorite for kids and adults alike with fun details like a train that circles the room and a collection of Dushore’s famous painted toilet seats. After lunch, explore their massive shop, which is full of Sullivan County souvenirs, classic toys and games, home décor, and so much more.
For pure ‘80s nostalgia, head to the Pizza Hut Classic in small-town Tunkhannock. It’s one of only a handful of retro-style Pizza Huts left in the country, complete with a beloved salad bar, checkered tablecloths, stained glass lamps, and other old-school branding. After going viral in 2025, this location has attracted pizza lovers from across the East Coast and beyond.
Remember picking out treats at the local candy counter? Ebb’s Candy Jar in Tunkhannock will bring back those sweet memories. This cute little shop offers gourmet truffles, decadent chocolates, and endless jars full of nostalgic favorites.
Good Old-Fashioned Fun
Historic Eagles Mere is often dubbed “the town that time forgot,” and it’s easy to why. If you visit in the summer, stop by the Eagles Mere Auto Museum, which features an impeccable collection of classic cars, signage, and more. The adjacent Eagles Mere Air Museum showcases antique airplanes, which are all in flying condition, along with about 65 rare and unique bikes in the Motorcycle Museum. The museums are open on Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October.
When the weather is cold enough, the local fire companies build the Eagles Mere Toboggan Slide, a quarter-mile long chute made completely of ice from the nearby lake. Originally built in 1904, the slide’s design has remained mostly the same for over 120 years. On this wild ride, the sleds can reach speeds up to forty-five miles per hour!