best places to visit in scranton pa

17 of My Favorite Things to Do in Scranton, PA

 You might know Scranton as a former coal town or the setting for the TV show, “The Office,” but if that’s all you know about this great city, you’re missing out. There are many great things to do in Scranton, PA. From museums that celebrate the city’s industrial and transportation past to beautiful natural sites, there’s a lot to see and do in Scranton and the rest of Lackawanna County .

After visiting the area many times over my years writing this site, here are a few of my favorite things to do in Scranton, PA.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Scranton? Check out the best hotels in Scranton on Booking.com or read hotel reviews on TripAdvisor .

Steamtown National Historic Site

If you love trains, there are few better destinations in Pennsylvania than Steamtown National Historic Site . Located on the site of a train yard once owned by the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad, this museum showcases the history of rail transportation in the United States, with a focus on steam-powered locomotives.

This free-admission museum offers the chance to see dozens of rare train cars, including the only Big Boy steam engine east of the Mississippi. They also offer train rides seasonally for an additional charge.

Everhart Museum

The oldest museum in northeastern Pennsylvania is also one of its best. The Everhart Museum is located within Nay Aug Park and offers visitors the chance to explore world cultures, natural beauty, and fantastic art without leaving the city.

In addition to dinosaur fossils and a collection of 2,500 taxidermied birds, the museum is home to the largest collection of paintings from local artist John Willard Raught.

Choke Creek Falls

Located in the southern corner of Lackawanna County is Choke Creek Falls . Located in Pinchot State Forest along the recently rerouted Pinchot Trail, this beautiful waterfall is little-known outside of the local area but should be on every outdoor lover’s list.

Houdini Museum

While Scranton might seem like an odd place for a museum dedicated to magician and escape artists Harry Houdini, this is easily one of the top things to do in Lackawanna County. The Houdini Museum is run by world-renowned magicians Dorthy Dietrich and Dick Brookz. Dietrich was once dubbed the “First Lady of Magic” and is the only female to ever perform several daring feats of magic.

Visitors to the museum can see both a great magic show and many items from Houdini’s illustrious career.

Nay Aug Falls

Located with Scranton’s Nay Aug Park, Nay Aug Falls is one of the best urban waterfalls in Pennsylvania . Short paths through this wooded park lead visitors to several different overlooks for this beautiful waterfall.

Nay Aug Falls drops over 20 feet through an impressive gorge and is a great hike to do while visiting Scranton.

Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

Head deep into an authentic coal mine at the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour . One of the top things to do in Scranton, PA, this tour offers visitors the chance to see inside a former coal mine and discover what life and working conditions were like for the coal miners of northeastern Pennsylvania.

Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den

Located in the Marketplace at Steamtown Mall, you’ll find the only stand-alone aquarium in Pennsylvania: the Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den .

While being inside of a mall might make you think this is a small spot, I was surprised at how large the display area was and how many animals they had for visitors to see.

The largest area here is taken up by both large and small tanks featuring ocean animals from around the world, including some pretty big sharks. There is also a neat jellyfish area and a space where you can touch rays.

This spot also features a nice collection of reptiles, amphibians, and even a few monkeys and birds.

Courthouse Square

Scranton is a city filled with great architecture, and you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic spots in and around Courthouse Square.

Located in the heart of the city and centered around the Lackawanna County Courthouse, this square features many different monuments to enjoy, as well as the beauty of the courthouse.

Around the square, you’ll find great restaurants, as well as the iconic Electric City sign perched atop the Scranton Electric Building. Make sure to visit at night to see it lit up!

Old Forge Pizza Crawl

Old Forge, PA, is the self-described “Pizza Capital of the World,” and is the perfect place for a pizza crawl. With more than a dozen pizza shops in town, each serving the local style known as Old Forge Pizza , visitors won’t be at a loss for finding a slice or a whole pie (respectively called a “cut” and a “tray” in Old Forge). 

A visit to the many pizza shops here, which can have long waits on weekends, offers both a culinary delight and a lesson in the culture of the region.

Electric City Trolley Museum

Scranton received its nickname of “The Electric City” thanks to the electrification of its trolley system in the early 20th century. To learn more about this legacy, head to the Electric City Trolley Museum .

Visitors to this museum can see restored trolley cars that were used in the region, learn more about the area’s transportation history, and even hop aboard an antique trolley for a ride through Nay Aug Gorge.

Rattlesnake Falls

Another of Lackawanna County’s hidden waterfalls is Rattlesnake Falls . Located in Pinchot State Forest near Nesbitt Reservoir, visitors can reach this waterfall after a relatively easy, 15-minute hike through this beautiful forest.

Rattlesnake Falls features two drops, with the large main drop falling 15 feet through a narrow chasm. 

The Scranton Sign from “The Office”

One of the most well-known images from Scranton, even for people who have never been, is the brown and white “Welcome to Scranton” sign that is featured in the title sequence for the hit TV show, “The Office”.

This sign was once along one of the city’s roadways, but its popularity led to it being removed and relocated within the Marketplace at Steamtown (formally known as the Steamtown Mall). This sign can be found on the second floor right next to Crunch Fitness.

If you love “The Office” make sure to stop by and get your photo with this iconic sign.

Anthracite Heritage Museum

The Anthracite Heritage Museum showcases the history of the anthracite coal fields of northeastern Pennsylvania. Visitors to this fantastic museum can learn about the history of the area and what life was like for the workers in the mines. There is also the chance to learn about the culture of the region and how the coal mines shaped immigration to the area and daily life in the Scranton region.

Archbald Pothole State Park

Archbald Pothole State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s smallest state parks but features one of the state’s greatest natural oddities. While it might appear to simply be a large hole in the ground, this is actually the world’s largest glacial pothole. 

Don’t miss a quick stop here to learn about this unique geological feature.

PNC Field near downtown Scranton is home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders , a AAA affiliate of the New York Yankees. Visitors to this great ballpark can see some of the best baseball prospects right before they reach the Major Leagues.

Since the RailRiders are just one step below the New York Yankees, visitors can see the stars of tomorrow and some great baseball at a fantastic price.

Lackawanna Historical Society Museum

The Lackawanna Historical Society Museum showcases the history of Pennsylvania’s youngest county and explains how its citizens have affected U.S. and world history. Browse their collection which ranges from 19th-century fashion to coal mining tools and discover how the county was shaped through its past residents and industries.

Blakely Falls

Located north of Scranton in Blakely, PA, Blakely Falls is a hidden gem of Lackawanna County.

This waterfall can be reached via a short hike that starts from the Swansee Baseball Field. This hike leads up Hull Creek to a great view of this beautiful waterfall.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure, this is a neat spot to check out.

What are your favorite things to do in Scranton, PA, and the surrounding area? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for more things to do in the area? Check out our top things to do in Wilkes-Barre, PA and a Lake Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tour .

See map for other area attractions.

Great places to stay in and around scranton.

• Hilton Scranton - The city's highest-rated hotel on Trip Advisor.
• Comfort Suites - A great value with excellent reviews
• Radisson Lackawanna Station - A historic hotel near the city center
• The Woodlands Inn - A popular choice in the region
• Find more great places to stay on Airbnb!

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More nearby places worth exploring

Uncovering the Endless Mountains’ History at the Wyoming County Historical Society

Learning About Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Connecticut Settlers at the Nathan Denison House

Eagles Mere, PA: A Step Back in Time for Family Fun (Sponsored)

Roadtripping to the Imposing Tunkhannock Viaduct in Nicholson, PA

Find more things to do in northeastern pa.

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

15 thoughts on “17 of My Favorite Things to Do in Scranton, PA”

Great article about our area. Much appreciated.

The Houdini Museum is great. We enjoyed our visit and the magic show very much.

They said I needed to call 3 weeks in advance for tickets

I enjoy this website— wish articles could feature a little outline of PA with a star or dot showing where the featured location is

All of the individual site articles have a map at the bottom with the location in the article is the center of the map.

How come Shrute farms didn’t make the list?

While you might think it would be located in Scranton, according to TripAdvisor, Schrute Farms is located in the Wayne County community of Honesdale. While I’ve heard the proprietor works in Scranton, his B&B is outside the scope of this article 🙂

St. Ann’s Basilica doesn’t warrant even a MENTION!?

It’s a beautiful church, but are there hours, outside of services, that people can visit just to see it?

How about Lackawanna State Park…camping ..fishing ..canoeing/kayaking…hiking ..swimming pool Also Scranton Iron Furnace site

Have you visited Blakely Falls? Located on a trail in Blakely just north of Scranton.

I have. In fact, there’s an article about it on the site.

…Hey….. You missed a …REALLY…BIG one….. ..The ‘ITALIAN FESTIVAL’…a 3-day ‘celebration’..of Italian Culture…Food…Music…Dancing…Entertainment…etc….etc….which has been taking place…EVERY…LABOR DAY weekend…for the past…60 years….!!!! My wife, ‘Deedee’ and I went to 50 of ’em….!!! John Monsul

It’s a great event, but I rarely put events on these types of lists. I prefer to keep it to things that people can do throughout the year (or at least a good chunk of it).

Never realized there was so much todo in/near Scranton. Originally from Branch Dale in Schuylkill County!

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19 Best & Fun Things To Do In Scranton (Pennsylvania)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: January 15, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Your knowledge of Scranton, Pennsylvania might be limited to watching reruns of “The Office.”

However, the Electric City is worth seeing beyond its television portrayal.

These are 19 of the best and most fun things to do in Scranton, PA.

Table of Contents

1. Electric City Trolley Museum

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

“The Electric City” moniker for Scranton comes from the early presence of the electric trolley in the city.

This was a huge development when it came to mass transit.

Visiting the Electric City Trolley Museum is easily one of the best things to do in Scranton.

This museum displays genuine trolley cars that rode through these streets decades upon decades ago.

You’ll also learn about the region’s long and loving relationship with transportation.

Don’t miss out on a chance for an antique trolley ride either.

Go to the Electric City Trolley Museum if you’re wondering what to do for things that will teach you about Scranton’s past.

It’s open every day of the week, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission, without a trolley ride, is $4 for all guests, ages four and up.

Address: 300 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

2. Everhart Museum

Jeffrey / flickr

Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everheart was one of the most esteemed figures in Scranton in his lifetime.

His name and legend continues, as he gave the city the Everheart Museum .

Since opening more than 110 years ago, the Everheart Museum has become everything a museum should be.

The Everheart Museum values curiosity and the people who dare to wonder.

Their exhibits include stunning paintings, fossils dating back for millions of years, and illuminating rocks and minerals.

It’s also great if you’re looking for places to visit with your children.

They have some really cool teaching events.

Visiting the Everheart Museum is what to do in Scranton for seeing amazing things and learning incredible information.

It’s such a blessing to have these items so well preserved.

The Everheart Museum’s admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and $3 for children, ages six to 12.

Active military members with proper ID receive free admission.

Address: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

3. Church Picnics

YusufOzluk / Shutterstock

You may not belong to any parishes in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

However, you can still enjoy their hospitality and share yours as well.

One way to do that is to attend a church service.

Another is to round up the potato salad and come to a church picnic.

Lots of these picnics take place in smaller towns around Scranton.

They are some of the most fun events in the city.

Along with the delectable food, much of its highlighting the parish’s cultural heritage, they have lots of games and activities.

There’s just too much going on at these picnics to pass them up.

The lovely church picnics in this area make it one of the most beautiful places in America .

If you’re near Scranton and want to really experience some community engagement, come to a church picnic.

These summertime events can elate the whole family.

4. Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

John Karwoski / flickr

While Scranton is known as “The Electric City,” it’d be wrong to dismiss the importance of coal to this city.

A Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour takes you through an actual coal mine.

While it might not be operating any longer, its preservation lets you see how miners worked not so long ago.

Say goodbye to the sunny sky and enter a mine car that brings you 300 feet underground through this coal mine, established more than 160 years ago.

You’ll both witness incredible sights and hear astonishing information.

This is one of the most important Scranton attractions, especially if you have any coal miners in your family.

Few cities have stuff to do that’s quite as interesting as a Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

The tours are available between April 1 and November 30, except for Easter and Thanksgiving.

Adults pay $10 for admission, while seniors pay $9.50 and military members pay $9.

Children, between ages three and 12, are charged $7.50.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

5. Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society

Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society

When trains were the reigning form of transportation, a phenomenal meal was not out of the question.

The Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society operates near Scranton, in Dunmore, Pennsylvania.

They’re excellent at teaching about the history of dining cars, with vivid, vintage pieces for demonstration.

These tours bring you through their rehabilitated train cars.

They’ve all been kept in terrific condition.

If you want to really get the dining car experience, check out their calendar to see when they’re offering meals and rides.

The Erie Lackawanna Dining car Preservation Society should be heralded for keeping the past alive through their efforts and enthusiasm.

Dining cars might not be prevalent today, but this society shows why they should be appreciated.

Give them a call, and schedule a tour to see these cars.

Address: 201 S Blakely St, Dunmore, PA 18512, United States

Visiting other parts of Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the things to do in Erie, PA & some of the things to do in Lancaster, PA ?

6. Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

There’s something fishy going on in Scranton, and you can see it at the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den .

Lots of creatures, full of fins and scales, live here.

It’s what to see when you love animals, no matter how furry they may or may not be.

The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den is part of the Marketplace at Steamtown, a downtown shopping center.

They take you through the ocean with their fish, octopi, sharks, and more.

All kinds of reptiles and amphibians can be seen at their reptile house, such as snakes, lizards, and tortoises.

They also host feedings, which shows you how big the appetites of some of these creatures are.

It’s really fun to go to the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den.

If you’re visiting Scranton with your kids this weekend, be sure to take them here.

It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

A day pass is $18.95 for adults, $15.95 for children, from ages two to 12, and $16.95 for college students, seniors, military members, and first responders.

Address: 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

7. Rattlesnake Falls

JMarro / Shutterstock

Waterfalls, regardless of size or global recognition, are always some of the most wondrous places to visit.

Rattlesnake Falls, nestled inside Pinchot State Forest in Spring Brook Township, encapsulates what the best tourist attractions can be.

It’s definitely worth the hike to reach this piece of natural beauty.

Reaching Rattlesnake Falls isn’t too much of an ordeal.

The hike only takes about 15 minutes, and Pinchot State Forest is such a beautiful area, you’ll hopefully want to see even more of it.

Keep your ears open for the sound of the water gushing out.

You might feel like an explorer, feasting your eyes upon the amazing sights of an undiscovered place.

Rattlesnake Falls can knock you off your feet with how incredible it is.

This is also really nice if you’re looking for romantic things to do near Scranton.

It’s an attraction that can make you smile and tear up as you think about how amazing nature is.

Address: Spring Brook Township, PA 18444, United States

8. Houdini Museum

Houdini Museum

Harry Houdini paved the way for so many magicians and changed the world in the process.

Scranton’s Houdini Museum teaches all about this incredible escape artist through important pieces from his lifetime.

In a few hours, you can unravel the mindblowing story of Harry Houdini.

The Houdini Museum experience involves watching a film about his life, touring through the museum, and even seeing a magic show.

These all show how important Houdini was, not only for magicians but for entertainment lovers in general.

Tourist attractions like the Houdini Museum set Scranton apart from other small cities.

There’s fun and magic to be found inside every corner of the Houdini Museum.

Every Halloween, they hold a Houdini Seance, which is great if you want to feel in communication with Houdini.

Address: 1433 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508, United States

9. Lahey Family Fun Park

Lahey Family Fun Park

Lahey Family Fun Park is located near Scranton in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, also in Lackawanna County.

This attraction promises exactly what its name delivers.

Come to Lakey Family Fun Park for plenty of excitement with your kids.

This is the place to be for when you want to feel like a kid again.

It has go-karts, an arcade, and bumper boats.

This can be a great way to see how your reflexes are doing, especially if you try the batting cages.

If you’re looking for places to go for games and giddiness in Scranton and the surrounding region, come to Lahey Family Fun Park.

Their winter business hours are Fridays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Summer hours are from Sundays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Address: 500 Morgan Hwy, Clarks Summit, PA 18411, United States

10. Nay Aug Park

Jennifer Theresa Barrett / Shutterstock

Nay Aug Park immerses you in nature so well, you may forget that you’re still in Scranton city limits.

This is the city’s biggest park, and the area makes all the difference.

They’ve designed this park so well, utilizing every piece of this astonishing plot of land.

This park offers plenty of excellent free things to do.

Take a hike along one of its trails, and prepare to see a waterfall.

There’s also some swimming happening in the summer.

Nay Aug Park is also home to some mammoth waterslides and a giant treehouse.

Going to Nay Aug Park is a real treat, and it illustrates how Scraton is among the best Pennsylvania vacation spots .

This is also where the Everhart Museum is located.

They’re open every day, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.

Address: 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

Going on a road trip around Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Philadelphia & some of the fun things to do in Pittsburgh ?

11. First Fridays

Adriano Castelli / Shutterstock

Going to Scranton early in the month is a grand idea.

This is when the city has its “ First Friday ” gallery walks.

If you’ve never been on one of these, get ready for one of the most fun cultural activities you can experience.

First Fridays are also awesome free things to do in Scranton.

They take you through different businesses, such as restaurants and art galleries, and let you see the great work of Scranton-area artists.

Everyone is a friend at First Fridays, and you could find a piece of art that really speaks to you.

On First Fridays, you can get some much-needed exercise, meet some great people, and see amazing art.

There are just too many intriguing things to see to skip it.

These take place on the first Friday of each month, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

12. Anthracite Heritage Museum

Anthracite Heritage Museum

The significance of coal to Scranton, Pennsylvania has already been mentioned, but the specific importance of anthracite coal must not be brushed off.

The Anthracite Heritage Museum is one of the top places for learning about coal mining.

It belongs in a hallmark of all-time great Scranton attractions.

You’ll see how much anthracite coal means to the whole of northeastern Pennsylvania.

As you tour the Anthracite Heritage Museum, you’ll learn about the role immigration played in coal mining, as well as stories of the miners.

There are also quite a few great things to see from this era, such as an old lace machine.

Visiting the Anthracite Heritage Museum is definitely among the top things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania, especially if you’re interested in the history of the coal industry and its workers.

This museum is open between Mondays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m.

General admission is $7.

However, those 65 and up get in for $6, and those ages three to 11 get in for $5.

Active military members and their immediate family receive free admission.

Address: 22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

13. See the RailRiders Play

Michael Stokes , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Scranton, Pennsylvania might not have a Major League Baseball team, but the Minor League Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are still a lot of fun to watch.

They’re actually an affiliate of the New York Yankees, and you can really see some Major League potential among players.

It’s also among the most fun activities because there’s nothing quite like seeing a baseball game, right?

The RailRiders play at PNC Field , in Moosic, Pennsylvania.

The 10,000-seat layout is really cool, and it’s pretty easy to get a good view of the excitement on the field.

Think of how much fun it’d be to chomp on a hotdog and try to catch a foul ball in the stands at this park.

If you’re eager to see sports around Scranton, Pennsylvania get some tickets for a RailRiders game.

You can also use this a way to introduce your kids to the wonders of baseball.

A trip to PNC Field lets you experience Major League entertainment at Minor League prices.

Address: 235 Montage Mountain Rd, Moosic, PA 18507, United States

14. Lackawanna Historical Society Museum

Lackawanna Historical Society Museum

One county can affect the world at large.

That seems to be the thesis behind the Lackawanna Historical Society Museum , and it’s one worth paying attention to.

Lackawanna might be the newest county in Pennsylvania, but this museum shows its importance is unquestionable.

This organization started a mere eight years following Lackawanna County’s creation.

From the 1940s to today, it’s been hosted at the Caitlin House, an early 20th-century building located on the University of Scranton campus.

This was the home of George and Helen Catlin, and touring this museum also clues you in on their domestic life.

The Lackawanna Historical Society Museum lets every part of Lackawanna County’s story shine in its own way.

You may not expect to find the history of coal and the military to be so interesting, but you’d be surprised.

This museum is open from Tuesdays to Fridays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You’ll need to schedule an appointment first.

Address: 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

15. Steamtown National Historic Site

The sound of a steam locomotive is as powerful of a sensation as you’ll ever witness.

The Steamtown National Historic Site is a delight if you’re looking for awesome places to visit involving transportation and machinery.

Take a tour here for enlightening and fun things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

You’ll learn about steam locomotives in many exciting ways, from looking at photos, watching a film, and even seeing a rehabilitated train, the “Scranton Limited” yourself.

Whether transporting pounds of coal or people, these trains were vital parts of this region and this country.

The Steamtown National Historic Site definitely deserves to be called such.

You can go sightseeing here every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It’s free to visit the museum, but $5 per guest to ride the “Scranton Limited.”

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

Looking for more things to do in Pennsylvania ? Why not check out some of the things to do in Hershey, PA ?

16. Old Forge Pizza

page frederique / Shutterstock

The town of Old Forge, Pennsylvania made a pretty bold declaration, calling themselves the “Pizza Capital of the World.”

Many Italians and New Yorkers would surely beg to differ, but this is also some of the best pizza around.

Old Forge Pizza is one of the top-tier culinary tourist attractions around Scranton.

Old Forge Pizza is said to have started in 1926 at the now-closed Ghigiarelli’s Restaurant.

The pizza is distinguished by its light yet still crispy crust.

They offer white and red pizzas, with the red having a mix of cheeses.

Pizzas are referred to as “trays” and slice are known as “cuts.”

If you’re hungry in Scranton, Pennsylvania this weekend, you need to get some pizza in Old Forge.

It’s only five miles away from Scranton, and it’s what to do for true pizza lovers.

You’ll see why Old Forge pizza continues to be so beloved today.

17. Archbald Pothole State Park

Philly Traveler / Shutterstock

Exploring Archbald Pothole State Park is absolutely one of the most and exciting and fun things to do in Scranton.

Sure, this park might not be quite as big as others, but it’s got some awesome things to see.

Anyone interested in geology or prehistory should come here.

Archbald Pothole State Park has a hole that’s actually the biggest glacial pothole.

That’s in the entire world, not just in Pennsylvania or even North America.

Come here if you’re looking for places to see unlike any other on Earth.

You can also get some of your best vacation footage by visiting Archbald Pothole State Park.

It may count as one of the free things to do in Archbald, but the experience has so much value.

Archbald Pothole State Park is located in Archbald, Pennsylvania.

Address: 960 Scranton Carbondale Hwy, Archbald, PA 18403, United States

18. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Lots of the best places to visit in Scranton are outdoors, and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail helps you to experience them.

This entire trail is 70 miles, and it can be experienced in a multitude of ways.

Activities such as walking, running, and cycling can all be enjoyed on the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.

Enjoy the outdoor sightseeing as well as your favorite activities.

These woods and their trees are absolutely beautiful, as is the Lackawanna River itself.

Lots of fun things to do in Scranton take place on this trail, such as races and clean-up initiatives.

There’s no doubt that the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail should be called one of the top places to visit in Scranton.

