Jim Thorpe (Mauch Chunk), Pennsylvania: Asa Packer House Museum - Rich People Detritus

Time stood still circa 1915, when the last of the Packer heirs died. The incredible home was literally boarded up and left untouched until the 1950's. I've toured the place twice and can't wait to get back again. Although the caretakers, the Lions Club, move stuff around, it basically is as it was in the teens. The bad part is that some of the textiles are deteriorating and still on display, which gives the impression of shabbiness, but it is just the way expensive silk upholstery ages. If you really want to see how rich people lived at the turn of the century, you must visit this incredible time capsule.

And the rest of Jim Thorpe is cool, too. The county jail is another attraction, as is the tomb of Jim Thorpe. And the ongoing controversy about the name change from Mauch Chunk to Jim Thorpe is alive and kicking. The winding streets, amazing views, interesting shops and the Molly Maguires connection all contribute to making this a stop on your tour. [Lisa G., 10/01/2000]