Pocono Palace in East Stroudsburg, best known for its plastic hot tubs shaped like a champagne glass, will be closing its doors for good on May 2, writes Jason Nark for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

The hotel was once synonymous with newlywed bliss in both the Philadelphia and New York City regions. It was founded by Morris B. Wilkins, who invented the aforementioned hot tubs and the heart-shaped tubs.

In marketing Pocono Palace and his other properties, Cove Haven and Paradise Stream Resorts, Wilkins single-handedly promoted the region as “The Honeymoon Capital of the World.”

A 1971 Philadelphia Inquirer article wrote that “young newlyweds said they loved the beautiful rolling hills, cool fragrant air, serene landscapes, romantic settings, and luxurious or homey accommodations.”

According to Lawrence Squeri, author of Better in the Poconos: The Story of Pennsylvania’s Vacationland, the role of the region in honeymoons evolved after World War II, when couples had money and cars, as well as free time to explore.

“For the first time ever, people could really drive and the Poconos was conveniently located near Philadelphia and New York,” said Squeri.

Michigan couple Margaret and Corey Bienert have made Pocono Palace their favorite since discovering it in 2018, and are honoring the hotel.

Read more about Pocono Palace and why it is go beloved at The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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