The whole journey lets you see both nature and people at their best.

If you can only see part of it, you’re still bound to have a really fun time.

One of the most-loved Scranton attractions is one of the finest restaurants in Pennsylvania.

Pronto is Italian food done with integrity and amazing ingredients.

At night in Scranton, you’ll feel on top of the world as you dine on Pronto’s fantastic offerings.

As you’d expect, Pronto has lots of pasta on their menu.

However, this isn’t the leftover spaghetti you reheated from last night.

Their menu has “Papardelle Pronto” and “Rigatoni Bolognese” made with the perfect layering of flavors.

They also have stunning non-pasta options, such as “Shrimp Pronto,” “Pollo Marsala,” and a New York strip steak.

Want to know what to do for dinner when you’re in Scranton, Pennsylvania tonight?

There are a lot of options, but we’d highly recommend you get a table at Pronto.

They’re open from Mondays until Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: 110 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Scranton, PA

This isn’t all of the great Scranton attractions, but it’s definitely some of the coolest and most significant.

Visit Scranton, Pennsylvania this weekend, or come later when you have more time to plan your trip.

In any case, you should have a great time in the Electric City.

Happy travels!

14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Scranton, PA

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Mar 23, 2023

Revived as a tourist destination in the mid-2000s by NBC's hit comedy The Office , Scranton is a historic city with tons of things to do.

Its top attraction, Steamtown National Historic Site, gives tourists the chance to step inside antique steam locomotives and learn about the culture of the railroad. You can ride vintage trolleys at the Electric City Trolley Museum, which celebrates Scranton's success as the first place in the country to have streetcars powered solely by electricity.

You can also learn about the history of coal mining at the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum, and 300 feet underground on the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

There are also plenty of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and culture hounds to enjoy. You can see a concert at the Scranton Cultural Center, visit a beloved tree house in Nay Aug Park, walk a portion of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, and gaze at American folk art on display at the Everhart Museum–just to name a few highlights.

Make the most of your trip to the "Electric City" with our list of the top things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

1. Ring a Locomotive Bell at Steamtown National Historic Site

2. step inside a tree house at nay aug park, 3. ride a vintage trolley at the electric city trolley museum, 4. visit the electric city aquarium & reptile den, 5. learn about deep coal mining at the pennsylvania anthracite heritage museum, 6. take a stroll around lake scranton, 7. go snow tubing at montage mountain, 8. check out american folk art at the everhart museum, 9. walk a portion of the lackawanna river heritage trail, 10. shop at the marketplace at steamtown, 11. tour the scranton cultural center, 12. visit the lackawanna county courthouse square, 13. peek inside the abandoned scranton iron furnaces, 14. take the lackawanna coal mine tour, map of things to do in scranton, pa, scranton, pa - climate chart.

Steamtown displays the history and culture of steam railroading in America. Easily accessible from a pedestrian bridge at The Marketplace at Steamtown , this National Historic Site is a mecca for train lovers of all ages.

You can get up close to a collection of steam locomotives amassed by millionaire F. Nelson Blount in the mid-20th century, some of which offer seasonal excursions for tourists.

The 62-acre complex also houses a theater, historic roundhouse , turntable, repair shop, and outbuildings that date back to 1899-1902.

The on-site technology museum is also worth a visit. It has dozens of interactive exhibits, including a fun guessing game on what various train horns are trying to communicate that will turn just about anyone into a train enthusiast.

Hot tip: You can climb inside the shiny black steam locomotive near the turntable and ring its bell. It's a thrill!

Address: 350 Cliff Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.nps.gov/stea/index.htm

Established in 1893, Nay Aug Park is the largest park in Scranton, stretching across both banks of Roaring Brook.

Between its scenery and its attractions, including the beloved Everhart Museum, two Olympic-size swimming pools , a rose garden, picnic areas, and playgrounds , tourists could easily spend an entire day in this green oasis.

If you just have an hour to spare, there are a couple of must-see places to visit. Start at the David Wenzel Tree House . The wooden structure, which rises 150 feet from the ground, was the first of its kind in the state when it opened in 2007. It offers a fantastic view of the area, especially the foliage in the fall.

Then, take a short, easy hike down the path to Rie Rie Overlook, where you can see a view of the Nay Aug Gorge and Waterfall (a National Natural Landmark). Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic red-tailed hawks that live in the area.

Address: 500 Arthur Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.nayaugpark.org

Trains aren't the only mode of transportation celebrated in Scranton. Next to Steamtown National Historic Site , a 19th-century mill building now houses the Electric City Trolly Museum.

It traces the history of eastern Pennsylvania's electric railway through displays of restored vintage trolleys that once ran through the city streets, collections of signal equipment and mine railway artifacts, antique street lights, and kid-friendly exhibits.

The museum also invites tourists to take rides on authentic vintage trolleys from 1926 and 1932. The scenic 5.5-mile rides run parallel to Roaring Brook, past the Historic Iron Furnaces, and through the Crown Avenue Tunnel. Running more than 4,700 feet, it's one of the world's longest interurban tunnels .

Address: 300 Cliff St., Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.ectma.org

The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den shines a spotlight on fascinating creatures from around the world in its 20,000-square-foot facility on the first floor of the Marketplace at Steamtown. Visits kick off on an immediate high note in the amphibian and reptile den, where you can see brightly colored poison dart frogs, yellow-bellied slider turtles, a comically massive African bullfrog, and a blue Komodo Island pit viper.

Your journey continues through the rainforest section. Here, you can see a mix of mammals (including a sloth, porcupine, and adorable kinkajous) and rainbow-feathered birds. Then, you'll reach the mesmerizing aquarium, which has tank after tank of rare fish swimming through crystal-blue waters.

Don't miss the National Geographic-worthy shark nursery. It lights up four transparent eggs at different stages of development, each containing a wriggling baby bamboo shark.

Address: 300 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.electriccityaquarium.com

Hard coal mining in Pennsylvania comes with a fascinating history, and there's nowhere better to see it presented than the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum.

Just up the hill from the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, this robust museum teaches visitors about the harsh working conditions endured by coal miners, including child laborers, through a mix of rare photographs and artifacts (such as documents that recorded injuries and deaths by ethnicity).

It also traces the rise of workers' rights movements and unionization, as well as the communities and cultures that developed among coal miners.

The museum boasts several life-size recreations of important spaces for mine workers, including an authentic family home and a church that contains the original altar of the Immaculate Conception Church in Berwick, PA, which was founded by Irish immigrants in 1902.

Address: 22 Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.anthracitemuseum.org

A five-minute drive from downtown brings you to Lake Scranton Trail, a 3.5-mile asphalt trail that loops around the city's reservoir.

The pretty path is the perfect way to stretch your legs after a long drive. The mostly flat terrain makes for easy walking or jogging. And in the fall, the views of the spectacular foliage reflecting on the serene water can't be beat.

Free parking is available on a lot next to Route 307 on the eastern edge of Lake Scranton.

Address: Route 307, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Snow sports are one of the top things to do in Scranton in the winter, and you have your choice of chilly adventures on Montage Mountain. Located just eight miles from downtown Scranton, the ski area boasts one of the longest and fastest snow tubing attractions in Pennsylvania.

There are also 27 ski and snowboard trails , more than half of which are ranked beginner or intermediate. After hitting the slopes, warm up with a hot cocoa around the fire pits.

In the summer, Montage Mountain opens its popular water park . Take a float on the lazy river , zip down one of the thrilling waterslides , and bob around the wave pool. You can also hit speeds of up to 50 miles per hour on the resort's ZipRider , a zipline-style attraction that offers a panoramic view of Scranton and Wilkes Barre.

Address: 1000 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.montagemountainresorts.com

Standing on the west side of Nay Aug Park is the Everhart Museum. Founded by a Civil War veteran in 1908, this revered institution is one of the region's oldest museums. It focuses on art, natural history, and science in more than a dozen galleries.

The museum's early mission to document regional bird species still comes through today in its collection of more than 2,300 specimens in the Bird Gallery.

The museum's natural science collection also includes thousands of other specimens, like rare shells, beetles, butterflies, primates, reptiles, fossils, and fluorescent rocks and minerals that glow in their case.

Art fills the second-floor Main Gallery. Here, you'll find a substantial collection of American folk art. You can also see a mix of 19th-century paintings from local and national artists and a decorative arts collection that includes prestigious Dorflinger Glass.

Address: 1901 Mulberry Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.everhart-museum.org

Opportunities to enjoy the outdoors abound in Scranton. In addition to Nay Aug Park and the Lake Scranton Trail , there's also the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.

Walkers, runners, and cyclists can travel up to 70 miles on this scenic rail trail, which stretches from the border of New York State to Pittston, PA. Scranton is home to a 6.1-mile portion of the trail.

Tourists can access it at several trailheads, including one block north of the South Side Shopping Center and just southeast of the intersection of Depot Street and Pond Avenue.

Official site: www.lhva.org/HeritageTrail.php

Like many malls in the country, the Marketplace at Steamtown can feel a little sleepy. But given the mall's convenient location next to Steamtown Historic Site and its abundance of parking, tourists are likely to find themselves there at some point during their trip to Scranton.

Inside, you'll find tourist attractions, including the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den, on the first floor, along with restaurants and stores. A large book shop can be found on the second level.

The Marketplace at Steamtown also hosts events throughout the year, including holiday markets and free concerts.

Address: 300 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.themarketplaceatsteamtown.com

Performing arts, entertainment, and cultural happenings fill the events calendar at the Scranton Cultural Center. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places , the Masonic Temple that houses the venue is as much of an attraction as the big-name acts that perform here.

The glorious Neo-Gothic structure was designed by esteemed architect Raymond Hood, who counted New York's Rockefeller Center among his best works. Masonic symbols, including shield motifs and two-headed eagles, can be found throughout the structure.

You can visit the building by attending one of its many events throughout the year, or on free public tours on Saturdays at 10am. Private tours can be arranged by appointment.

Address: 420 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.scrantonculturalcenter.org

The majestic Lackawanna County Courthouse Square is a must-see attraction in Scranton. The 4.7-acre lot is dominated by the historic Romanesque Revival-style courthouse, which was built in 1884 and added to the National Register of Historic Places 113 years later.

This courthouse is where the Anthracite Coal Strike Commission held hearings in 1902-1903, as mineworkers fought for six months to demand better working conditions, higher wages, and union recognition.

A monument to John Mitchell, then president of the United Mine Workers of America labor union, can be seen on the Adams Street side of the courthouse square today.

As you make your way around the square, you can also see monuments dedicated to a range of other historical figures, including General Philip H. Sheridan, Christopher Columbus, and George Washington.

You can see the remains of four massive stone blast furnaces in a historic park setting near Steamtown National Historic Site. The Scranton Iron Furnaces are all that remain of a once extensive iron plant that made the iron rails for the Erie Railroad and produced a whopping 125,000 tons of pig iron in the year 1880. The plant was shut down in 1902.

The Scranton Iron Furnaces are now part of the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum and help preserve the country's iron-making heritage for future generations. It's fascinating to wander around the giant stone structure and peer inside the abandoned spaces.

Address: 159 Cedar Ave., Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.anthracitemuseum.org/explore/iron-furnaces

The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour invites tourists to hop inside a mine car and descend 300 feet underground to explore the winding tunnels of a coal mine that opened in 1860. The award-winning tour, which is led by miners, highlights what life was like for workers who powered the Industrial Revolution.

The tour involves half a mile of walking in a chilly 53-degree Fahrenheit environment, so bring comfortable shoes and a light jacket.

Above ground, the property also displays some interesting artifacts, including a solid chunk of pure anthracite coal that weighs 13,000 pounds.

For more information on coal mining and the culture of the workers, make your way to the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum just up the hill.

Address: Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.coalminetournepa.com

More on Pennsylvania

• Last Updated On
• June 25, 2023

17 Best Things to Do in Scranton, PA — Top Activities & Places to Go!

Take your friends, family, or significant other on a much-desired vacation to one of the best cities Pennsylvania has to offer, Scranton.

This scenic city has many things to offer you and your travel buddies to guarantee a memorable time together, like vibrant aquariums, stunning museums, entertaining live performances, breathtaking parks, bustling shopping centers, and so much more.

Whether you want to go on a thrilling adventure or have a more chill and relaxing experience, Scranton has something fantastic to offer.

So check out this list of the best things to do in Scranton, PA, pack your bags, and start your car as you prepare to go on a fun-filled getaway with your companions.

1. Steamtown National Historic Site

350 Cliff St Scranton, PA 18503 (570) 340-5200

The Steamtown National Historic Site, established in 1986, is a heritage railroad and museum.

You can find it in the downtown area of the city and near other popular tourist attractions.

Why You Should Go

Discover the rich railroad history of Pennsylvania at the Steamtown National Historic Site.

This railroad museum features exhibits about locomotives from various periods, a collection of trains, and engaging programs for all ages to enjoy.

One of the top things to see in Scranton are the numerous galleries and displays shown at the Steamtown National Historic Site.

Some of the activities you can do here are looking through the fascinating exhibits, discovering locomotives that date back to the 1900s, going on seasonal train rides, participating in guided tours for a more educational experience, and plenty of other fun options.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton

2. Nay Aug Park

500 Arthur Ave Scranton, PA 18510 (570) 348-4186

Nay Aug Park is a gorgeous urban park.

It is the largest park in the city and features a boat-load of amenities for all to enjoy.

Gather your companions and take them to one of the places to visit in Scranton, Nay Aug Park.

This one-of-a-kind park features Olympic-sized swimming pools, two playgrounds, an amusement park, a museum, and countless more.

Visit Nay Aug Park and have a terrific time doing many activities with your friends or family.

For example, going on rides at the amusement park, going for a swim in the crystalline waters of the pool, watching your kids have a fun time at a playground, picnicking while enjoying the fresh air, viewing awe-inspiring light shows during the Christmas season, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Scranton & Conference Center

3. Electric City Trolley Museum

300 Cliff St Scranton, PA 18503 (570) 963-6590

The Electric City Trolley Museum, founded in 1999, is a prominent and well-loved attraction in Scranton.

Do you take pleasure in exploring various museums on your vacation?

If you do, a must-visit is the Electric City Trolley Museum.

It is home to a collection of restored trolleys, a model train scene, hands-on activities, and interactive programs for your enjoyment.

Spend a couple of hours of your time looking at the many galleries at the Electric City Trolley Museum.

You can do things like exploring its many locomotive-related galleries, going on themed train rides, participating in occasional events, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Scranton at Montage Mountain

4. Houdini Museum

1433 N Main Ave Scranton, PA 18508 (570) 342-5555

Houdini Museum is a magic museum and performing arts theater.

It is a top-rated attraction in Scranton and offers many fun possibilities.

On days when it’s raining or cold, keep yourselves well-entertained by spending the day indoors at the Houdini Museum.

It features a vast collection of Houdini memorabilia, live magic shows, and guided tour options suitable for every age.

Bond with your family or friends at the Houdini Museum.

Some of the fun things you can at this facility are watching a thrilling magic show, learning about the life of Houdini, viewing a short film about the world-famous magician, looking through Houdini-related artifacts and memorabilia, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites

5. The Marketplace at Steamtown

300 Lackawanna Ave Scranton, PA 18503 (570) 343-3400

The Marketplace at Steamtown, which opened in 1993, is a bustling shopping mall.

It features countless shops, restaurants, and a spacious parking lot.

If you live nearby or want to take a break from exploring Scranton by going on a shopping spree, consider visiting The Marketplace at Steamtown.

It offers you many stores selling a wide range of items, recreational facilities, and restaurants, providing you numerous dining options.

Enjoy a relaxing day by going shopping at The Marketplace at Steamtown.

You can shop for items like sports gear, clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, wine, books, electronics, toys, accessories, and tons more.

After shopping, you can enjoy delicious food at a restaurant, get a massage at a spa, take a fitness class, get your nails done, and the like.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre

6. Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

300 Lackawanna Ave Scranton, PA 18503 (570) 909-9631

The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den is breathtaking and home to thousands of colorful sea creatures and reptiles of different species.

One of the top things to do in Scranton with kids is bringing them to the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den.

You and your loved ones will have a grand time discovering the beauty of marine life by looking at its many exhibits for an affordable price.

Have a fun time with your children by touring the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den.

Here, you can observe various sea life, like octopi, sharks, tropical fish, and stingrays, and many reptiles and amphibians, such as frogs, tortoises, snakes, and lizards.

You and your youngsters can also get the chance to do tons of other fun things, like interacting with some of the animals by petting them, watching animal feedings, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Scranton Montage Mountain

7. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

213 South 7th Ave. Scranton, PA 18505 (570) 963-6730

The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is a multi-use, picture-perfect trail.

It runs for at least 70 miles longs beckons thousands of visitors each year.

When searching for the best free things to do in Scranton to enjoy a superb experience in nature, then your best option is to make your way through the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.

This trail features a jaw-droppingly gorgeous landscape, like towering trees and paved paths.

One of the best things to do in Scranton for couples is having a fun time outdoors as you go for a jog or a relaxing bike ride side-by-side.

While going through the trail, you can stop by historical sites, former coal mining lands, abandoned railroads, and more, while taking numerous photos together.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Dickson City Scranton

8. Scranton Cultural Center

420 N Washington Ave Scranton, PA 18503 (570) 346-7369

The Scranton Cultural Center, constructed in 1928, is a performing arts theater featuring live performances of talented artists.

If you love watching live shows and enjoying a cultural experience, then a must-visit for you and your travel companions is the Scranton Cultural Center.

It features a state-of-the-art stage and high-quality lights and sound systems.

For a more interactive experience, it also sponsors fun events and programs throughout the year that may interest you.

Go on an immersive cultural experience at the Scranton Cultural Center.

It is the ideal place to watch shows like concerts, theatrical plays, broadway productions, dance recitals, concerts, comedic acts, and numerous other options.

If you live in the area, you can also sign your kids up for youth programs here, such as attending art workshops and participating in theater productions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Points by Sheraton Scranton

Also See: Things to Do in The Poconos, PA Allentown, PA Things to Do

9. Scranton Iron Furnaces

159 Cedar Ave Scranton, PA 18505 (570) 963-4804

The Scranton Iron Furnaces is a historical landmark featuring four stone blast furnaces constructed between the 1840s to the 1850s.

The Scranton Iron Furnaces is a must-visit on your vacation.

These furnaces are what remains of a once lively iron and steel factory in the 19th century.

It sits within a gorgeous landscape that includes backdrops of lush greenery and a grassy lawn.

Book a guided tour of the Scranton Iron Furnaces today and envision what it was like in its glory days as you learn about its history and explore the ruins.

It also makes the perfect backdrop for great photo opportunities with your friends, partner, or family.

During the summer season, you can also have a picnic right by the ruins.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Wilkes Barre-Scranton Airport Hotel

10. Everhart Museum

1901 Mulberry St Scranton, PA 18510 (570) 346-7186

The Everhart Museum, nestled in Nay Aug Park, is a science, art, and natural history museum.

Are you a museum-buff and love exploring various museums in the places you visit?

If you are, drive on over to the Everhart Museum.

To assure a more enjoyable and engaging time for you, it offers special events and fun programs, as well as temporary and permanent exhibits.

Go on a tour of the Everhart Museum by yourself or alongside a knowledgeable guide as you explore its many displays, like rare rocks, unique plant specimens, fossils, captivating artwork, fine art from different parts of the world, and a lot of other stuff.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Scranton near Montage Mountain

Also See: What to Do in Bethlehem Things to Do in New Hope

11. Anthracite Heritage Museum

22 Bald Mountain Rd Scranton, PA 18504 (570) 963-4804

The Anthracite Heritage Museum is a magnificent museum that focuses on preserving and depicting the rich history of anthracite coal mining in the state.

Anthracite coal mining played a crucial role in the lives of the Pennsylvanians many years ago.

By visiting the Anthracite Heritage Museum, you can travel back in time and discover the significance of this industry through its fascinating exhibits.

Sign up for a tour of the Anthracite Heritage Museum with your travel buddies and get the opportunity to learn about stories of the people who worked in the mines, what life was like back then, discover the harsh working conditions, look at historic machinery, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Clarks Summit Scranton Hotel

12. Catlin House Museum

232 Monroe Ave Scranton, PA 18510 (570) 344-3841

The Catlin House Museum was the former home of a prominent city financier of Scranton, George H. Catlin.

It now houses the Lackawanna Historical Society.

Are you searching for fun stuff to do in Scranton?

Are you a history buff and adore exploring historic places?

If you are, the perfect choice for you is a trip to the Catlin House Museum.

This charming home stands at three stories tall and features exhibits and fun events throughout the year.

Make a quick stop at the Catlin House Museum with your travel buddies before heading back home.

You can do activities like going on a guided tour of the facility, viewing its exhibit rooms, exploring books at its library, joining educational programs, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre

Related: Best Restaurants in Scranton

13. Montage Mountain Ski Resort

1000 Montage Mountain Rd Scranton, PA 18507 (570) 969-7669

Montage Mountain Ski Resort is a premier ski area in Scranton.

It is one of the top attractions in the beautiful city during the winter season.

There are numerous fun things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania, like vacationing at Montage Mountain Ski Resort.

This superb ski area is a winter wonderland and has one of the longest snow tubing areas in the state.

It also features other amenities like ski trails of varying difficulties, chairlifts, dining areas, and lessons.

Wear warm clothes and prepare for a thrilling time with your family or friends at Montage Mountain Ski Resort.

Here, you can have an enjoyable time going skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

If you don’t know how to ski or if you are traveling with first-timers, you can sign-up for private lessons at this ski resort.

Also See: Top Albrightsville Activities Fun Things to Do in Tannersville, Pennsylvania Horsham, Pennsylvania Things to Do

14. Poor Richard’s Pub

125 Beech St Scranton, PA 18505 (570) 344-4555

Poor Richard’s Pub is a bar serving an eclectic menu and refreshing drinks.

It also offers fun events each week.

Bond with your travel companions and make long-lasting memories at Poor Richard’s Pub.

One of the best things to do in Scranton tonight is visiting this bar and having an enjoyable time together, enjoying drinks, food, and various entertainment options.

Enjoy a stress-free night out with your family or friends at Poor Richard’s Pub.

You can eat mouth-watering food like pizzas, burgers, chicken wings, and seafood while enjoying a glass of cool beer.

While you enjoy refreshments, you can also play with a pinball machine or a game of darts.

On particular days of the week, you can watch sports shows, sing karaoke, and special promotions.

15. The Theater at North

1539 N Main Ave Scranton, PA 18508 (570) 800-5020

The Theater at North is a well-loved performing arts theater with a capacity of 800.

Its superb stage welcomes the acts of talented performers.

One of the most enjoyable things you can do is watching a breathtaking live show at the Theater at North.

This brilliant theater has something to offer everyone, perfect whether you are vacationing with your family or looking for more entertaining shows for adults.

The Theater at North offers you numerous shows to watch, like concerts, tribute bands, musicals, theatrical productions, classical concertos, dance recitals, Broadway favorites, comedy shows, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Scranton Dunmore

16. Scranton Lake Walking Path

Route 307 Scranton, PA 18505 (570) 963-6852

The Scranton Lake Walking Path is a gorgeous trail that surrounds Scranton Lake.

Do you live in the area and are searching for the best places to go for a peaceful walk away from large crowds?

If you do, the Scranton Lake Walking Path is the ideal choice.

This postcard-perfect trail is well-maintained and offers magnificent nature views.

Go for a walk or run at the Scranton Lake Walking Path.

You can listen to music as you make your way through the path featuring gorgeous lakefront views and colossal trees.

The whole pathway is breathtakingly beautiful, making for a fantastic photo opportunity for you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre

17. Montage Mountain Waterpark

Montage Mountain Waterpark is the premier destination for summer fun.

It offers limitless possibilities for an enjoyable time under the sun.

Cool off from the humidity and the scorching heat by enjoying one of the best things to do in Scranton, PA, visiting Montage Mountain Waterpark.

This terrific water park features various pools, a lazy river, zip lines, cabanas for rent, a gift shop, and multiple other fun options.

Prepare for an unforgettable time with your family, friends, or significant other at Montage Mountain Waterpark.

Have a blast as you go swimming in crystalline pools, shoot down slides of varying lengths and heights, soar through the air on a zipline, floating on a lazy river, relax under the shade of a cabana, play miniature golf, enjoy a competitive game of volleyball, and a lot more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Wilkes Barre – East Mountain, an IHG hotel

Map of Things to Do in Scranton, PA

Scranton Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2024

• Steamtown National Historic Site
• Nay Aug Park
• Electric City Trolley Museum
• Houdini Museum
• The Marketplace at Steamtown
• Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den
• Lackawanna River Heritage Trail
• Scranton Cultural Center
• Scranton Iron Furnaces
• Everhart Museum
• Anthracite Heritage Museum
• Catlin House Museum
• Montage Mountain Ski Resort
• Poor Richard’s Pub
• The Theater at North
• Scranton Lake Walking Path
• Montage Mountain Waterpark

24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Scranton (Pennsylvania)

By: Author Travel Around

Posted on Last updated: October 27, 2022

Amassing wholesome vacation opportunities and alternatives, the city of Scranton is a must explored amongst thrill-seekers.

Apart from being a little city with a lot of history, it was formerly the epicenter of Pennsylvania’s anthracite coal mining industry. 

There are tons of attractions to be explored and countless sightseeing opportunities to keep you on your feet.

Whether you want a fun time out at the Reapers Revenge or you simply want to take a tour of the historic Catlin House, you’ll enjoy it.

If you do have the time and intend to explore some of the top vacation spots, below is a list of things to do around Scranton.

Things To Do In Scranton, Pennsylvania 

1. electric city trolley museum.

Electric City Trolley Museum

Let’s say you prefer going on trolley rides.

Scranton offers one of the best options for trolley rides within.

If this is part of your interest, make your way to the Electric City Trolley Museum.

Scranton’s alias “The Electric City” derives from the city’s prior usage of electric trolleys.

This was a significant growth in public travel.

Today, the Electric City Trolley Museum works to preserve the city’s train line heritage.

The Electric City Trolley Museum is without misgiving one of the top things to do in Scranton.

This museum showcases authentic trolley vehicles that used to run through these streets decades ago.

There’s even a restored trolley vehicle and an interactive trolley exhibit for youngsters on display. 

Probably, you have the eyes for trolleys and trains. Then this is ideal.

Besides, it isn’t just about seeing the trolleys and fascinating items on exhibit.

You’ll also discover the region’s historic and devoted relationship with transportation.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to ride in an old trolley.

Roam through exhibits and look into automobiles deep into the past.

If you’re seeking something to do that will teach you about Scranton’s history, go visit the City Trolley Museum.

It is accessible from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day of the week.

Let your eyes wander.

Address: 300 Cliff St, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503, United States

2. Visit Scranton’s Reaper’s Revenge

Reaper’s Revenge

Are you set for the scare of your life? 

When you visit Reaper’s Revenge, you will be seeing one of the most popular attractions as ranked by the Haunted Attraction Association. 

Because of its spookiness, visitors touring Scranton choose to do this on their first arrival.

At Reaper’s Revenge, tourists can attempt up to five spooky attractions, each of which will provide them with the shock they need. 

The Haunted Hayride will take you through 66 acres of shadowy trails filled with even darker monsters eager to board your hay cart. 

You’ll have to negotiate your way through a sideshow of curiosities and crazy clowns at the Lost Carnival. 

Sector 13, Pitch Black, and Delirium await the brave of heart with their frightening stories and equally terrifying people.

You think you have the courage to mentally overpower some clowns.

Take a shot at this.

However, if you do not like spooky places, there are several points of attraction that’ll make you glad.

Address: 460 Green Grove Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18447, United States  

3. Everhart Museum, Scranton

Everhart Museum

Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everhart was a well-known person in Scranton during his lifetime.

The Everhart Museum is named for him, a notable Scranton physician.

His name and fame live on since he endowed the city with the Everhart Museum .

Since its origin more than 110 years ago, the Everhart Museum has evolved into everything that a museum should be.

The Everhart Museum values those who are curious and dare to wonder.

While there are several alternatives to interest visitors, there are vast exhibitions on art, science, and natural history. 

Their exhibitions feature magnificent artwork, millions of year-old fossils, and glowing rocks and minerals.

Additionally, it’s also wonderful if you’re searching for locations to take your kids.

They host some extremely great educational activities.

You cannot afford to miss out on their very special Farm To Table Lunch in September.

The museum holds the annual Farm to Table lunch in September, which features locally farmed, fresh ingredients.

What to do in Scranton is visit the Everhart Museum to view great stuff and learn incredible information.

It’s such a gift to have these products in such good condition.

Admission to the Everhart Museum is $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and $3 for children aged six to twelve.

Except for important holidays, the museum is open seven days a week.

Active military personnel with appropriate identification are admitted free of charge.

Address: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18510, United States

4. Catlin House

The Catlin House

For something a little different and ancient, take a tour of the Catlin House .

Although there are a few ancient buildings in Scranton, this happens to be remarkable.

Catlin House, a Tudor-style mansion built in 1912, was originally the residence of George H. Catlin, an early Scranton merchant. 

The house has 16 rooms that have been meticulously kept and decorated with period-appropriate décor and antiques.

Several highlights within this house have made it quite popular amongst visitors and tourists.

Some of these highlights include beautiful wood paneling, a wooden staircase, and stained glass windows. 

On select days, guided tours of the Catlin House are available. 

Visitors can move about the house exploring and capturing shots of pieces of great interest.

The mansion also serves as the Lackawanna to Historical Society’s headquarters, including a research library and lecture room.

So, even if you do not want to just tour or go sightseeing, sit back at the library and have your fill of books.

Address: 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18510, United States.

5. Church Picnics

Church picnic

Probably, you might not be a member or even know of any parishes in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

You may, however, still appreciate their hospitality and share your own.

Attending a church service is one means of doing this.

Another option is to gather the potato salad and attend a church picnic.

Many of these picnics are held in the smaller villages surrounding Scranton.

They are among the most enjoyable events in the city.

Along with the exquisite cuisine, which emphasizes the parish’s cultural past, there are several games and activities.

These picnics simply have too much going on to pass up.

This area is one of the most impressive in America because of the magnificent church picnics.

Come to a church picnic if you’re in the area and want to get a true sense of belonging.

Pack a picnic basket and spend time with friends and make new ones.

Several summer activities will definitely entertain the entire family.

Address: 621 Vine St, Scranton

6. Lackawanna Coal Mine Your

Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

While Scranton is dubbed as “The Electric City,” it would be incorrect to ignore the city’s reliance on coal.

For decades, coal mining has been an important aspect of the Pennsylvania economy. 

A Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour takes you inside a working coal mine.

Visitors at Lackawanna County may learn about underground mining by taking a tour of the Lackawanna County Coal Mine.

While it is no longer in operation, its preservation allows visitors to witness how miners operated in the past.

Say farewell to the bright sky and board a mine vehicle that will take you 300 feet deep into this more than 160-year-old coal mine.

You’ll see wonderful sights and learn incredible things.

This is a must-see Scranton site, especially if you have coal miners in your background.

Few cities have activities as exciting as a Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

Besides, the tour is around one hour long. 

Except for Easter and Thanksgiving, the trips are accessible from April 1 to November 30.

Admission is $10 for adults, $9.50 for students, and $9 for military personnel.

Children aged three to twelve are charged $7.50.

Grab your walking shoes and a jacket and head downtown Scranton.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18504, United States

7. Scranton’s Famous Pronto

Scranton’s Famous Pronto

One of the most popular Scranton attractions is one of Pennsylvania’s best restaurants.

Pronto is an authentic Italian cuisine made using exceptional ingredients.

You’ll feel on top of the world in Scranton at night when you feast on Pronto’s amazing offers.

Pronto , as you can think, serves a lot of pasta.

This, however, is not the leftover spaghetti from the night before.

Their menu includes “Pappardelle Pronto” and “Rigatoni Bolognese” with the optimum taste layering.

They also have mouth-watering non-pasta selections like “Shrimp Pronto,” “Pollo Marsala,” and a New York strip steak.

Do you want to know what to do for supper tonight in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

There are several selections to pick from and they are simply mind-blowing.

They are open from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Address: 110 N Main Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18504, United States

8. Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society

Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society

A fantastic lunch was not out of the question when railroads were the dominant mode of transportation.

The Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society is based in Dunmore, Pennsylvania, not far from Scranton.

It was recognized for offering fresh, gourmet meals to customers traveling on its train dining cars for almost 100 years. 

Presently, its sole purpose is to preserve the heritage of these cars and train travel.

They’re great at illustrating the history of dining cars, and they have some great old items to show you.

These excursions take you through their restored railway carriages.

Three dining cars, one sleeping car, and two Dieseliner coaches have been restored by the organization. 

They’ve all been preserved in great shape.

Dig into their schedule to see when they’re giving meals and trips if you truly want to enjoy the dining car experience.

Although dining vehicles are no longer common, this society demonstrates why they should be.

Call or email and set up a trip to see these vehicles.

Address: 201 S Blakely St, Dunmore, Pennsylvania 18512, United States

Are you planning a trip to other locations in Pennsylvania? Why not look at some of the best things to do in Gettysburg , King of Prussia , Harrisburg , Bethlehem , and Erie ?

9. Rattlesnake Falls

James / Rattlesnake Falls

Waterfalls, regardless of size or worldwide recognition, are always among the most amazing sites to explore.

Rattlesnake Falls, located in Spring Brook Township’s Pinchot State Forest, epitomizes what the best tourist attractions can be.

It’s well worth the effort to access this natural wonder.

It’s not difficult to get to Rattlesnake Falls.

The trek is just about 15 minutes long, yet Pinchot State Forest is so lovely that you’ll probably want to see more of it.

Keep an ear out for the sound of water flowing out.

You can imagine yourself as an adventurer, feasting your eyes on the spectacular views of unexplored land.

Rattlesnake Falls will take your breath away with its beauty.

This is also a great option for romantic activities to do just next to Scranton.

It’s an attraction that might make you laugh and cry as you contemplate how magnificent nature is.

Address: Spring Brook Township, Pennsylvania 18444, United States

10. Houdini Museum, Scranton

Houdini Museum

Harry Houdini set the stage for numerous magicians while also changing the world.

The Houdini Museum in Scranton explains to everyone about this great escape artist through the essential relics of his life.

You can learn all about Harry Houdini in only a few hours.

The Houdini Museum adventure includes a video about his life, a tour of the museum, and even a magic act.

These all show how valuable Houdini was, not only for magicians but for entertainment lovers in general.

Scranton’s visitor attractions, such as the Houdini Museum, set it apart from other small towns.

Every part of the Houdini Museum is filled with fun and enchantment.

They hold a Houdini Seance every Halloween, which is great if you want to relate with Houdini.

Surprisingly, no admission is needed to access this museum.

Address: 1433 N Main Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18508, United States

11. Lahey Family Fun Park

The Lahey Family Fun Park

Lahey Family Fun Park is in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, which is also in Lackawanna County, near Scranton.

This attraction delivers specifically all that its name suggests.

Bring your kids to Lahey Family Fun Park for hours of fun.

When you crave to feel like a kid again, this is the place to be.

It has bumper boats, go-karts, and an arcade.

This can be an excellent way to test your reflexes, especially if you use the batting cages.

All Friday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. are their winter business hours.

Address: 500 Morgan Hwy, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania 18411, United States

12. First Friday’s, Scranton

Irvine / First Friday

Going to Scranton at the beginning of the month is a fantastic idea.

This is when Scranton city’s “ First Friday ” gallery walks take place.

If you’ve never gone on one of these, get ready for one of the most enjoyable cultural experiences you can have.

Not only will you have fun, but you’ll also do a lot with so much ease.

First Fridays are also fantastic free activities to do around Scranton.

Address: PO Box 20032 – Scranton, PA 18502

13. Anthracite Heritage Museum, Scranton

Anthracite Heritage Museum

By now, it shouldn’t be new to you that coal played a significant role in Scranton during its time.

It is a known legend far and near Scranton.

The importance of coal to Scranton, Pennsylvania has previously been emphasized, but the value of anthracite coal should not be overlooked.

In this regard, there are structures around the city with enough knowledge of these.

One of the promising sites to learn about coal mining is the Anthracite Heritage Museum .

It belongs among the all-time great Scranton attractions.

A tour of this museum will transport you to the time coal made Scranton bustling.

You’ll see how important anthracite coal is to the whole region of northeastern Pennsylvania.

Many immigrants moved to Pennsylvania in the 1800s to start a new life in the anthracite coal mining business.

While touring the Anthracite Heritage Museum, you will learn about the importance of immigrants in coal mining, and also the stories of the miners.

The Anthracite Heritage Museum aims to portray the narrative of these immigrants, their families, their labor, and their customs.

There are also many interesting items from this era to see, such as an ancient lace machine.

Amongst a few, you’ll find a reproduction of a typical coal miner’s home, a replica bar, and several pictures of employees and their families.

Also, an adjacent display of four massive iron furnaces is also available.

It’s unquestionably one of the best things to do in Scranton.

Particularly, if you’re enthusiastic about the history of the coal industry and its workers.

The general entrance price is $7.

It is open from Wednesday through Sunday and closed on important holidays.

Active military personnel and their immediate families are admitted free of charge.

Find your way through the history of Scranton.

Address: 22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18504, United States

14. See the RailRiders Play

RailRiders Play

Although notable for a lot of games and talents within the city, Scranton has a name in baseball.

Scranton may not have a Major League Baseball club, but the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders of the Minor Leagues is a lot of fun to watch.

They are an affiliate of the New York Yankees, and there is some Major League talent among the players.

It’s also one of the most enjoyable pastimes since, after all, there’s nothing quite like watching a baseball game, right?

The RailRiders play their home games at PNC Field in Moosic, Pennsylvania.

Its 10,000-seat arrangement is fantastic, and it’s simple to get a decent perspective of the action on the field.

Consider how much joy it would be to eat a hotdog while attempting to catch a foul ball in the stands at this park.

If you want to witness some sports in Scranton, Pennsylvania, purchase some RailRiders tickets.

You may also utilize this to expose your children to the joys of baseball.

PNC Field allows you to enjoy Major League entertainment at Minor League pricing.

Even if you don’t want to watch a game, sit back and enjoy a bite of their tasty hotdogs.

Address: 235 Montage Mountain Rd, Moosic, Pennsylvania 18507, United States

15. Lackawanna Historical Soci ety Museum

Lackawanna Historical Society Museum

One country may have an influence on the entire planet.

That appears to be the argument of the Lackawanna Historical Society Museum, and it is one worth considering.

Lackawanna may be Pennsylvania’s newest county, but this museum demonstrates its significance.

This organization was founded only eight years after Lackawanna County was established.

It has been held at the Caitlin House, an early twentieth-century structure on the University of Scranton campus, since the 1940s.

This was George and Helen Catlin’s house, and seeing the museum provides insight into their daily lives.

The Historical Society Museum highlights each aspect of Lackawanna County’s history in its own unique way.

You would not think to find the history of coal and the military to be so fascinating, but you would be wrong.

This museum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays.

You must first make an appointment.

A tour is enough to convince you.

Take the opportunity and explore while you can.

Address: 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

16. Steamtown National Historic Site

Steamtown National Historic Site

The sound of a steam train is one of the most intense sensations you’ll ever experience.

If you’re seeking fantastic sites to visit that include transportation and equipment, the Steamtown National Historic Site is a must-see.

Steamtown National Historic Site is a museum dedicated to the preservation of steam locomotive heritage. 

These locomotives were previously vital for moving coal and passengers across Pennsylvania.

On its grounds, there is a whole list of exhibits on display.

Take a look around for interesting and enjoyable things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Visitors can watch a short video on the railroad’s history at the theater.

You’ll learn about steam locomotives in a variety of entertaining methods, including looking at images, watching a film, and even riding on a refurbished train, the “Scranton Limited.”

These trains were crucial aspects of this area and country, whether they were hauling pounds of coal or people.

A rebuilt steam engine, pictures, and memorabilia from the heyday of the railroad lie beautifully within its walls.

Also, there are various exhibits representing the life of a rail hand and a roundhouse where specialists may do repairs and upkeep on the trains.

The Steamtown National Historic Site is well-deserving of the title.

All-day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., you can go sightseeing here.

It’s free to visit the museum, but $5 per guest to ride the “Scranton Limited.”

Except for important holidays, the site is open every day. 

Explore this site when you have the time. There is a lot of history hidden within.

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503, United States

17. Montage Mountain, Scranton

The Montage Mountain

If you have a strong liking for climbing activities, there is just someplace in Scranton where you’ll find a full dose.

Montage Mountain is the place to go in northern Pennsylvania for outdoor family activities.

It provides skiing, snowboarding, and even snow tubing throughout the winter.

Apart from all the activities you can do for fun, you can also consider learning.

Ski lessons are available for both youngsters and adults. 

In the summer, the park offers zipline rides and a large water park with slides, a canal for floating, a large wave pool, and poolside cabanas. 

Grab a skateboard and take a hike down the mountains.

Get your snowboard and get those rusty skills moving.

Halt by the concession stands for a quick bite to eat or stay for a longer meal at the Slocum Hollow Bar & Restaurant. 

Park hours change depending on the season and may be found on the park’s website.

For fun, this is one of the top things to do. Consider it.

Address: 100 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18507, United States .

See also the list of things to do in Allentown ! 

18. See the Scranton Iron Furnaces

Scranton Iron Furnaces

The Scranton Iron Furnaces are a remnant of the country’s early iron industry. 

This historic landmark, made up of four massive stone blast furnaces, was once a part of the Lackawant to Iron and Steel Company, which operated in the mid-1800s. 

Today, visitors to the Scranton Iron Furnaces may take a tour of the site and learn about its importance in the American industrial revolution. 

While many various companies give tours, the Scranton Iron Furnaces are available to self-guided tours and tourists from dawn to dark all year since they are located within a historic park. 

From April through October, tours on the Historic Trolley can be reserved at Scranton’s Visitor Center.

Literally, this is one exceptional thing to do, especially if you love smoldering.

Attempt it and see if you like it.

Address: 159 Cedar Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18505, United States  

19. Lake Scranton Walking Path

James / Lake Scranton Walking Path

Lake Scranton is a 16,000-acre reservoir that serves as the city of Scranton’s water supply. 

The 3.5-mile Lake Scranton Walking Path surrounds the lake. 

Its trail is all paved, making it an easy walk or run with stunning views of the lake and surrounding East Mountain. 

However, the trail is not open to pets, bicycles, or motor vehicles.

While there are some limitations to what you can enjoy in this park, you’ll find several fantastic options to cling to.

Address: Route 307, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18505, United States .

20. Scranton Cultural Center

Scranton Cultural Center

What was formerly a Masonic Temple and Scottish Rite Cathedral has evolved into the Scranton Cultural Center.

It is one of Northeast Pennsylvania’s most recognized centers for entertainment, culture, and performing arts. 

Over time, it has grown into a 180,000-square-foot facility with two theaters, several meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, and dozens of other multipurpose rooms. 

Those interested in learning about the cultural center’s essential aspects can take part in free public tours on specified days. 

A knowledgeable tour guide will also give facts about the Masons’ past.

If you have a strong interest in performances and acts, you’ll find this thing exceptional to do around Scranton.

Address: 420 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503, United States  

21. Eat pizzas at Scranton’s Old Forge Pizza

The Old Forge Pizza

Foodies will find a food tour through this pizza world incredible.

If you take your time to look through Scranton, you’ll find offerings of the best pizza.

The community of Old Forge , Pennsylvania, made a bold claim when it declared itself the “Pizza Capital of the World.”

Many Italians and New Yorkers may disagree, but this is one of the greatest pizzas in town.

Of a few highly tasty pizza restaurants, the Old Forge Pizza is astounding.

Old Forge Pizza is one of Scranton’s top culinary tourism attractions.

The tale is that Old Forge Pizza began in 1926 in the now-defunct Ghigiarelli’s Restaurant.

Its light but crunchy crust distinguishes this pizza from a long list.

They provide white and red pizzas, with the red, including a cheese blend.

Pizzas are called “trays,” while slices are called “cuts.”

If you’re hungry this weekend in Scranton, Pennsylvania, you should go to Old Forge Pizza.

Grab a bite.

Pack some to take home.

Or simply just go to take a sneak peek.

It’s only five miles downtown Scranton and is the place to go for real pizza fans.

You’ll understand why Old Forge pizza is still so popular today, that’s for sure.

Address: 843 South Main Street Old Forge PA 18518

22. Archbald Pothole State Park

The Archbald Pothole State Park

Exploring Archbald Pothole State Park is, without a doubt, one of the most fascinating and enjoyable things to do in Scranton.

This park may not be as vast as others, but it has some amazing attractions.

Anyone with an interest in geology or prehistory should visit here.

There are a number of attractions that will keep you occupied.

One of its greatest pieces of attraction is a glacial pothole.

Archbald Pothole State Park contains the world’s largest glacial pothole.

That is true around the world, not simply in Pennsylvania or even North America.

Come here if you want to see locations that are unlike any other on the planet.

Moreover, it is also a great place to capture some of your greatest vacation photos.

Since it is highly scenic and all of its surroundings bright, you can capture good shots.

It may be one of the free things to do in Archbald, but the experience is priceless.

Pack a basket and come picnicking.

Sit on one of its benches and allow its sight to drench you.

Come when you have the time. It promises to be as interesting as interesting can be.

Address: 960 Scranton Carbondale Hwy, Archbald, PA 18403, United States

23. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Most of the fascinating places in Scranton are outdoors.

The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail allows you to discover many of the greatest spots to see in Scranton.

It offers miles of lovely wooded beauty. 

This path is 70 miles long and may be explored in a variety of ways.

There are several locales of interest along the path and in the towns it passes through.

Amongst these, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail offers opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Majority of the route is paved, making it ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling.

Enjoy both the outside sightseeing and your favorite pastimes.

These woodlands and their trees are breathtaking, as is the Lackawanna.

Throughout the year, many area groups host special activities such as runs and walks, and group bicycle rides.

Also, this route hosts a variety of fun Scranton activities, like races and clean-up efforts.

The Lackawanna to River Heritage Trail is, without a doubt, one of the best sites to see in Scranton.

Its entire journey allows you to witness nature and people at their finest.

Even if you can only see a portion of it, you’re still going to have a great time.

Address: Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States  

24. Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

In Scranton, there is just something fishy going on, and you can glimpse this at the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den.

Many species with fins and scales reside here.

It’s what you should see if you like animals, no matter how fuzzy or not.

The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den is a downtown shopping complex that is part of the Marketplace at Steamtown.

They take you on a voyage through the ocean with their fish, octopus, sharks, and other sea creatures.

Also, snakes, lizards, and tortoises are among the reptiles and amphibians on display at their reptile house.

They also host feedings, which demonstrate how voracious some of these critters are.

If you’re in Scranton with your kids this weekend, bring them here.

It is accessible from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Adults pay $18.95 for a day admission, children aged two to twelve pay $15.95, and college students, seniors, military members, and first responders pay $16.95.

Address: 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503, United States

Final Remarks 

This list does not include all the great Scranton attractions, but it does include some of the most interesting and notable.

Seemingly, finding attraction spots in Scranton is easy.

Visit Scranton, Pennsylvania, this weekend or later in the year when you have more time to organize your vacation.

Find what you’ll enjoy the most and immerse yourself in deep relaxation.

Safe travels!

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

14 Best Things to do in Scranton, PA

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Nestled away in the northeast of Pennsylvania is Scranton; a surprisingly scenic city that acts as the cultural and commercial capital of Lackawanna County. Once a coal mining, railroad and industrial powerhouse, it is now mostly known for being the setting of the hit TV show ‘The Office’.

During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the prosperous city attracted thousands of immigrants come to work in its anthracite mines or on the railroads. This earned it the nickname ‘The Electric City’ with important and attractive buildings popping up all around town.

While the city’s heyday has long been and gone, there are plenty of fun things to do in Scranton. This is because picturesque parks and winding trails lie right next to interesting old industrial sights and museums focusing on the region’s rich history.

14. Lackawanna State Park

Offering up all kinds of exciting outdoor activities, the lovely Lackawanna State Park can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive directly north of the city center. Centered on the large lake of the same name, it has everything from hiking and biking to swimming, sailing and camping for you to enjoy.

Protected as part of a park since 1972, its scenic site encompasses vast forests and fields with small streams and trails weaving their way here and there. Once home to the local Lenape tribe, the area was then settled by white farmers with a horse racing course and fairgrounds established on what is currently the campsite.

Nowadays, outdoor lovers flock to the park to hike and bike about its lush woods or fish, swim and boat out on the reflective lake.

13. The Marketplace at Steamtown

If instead of the great outdoors it is a massive mall you want to explore, then The Marketplace at Steamtown is one of the best places to head in Scranton. Set right in front of the important historical site of the same name, its countless shops and restaurants cater to every interest, taste and budget.

Part of a large project to revitalize the downtown area, it was opened in 1993 with about fifty stores and boutiques now packing out its two floors. Locally owned and operated for the most part, they sell everything from beauty products and fashion items to books, toys and video games.

Besides its vast food court, there is actually a small aquarium, large indoor playground and relaxing spa for visitors of all ages to enjoy. The Scranton Public Market also takes place each weekend with a boxing club, music classes and even a community college all being based at the mixed-use mall.

12. Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

One of the mall’s most popular attractions is of course the educational yet entertaining Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den . Here you can see sharks, stingrays and shoals of fish swimming about in enormous tanks full of colorful corals with snakes and crocodiles also featuring.

Only opened in 2017, the state-of-the-art aquarium has a wonderful walk-through experience which sees you stroll from Frog Swamp and Snake Den through to Gator Alley and Shark Reef. Along the way, you’ll sees lots of species from all around the world with informative displays accompanying each of the exhibits.

Highlights include stroking stingrays in the touch tank and watching some of the live feedings and educational shows where you meet alligators, turtles and much, much more.

11. Lackawanna County Courthouse Square

Right in the historic heart of town is one of its most impressive architectural gems: the Lackawanna County Courthouse Square. Instantly recognizable, the fine Romanesque Revival building occupies a whole block with pretty grounds and gardens lying all around it.

Built during Scranton’s end of century heyday as an important coal mining center and railroad hub, the striking building certain projects power and prestige. Erected in 1884, it features not just a five-storey bell tower but a fetching facade too with it almost appearing like an old European castle.

Aside from taking in its exquisite architecture and snapping some photos, you can also amble about the gorgeous grounds outside. These are dotted with veterans’ memorials and the statues of famous figures like Christopher Columbus and George Washington.

10. Everhart Museum

Not too far away in Nay Aug Park is the outstanding Everhart Museum . Long a firm favorite with families, it boasts a hugely interesting collection of artifacts, specimens and fossils.

Now the largest public museum in Northeastern Pennsylvania, it was first opened to the public back in 1908. Named after prominent physician and philanthropist Isaiah Fawkes Everhart, it focuses on both natural history and the fine arts with its grand galleries divided between the two subjects.

As such, guests can see stuffed animals and prehistoric dinosaur bones alongside ancient Egyptian funerary objects, African masks and more contemporary masterpieces by Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol among others. Decorative arts from Asia, Europe and America also feature as do delightful sculptures and ceramics from various cultures and civilizations across the globe.

9. Montage Mountain

One of the state’s top ski resorts, Montage Mountain literally looms above the south of Scranton. In just fifteen minutes’ drive from downtown, you can find yourself shooting down its soft slopes with skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing all being on offer.

Although Pennsylvania perhaps isn’t associated with snow sports, the resort has a very respectable thousand-foot vertical drop with 26 runs crisscrossing their way about the mount. As you ski around its diverse terrain, you can bask in phenomenal views of the surrounding valleys and city below.

In summer, Montage Mountain has a terrific water park for guests to splash about in with lazy rivers and sunbathing areas lying next to lots of fun water slides. It also hosts plenty of outdoor events and concert with batting cages, beach volleyball and mini golf counting among its other attractions.

8. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

A wonderful way to see more of the city and its surroundings is to walk, run, jog or cycle along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail . Connecting both rural and urban communities in the area, it takes you past loads of stunning scenery and idyllic nature spots.

From the confluence of the Lackawanna and Susquehanna Rivers, the multi-purpose path meanders its way northwards until it joins up with the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail. Very well-maintained, it stretches over seventy miles in total with most of the route following along the riverbanks.

Peppering the sides of the path are various public artworks and historic sites with many relating to the region’s coal mining and railroad past. When passing through towns, you also come across some cafes and shops before emerging shortly afterwards in the charming countryside again.

7. Anthracite Heritage Museum

For those interested in learning more about the history of the state, the excellent Anthracite Heritage Museum is simply a must. Its artifacts and exhibits depict what life was like for early immigrants to the area who came to work in its once-prolific mines, mills and factories.

Part of a larger complex that preserves the history of anthracite mining in Pennsylvania, it lies in the west of McDade Park. Full of fascinating exhibits and historical photos, it covers immigration to the area, the evolution of the industry and the harsh realities of working in a mine in the 1800s.

As well as seeing old tools and equipment and hearing all about the horrendous working conditions, you can also explore a replica of a miner’s home and an atmospheric old saloon.

6. Houdini Museum

One of the most famous magicians and illusionists the world has ever seen, Harry Houdini actually lived and performed in northeast Pennsylvania for several years. At his museum in North Scranton, visitors can see old memorabilia and film clips before watching an amazing magic show.

Founded in 1988, the lovely little museum looks at both his life and legacy with posters, photos and personal belongings all featuring. On tours, you’ll learn all about Houdini’s greatest tricks and how he came to be such a world-renowned magician.

Although the museum is all about Houdini, the highlight is arguably the hour-long magic show that takes place at the end of the tour. Both Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Brooks – two massive celebrity magicians themselves – will awe and astound guests with their unseen sleights of hand and scarcely believable bag of tricks.

5. Scranton Lake Walking Path

An absolute treat to amble around peacefully, the Scranton Lake Walking Path takes you right round the big body of water. Located just a bit further past Nay Aug Park from the center, it has delightful scenery, nature and views for you to take in.

Created in the early 1900s following the damming of the Stafford Meadow Brook, the reservoir is surrounded by lots of lush woodland with East Mountain also overlooking it. Looping its way about its shimmering surface is the picturesque walking path which reaches just over 3.5 miles in length.

While walking, running or cycling along the mostly flat trail, you can enjoy the fabulous fauna and foliage on show all around you. Glinting through the trees is, of course, the sparkling Lake Scranton which is bordered by the beautiful brickwork of the dam to its southern side.

4. Electric City Trolley Museum

As it was home to the first passenger trolley line in Pennsylvania, Scranton became known as ‘The Electric City’ in the late 1880s. At its terrific transport museum, you can learn about the history and development of the railroad lines and see plenty of the vintage vehicles.

Set right alongside the Steamtown National Historic Site, it was established in 1999 to preserve the Keystone State’s rich railroad past. Old artifacts, equipment pieces and exhibits are now on display in a resplendently restored late nineteenth-century mill building.

The best part of the visit though is hopping aboard an authentic 1926 or 1932 trolley and traveling around the surrounding countryside. The peaceful five-and-a-half-mile trip takes you over Roaring Brook, through a mile-long tunnel and up to PNC Field on Montage Mountain.

3. Nay Aug Park

The city’s largest park, Nay Aug straddles the appropriately named Roaring Brook and its gorgeous gorge. Despite its close proximity to the center, its woods and waterfalls feel a world away from the busy downtown area with all kinds of amenities and activities being on offer.

Carved out of the rock during the last ice age, Nay Aug or ‘noisy brook’ as it means in the Munsee language rushes its way down rapids and through the jagged gorge. For the best views of the stream and the scenic woodlands lying on all sides, head across its covered bridge or to the top of the park’s tall treehouse.

Since 1893, both locals and visitors alike have flocked to explore its sprawling green confines with two Olympic-sized swimming pools, multiple playgrounds and a waterslide park now also scattered about. After hiking and biking about, you can stop for a snack or hot drink at its picnic pavilions or the cosy Blackwatch Cafe.

2. Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

A fun and fascinating experience, the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour sees you venture 300 feet below the earth’s surface in an old mine car. As you explore the twisting veins of the abandoned anthracite mine, your knowledgeable guide will teach you more about the industry, its impact on Pennsylvania and the countless perils that the miners faced.

Part of the same complex as the Anthracite Heritage Museum, its deep shafts, museum and gift shop also lie within McDade Park. Opened by the Continental Coal Company in 1903, its rich coal seams were mined until 1966 with tours of the mine and museum starting up just over a decade later.

Nowadays, visitors strap on their protective hard hats before taking the bright yellow mine car into the deep, dark depths of the mine. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll get out and walk around all the shored up old tunnels as your guide explains the hardships children as young as seven or eight faced when working in the mine.

1. Steamtown National Historic Site

Back in the center of town is the city’s standout sight: the Steamtown National Historic Site . As well as being home to rows and rows of shiny old steam trains, the railroad museum has a huge collection of artifacts, photos and old equipment pieces for you to peruse.

Established in 1986, the museum occupies the former Scranton Yards with its innumerable exhibits and trains being centered around a working turntable and reconstructed roundhouse. Several turn-of-the-century outbuildings are also set on site which impressively has roughly two dozen locomotives on display with the oldest dating to 1903.

After learning all about the history and development of the railroads in Pennsylvania, you can take a short ride along its heritage track on an atmospheric old steam train.

Map of Things to do in Scranton, PA

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5 Spots Every Fan of ‘The Office’ Must Visit in Scranton, PA

We’re not just fans of “The Office”. We’re borderline-obsessed, know-every-quote, watch-it-constantly superfans. So, when we road-tripped out to the Poconos for a long weekend with our family in November, it only made sense that we would visit the city where the show was based.

Unlike one of our other favorite shows, Parks & Recreation – another Greg Daniels/Michael Schur masterpiece – “The Office” is set in a real city: Scranton, Pennsylvania.

As I’ve learned from the Office Ladies podcast , the directors took great care to ensure the show remained authentic to its Scranton setting.

They even went as far as picking up local props (fliers, products, stickers, magnets, restaurant menus and more) to decorate the background of the Dunder Mifflin Scranton set.

Remember that Froggy 101 sticker on Dwight’s desk? Yep, that’s a real radio station in Scranton. What about the club soda featured throughout the show? That was from the Crystal Soda Water Co., a family-run business in Scranton.

These little nods to the former coal town make the show feel like it was really filmed there (despite occasionally seeing palm trees in the background of the driving scenes). 

Of course, there are also the more memorable and recognizable Scranton locales featured on “The Office”, including:

• Alfredo’s Pizza Café (not to be confused with the vastly inferior Pizza by Alfredo, which is fictional)

Cooper’s Seafood House

Poor richard’s pub.

• The Marketplace at Steamtown (aka the Steamtown Mall)
• Penn Paper tower

We visited these spots and share all the details below – including which ones were surprisingly awesome and which were sort of meh. Plus, don’t miss our bonus “The Office” locations at the end of the blog! 

Now, let’s get this party started!

Alfredo’s Pizza Café

1040 s. washington ave..

We all remember the argument in season 4’s “Launch Party” (or should I say “Lunch Party”?) about Alfredo’s Pizza Café versus Pizza by Alfredo. And while the latter is fictional, I can confidently attest to the delicious taste of a pepperoni slice from Alfredo’s Pizza Café.

It’s no wonder the employees were peeved at Michael for ordering the wrong pizza! Even its menu reminds you: It’s “home to ‘the good pizza’ as seen on The Office”. 

During your tour of Scranton, be sure to add Alfredo’s to your list. It’s the perfect lunch spot, with plenty of options for everyone. Beyond pizza, they serve salads, wraps, burgers, subs, pasta, steak, seafood and more. 

701 N. Washington Ave.

The “business/romantic” Cooper’s Seafood House was mentioned several times in the show, but was featured most prominently in season 5’s “Business Ethics” episode. Though the interior scenes were filmed in Los Angeles, the exterior shot was actually filmed on-site at the real Cooper’s. 

Truthfully, I was most excited about visiting Cooper’s during our Scranton tour – not because of the food, but because it’s the only place in Scranton (surprisingly) that boasts a huge collection of “The Office” merchandise. You better believe we left with a bag full of totally necessary merch.

Plus, Cooper’s houses some incredible pop culture memorabilia, so even if you’re not a fan of “The Office”, you’ll have fun wandering the halls and marveling at all the treasures of yesteryear.

125 Beech St.

A favorite of the employees of Dunder Mifflin, Poor Richard’s is mentioned and featured in many episodes, most notably in “Cocktails”, “Local Ad”, “St. Patrick’s Day” and “A.A.R.M.” – the second-to-last episode of the series, in which the office employees head to the dive bar to watch the official airing of the documentary. 

Unless you listen to the Office Ladies podcast or live in the Scranton area, it may come as a surprise that the real Poor Richard’s Pub is located inside a bowling alley (South Side Bowl). If you want any Poor Richard’s swaaaaaaag, be sure to stop in the bowling alley, where they have T-shirts and hoodies for sale. 

The Marketplace at Steamtown

300 lackawanna ave..

Nobody loves the Steamtown Mall more than Kelly Kapoor. So, when Michael Scott takes the ladies to the mall in season 3’s “Women’s Appreciation”, it’s a dream come true for Kelly. 

Mike and I, however, didn’t get as much enjoyment out of our visit to The Marketplace at Steamtown. Beyond the lure of its mention on “The Office”, there wasn’t anything extraordinary about it. 

There is one benefit of visiting, though. It’s where the “Scranton Welcomes You” sign is located. The sign, which you see in the intro of each episode, was moved to the mall after causing too much disruption on the road – due to people stopping to take pictures with it. 

Now on the second floor of the mall, the sign sits on AstroTurf in front of a printed screen of Scranton. Not quite the same as if it were outside, but it’s still a good photo op for “The Office” superfans!  

Penn Paper Tower

215 vine st..

Even if you used to skip the intro on Netflix, the iconic image of the Dunder Mifflin tower still made its way onto your screen.

The first shot shown in the intro was apparently filmed by John Krasinski (Jim Halpert) during one of his early trips to Scranton, according to the Office Ladies. The footage made its way into the intro, becoming the backdrop to one of TV’s most recognizable theme songs. 

The tower – actually home to the family-owned Pennsylvania Paper & Supply Company – isn’t far from The Marketplace at Steamtown, so you can walk there to take in the scenery, or drive if you’re pressed for time.

I love that the tower still features the Dunder Mifflin logo, even eight years after the show last aired!

Bonus “The Office” Locales

Electric city sign, 507 linden st. .

They call it Scranton! What?! The Electric City!

Even though this spot wasn’t featured in the show, it’s still a must-see for “The Office” fans. The sign lights up Scranton’s skyline at night, but even during the day, it will surely remind you of Michael’s “Lazy Scranton” employee orientation song.

Electric City Mural, Central Scranton Expressway on/off ramp exit off I-81

Keep your eyes open for this easy-to-miss mural off the highway. It’s not really a must-see, but it’s worth snapping a photo as you drive by. 

Lake Wallenpaupack, 2512 Route 6 Ste 1 Hawley, PA 

It’s a booze cruise!

Located just 40 minutes from Scranton is the famous Lake Wallenpaupack, where season 2’s “Booze Cruise” is set. If you have some time to spare, be sure to check it out. The lake is beautiful, and there’s a trail around it that offers scenic views – perfect for couples or families.  

Scranton Business Park, Chandler Valley Center Studios, 13927 Saticoy St, Panorama City, CA

California? That’s a far way from Scranton.

OK, OK. This is by no means close to Scranton, but I had to include it! Before we got to see the real-life “The Office” locales, we stopped by the set for a quick photo while we were visiting LA . 

And there you have it! While I wouldn’t recommend driving cross-country just to visit these spots, if you’re in the Poconos or surrounding area for a long weekend, add an afternoon in Scranton to your list. 

If you can squeeze it in, you won’t regret it…

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Emily Malott

26 responses to “5 Spots Every Fan of ‘The Office’ Must Visit in Scranton, PA”

In the episode that Jim purchased his parents house for him & Pam without her knowing…. In the yard was the real estate sign for the reality company I worked for at that time. They really went out if their way to make the show feel authentic. And we all in the area would be like “oooh snap they just mentioned ” 😁

Wow! That’s so cool!! I love all the little details that went into making the show feel like it really was filmed in Scranton.

You need to update your location list to include the huge Dwight mural at On&On Antiques. I can email you a photo is you like. It’s a must see!

https://onandonscranton.com/

Omg yes please!! How did we not know about this?! Please share with us: [email protected] – thanks for your comment! 🤗

My family owns coopers and my Dad and uncles were really excited when they were approached about shooting for an episode at our restaurant. I took the day off from my job and sat at the bar from morning until night hoping to make into a background shot because we didn’t know if they were going to do interior or exterior shots. I found out they had come and gone after shooting only exterior shots, and I needed a ride home after sitting at the bar for 8 hours on a weekday. It was really cool to see my family’s restaurant on national TV, but unfortunately ticket to stardom didn’t come through.

That’s so awesome! Wow, what a legacy! Too bad you weren’t featured, but it makes for a great story 😄 Have you guys noticed an increase in business because of the show? I’m always so curious about that. Also, I just want to say that we LOVED the gift shop!

Love this list! Thank you so much. Planning a trip to the Poconos this summer, and absolutely must hit up Scranton!!!!

We’re so glad you found it helpful!!

I love this!! I live in central Indiana, and I am going to my graduation commencement at SNHU this May. We are driving so I reserved an overnight stay at Scranton on the way to Boston. We won’t have too much time there, but we are hitting up a lot of these locations on this article. Thank you!

That’s awesome!! I’m thrilled the article was helpful 🙂 An overnight stay should give you plenty of time to check out all these must-sees. But if you have to prioritize, I would say definitely go to Alfredo’s for pizza (ask the staff at the front desk if you can take a picture holding the “original” Alfredo’s pizza box!), snap some pictures of the Penn Paper tower, then check out the gift shop at Cooper’s. Have fun!!

Have made the journey to Scranton from Australia (via Canada)… I’ll be using this list tomorrow!!

Yay!! So glad it’ll be helpful on your trip! Enjoy every minute and definitely get some pizza at Alfredo’s 😊

Valley View is a local high school where job fair took place. Also football helmet hanging on coat is authentic Valley View Cougars. Pam was also a graduate of Valley View. What is the link to the show?

I found myself in Wilkes-Barre and had an afternoon to kill, found this page and it helped me hit all the spots I wanted. Thanks for including the addresses!

I’m so glad to hear that! I hope you enjoyed Scranton as much as we did!

[…] A great blog post about these locations, by real fans, is at this address: https://travelingtwogether.com/2021/01/16/5-spots-every-fan-of-the-office-must-visit-in-scranton-pa/ […]

Thank you for this page! You captured one of the reasons why we decided to buy a vacation home, which we also offer for rent, in between Scranton and Lake Wallenpaupack!

Comments like this make my heart happy! Thank you for sharing your positive feedback! 🙂

[…] Memorable Scranton locations featured on The Office include: […]

Thanks for this great list! We plan on stopping by on a road trip to Florida from Ithaca and I am excited to stop in Scranton as my son.and I are avid fans of the Office!

I’m so glad it was helpful! Hope you have a blast in Scranton with your son!

I came to visit my friend in New York, and realized how close we were. I’ve got the list ready to go and we’re heading out tomorrow!

Yay!! Have fun! 🤗

[…] shared before about our adventures touring must-see Office locations in Scranton, PA, and our detour to check out Chandler Valley Center Studios in California where they filmed The […]

This is awesome- I went to college at Univ of Scranton ‘89 grad! My wife and I will be visiting again in Sept 2023 and plan to go to every spot we can. I can’t imagine how much things have changed ….

Oh wow! I bet things are much different. I hope you have a wonderful time!

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13 Things To Do In Scranton: Complete Guide From The City's Natural Wonders To Historic Landmarks

Looking for things to do in Scranton? Check out the complete guide to the city’s attractions, including The Office hotspots.

Read update

Top Attractions In Scranton

Scranton, also known as the Electric City, earned this nickname from being the first town in the country to install electric street cars. This destination is also familiar to fans of the popular TV sitcom The Office , which was set in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Still, this northeastern Pennsylvania city was once a major coal-mining center and a hub for steel production. Scranton retains traces of this past as the Lackawanna Coal Mine remains, a tourist attraction that visitors can explore. More of the city’s history is preserved at the Everhart Museum of Natural History, as well as the Steamtown National Historic Site, both of which welcome tours.

Philadelphia is also about 140 miles away, making Scranton a good weekend getaway in Pennsylvania for those visiting from Philly. This city is also a short drive to some of Pennsylvania's most beautiful towns like New Hope and Jim Thorpe, so visitors can choose to go on a road trip as well.

For those looking for things to do in Scranton, this article is a complete guide to the city’s attractions, from natural wonders like Nay Aug Park to historical landmarks like the Lackawanna County Courthouse.

UPDATE: 2023/08/01 15:05 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

There's never a dull time in Electricity City thanks to an endless supply of wonderful sites to visit and exciting experiences to indulge in. With this refreshed list, discover more things to do when visiting Scranton

Things To Do In Scranton, Pennsylvania

The name Scranton might be of interest because of The Office , but it offers a lot more than just memories of the hilarious antics of the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company employees as portrayed in the sitcom.

Boasting some of the top things to do in Pennsylvania , here are the best attractions Scranton offers:

1 Visit Nay Aug Park

Nay Aug Park holds the title of Scranton’s largest park- a must-visit destination for first-timers in Pennsylvania . This park’s history dates back to the late 1800s when it was established and visitors can learn about this past at the Everhart Museum, which is within Nay Aug.

A popular hiking spot in the park is the Nay Aug Gorge, where there’s a stunning waterfall, lush plant life, and some wildlife. Nay Aug also boasts a zoo, picnic areas, and two Olympic-sized swimming pools.

• Address : 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States
• Hours : Dawn - 8 pm (daily)
• Admission : Free

Stop by the Nay Aug Falls within the park to admire one of the most gorgeous urban waterfalls in the state (more on this to come).

2 Hike The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is a 70-mile trail that runs along the Lackawanna River, with sections of it crossing the Lackawanna Heritage Valley. Take advantage of one of Pennsylvania's most scenic trails , popular among walkers, bikers, and runners. It is conveniently accessible at multiple points, including in Scranton, and offers visitors an excellent opportunity to get outside and explore the city's open spaces.

• There are actually 10 trailheads in Scranton, including Elm Street Trailhead, Broadway Street Trailhead, Dean Street Trailhead, and Market Street Trailhead.

3 Spend Time In Nature At Lackawanna State Park

This vast park spans close to 1500 acres, with its centerpiece being Lackawanna Lake. There are 18 miles of trails charted through Lackawanna State Park , appealing to beginners and experienced hikers alike.

One of the easiest ones is the 2-mile Abington Trail, which passes the lake's south shore. Visitors looking for a challenging hike can take the Lee Hill, Kennedy Creek, or Bull Hill Trails.

Lackawanna State Park also has picnic sites overlooking the lake and campgrounds. Plus, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, or fishing in Lackawanna Lake, horse riding, sledding, and skiing on the trails. These features make it one of Pennsylvania's popular state parks .

• Address : 1839 N Abington Rd, North Abington Township, PA 18414, United States
• Hours : Sunrise to Sunset (daily)

4 Learn About Railroad History At Steamtown National Historic Site

This historic site is located in downtown Scranton, where the old railroad roundhouse and turntable were built. There are several buildings from the late 1800s to early 1900s that were used by the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad; these are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Steamtown showcases century-old train cars, passenger coaches, and steam locomotives, plus visitors can take a ride in the steam-powered locomotives. Those with a deeper interest in trains may also visit the Locomotive Repair Shop for a guided tour.

• Address : 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours : 10 am - 4 pm (daily)
• Admission : Free entrance; $6 for short train rides

Related: Ride This Abandoned Train Through Pennsylvania's Mining History

5 Tour The Lackawanna Coal Mine

From the late 1800s, the Lackawanna Coal Mine was a beehive of activities, fueling an influx of European immigrants in search of work in the mines. However, work ground to a halt in the late 1960s, and the mine remained unused until it was transformed into a museum 12 years later.

Today, guests can take a tour of the Lackawanna Coal Mine to get an idea of how it was to work 300 feet underground.

• Address : Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States
• Hours : Fri - Mon: 10 am - 4 pm (Apr to Nov)
• Price : Adults (13-64): $10; Seniors (65+): $9.50; Children (3-12) $7.50; Children (under 3): Free

The Lackawanna Coal Mine is within the same complex as the Anthracite Heritage Museum, another iconic site worth a visit that delves into the city's past through interesting artifacts and exhibits.

6 Learn About Scranton’s History At The Lackawanna Historical Society

The Lackawanna Historical Society is located in an ancient house built in 1912 for George H. Caitlin and his family. Inside, visitors get to learn about Scranton’s history, with exhibits that portray life in the city over a century ago. There are displays on coal mining, rail transportation, and even artifacts used during the Civil War.

A tour also reveals the house’s ancient furniture and fixtures, including an old Chippendale grandfather clock, the original mahogany dining table, and a unique Kashan rug.

• Address : 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States
• Hours : Tue - Fri: 10 am - 5 pm; Sat: 12 pm - 3 pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

7 Visit Electric City Trolley Museum

Scranton is known as Electric City because this is where the first electric street cars were used. The Electric City Trolley Museum traces the history of the electric railway in eastern Pennsylvania.

Housed in a 19th-century mill building, this location is itself a historical landmark. Some of the exhibits here include a trolley substation, large-scale models of railway cars, and miniature trolley models.

Visitors can also take a trolley excursion from the Steamtown National Historic Site.

• Address : 300 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours : 9 am - 4 pm (daily)
• Price (Museum + Ride): Adults $12; Seniors (62+): $9; Children (4-17): $8; Children (3 and under): Free

The highlight of visiting the museum is hopping aboard the 1926/1932 trolley to enjoy a scenic ride around the countryside, with sightings of Roaring Brook and PNC Field along the way.

8 Catch A Performance At The Scranton Cultural Center

This is a performing arts center at the Masonic Temple, which was built in 1930. This site hosts various shows throughout the year, ranging from comedy shows to live music performances. For instance, Broadway in Scranton stages their performances at the Scranton Cultural Center .

• Address : 420 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Box Office Hours : Mon - Fri: 10 am - 5 pm; Sat: 10 am - 2 pm (closed on Sun)

Ticket prices vary, so those planning to visit should check out the center’s website for the event calendar and prices.

Related: 8 Of The Most Romantic Getaways You Can Find In Pennsylvania

9 Admire The Lackawanna County Courthouse

The Lackawanna County Courthouse was built in the late 1800s and opened its doors to the public in 1884. The ancient architecture of the building is what draws visitors with an affinity for historic landmarks.

The building has had some modern facelifts that include the glass section on its facade. However, it retains its iconic spires that characterize its 1800s design. Visitors can check out this and other landmarks on an architectural walking tour of Scranton.

• Address : 200 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours : Monday to Friday, 9 am - 4 pm

After touring inside the Lackawanna County Courthouse, take a breather on its relaxed grounds and scope out the lovely statues of iconic national figures dotting it, including George Washington and Christopher Columbus.

10 Check Out The Electricity City Aquarium & Reptile Den

The Electricity City & Reptile Den is home to hundreds of creatures with scales and fins. This fun and educational facility displays a vast variety of species, from sharks, crocodiles, and stingrays to snakes and tortoises. The aquarium launched in 2017, growing to be a popular draw in the city.

Its unforgettable walk-through experience takes tourists from the Frog Swamp, past the Snake Den, to the Gator Alley, and finally, the Shark Reef, culminating in a wildlife adventure like no other. There are numerous awesome animals to encounter along the way, with informative displays alongside the exhibits.

However, the highlight has to be the Touch Tank, where travelers get to stroke stingrays.

• Address : 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours : Open daily, 11 am - 6 pm
• Cost : $18.95 for adults, $15.95 for children, and $16.95 for college students, seniors, military members, and first responders.

The Electricity City Aquarium & Reptile Den forms a section of the Marketplace at Steamtown, a popular downtown shopping center where shopaholics can stroll for some retail therapy.

11 Cheer The RailRaiders At PNC Field

Located near downtown Scranton, PNC Field is a 10,000-capacity baseball arena where the RailRaiders play their home games. This minor league affiliate of the New York Yankees offers fans in the city the closest thing to watching a Major League Baseball game.

And since they are just a step away from the Yankees, this is also an excellent opportunity to watch budding baseball prospects bound for the major leagues without breaking the bank for tickets.

The atmosphere is always buzzing with fans willing on their home team. Besides enjoying a thrilling sports show, there are various snacks to chomp on while watching the game.

Visit the PNC Field website to view the venue's schedule and ticket prices for the games.

12 Experience The Beauty Of Nay Aug Falls

Nay Aug Falls, found within Nay Aug Park, is a gorgeous cascade on Roaring Brook in Sanctron. The falls drop 20 feet into a delightful gorge, forming a clean natural pool of water. Despite its relatively small size, Nay Aug Fall is a spectacle worth experiencing in a laid-back setting perfect for unwinding.

The waterfall is just a half-mile walk from the parking area at Nay Aug Park, making it easily accessible to visitors. Those who fancy a light exercise can opt for the longer trail, which passes through the brook well on its way to the observation deck opposite the Nay Aug Gorge.

To explore more of the state's waterfalls, an hour's drive to the west will bring tourists to Rickets Glenn State Park , which boasts a handful of such natural wonders.

13 Go Shopping At The Marketplace At Steamtown

For those who prefer to keep their adventures indoors, the Marketplace at Steamtown is the ideal place for newcomers in Pennsylvania . This huge mall houses tens of shopping stores, beauty shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues catering to every taste, budget, and interest.

Guests can find all manner of goods and merchandise, from beauty products and apparel to fashion accessories and kids' toys, serving as the ultimate playground for shopaholics. Every weekend, the venue also hosts the Scranton Public Market, where visitors can buy fresh local produce and crafts.

• Hours : Monday to Saturday (11 am - 7 pm), Sunday (Noon - 5 pm)

14 Where To Eat In Scranton

Northeast Pennsylvania is known for foods like smoked pork and the iconic Philly Cheesesteak to snacks like Swiss Crème and. Below is a look at the best places to eat in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Sharon's Place

• Address : 411 S Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18505, United States
• Hours : Mon - Fri: 7 am - 3 pm; Sat & Sun: 7 am - 1 pm
• Dishes : Sharon’s Famous Pancakes, French toast, Big Boy Breakfast Hoagie (eggs, cheese, Italian bread).

Waffle House

• Address : 708 Davis St, Scranton, PA 18505, United States
• Hours : 24 hours (daily)
• Dishes : Classic waffles, Texas sausages, cheese biscuits, hashbrowns

Smokey Bones Wilkes Barre

• Address : ​​265 Mundy St, Wilkes-Barre Township, PA 18702, United States
• Hours : Sun - Thu: 11 am - 12 am; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 1 am
• Dishes : Signature BBQ Burger, Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese, ribs, Shrimp & Grits

Cooper's Seafood House

• Address : 701 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18509, United States
• Hours : Mon - Thu: 12 pm - 9 pm; Fri - Sun: 12 pm - 10 pm
• Dishes : Buffalo Bites, Coconut Shrimp, Brazilian Lobster Tail, Seafood Alfredo, Shrimp Scampi

Dinner & Drinks

Arcangelo's mamma rosa italian kitchen.

• Address : 111 E Market St Rear, Scranton, PA 18509, United States
• Hours : Wed - Sat: 4:30 pm - 9 pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
• Dishes : Chicken Parmigiana, Stuffed Shells with Meatballs, Baked Cannelloni, Veal Saltimbocca, Pasta Marinara

Backyard Ale House

• Address : 523 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours : Wed: 4 pm - 2 am; Thu - Sat: 11 am - 2 am; Sun: 11 am - 10 pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
• Dishes : Chicken Tenders, Mac & Cheese, Chips N Dip, Turkey Burger, Impossible Burger, Nashville Chicken
• Drinks : Old Fashioned, Cosmo, Flirtini, Manhattan, White Russian

Ale Mary's at the Bittenbender

• Address : 126 Franklin Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours : Mon & Wed - Fri: 4 pm - 12 am (closed on Tue)
• Dishes : Wings, Bittenbender Slider, Mac & Cheese
• Drinks : Gin Weasley, Tyrone’s Sangria, Swanson, draft beer

15 Where To Stay In Scranton, Pennsylvania

Finding a place to stay in Scranton is easy, no matter a traveler's budget.

Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel

• Address : 138 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503
• Price : From $194
• Amenities : Airport shuttle, restaurant, on-site ATM, fitness center, hot tub, conference rooms

Home2 Suites by Hilton Dickson City Scranton

• Address : 914 Scranton-Carbondale Highway, Dickson City, PA 18519
• Price : From $169
• Amenities : Business center, laundry facilities, patio, BBQ grill, free parking, gym, hot tub, indoor pool

Comfort Suites Scranton near Montage Mountain

• Address : 44 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18507
• Price : From $93
• Amenities : Spa, gym, game room, laundry facilities, indoor pool, airport shuttle, free parking, laundry facilities, kids’ club

Related: 8 Of The Best Cabin Rentals In Pennsylvania

Vacation Rentals

Woolworth Mansion Scranton

• Address : Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States
• Price : From $3253
• Amenities : 8 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 20 beds, iron gates, solarium, study hall, marble fireplaces, spacious courtyard, free parking, washer & dryer, travel crib, children’s books

Heavenly Hideaway

• Price : From $270
• Amenities : 5 bedrooms, 2 baths, back deck, free parking, mountain view, outdoor shower, washer & dryer, 72-inch TV, pool table, full kitchen, electric fireplace

Lovely Room near Downtown Scranton

• Price : From $72
• Amenities : Private room, queen bed, shared bath, smart TV, kitchen access, laundry room

16 Best Time To Visit Scranton

The best time to visit Scranton depends on a tourist’s budget, weather preference, and activities that interest them. Here’s a look at what to expect in Scranton in the different seasons.

Spring (March to May)

April and May are good months to visit for those looking for mild weather and low tourist numbers. March, however, is still chilly, with highs in the mid to high 40s (8 - 10 degrees Celsius).

April and May, on the other hand, get highs from the high 50s to the high 603 (15 to 21 degrees Celsius). These are good months to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.

Summer (June to August)

Summer temperatures reach highs between the mid-70s and the low 80s. The warm weather attracts lots of tourists so those who visit at this time will be faced with high hotel rates. Lovers of jazz may attend the Scranton Jazz Festival in August.

Autumn (September to November)

The summer heat eases in September and temperatures drop even further in October through to November. Visitors who are averse to the heat may visit Scranton in the fall as the highs are usually between the low 70s and the low 50s.

Related: Fall On A Budget: 10 Affordable Places To Visit In The US This Autumn

Winter (December to February)

Lovers of snow may visit Scranton in winter and enjoy activities like snowboarding and skiing. The coldest month is January, with temperatures likely to drop to the teens.

17 Getting Around Scranton

Visitors flying into Scranton may land at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport , which is just eight miles from the town center. This airport is served by United and American Airlines, which fly in from New York, Chicago, and Charlotte.

Visitors may choose to drive themselves around Scranton by renting a car at the airport from companies like Avis, National, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, and Hertz.

Those who don’t wish to drive may take advantage of services like Uber and Lyft, or local taxi cabs like Burgit’s City Taxi.

Public Transport

Visitors can also use the local bus system operated by the County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS) . These buses run on routes in the county, with Scranton as one of the routes.

• The buses start running from around 6:30 am to 6:30 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 4:30 pm on Saturdays.
• Fares cost $1.75 for a single trip and multi-ride passes start at $15.75.

18 Spending The Perfect Day In Scranton, Pennsylvania

The perfect day in Scranton involves a mix of spending time in nature and touring the historical sites. Start the day with breakfast at one of the local restaurants then head off to Lackawanna State Park for a morning hike and boating in Lackawanna Lake.

Have a picnic lunch at the park then head to Steamtown National Historic Site to check out the old locomotives. Visit Electric City Trolley Museum as well, which is on the historic site’s property.

In the late afternoon, head to Nay Aug Park to relax and have a swim in one of the Olympic-sized pools. Later, freshen up for dinner and enjoy a meal at a restaurant like Arcangelo's Mamma Rosa Italian Kitchen. Finally, catch an evening performance at the Scranton Cultural Center.

Q: Is Scranton PA worth visiting?

Yes, although Scranton is a small city, it's still worth visiting because of its rich history as seen at the abandoned mines or the Steamtown National Historic Site, and its stunning natural sites like Nay Aug Park and Lackawanna State Park.

Q: Are there any museums in Scranton?

There are several museums in Scranton, including the Steamtown National Historic Site, the Everhart Museum, and the Lackawanna Historical Society.

Q: Were any Office scenes filmed in Scranton?

While The Office was filmed largely in Los Angeles, there are some Scranton locations that were featured in the show, including Steamtown Mall and the Electric City sign, not to mention Cooper's Seafood House (there's Office merch available here, too).

Top Things to Do in Scranton, PA

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What travellers are saying

29 Top Fun Things to Do in Scranton (PA)

Scranton is an exceptionally beautiful city in Northeast Pennsylvania, Lackawanna County, United States.

This city is known as one of the largest in the State and the most populated in the northeast, with a population of over seventy thousand.

Scranton offers a unique diversity of attractions; there is something from every sector, assuring you an amazing experience.

During your visit to Scranton, do well to stop by the Everhart Museum, Lackawanna County Coal Mine, Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, Catlin House, and other attractions in this guide.

Are you planning an exploration of Scranton? Here are the top things to do in Scranton, PA.

Things to Do in Scranton, PA

1. scranton cultural center.

A place that offers you an amazing experience is the Scranton Cultural Center , and it ought to be added to your list of fun things to do in Scranton, PA.

Scranton Cultural Center is presently one of the most extraordinary centers for culture, performing arts, and entertainment, although initially used as a Masonic Temple and Scottish Rite Cathedral.

The center is a 180, 000 Square foot facility with an outstanding architectural feature, which is one of the main highlights of the facility.

Scranton Cultural Center contains a grand ballroom, two theaters, many rooms for meetings, and several multi-use rooms.

The cultural center offers public tours, which are open to those who would like to discover more facts about the key elements of the building, with many tours guides available thrown more lights and answer questions.

Scranton Cultural Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it was designed by Godley & Fouilhoux, Raymond Hood, and Harry V. K. Henderson.

Address: 420 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503; United States ,

2. Everhart Museum

The Everhart Museum was donated to the city of Scranton in 1907 by Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everhart, a famous Scranton physician after whom the museum was named after.

The Museum houses an extensive collection of science, history, and art exhibits. Everhart Museum offers numerous hands-on activities available for students, including educational classes for adults and summer camping.

The Everhart Museum holds a farm-to-table event every year that involves the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

This museum first started as an outlet for showcasing an array of native birds and wildlife samples; as it grew, its collection also grew.

The Everhart Museum is open all the days of the week from February to December except on Wednesdays, and it is usually shut down in January for thorough maintenance.

Address: 1901 Mulberry St., Scranton, PA 18510, United States

3. Artworks Gallery & Studio

For art lovers, here is something for you; add a visit to Artworks Gallery & Studio to your checklist of things to do in Scranton, PA.

Artworks Gallery & Studio is dedicated to providing a space to inspire the creative spirits of emerging and experienced artists with disabilities.

The art gallery consists of a multi-use room with a superb atmosphere conducive to artists with high hopes and dreams of improving their craft.

Artworks Gallery & Studio is a venue for one of the popular events held on a First Friday involving other local galleries and businesses.

The gallery is open on Monday from 8:30am-5pm, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday from 8am-5pm, Wednesday from 8am-7pm, and Sunday from 12pm-4pm.

Address: 236 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

4. Electric City Trolley Museum

Are you ready for a wonderful adventure? Add a visit to Electric City Trolley Museum to your list of places to visit in Scranton, PA.

Electric City Trolley Museum was built to collect and preserve the rail line history in Scranton.

The city of Scranton was proclaimed the “Electric City” in the late 1880s, and it was the first ever in Pennsylvania State due to its passenger trolley line.

Electric City Trolley Museum features exhibits which include a refurbished trolley car, model trolleys & railways, railway lights, headlights, train materials, and more.

There is an interactive trolley exhibition for children to explore, plus a trolley car which takes visitors on a ride through different historical sites.

Address: 300 Cliff Street, Scranton, PA 18503, University States

5. Houdini Museum

Are you a fan of Harry Houdini? If yes, visiting Houdini Museum is one of the top things to do in Scranton, a place that genuinely appreciates his life and talent, PA.

Houdini Museum was established in honor of Harry Houdini, one of the world’s most popular and distinguished magicians.

The Museum showcases several artifacts, pictures, and posters focusing on the life of Houdini and his career.

Houdini Museum offers tours of the facility to visitors as well as a live magic show performed by world-famous Dick Brooks and Dorothy Dietrich.

The Museum offers you an exceptional experience that lasts about 2½ hours to a maximum of 3 hours. Although reservations are highly advised since the slots available are limited for each show.

Address: 1433 N Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18508, United States

6. Waffle House

Dining at Waffle House is one of the top things to do in Scranton, PA for foodies; this is a popular food spot which has been serving the public since 1955.

Waffle House is well known for preparing and serving the best waffles with several other varieties of meals that will surely tickle your taste buds.

Like the popular saying, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” but while eating, it is also important to eat healthy.

Waffle House serves the best Hash Brown and Sausage Bowl, scrambled eggs, Sausage Egg and Grits, Bacon Cheeseburger w Jalapeno Hash Brown, Ham and Cheese Omelette, Chicken Sandwich Deluxe Plate, Sausage Egg & Cheese Hashbrown Bowl, and more.

You can request a coffee, hot tea, lemonade, orange juice, ice cold milk, and many others to go with your delicious meal.

Address: 708 Davis St, Scranton, PA 18505, United States

7. Montage Mountain

Montage Mountain is one popular location among many families that allows them to engage in various outdoor activities.

The mountain is excellent for activities like snow tubing, skiing, and snowboarding during the winter season.

Montage Mountain offers lively skiing tutorials to visitors and residents, irrespective of age. There is a gigantic water park featuring a large wave pool, slides, poolside cabanas, and many more available during the summer months as a perfect way to cool off and relax.

There is a concession stand where you can enjoy a light meal, or you can also visit the Slocum Hollow Bar & Restaurant for a more condensed and comfortable meal.

Address: 100 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18507, United States

8. The Gardens

That moment when you feel stressed and worn out, visiting the Gardens is one of the best things to do in Scranton, PA.

The Gardens is a fantastic nursing & rehabilitation facility comprising one hundred and thirty-nine beds offering different unique services.

This center offers a wide variety of services, including short-term rehabilitation such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

The Gardens has been offering both short-term and long-term care services since 2014, featuring several important amenities.

Their staff is experienced and committed to offering services with great concentration on individual wellness.

The Gardens offers every client free access to weekly laundry services, special restaurant meals, housekeeping, and all-day-long personal care services.

Address: 2751 Boulevard Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509 United States

Are you planning a road trip to Pennsylvania? here is a guide on  things to do in Bedford ,  things to do in Johnstown  and  things to do in West Chester  for a fun trip.

9. Electric City Escape

Electric City Escape guarantees a unique experience with your family and friends through the fun games available.

Each room has a special theme which requires an entirely different style and procedure for breaking the codes and winning the games. 

Electric City Escape offers players 60 minutes to crack codes, solve riddles, and find hints to help you unlock the room and escape in time.

The rooms are not like your usual escape rooms; Electric City Escape rooms are more sophisticated and extensively designed to offer more thrill and excitement.

Electric City Escape is an awesome place for several events like team building events, corporate meetings, date nights, family reunions, and more.

Address: 507 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

10. Scranton Iron Furnaces

Scranton Iron Furnaces is a remnant of the iron industry in the country, dating back to the country’s early days.

This historic landmark comprised of four blast furnaces made of behemoth stone, and it once partnered with the Lackawanna Iron and Steel company.

Scranton Iron Furnaces is open to tours where visitors get to learn more about the roles it played in the advancement of the United States iron industry.

You can also opt for a self-guided tour available throughout the year. Historic Trolley rides are also available from April to October.

Address: 159 Cedar Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18505; United States

11. Nay Aug Park

 Nay Aug Park is a park widely recognized as the largest park in the Scranton, which brings you close and personal with nature.

The park contains several well-paved trails, ideal for peaceful walks around the park, taking you through breathtaking waterfalls, streams, and rocky gorges.

Nay Aug Park features two playgrounds explicitly erected for children to have fun, run around, and make new friends.

There are two Olympic-sized pools featuring many water slides where you can relax and chill during the hot days.

Nay Aug Park also consists of a massive treehouse that soars high into the air with 150 feet for children.

12. Electric City Axe Throwing

Have you ever tried Axe throwing? A visit to Electric City Axe Throwing is a perfect addition to your list of fun things to do in Scranton, PA.

Electric City Axe Throwing is a family-friendly center that offers family and friends an amazing experience when they challenge one another.

You don’t have to worry about not having any preliminary skills on how to throw axes; videos are available to show you all you need to do and professional coaches to guide you.

Electric City Axe Throwing is the first and the only center in Scranton offering axe throwing games with top-notch targets, projected game axe throwing, and more.

This center is perfect for several kinds of tournaments, private parties(birthday parties, fundraisers, bachelorette parties, corporate gatherings), leagues, and more.

Address; 1141 Capouse Ave, Scranton, PA 18509, United States

13. Lake Scranton Walking Path

Lake Scranton Walking Path is a 3.5-mile-long trail in the city of Scranton, excellent for jogging and walking.

The trail runs around a sixteen thousand-acre reservoir known as Lake Scranton, which was constructed to supply water to the city.

Lake Scranton Walking Path is open to pedestrians, but vehicles and bicycles are highly prohibited as well as pets.

The beauty of the lake offers picturesque views of the trail; this is a lovely place to while away time and reflects on your thoughts.

Address: Route 307, Scranton, PA 18505 United States

14. Amendolaro Gift Boutique

Amendolaro Gift Boutique is a beautiful store dedicated to providing the public with special gift items suitable for different events.

There is a large and impressive selection of clothes, accessories, jewelry, and watches, all in different colors, designs, and patterns.

Amendolaro Gift Boutique offers elegant items from brands like Casio, Alex & Ani, Katie Loxton, Brighton, and lots more.

The staff is always available to ask your questions and offer suggestions, in case you’re finding it difficult to choose for any occasion.

Address: 412 Spruce St, Scranton, PA 18503 United States

15. Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum

Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum tells the visitors about the history of immigrants, emphasizing on their tradition, work and lifestyle.

Pennsylvania became home to numerous immigrants far back in the 1800s who decided to integrate into the society and start a new life.

Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum showcases exhibits such as a duplicate of a saloon, a replication of a coal miner’s home, photographs, and more.

The Museum also displays a large stone edifice once used by the Lackawanna Iron & steel company for iron smelting.

Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum is open from Wednesdays to Sundays; make sure you visit the museum and learn about the European immigrants.

Address: 22 Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

16. Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den

Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den is a 20, 000 square foot facility that offers you an opportunity to explore both land and over animals.

This conservation and educational center educates visitors about the significance of animal creatures in the world and how we can protect them.

Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den offer interactive displays and exhibitions that allow guests to get clearer views of eels, sharks, fish, octopuses, and other species.

Visitors get to learn more about animals that lay eggs, including animals like crocodiles, snakes, lizards, tortoises, and more.

Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den offer visitors an educational and interactive tour, around camouflaging octopuses, majestic stingrays, and more.

The knowledgeable tour guides also educate the public on all they need to know about different species and their favorite spots in the ecosystem.

Address: 300 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503 United States

Planning a trip to Pennsylvania road trip, don’t miss our checklist of  fun things to do in Altoona ,  things to do in Bethlehem , and  fun things to do in Williamsport .

17. McDade Park

Are you an outdoor enthusiast? If yes, Visiting McDade Park is one of the top things to do in Scranton, PA, especially with your travel companion.

McDade Park was founded in the 1970s and has become a general location for several indoor and outdoor activities in the city.

The park features multi-use fields and a large playground with lots of eye-catching play equipment open to everyone.

McDade Park contains a bathhouse and an Olympic-sized swimming pool, perfect during the hot summer months.

The park is also rich in history, home to the Anthracite Heritage Museum, the Cancer Memorial Garden and Arboretum, and the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

McDade Park features almost two miles of trails, excellent for hiking and cross-country running. The park also offers equipment for rentals and opportunities for visitors to have fun.

Address: 1 Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18504; United States

18. Steamtown National Historic Site

 For the curious and open-minded people, visiting Steamtown National Historic Site is one of the best things to do in Scranton, PA.

Steamtown National Historic Site was founded to preserve and promote the essential history of steam locomotives.

Once in the history of Pennsylvania, locomotives used to be a crucial means of transportation for passengers and coal.

Steamtown National Historic Site displays a wide array of memorabilia dating back to the early days of the railroad, a well-refurbished steam locomotive, photographs, and more.

The Museum features a roundhouse specifically for technicians where repairs and maintenance of the trains are done.

Steamtown National Historic Site features a theatre where short films about the railroad history are shown for visitors to enjoy.

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

19. Reaper’s Revenge

Are you a fan of creepy and scary stories? Visiting one of the scariest locations is one of the best things to do in Scranton, PA.

Reaper’s Revenge features up to five different creepy facilities open for visitors to explore and get the desired thrills.

One of the five is the Haunted Hayride which offers you a hay wagon to go through an obscured track of sixty-six acres surrounded by numerous scary creatures.

Lost Carnival, Pitch Black, Sector 13, and Delirium are the other four attractions ideal for those with strong minds; get ready to have fun.

Address: 460 Green Grove Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18447; United States

20. Lackawanna County Coal Mine

Lackawanna County Coal Mine offers visitors a memorable experience in Scranton through the various tours available.

The Coal Mine played an important role in Pennsylvania’s economy for several years; it is now open to those who would like to tour the property.

Lackawanna County Coal Mine offers visitors an opportunity to look closely at what underground mining is all about.

The tour guides are well experienced and knowledgeable enlightening the visitors about the coal mining history.

You also get to see 300 feet underground, the levels miners get to before you walk by three veins of the coal and learn more about the equipment used and mining methods.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

21. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

A visit to the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is an excellent addition to your list of fun things to do in Scranton, PA.

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is a stunning trail that spans for over seventy miles cutting across urban and rural areas.

The trail is well-paved and properly maintained, making it perfect for running, cycling, jogging, and walking.

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is a spot for several special competitions, including group biking, walking, running, and more, held all year round.

The trail passes through several vital points and towns, linking over thirty towns going through Wayne County, Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Susquehanna.

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail takes visitors through the paths filled with many cultures, history, tradition, arts, and good people.

Address:Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, Scranton, PA, United States

22. Backyard Ale

Backyard Ale is a laid-back restaurant and pub in Scranton that offers an amazing experience when you visit alone or with your buddies.

This restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious craft beers and high-quality cocktails, offering the needed satisfaction and refreshment.

Backyard Ale is open to every group sizes, and they do not require any prior reservation before you visit, offering a comfortable and relaxed environment.

They offer drinks like pipeline porter, mesquite bbq brown ale, fall foliage, turbo nerd xipa, 1911 hard cider, Guinness stout, Miller lite brewing co., and more.

Backyard Ale also offers delicious meals like chicken tenders, chicken wings & bites, cowboy burgers, chicken bacon ranch sandwiches, salmon sandwiches, cheesy pepperoni bread, and more.

The restaurant is open on Wednesday from 4pm-2am, Thursday to Saturday from 12pm-2am, and Sunday from 12pm-11pm (closed on Monday and Tuesday)

Address: 523 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

23. Catlin House

Catlin House is a beautiful mansion built in 1912 in a Tudor-inspired style that formerly served as the home of an early Scranton Businessman, George H. Catlin.

The house consists of elegantly preserved and well-decorated sixteen rooms with distinct designs and vintage antiques.

Catlin House is characterized by stained glass windows, a staircase made from wood, and gorgeous wood paneling.

This mansion also features a lecture room and a research library currently serving as the Lackawanna Historical Society’s headquarters.

Address: 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

24. The Curiosity Shop

Are you planning any special event or just want to add to your wardrobe? Shopping at the Curiosity Shop is among the best things to do in Scranton, PA.

The Curiosity Shop opened its doors to the public in 1983 and has consistently served patrons the best products ever since.

They specialize in offering beautiful, quality, and contemporary items with a high longevity level for affordable prices.

The Curiosity Shop offers you a wide range of jewelry, scarves, purses, home decor, gift items, and more from reputable brands.

Everything here is well organized; each item is arranged according to its category with friendly and helpful staff offering customers assistance when the need arises.

Address: 640 E Market St, Scranton, PA 18509, United States

25. Cooper’s Seafood House

A place that offers you an exceptional dining experience with your friends in Scranton is Cooper’s Seafood House .

Cooper’s Seafood House is a nice restaurant where you can enjoy wide options of fresh and quality meals with flavorful drinks.

The restaurant is a family-owned and operated business that existed from 1948 and has become an essential element in Scranton.

Cooper’s Seafood House is located in what was once the Erie-Lackawanna Station and has grown from seventy-five seats to more than Five hundred seats.

The restaurant offers a beautifully decorated interior adorned with nice designs, and there have been two latest additions, the deck and lighthouse.

Cooper’s Seafood House offers a comprehensive food menu, including Guinness French Onion Soup, Cedar Plank Salmon, Buffalo Chicken Burger, Caesar Salad, Scallops in Lobster Sauce, Seafood Crepes, and more.

They also serve wines and cocktails such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Frozen Strawberry Daquiri, Spiked Watermelon Iced Tea, and more.

Address: 701 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18509, United States

26. Bee’s Backyard

Bee’s Backyard is a 12,000 square feet indoor entertainment center for children located at Steam town Marketplace. Give your kids a uniquely fun experience when you bring them the Bee’s Backyard.

This facility features big inflatables, a soft play yard, a toddler-designated play area, and other fun amenities. Your kids are in for a great deal of fun as they can jump, climb and swing past bridges, tight ropes, and cargo nets.

Whenever the kids are famished, you can check out the Bumble Bar to get cold drinks and snacks such as man and cheese, popcorn, and hot dogs. There are special rooms in Bee’s Backyard to host your birthday parties. 

The facility is clean and safe, and its staff is welcoming and super friendly. Bee’s Backyard is such an amazing place to visit with kids.

They hold public events such as Open Play and Special Events, which involve seasonal holiday celebrations with group events such as fundraisers, field excursions, and group parties.

Address: The Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

27. DEFY Scranton

DEFY is a new extreme trampoline Sports Park in Scranton, PA, offering visitors many fun activities. It is a family-friendly destination with lots of things to do; you can bounce, fly, and jump all you want at this incredible indoor facility.

This trampoline park features a large room filled with trampolines where visitors can bounce, jump and try out those flips and tricks they have been practicing.

Visitors can explore their Ninja Course, dodgeball, high-end air track, stunt fall, wall Tramp, aerial skills, dunk zone, and foam pit/airbag.

DEFY is an excellent destination to hold special occasions, including team-building events, birthday parties, etc. DEFY is open to people of all ages and offers fun services at great value.

Address: 1011 Scranton Carbondale Hwy, Scranton, PA 18508, United States

28. Weston Field

If you are a sports enthusiast, one of the best things to do in Scranton, PA, is to visit Weston Field. It is a full-service community facility in Scranton named after Charles Weston. It was established around 1916

This sports park and fitness hub provides visitors with all they need to have great fun and be fit. This attraction serves as the main office for Scranton’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Weston Field has an outdoor and indoor pool, outdoor basketball courts, outdoor running/walking track, kiddish playground, men’s steam room, weight room/treadmills, gym, meeting rooms, boxing ring, track, soccer field, birthday parties, and gym rentals. 

There are many things to do at Weston Field to keep you, your friends, and your loved ones entertained throughout your stay. There is never a dull moment here, which is why this destination should be a must-see for anyone.

Address: 982 Providence Rd, Scranton, PA 18508, USA

29. AFA Gallery

If you are an art enthusiast,  an ideal place to check out if you are planning a vacation in Scranton, PA, is the Artist for Art Gallery, well known as the AFA Gallery .

It is a local gallery that showcases artworks of different forms by local artists. You can browse the various artworks on display, including paintings, glasswork, sculpture, and wood.

AFA gallery continually holds art events and rotates the artworks of artists from this region monthly. From time to time, they also showcase the artworks of artists not from this region.

Apart from art exhibitions, the Artist for Art Gallery hosts educational workshops, lectures, figure drawing classes,  and poetry readings.

Most of the social events in the city are influenced by the AFA Gallery, including Second Saturday,  Fringe Festival, and events held at the Everhart Museum.

Address: 101 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18508, USA

Have more time in Pennsylvania, check out our list of things to do in Lancaster ,  things to do in Erie , and  things to do in Hershey  for a memorable vacation.

Plan a Trip to Scranton

Scranton is also popularly known as the Electric City due to its contribution to the iron and coal industry featuring electric streetcar systems.

The city is immensely rich in history, culture, and arts offering visitors the opportunities to explore several historical landmarks, cultural centers, and art museums.

Start planning your trip to Scranton

21 Best Things To Do In Scranton, PA [Guide]

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Scranton is the capital of Lackawanna County located in north-east Pennsylvania. It is a small city with an outstanding history.

The city was once the head of the anthracite coal mining industry in Pennsylvania and as a result, the city saw the influx of a lot of immigrants from different countries in Europe.

Given its rich historical background, today, Scranton, PA has a lot to offer tourists and visitors who want to explore the city’s rich historical origin through its diverse museums and historic homes. There is rarely a shortage of things to do in Scranton!

Scranton PA is popular as a Steamtown National Historic Site and is equally well known for the popular TV Show, “The Office.

In a refurbished 19th-century mill, the Electric City Trolley Museum features interactive displays of antique trolleys with age-long steam engines or locomotives trains positioned on the previous rail yard. Close by, visitors can enjoy the sites of four Scranton Iron Furnaces and vestiges of a plant made in 1800s plant.

McDade Park is the hub of Lackawanna Coal Mine, where a mine wagon goes downhill into tunnels. If you think the reasons behind the popularity of Scranton PA is just because of its history as a former coal town and as the location for the TV show, “The Office, think again. Scranton Pennsylvania became popular many years before its recent fame.

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The city was previously renowned as an industrial capital. It earned its exciting nickname because it was in the city that the first electrically operated locomotives were first developed in the US.

However, these are not everything the city is all about. Today, the city has loads of rich historical heritage, modern vibes, magnificent scenery, and engaging activities to ensure comfort all the way.

There are a lot of things to do in Scranton, PA and the rest of the cities in Lackawanna County. This includes visiting museums dedicated to the past history of the city as an industrial and transportation hotspot, spectacular natural attractions, events, and festivals.

Photo Credit: Ritu [email protected]

The county has plenty of fun activities and events that keep families and visitors entertained throughout the year and across all the four seasons of the year.

Despite its small size, the city has a lot of tourist attractions, art and cultural activities that it compares favorably with other large cities.

Also, St. Patrick’s Day parade event in the city is very popular in the US and is one of the biggest in the nation. The city equally has plenty of exciting outdoor adventures that you will surely find engaging and fascinating.

No doubt, you will always find something engaging and exciting to do once you are in the county.

In the following section of this article, you will learn why you should visit Scranton and the things you can do while you are in the city.

Things to do in Scranton: History and museums

Scranton and the rest of Lackawanna County have a rich history which you can explore by visiting one of the historical sites and museums. The history of the city is showcased to visitors through interactive displays when you visit these centers.

As the home of the industrial revolution, the foundation of workers unions and child labor decrees, you’d gain insight into what happened in the past and how it all started in this small but exciting city.

You will learn how the first pioneers of the city lived their life and how their work contributed to the growth of the nation.

Besides exploring the rich culture of the nation, you can go on a ride on steam engines that showcase the county’s past and discover for yourself why Scranton is referred to as the Electric City. While on the trolley, you gain direct experience of the county’s rich historical past while exploring the Lackawanna County.

Things to do in Scranton: Arts & entertainment

Lackawanna County is experiencing local revitalization. The county thrives with artists, arcades, historic theaters, and incredible performers whose creativeness has ignited an electric arts scene. If you are particularly keen on art and entertainment, there is a lot to engage you. So, don’t forget to check out the following art and entertainment centers:

• AFA gallery artist for art located at 514 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503. Phone number: 570-969-1040
• Anthracite Heritage Museum located at 22 Bald Mt Road, Mcdade Park, Scranton, Pa 18504; Phone number: 570-963-4804
• Artworks Gallery and Studio located at 236 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18508; Phone number: 570-207-1815
• Broadway Theatre League Of Nepa located at 345 N Washington Ave, Scranton, Pa 18503; Phone number: 570-342-7784
• Creative And Performing Arts Academy Of Nepa; 222 Wyoming Avenue, Scranton, Pa 18503; Phone number: (484) 802-2575
• Dancenepa.Com By Ramworks, Llc located at 702 Brenda Lane, Dunmore, Pa 18512; Phone number: 570-351-3638
• The Pavilion At Montage Mountain located at1000 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton, Pa 18507; Phone number: 570-961-900
• Peoples Security Bank Theater At Lackawanna College located at 501 Vine Street, Scranton, Pa 18509; Phone number: (570) 961-7684 | 877-346-3552
• Peoples Security Bank Theater At Lackawanna College located at 501 Vine Street, Scranton, Pa 18509; (570) 961-7684 | 877-346-3552.
• Scranton Cultural Center at The Masonic Temple located at 420 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pa 18503; Phone number: (570) 346-7369

Things to do in Scranton PA: Engage in Outdoor activities

While in the city, you can soak yourself into the rich natural beauty of the environment by visiting any of the county’s magnificent Parks. At last, you can let go of your technological gadgets and get totally refreshed by getting absorbed into the rich natural environment.

If you want to get a bit more adventurous, you can go hiking, biking, sledding, snowshoeing, fishing, hunting, and kayaking. You can also go camping and experience the surrounding scenic landscapes and enjoy mountaintop views. There are enough outdoor activities to fully engage you in the attractive Lackawanna County. For some experience of the outdoors, you can visit any of the following:

• Archbald Pothole State Park located at Rt 6 Towards Carbondale, Archbald, Pa 18403; Phone number: (570) 945-3239
• Aylesworth Park located at Hudson Street, Jermyn, Pa 18433; Phone number: 570-963-6764
• Circle Drive-In located at 1911 Scranton Carbondale Highway, Scranton, Pa 18508; Phone number: (570) 489-5731
• Covington Park located at Sanko Rd, Moscow, Pa 18444; Phone number: (570) 963-6764
• Deer Path Riding Stable located at 95 State Route 940, White Haven, Pa 18661; Phone number: 570-443-4431
• Blue Ridge Trail Golf ClubThis is located at 260 Country Club Drive, Mountaintop, Pa 18707; Phone number: 570-868-4653

The Blue Ridge trail golf club is an eighteen Hole Public Championship Course. It is a very interesting and awe-inspiring experience. It is located on the Country Club Drive on top of the mountain. There are no fairways for the course. It features four sets of tees and has a natural, private location, professional shop, and clubhouse

Things to do in Scranton PA: Events and festivals

Besides soaking up yourself in the rich natural beauty of the city and the entire county, there are equally loads of festivals and events you can enjoy.

Scranton and other cities within the Lackawanna County have a lot of exclusive events and festivals that attract tourists and visitors from neighboring counties to join in the celebration of the rich cultural heritage and the tradition of the area.

It is one of the experiences, you don’t want to miss! Remember to check some of these festivals and events next time you visit Scranton. Some of the festivals and events you can attend while in the city include the following:

Clarks Summit Festival Of Ice

Cuddle up with the freezing weather while celebrating winter at Clarks Summit Festival of Ice. You can watch a parade, go for horse rides, engage in face painting, and enjoy delicious food and magnificent ice statues. Plunge yourself in the annual theme while the city’s astounding artists sculpt out their frozen work of art. You will surely fall in love with this yearly celebration. It is cherished by both locals and visitors.

Saint Ubaldo Race of The Saints

Saint Ubaldo Race of The Saints is the most exclusive festival of Lackawanna County. The event is celebrated only in two regions of the world. The first place is the Sister Cities of Jessup, PA while the second one is Gubbio, Italy. The celebration of St Ubaldo,s day started Jessup in 1909 by immigrants from Gubbio, Italy who mainly settled in Jessup to connect with their home community.

The event has been celebrated for over a century and till date; this event attracts thousands of onlookers who want to be part of the fun occurring in Lackawanna County. This is a great tradition with amazing color combination and a proud celebration of faith and culture.

St Ubaldo festival is one of the events you don’t want to miss while in the city. So, try to include this in your list of the best things to do in Scranton PA next time you visit. During the festivities that mark this event, you can enjoy sumptuous Italian home-based food, go for rides and get your kids engaged with different types of games. Once you witness this annual event, you will love to be part of the yearly celebration.

Lackawanna County Heritage Fair

The Lackawanna County Heritage Fair is an event that celebrates the history and cultures of the communities that make up the county. You will have time to enjoy the delightful local cuisine of the area and this will particularly interest you if you are a foodie.

You will also gain a good knowledge of the history of the city, gain first-hand experience of the cultural heritage or the city and other communities inside the county. You will equally take part in different entertainment events go for fun rides and play different types of games.

The Lackawanna County Heritage Fair has different festivities you’ll always find something to enjoy.

Steamtown marathon.

The Steamtown Marathon is another thing you want to do next time you visit Scranton PA. It is an event recognized nationwide due to its USATF certification. The Steamtown Marathon has been rated by Runner’s World as the 6th best global marathon and a top 10 marathon for people starting to do marathon for the first time.

The marathon path covers the entire fourteen Lackawanna County’s communities and this includes 4.2 miles of cemented trails lengthwise the Lackawanna River. Sprinters commonly reach the path early and hang around in the amazing eateries while treating themselves with selections or assorted types of delicious cuisines.

Scranton St. Patrick’s parade

The Scranton St. Patrick Parade is an annual festival celebrated in the Downtown Scranton. The next edition of this event is scheduled for the 14th of March, 2020. It is the biggest yearly festival of Lackawanna County.

This celebration started in Lackawanna County in1962 and since then the organizers commonly fix the Date to this feast to fall on a weekend before the St. Patrick’s Day. The event is commonly known as the Parade Day in the county. It is one of the biggest in the US and usually pulls a massive crowd of roughly 150, 000 onlookers.

The parade also features more than twelve thousand participants and this includes Irish groups and organizations, bagpipers, high school and string bands, ostentatious floats, Irish dance groups, etc. In honor of St Patrick’s Day, everyone dress in Green as Irish for the Parade.

La Festa Italiana

La Festa Italiana is another thing to do in Scranton PA you don’t want to miss. The event is celebrated annually at the courthouse square, Downtown Scranton during the Weekend of the Labor day.

This four-day festivity that celebrates the culture, cuisine, and music, brings people from all ethnic groups in the county together. The La Festa festival attracts more than one hundred thousands of individuals yearly to Courthouse Square in downtown Scranton.

During the festival, you can treat your tummy with sumptuous Italian delicacies and other cuisines including cannoli, different types of pizza and homemade pasta dishes. Besides these delicious dishes, you can equally watch different live entertainment shows, go shopping, and watch the amazing Sunday night fireworks. While there, remember to have a taste of the locally-made Cannoli! A taste of it would leave you with an unforgettable experience.

Things to do in Scranton PA: Tour around the city and its environs

You and your companions may also decide to go on guided tours to explore the entire Lackawanna County and the nearby community. We will explain the tours you can make further down in this article. Ensure you take your Camera along to take your desired shots.

Things To Do In Scranton PA: Sports & Brews

Another thing you want to do while in Scranton PA is to watch sporting events. If you love beer and sports you’d love it at Lackawanna County’s sports festival where the norm is a mixture of craft beers, delicious meals, and sports. The sporting event in the city also blends in a bit of history into the celebration.

Feasting and banqueting start off every sporting day. With more than five hundred bottles and twenty spinning drafts, Backyard Ale House provides spectators with unlimited numbers of craft beer and also luxurious meals like Pot Roast Hash and Kielbasa omelets.

When you are done, you can move to the Electric City Trolley Museum to see or take a ride in the new John Oliver train exhibitions and the inconceivable trolley history of Scranton.

You can book trolley ticket and go on an excursion to PNC Field to play a game with the Scranton or Wilkes-Barre Rail riders. Alternatively, you can take a tour of PNC Field before the start of the game to discover what the management is doing to maintain the field or try to inquire how the game works.

When going out for the games, remember to take your blanket and lawn ticket. There’s a bar nearby you can leverage on if you fancy a drink. When the game is over, hop back into the trolley and return back to Scranton.

Things to do in Scranton PA: Go shopping

Abington farmers market.

Beginning from the outdoor market at The Shoppes at Montage, to the convenient Shopping Mall located at Viewmont and The Steamtown market, Lackawanna County has favorite named brands.

If you like you can also dash into the city’s local boutiques to purchase unique products not easily available anywhere. Examples of markets and shopping centers you need to visit while in the city include:

The market is located at 640 Northern Blvd, Chinchilla, PA 18411; Phone; (570) 587-0391

Abington Farmers Market opens every Saturday from 9 O’clock in the morning to 2, O’clock in the afternoon. The opening day of the market starts from the 21st July to October located at South Abington Park, Chinchilla, PA. Among things you can purchase in the market include the newest indigenous fruits, veggies, herbs, blossoms, baked foods and so on.

Alpacas of the sunshine farm, fiber & clothing store

This farm market and clothing stores are located at E Lake Road, New Milford, PA 18834; Phone: 570-465-3360. The store was originally started by Catherine and Don Hines. The duo started breeding and raising alpacas in 1998 but they opened the farm store in 2009 and started to sell alpaca clothes.

Alpacas are popular for expensive soft and warm fiber. They also sell unprocessed fleece, rovings, yarn, and rugs. You can visit the farm for sightseeing. You can equally purchase one of their products or get in touch with them by ringing their phone number.

Other markets and shopping center you can also visit while in the Scranton PA are:

Antiques on the avenue

In the Antiques on the Avenue market, you can buy a collection of antiques and memorabilia and these can include male and female vintage clothes and costumes, ornaments and genuine silver jewelry. It is located at 1027 Prescott Avenue, Scranton, PA 18510; Phone: (570) 604-0177.

• The Burke’s maple farm located at 1313 crystal lake road, Carbondale, PA 18407; Phone: 570-222-4075
• The crossings premium outlets located at1000 premium outlets drive, Tannersville, PA 18372; 570-629-4650
• Electric city roasting park located at 101 Keystone Ave, Peckville, PA 18452; Phone: 570-558-2233
• Gertrude hawk chocolates located at 909 keystones industrial park, Throop, PA 18512; (570) 342-3941 | 800-822-2032
• Kevin’s worldwide located at 710 Capouse Ave, Scranton, PA 18509; phone: 570-344-8985
• Lavish body & home located at 600 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18503; (570) 558-2273
• Lt Verrastro Inc. Importing beer distributor located at 700 Moosic Road, Old Forge, PA 18518; 570-343-2454 | 800-341-1200.
• Olde good things, Inc. located at 400 Gilligan St PO box 20109, Scranton, PA 18508; Phone: 570-341-7668 | 888-233-9678
• The Shoppes at Montage Mountain located at1035 Shoppes Boulevard, Moosic, PA 18507:Phone: 570-341-3271

Things to do in Scranton PA: Tourist Attractions

There are a lot of tourist attractions in Scranton PA. These should be part of the things you should do while in Scranton PA. These vary beginning from the world popular musical performances, Broadway shows, exclusive historical exhibits and many more.

There are multiple things you can do in Scranton and the immediate environs of Lackawanna County. Some of the tourist attractions in the city, you don’t want to miss include the following:

1. Visit the Steamtown National Historic Site

Steamtown National Historic Site is one of the things to do in Scranton. It is a delightful tourist destination especially because it is one of the best railroads in north-east Pennsylvania and because it tells the transportation story of the historical past of Scranton PA.

The museum features roughly one hundred trains. Some of the trains are in the museum, others are used for train excursions, and the rest could be found in the rebuilding factory. Tourists can take a tour of the museum, visit the restructuring factory, and, on chosen days, go on a train ride along Scranton railroad.

Steamtown National Historic Site museum is established to preserve the history of steam engines or locomotives. The Scranton “Steamtown” nickname is coined from the history of the area. In the middle of the 1800s, the city is the biggest producer of iron provider in the US.

Presently, many people travel to the national park to learn about the past history of locomotives in the area and in the entire country. Locomotives were previously a highly essential transportation system for coal miners and other Pennsylvania passengers.

The historic site is on the train yard that was previously owned by the site of a train yard previously owned by the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad situated exactly after the Lackawanna Avenue. You don’t pay any gate fee to visit this amazing historic site. The museum displays the history of steam engine transportation all through the country.

It features a lot of antique artifacts, handy activities for kids, conserved train cars and ironic or interactive stories of the past history of the city articulated through native guards, small films and more.

The Scranton’s Iron Furnaces where the Lackawanna Iron and steel company was previously located is equally close by and this will especially interest anyone who wants to see its remnants.

Steamtown’s museum exhibitions and displays showcase a refurbished steam locomotive, images, and collectibles from the glory days of the railroad. The displays depict the lifecycle of a handrail, and a roundhouse utilized by technicians for repairing and maintenance of the trains.

The site equally features a theatre with short film display. The opening hours differs depending on the season.

If you have a love for trains, there are other better locations in Pennsylvania to go to, Steamtown National Historic Site, just displays the history of rail transport in the US and especially that of locomotive engines.

You will be able to see in this free-admission museum, loads of uncommon train cars, which includes the large steam engine located on the eastern part of Mississippi. They are equally seasonal train rides which you can for a few.

Whether you are interested in the science, history and the financial side of the train’s transportation system, you will get the information you want from this site. You can also have a first-hand experience ride of the coal train.

Visitors only pay a minimal charge for entrance and the train ride but if you own a national park service pass; you will be admitted free into the park and only pay if you want to undertake any of the train rides. There are special rides that are offered at certain times of the year for those who wish to travel down to the Chesapeake and Delaware water cavity.

If you are train enthusiasts who like to gain more knowledge about trains, or go for train rides, learn about trains and how they are repaired, head down to the this Steamtown museum, you will have an unforgettable experience. It is located at 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, Phone: 570-340-5200.

2. Harry Houdini Museum

The Houdini Museum is an effort to acknowledge the contributions of Harry Houdini to the magic world. He was once one of the most popular world magicians and illusionists. The museum is made up of pictures, photographs, and relics of Houdini’s life and his stage performances.

Your first experience when you visit the center starts with a film overview of the iconic magicians behind the center and after that, you will be taking round on a guided tour through their many collections.

In the end, you will be treated with a “flash act” magic performance of the world-class magician, Dorothy Dietrich, with her co-magician, Dick Brooks, nicknamed Bravo the Great. You would get to see one of the spectators float right in front of you.

The whole museum experience normally lasts for roughly two and-half-hours to three hours. You may need to book ahead of time if you are visiting the center to watch the music show as there’s normally a limited number of seats available. To make a reservation, you can give the museum attendants a call.

The Harry Houdini Museum is located at the borders of Scranton. Nevertheless, it is one of the most exciting things to do while you are in the area. Dorothy Dietrich is nicknamed, the female Houdini due to her many brave magic feats.

This Houdini Museum was featured in USA Today, the Philadelphia Inquirer and also on NBC, CBS and ABC TV for its unique experience. It features a collection of life activities of the Magic icon, Houdini via a massive collection of memorabilia, stories, and modern-day performances.

You’d equally get to see some of the tricks that the iconic Magician, Houdini could not perform during his days. There are also interactive magic tricks that kids would find very exciting. This includes live animal shows, comedy shows and collaboration from the audience. The museum is located at 1433 N Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18508, Phone: 570-342-5555.

3. Everhart Museum

The Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science and Art center is cited at 1901 Mulberry St. Scranton, PA 18510-2380. You can get in touch with the center by ringing their direct line-570-346-7186.

The Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science & Art was established by philanthropist, Physician and ornithological supporter, Dr. Isaiah Everhart, who hails from a Scranton community on the 30th of May, 1908.

The Everhart Museum from North-east Pennsylvania is the oldest public museum in the area. It features an extreme collection of curated materials which includes taxidermied birds and African musical instruments. While the museum features a wide range of classification of curated materials, the attendants of the museum put all the bits and pieces together as an interesting piece to all who visits the museum.

Something you don’t want to miss when you visit this museum is the fantastic American Folk Art curated materials on the second floor. The collections include both popular works from both local and foreign renowned works. Besides being the oldest museum in north-east Pennsylvania it is equally one of the best in the area.

Cited at the Nay Aug Park, this museum with world-curated relics and exhibits provides visitors the opportunity to gain insight into the different world cultures, the beauty of nature and eccentric artworks while in the confines of the city.

The museum equally features a collection of dinosaur fossils, two thousand five hundred taxidermied birds and the biggest selections of the painting works of the popular artists from the place, by the name John Willard Raught.

The Everhart Museum was named after the founder Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everhart who donated his collections to the city in 1907. The exhibits in the museum currently include collections of art, science, and natural history.

As a result, it is utilized as a special practical training spot for kids in their K-12 academic levels. It also serves as summer camps for interested campers and utilized for adult learning classes.

Every September, the yearly farm To Table meal is hosted by the center. This event involves features of fresh vegetables and ingredients grown in the locality. The Everhart Museum opens its doors to visitors every day starting from February to December.

It is not open on Wednesdays and in January. The center uses the first month of the year for maintenance purposes. It is located at 1901 Mulberry St., Scranton, PA 18510. You can also contact the center through their direct Phone line: 570-346-7186.

4. Electric City Trolley Museum

Scranton PA was nicknamed “The Electric City” in the latter part of 1880,s because it was in the city that the first electric trolley system was produced in the US.  The Electric City Trolley Museum, named after the city is established to preserve the history of the rail transport system in the city.

Although these trolleys no longer travel through the streets of downtown Scranton, if you want to learn about the history of locomotives in the city a trip to the Electric City Trolley Museum will do the trick.

When you visit the museum, you’d be taken through a guided tour to learn about the transportation part of the city. The museum preserves and restores rare and fragile trolley system. There is an optional three-mile trip which takes you through a long tunnel , journey which is a great cool off on a sunny and hot day.

The Electric City Trolley Station and Museum is located only a few steps from Steamtown National Historic Site. You can take your children on a wonderful adventure to the century-old vintage trolleys. Your kids can play away in the toy train room while you stand by to explore the wonders of the historic mechanism of these previously highly reputed electric steam engines.

The major focus of a visit to the electric city trolley museum is to hop onto the locomotive train for a ride through the brink of downtown Scranton. The ride lasts for an hour and takes you through the Nay Aug Gorge and an extremely elongated tunnel that ends at the PNC Field where these antique trains are restored. While on the tour, you get to see the attractive forests of Pennsylvania.

The trolley takes off from the loading station close to the trolley museum and stops at the PNC Field which once formally the repair station for the trolley transport system. While at the station, you will have the chance to play ballgame and when the gameplay is over you would be returned to the takeoff position.

While at the PNC station you can also explore the shop and gain further knowledge about the history of the area and the locomotive system before your crew will be taken back. You will find a few fancifully refurbished restored trolley systems with glass windows that are stained and fantastic wooden seats.

The items for exhibitions are properly profiled and documented and displayed in an expansive building situated along the parking lot in Steamtown. The display in the museum comprises classic examples of the historical trolleys and railways, headlights, railway lights, mine train equipment, a refurbished trolley car, and an interactive trolley display for kids.

5. Nay Aug Fall

Navy Aug Park is a natural park and the largest of its kind in the city of Scranton. It is made up of attractively redesigned walking trails and picnic zones with double kid’s playgrounds. The trail’s path is made up of stony gorges, brooks, and waterfalls.

When you visit during the summertime, the two Olympic-sized swimming pools and large water slides in the park offers visitors a nice cool off. Kids will particularly appreciate the big treehouse in the park with its extended walkways that go as high as 150 feet above the ground.

You can visit the Navy Aug Park any day of the week. The time to visit the pool starts from 12.00 noon to 6 O’clock every evening depending on the weather condition. The major highlight of a visit to this center is the gorge.

The park has a carved out hiking trails and a raised area for sightseeing. There is equally a trail system that passes through the base of the gorge. This provides visitors with a more vigorous workout experience and enhanced scenery.

Remember to come along with your bath suit as you may want to swim in a few locations. However, you need to be cautious here and resist the urge to jump off any of the waterfalls. Some visitors who previously did meet their death. You want your visit to end well and not in tragedy.

You’ll equally have the opportunity to hike through the trail leading to Lake Scranton. The Nay Aug Falls in the Nay Aug Park is one of the most potent waterfalls the region has. It rises as far as 15-20 feet above the ground surrounded by elevated rock walls on every side.

The park has a lot of walking trails that pass through the gorge. The viewing platforms including the Paul Kanjorski Pedestrian Bridge on both sides provide you with a fantastic view of the waterfall.

So, while in Scranton PA if you want a bit of fresh air, and a reconnection to nature, the Nay Aug Park located a few minutes from downtown Scranton is the best place to go. If you want a bit more adventure, take to the trails.

All the trailheads are mapped with large marks and meanders through oozing waterfalls. A marvel you don’t want to miss out at the park is the iconic David Wenzel Treehouse which rises to an amazing 150 feet on top of the gorge.

If you are a family that visits with your kids, the park has an enclosed playground to entertain the kids. Alternatively, you could take them to the two Olympic sized swimming pools for a swim. They can also enjoy it at the waterslides compounds.

If none of these sites excites you and you fancy a more historical feel, you can pay your tribute to the local soldiers of Scranton at the Veteran’s Memorial. If you love nature, you will love it at the Nay Aug’s energetic greenhouse.

The well-known Everhart Museum is also located in the pack. The best part of it is that the park is located close to the city downtown. You’d hear sounds from the nearby regions.

6. Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour is one of the best things to do in Scranton, PA. For many decades, coal mining has contributed to the economy of Pennsylvania. A visit to the coal mine will give you firsthand experience of how underground mining is done. Visitors commonly descend 300 feet below the ground with the use of an elevator to pass through three coal veins.

During the tour, tour guides enlighten visitors of the history of coal mining while at the same time explaining to them all the types of machinery that are utilized in the process. You will equally learn the different mining systems that the miners have utilized down the ears.

Starting from the first of April to the 30th of November, every year, the coal mine tour is open to the public apart from major holidays. The tour duration takes roughly an hour. While going for the tour, the best practice is to wear a jacket and put on a pair of walking shoes.

The tour allows you to see the interior part of the previous coal mine and find out for yourself how the miners lived their lives and worked. The coal mine tour is located in McDade Park. Anthracite coal was previously mined here and sold to customers from different parts of the globe. The place was opened for tours in 1985. The Anthracite Heritage Museum is located immediately adjacent to the mine.

7. Old Forge Pizza Crawl

Another thing you want to do while in Scranton PA is having a taste of the Pizza at the Old Forge, Pennsylvania. Self-acclaimed as the “Pizza Capital of the World,” and lying merely some miles from the main streets of downtown Scranton, this small region is the seat of over fifteen eateries which all prepare for pizza enthusiasts, the very distinctive Old Forge pizza.

So, if you are anywhere around Scranton and fancy a pizza crawl, Old Forge PA is your best destination. The Old Forge produces two different pizza types that pizza aficionado won’t be at a loss for having their favorite local pizza delight.

Whether you are looking for a slice or a whole pie, they got you covered at Old Forge Pizza PA. Despite the availability of more than fourteen pizza shops in the area, the pizza in the area is such a culinary delight that you’ll meet long queues on weekends.

Besides having a bite of your favorite pizza, you equally gain some insights into the culture of the area. You don’t want to miss this during your next visit. Have a taste for yourself and determine if the place qualifies as the best pizza destination in the US.

8. Lackawanna County Courthouse Square

Photo credit: lackawannahistory.org

Lackawanna County Courthouse Square location is at Washington and Adams Avenues Scranton, PA 18503. If you have any inquiry to make about the center, you can contact the center directly by calling the number- 570-963-6773.

Located right in the center of downtown Scranton, it is a perfect location for both visitors and locals. Besides, it is surrounded by Washington Avenue, Linden Street, Adams Avenue, and Spruce Street in downtown Scranton. The Lackawanna County Courthouse occupies a 4.7-acre of land.

It covers an impressive three-and-a-half story brick edifice and is one of the most beautiful architectural works in the area. The beauty is complemented by the adjacent monuments, nearby clock tower, and fountains. It equally serves educational purposes. So, include a visit to the courthouse square in Lackawanna County, you will find it enriching and rewarding.

Some of the things you can do while here on a visit are to recite the engravings on the square’s headstones, view the Scranton’s Electric City signpost icon or engage in sidewalks to catch a glimpse of the numerous shops and eateries in the vicinity.

If you choose to take an official walk-tour with Lackawanna Historical Society , you’ll get the opportunity to walk through its dynamic lair in the city-center to find out a few things about some popular landmarks of the history of Scranton.

9. Montage Mountain

If you are looking for a place to have family outdoor fun while in North Pennsylvania, your best catch is the Montage Mountain. There always fun-filled adventures happening in the Montage mountain every season and time of the year. When you visit Montage Mountain with your family during the winter , there are a lot of fun activities to engage in and these include skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. You can also do air boarding. Skiing lessons are also available for both children and adults.

The mountain has 26 trails, which provides all visitors a perfect slope and something to engage you starting from beginners, moderately skilled professionals, and pros. Skiing lessons are also offered to both kids and adults.

During summer, there are many more activities going on in the mountain. You can either go for zipline rides or take to the Montage Mountains  Water Park where you can enjoy a lot of different water rides including slight surging pool, lazy river, and zigzagging slides.

You can climb to the five-story tower and move to the ski lift and zoom off in the ZipRider. It is one of the uppermost themes in NEPA and soars for 50 miles every per hour on top of the stunning ridge.

You can add a bit of relaxation glamour to your day by hiring your own private bathhouse, dining area at any of the restaurants or take a sip of your favorite drink from the Montage Mountains bar. You can equally enjoy being part of the center’s different concerts and festivals. This includes the fall wine fest that provides visitors with round the year fun.

The montage Mountain is located at 100 Montage Road, Scranton, PA, 18507. You can get in touch with the center by ringing their number-: 570-969-7669.

10. Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum

Pennsylvania anthracite heritage museum.

The museum is located at 22 Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18504, and a contact phone number of the center is 570-963-4804. A visit to the 200 feet underground to the once glorious coal miles of Scranton at the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum , will give you a firsthand insight into the once-booming industry.

Established in the 1880s and booming during the early part of the 1900s, the coal mining activities in this location minimized after 20 years of the Knox Mine Disaster that occurred in 1959 and resulting in the closure of the mine in ‘66.

While at the museum, you will learn about how the early workers and immigrants struggled. You can have the opportunity to speak with one of the previous miners who takes up the role of the tour guides. You want to also explore the exhibits in the museum .

Some of the things you can view are relics of a standard home of the then coal miners, a mockup saloon, pictures of miners and their families and video exhibitions. You can also gain a lot of other exciting facts about the contribution of mining in the history of the Steamtown.

Visitors can visit the close by exhibitions of four big iron furnaces. These gigantic stone edifices were utilized for the smelting of the iron mined by the Lackawanna Iron and Steel Company.

The museum aims to tell the story of the history of anthracite coal mining and their former workers in north-east Pennsylvania. The door of the museum is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday. It is not opened during the country’s major holidays.

Besides learning about the mining history and their workers, visitors can equally have a glimpse into the culture of the communities within the area and the contribution of coal mining to the immigration rule in the region.

11. PNC Field

PNC Field located close to downtown Scranton is the place to be if you are a fan of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders . The riders are affiliated to the New York Yankees. While visiting the park, you can witness one of the best baseball scenes before entering into the main Leagues.

Because the RailRiders are next in fame to the New York Yankees, you have time to watch the upcoming stars play real life at a great fee. As the base of RailRiders , this unsoiled and comfy Stadium provides spectators with varying experience starting from old-fashioned benches to first-class views of the major game.

While in the stadium you can grab your favorite bites of hot dogs from the picnic tables and pavilion on the left table, you can equally cuddle with hairy porcupine amulet, Champion, and give your backing to the minor league team of the city baseball players.

You can also purchase for your refreshments, peanuts and Cracker Jacks while at the PNC Field . The best part of the PNC field is that it is just a ten minutes’ drive to I-81 and with its close proximity to downtown Scranton, you get to have sketchy moments of unmanageable fun.

12. Lucchi Family Wine Cellars

If you are an aficionado of Italian wine, Lucchi Family Wine Cellars is the best place to be. You can enjoy a glass of fizzy drink from original Italian grape specialists at Lucchi Family Wine Cellars .

The center is owned by a person whose parents immigrated to Scranton PA from Bologna, Italy during the early part of the nineteenth century. Robert Lucchi opened the center as a way to sustain the family practice. So, you can be a part of this lovely Italian wine made in the luxurious mountains of NEPA.

You get to lay your hands on model flavors from the original vines grown in the 1970s. These vines yield lots of barrels of Concord Estate wine. The wine shop is cited on the North Main Avenue and given the location makes it a nearby place to go for a taste of local grapes.

13. Scranton Cultural Center

The Scranton Cultural Center looks very much like a magnificent temple. It has large dark doors, composite stone mosaic, and Neo-Gothic design. When it was constructed in the early part of the 1930s, it was to replicate the Masonic Temple and Scottish Rite Cathedral. However, this historical edifice presently acts as an art center in Scranton’s region.

It is now used as an event center and features nationwide Broadway, disco, party, musical concert, and comedy shows. The temple is graced with music icons like Frank Sinatra, Barry Manilow, and Britney Spears. However, the center equally receives other local and nationwide music talents.

While here, ensure you visit the center to watch the performance from the arched seats of the vintage theatre while savoring the craftily designed ceilings and nearby vintage craftsmanship. To reserve a seat at the show, don’t forget to view the events calendar of the center and watch out for your favorite show.

14. Lackawanna Historical Society

The Lackawanna Historical Society house is located at the Catlin House Scranton, PA 18510. The center was established in 1886 as the Lackawanna Institute of History and Science. The center is one of the oldest cultural institutes in the region.

However, in 1921, the organization altered the focus and changed the name of the center to Lackawanna Historical Society. The present mission of the society is to collate reserve and provide interpretations for artifacts, documentation and bibliographic materials of Lackawanna County and entire Northeast Pennsylvania.

This task includes the social, cultural and economic history of the people. The center features gift shops where you can purchase any art-related artifact of choice. You can contact the center directly by ringing the phone number: 570-344-3841.

15. Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society

The Erie Lackawanna Railroad was popular for provision of fresh, pleasure-seeking meals to train commuters with its railway dining cars for roughly a century. Currently, the mission of the Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society is to reserve the past stories of these dinning cars and also the railway history of rail transportation.

At present, society has refurbished three dining cars, one car for sleeping, and two Dieseliner trains. If you want a tour in any of these cars, you can book your reservation by ringing the phone number of the society.

Besides taking a tour, you can equally go for a train ride. Trains rides and means are available to entertain visitors during special events all through the year. To obtain the event calendar, you need to visit the Erie Lackawanna dining car society’s website.

The society’s house is located at 201 South Blakeley Street, No 333, Dunmore, PA 18512. Their contact phone number is 570-209-5851.

16. The Caitlin House

The Caitlin house is a Tudor-designed mansion erected in 1912. It was a former abode of a businessman from Scranton by name, George H. Caitlin. The house contains sixteen tastefully furnished and beautifully preserved with the then specific decoration and antiques.

It is made up of the attractive wooden platform, a wooden staircase, and tinted glass windows. If you want to have an insight into how the then structural architecture looks like, a trip to the Caitlin home is a great idea.

You’d be taken through a guided tour around the mason. The door of the home is open from Tuesday to Saturday beginning from 1 o’clock in the afternoon to 3 o’clock in the afternoon.

The mansion equally serves as the seat of the Lackawanna Historical Society and has a library instituted for research purposes and a lecture room. The home is located at 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510. You can contact the home by phoning the number- 570-344-3841.

17. Rattlesnake Falls

The Rattlesnake Falls is a concealed waterfall located in Pinchot State Forest close to Nesbitt Reservoir. It will take you a fifteen-minute hike through the stunning forest to get to the waterfall. The waterfall has two different types of drops. The first one is the large drop that falls fifteen feet through a narrow gulf.

18. Choke Creek Falls

Choke Creek falls is another thing to do while in Lackawanna County. It a popular tourist spot in the region and can be found in Pinchot State Forest lengthwise the freshly rerouted Pinchot Trail. It is a stunning waterfall but it is not widely known outside the local area. If you love to enjoy the outdoors, this waterfall should be among your top to-do-list when on a visit to Scranton.

19. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Visit the Lackawanna River Heritage on a wonderful trail adventure while exploring miles of stunning woodland background along the trail. The trail is expansive and spreads across seventy miles and covering the rural  and urban areas in the vicinity.

It is classified into different categories of different lengths. As you move through the trail, you would stop at various interesting locations along the way. You will equally pass through many interesting points through the town along which the trail passes.

The greater part of the trail is cemented and this makes walking, running, or cycling through it fascinating and full of fun. There are a lot of events that occur along the trail and this includes running and walking, group bicycle riding, racing, and cleaning up of trail lines.

These events take place all through the year by various groups and organizations in the region. In the north side of the trail, the Heritage Trail links up with the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail.

20. Archbald Pothole State Park

The Archbald Pothole state park contains a Pothole which looks like a hole but it is one of the most distinctive geological structures in the locality. The Park is small-sized and doesn’t compare in size with many other larger states pack in the locality.

However, the existence of one of the biggest peculiar features in the park makes the place worth your visit anything you are in the Scranton PA area. It is the world’s biggest glacial pothole.

A quick stop at the park and you’d be amazed at this wonderful geological gift of nature.

21. Lake Scranton Walking Path, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Lake Scranton is a 16,000-acre pool which supplies water supply to the Scranton city. The lake is enclosed by a walking path which is 3.5 miles lengthwise. The trail is entirely concreted which make it easy to walk along or run. You can also enjoy the fantastic views of the lake and close by East Mountain. You are not allowed to enter the trail with pets, bicycles, or cars. The trail is located at Route 307, Scranton, PA 18505.

Best Things to Do in Scranton, PA with your Kids

While the city has a lot of attraction for anyone who visits the city, if you are visiting Scranton on a family vacation, you may want to check special attractions for family fun. Lackawanna County has all-year-round attractions for the family. Some of the attractions that you can include in your lists of things to do in Scranton as a family with kids include the following:

Visit PNC Field for baseball

This is especially suitable if you are a fan of NYC Yankees. The PNC field is the seat for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, a smaller affiliate league of the Yankees. Your children would be excited to see up-and-coming players or professional players that want to recoup.

Visit this world-class stadium, take a seat and let your kids get signatures before the game. Engage in lots of fun both inside and outside the field during the game or run the bases.

Go Horse Racing at Mohegan Sun

Give your kids chances to experience real-life horse racing. Let their excitement go wild as they become part of this fantastic adventure at Mohegan Sun casino.

Hop into one of the numerous restaurants in the casino for your dinner or just pop into the Johnny Rockets post-race for a milkshake.

Visit  the Houdini Museum

If your kids love magic, they’ll love the Houdini Museum.Take your kids to experience a live show at the museum dedicated to late magician Harry Houdini. Details of the museum are the early part of this article.

Take a tour at the Lackawanna Coal Mine

Let your kids experience firsthand the history of coal mining in the area and what life and work environment the early miner enjoyed through a guided tour to a 300 feet underground mine in a mine car. Find the details in the early section of this article.

Visit the Electric City Trolley Museum

Let your kids take a ride in the antique trolley cars. Our kids will love it and have a taste of what life looks like in the past when electric trolleys are in use.

Cooper’s Seafood House

Have your favorite culinary delight inside this ship-shaped restaurant with your kids. The Coopers seafood house has existed in the city for seventy years and features a blue whale hanging above inside the Whale Room.

The children will equally enjoy a visit to the Train Room. The ship-shaped house equally features a bar area. Kids are served meals in their respective boats. They can equally take the meals home.

Visit Montage Mountain

Take your kids to the mountain on a wonderful and unforgettable experience through its 2 trails for a summer visit or visit Terrain Park during the winter. Go skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing. Or during the summertime, have fun in the water park with a wave pool, lazy river or go water sliding and so on. Details can be found in the earlier section of the article.

  Pittston Tomato Festival

Visit the Ice skating and hockey sessions— Scranton and Wilkes-Barre

Your kids will like to watch the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins , affiliated to the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins while they ice-skate at the Mohegan Sun Arena . They can equally watch a skating display of Adam Rippon, an Olympic skater born in Scranton at the Toyota SportsPlex or Revolution Ice Centre

Masonic Temple

Visit the Scranton cultural center for live kid-friendly shows. This cultural center at the masonic temple has a lot of live shows for kids. Let the kids take part in the Wiggles and Giggles workshop that allows them to design their specific theme craftwork before the show.

Alternatively, visit the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts located in Wilkes-Barre for extensive kid show tours like a live exhibition of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and live display of Nickelodeon’s Double Dare.

 Downtown Scranton St. Patrick’s Day parade celebration

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Let your kids be part of St. Patrick’s Day parade which is arguably one of the best in the country. A detailed explanation of this event is in the earlier section of the article.

Other things you can do with your kids while in Scranton PA include the following:

Take the kids to participate in Church picnics

A lot of communities in the area organize annual events where you can take the kids outdoors to have fun and play games and eat different types of culinary delight.

Visit Steamtown national historic sites

The kids can have fun here, enjoy the ride and take a guided tour of the steam engine repair shop. Besides, they can equally gain insight into the history train in the area and see some relics of the antique transportation system.

Old Forge pizza — Old Forge

Visit any of the pizza shops in the area which can include Salerno’s Café, Café Rinaldi , and Arcaro & Genell and purchase your favorite flavors of Old Forge pizza. At Arcaro & Genell, you can equally watch a strolling magician perform while you wait for your meals.

Visit the Nay Aug Park

Take your kids to the largest park in the area and let them have fun hiking through the waterfalls or swim in an Olympic size swimming pool or visit the Nay Aug Park Everhart Museum to learn about natural history, science, and art. The kids can equally play around inside the park or have fun with water slides at the pool.

The Marketplace at Steamtown

Go shopping with the kids at The Marketplace at Steamtown and let them their favorite candy at Steamtown Sweets , chocolate bars at Gertrude Hawk , or popcorn at Doc Popcorn .

Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den

Let your kids be awe-inspired at the Steamtown marketplace aquarium and reptile den. The kids will be amazed to look through the slightly lit tank and see live octopus, shark, alligator, turtle, snake, crocodile, frog, and many more.

FAQS about Scranton Pennsylvania Things to Do

The city is referred to as an electric city because of its history as the first city in America to produce an electric trolley system. The history of this city that earned it the electric city is preserved in the Electric City Trolley Museum. The museum exhibits the history of transportation which started in the city in the early 20th century. Some artifacts of the then electric system are well preserved and refurbished and visitors can see these restored trolley systems and equally get the chance to take a ride inside these antique locomotives through Nay Aug Gorge.

The Office’s Schrute Farms is placed on sale. The original location is at the center of Wayne County, PA inside the small region of Honesdale

The mystic paper supply company has a home in Scranton, PA. Scranton is the sixth most populated city in Pennsylvania. The electric city is lively. You can visit Scranton and take a tour of the “The Office” shooting locations!

The Scranton PA is popular as a coal mining and production destination. It was once the nation’s industrial destination and won nationwide acclaim as the electric city for producing the first electric trolley stem in the US. In the recent past, the city became popular as a shooting location popular TV series “The Office” with the companies name coined from two streets in Scranton. Scranton is equally known as a section of NEPA (North Eastern Pennsylvania).

Scranton is called the steam town or electric city because the first electric trolley system in the US was developed in the area in 1886. Although the locomotive engine is no longer in use, a reference to that city is still made with that name.

The Poor Richard’s bar has a physical location in Scranton, PA. It is a preferred destination for members of Dunder Mifflin Scranton. While in the show, Poor Richard’s bar is a single unit bar, the real Poor Richard’s is an attachment to a bowling alley. The office for Poor Richard’s is Pickwick’s Pub located in Woodland Hills, California .

The region has a population of seventy-seven thousand, two hundred and ninety-one people. Scranton PA is the biggest city in the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton, PA Metropolis with a population of roughly five hundred and seventy thousand people. Scranton was incorporated as a municipality in Luzerne County on February 14, 1856, and as a city on April 23, 1866.

It is relatively safe to live in Scranton PA compared to a lot of other locations in the country. The crime rate in the region is less than the national average crime rate.

The address used in the Office show is 1725 Slough Avenue in Scranton, PA. It is not a real location. The address refers to the British edition of The Office, which was scheduled to be held in Slough, England.

Conclusion: Top Things to do in Scranton PA

While we tried to provide you with an extensive list of things to do in Scranton PA, this list is not exhaustive.

There are loads of more fun-filled things to do in Scranton PA. Scranton PA has a lot of interesting sites, beautiful natural sceneries and historical backdrops, events, and festivals that are sure to satisfy your quests and engage you any time of the year.

Don’t forget to feat your tummy with sumptuous meals from different eateries in the locality and if you are a pizza lover, you don’t want to miss a visit to the worlds pizza headquarters.

Did you visit Scranton PA recently, what is your favorite attractive spot? Wed love to hear from you! If you haven’t visited and is planning a visit to Scranton, you may want to check out this list of best hotels in Scranton .

Further Reading on Similar Destinations :

• Best Things to do in Erie PA

• Destinations

17 Best Things to Do in Scranton, Pennsylvania

Last Updated By VI on February 1, 2024 in Things to Do in Pennsylvania & Places to Visit , Map

Everhart Museum

Electric city trolley museum, erie lackawanna dining car preservation society, catlin house.

• Complete List & Map

1901 Mulberry St., Scranton, PA 18510, Phone: 570-346-7186

300 Cliff Street, Scranton, PA 18503, Phone: 570-963-6590

201 South Blakeley Street #333, Dunmore, PA 18512, Phone: 570-209-5851

232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, Phone: 570-344-3841

Houdini Museum

1433 N Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18508, Phone: 570-342-5555

Lackawanna County Coal Mine

Tour guides explain the history of coal mining as well as the equipment and mining methods used throughout the years. The coal mine tour is offered daily from April 1st through November 30th, excluding major holidays. The tour lasts approximately one hour. Walking shoes and a jacket are recommended.

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Much of the trail is paved, making it excellent for walking, running, or cycling. Special events such as runs and walks, group bicycle rides, races, and trail clean-up days are held throughout the year by various area groups. At its northern end, the Heritage Trail connects with the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail.

Montage Mountain, Scranton, Pennsylvania

100 Montage Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18507, Phone: 570-969-7669

Nay Aug Park

1901 Mulberry St., Scranton, PA 18510, Phone: 570-348-4186

Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum

22 Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, PA 18504, Phone: 570-963-4804

Lake Scranton Walking Path

Route 307, Scranton, PA 18505

Steamtown National Historic Site

350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, Phone: 570-340-5200

Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den

300 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503; Phone: 570-909-9631

Lahey Family Fun Park

500 Morgan Highway, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania 18411; Phone: 570-586-5699

McDade Park

1 Bald Mountain Road, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18504; Phone: 516-361-2174

Scranton Iron Furnaces

159 Cedar Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18505; Phone: 570-963-4804

Scranton Cultural Center

420 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503; Phone: 570-346-7369

• 1. Everhart Museum
• 2. Electric City Trolley Museum
• 3. Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society
• 4. Catlin House
• 5. Houdini Museum
• 6. Lackawanna County Coal Mine
• 7. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail
• 8. Montage Mountain, Scranton, Pennsylvania
• 9. Nay Aug Park
• 10. Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum
• 11. Lake Scranton Walking Path
• 12. Steamtown National Historic Site
• 13. Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den
• 14. Lahey Family Fun Park
• 15. McDade Park
• 16. Scranton Iron Furnaces
• 17. Scranton Cultural Center

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17 Best & Fun Things To Do In Scranton PA (Pennsylvania)

When you hear Scranton, Pennsylvania, what comes to mind? This post will give you the best ideas on things to do in Scranton, PA.

As a tourist, a boring vacation or trip is never an option, but Scranton is a dreamland that manifests excellent things to do.

It is the county wheels of Lackawanna County in northeastern Pennsylvania. Scranton is a small city, but its great history attracts immigrants from all over Europe.

Scranton serves its visitors and tourists with captivating views and chances to explore its history, museums, and historic homes. With these fascinating things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania, be assured of fulfilled vacation.

Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

What are the Best Things To Do In Scranton PA (Pennsylvania) ?

#1. everhart museum.

In 1907, Dr. Everhart gifted the city with what is known as the “ Everhart Museum .” It was named for a prominent Scranton physician.

The museum is where exhibitions of different kinds of arts, sciences, and natural history have been carried out and featured.

The museum’s annual farm table meal in September features fresh local ingredients. Tourists note that the museum runs every other day except Wednesdays, February through December, and closes in January for maintenance.

Visitation to Everhart Museum will bring out the best part of your understanding of art, science, and history, especially knowing Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Address: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

#2. Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation

Have you ever toured a dining car or ever visited dining car preservation? The Lackawanna dining car was known for serving fish and gourmet meals made especially for passengers and tourists traveling on its railway dining cars.

For nearly 100 years today, dining has been clearly stated on a mission from the Eric Lackawanna Dining Preservation Society, which is to preserve its history on its travels.

Because of this mission, the society restored three dining cars: a sleeper car and two dieseling coaches. Any tour on these cars can only be arranged and made available by contacting the organization directly.

At Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation, a ride in it with an audacious meal is always accompanied anywhere you go. They also have special events that are done throughout the year. Add this to your list of things to do in Scranton, PA.

Address: 201 S Blakely St, Dunmore, PA 18512, United States

#3. Catlin House

George Scranton, a businessman, lived in the Catlin House when it was built in 1912 as a Tudor-style mansion that was beautifully designed, furnished, and kept up with antiques. The house has 16 rooms.

It is furnished with wood panels, a wooden staircase, and beautifully made stainless glass windows are just a few details in the house.

Tours are allowed, and visitors are welcomed on certain days.

In the Catlin house, there is a library, a research area, and a lecture room as well. Add this to your list of things to do in Scranton, PA.

Address: 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

#4. Houdini museum

Harry Houdini is one the most famous illusionists and magicians the world has ever seen.

The Houdini Museum is a tribute to him. In the Houdini Museum, you can see posters, pictures, and artifacts from his early life.

Visitation to the museum brings you to a series of activities encapsulated.

Every show experience has a limited number of seats available for the shows. The Houdini Museum is a fun place to be lighthearted and feel alive as a tourist in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Address: 1433 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508, United States

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#5. Lackawanna county coal mine

In Pennsylvania, coal mining has been a watch wave in the county because it has paid for and made an integral part of the economy for years.

A tour of the Lackawanna County coal mine provides an opportunity to see what and how the mining underground is like. A worthwhile experience in the coal mine country, where you can ascend and descend from the 300-foot underground,

As a tourist, it is an educational and fun-filled tour where you can learn about the history of coal mining, the equipment used, its procedure, and the methods used by the guided tour.

From April to November, tourists are allowed and welcomed on tour around the mining underground.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

#6. Montage Mountain

Montage Mountain is the best place to be with your family and friends if you are looking for what to do in Scranton, PA, for family outdoor recreational activities, especially during the winter.

In the winter, tourists can enjoy fun activities like skating, snowboarding, and snow tubing, which they will remember forever.

Ski lessons are also available for children and adults who need to learn what it entails, and summers are included in this beautiful experience and tour zones.

A large water park with slides and zip lines and a large pool is available for swimming, wave pool, and poolside cabanas, especially in summer.

At Montage Mountain, one can use the Slocum, Hollow Bar, and Restaurant for a longer stay for a meal or even at a stand by the corner. You can grab a bite to eat and be satisfied with your decision.

On a visit, you can never say no to Montage Mountain because of the extraordinary experiences attributed to it.

Address: 1000 Montage Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18507, United States

#7. Nay Aug Park

Families on tour, vacation, and visitation will always want to visit Nay Aug Park because it is one of the largest city parks and contains a beautiful landscape for walking trails that can make you escape and fall for the beauty of nature.

Families seeking picnic adventurous areas should wander no more because  Vast Tourist  brings Nay Aug Park as one of the  best places to visit in Scranton, Pennsylvania . Its picnic areas contain two playgrounds for children.

Its trail pass overrides your being with its exuberant Rocky gorges, streams, and waterfalls. Not just in the movies, but in reality, it is all in Nay Aug Park.

Even in the summer, tourists and guests can subdue its heat in the park’s two pouring water slides and pools in large shapes. It is a place of magnificent views and a wonderland of fulfillment.

Address: 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

#8. Anthracite Heritage Museum

The Anthracite Heritage Museum shows the story of many immigrants, their families, and their traditions.

In the 1800s, immigrants had come to Pennsylvania to build a new life for themselves in the anthracite mining industry.

There is now a replica of a typical coal miner’s home, a replica of a saloon, and many photos of workers and their families on display at the museum. A nearby exhibition consists of four large iron furnaces.

A tour of Anthracite Museum brings you an educational light beam to learning and a fun-filled adventure.

Address: 22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

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#9. Steamtown National Historic

A tour of the Steamtown National Historic Site brings different museum exhibitions such as locomotives, photographs, and a memory of the heyday railroad that shows the life of a rail hand and a roundhouse where technicians carry out their daily activities and repairs right in the train to your door.

The steam town National Historic Site is a museum dedicated to carrying on and preserving the legacy and history of steam locomotives which were once very beneficial and vital to transporting passengers and coal through Pennsylvania.

Tourists and guests on the railroad are welcomed and entertained and can watch a film in the theatre on the history of the railroad.

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

#10. Electric City Trolley Museum

The name Electric City Trolley Museum became known in Scranton in 1880 because of the trolleying line of passengers as the first in the world State of Pennsylvania. Today, its mission in the world is to preserve its history in the city’s rail line.

Visit the Electric City Trolley Museum to see its model trolley, railways, headlights, and mine. They also have a trolley car, railway light, and train equipment that can be restored. The museum also passes several historical sites through its working trolley car that travels in line at the museum.

You can have undeniable and insightful sightseeing and educational knowledge with just a trip.

Address: 300 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

#11. Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

One of Scranton, Pennsylvania’s most popular and fun places, is the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

Located at Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States, this tour is an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

You’ll start your journey at the visitor center, where you’ll receive a hard hat and battery-operated lantern, which will be used during the tour.

Once the tour begins, you’ll be taken underground in an authentic mine car, descending a 300-foot vertical shaft to the bottom of the mine.

Once there, you’ll get to experience first-hand what it was like for miners to work in the dark and damp conditions of a coal mine. You’ll see many different mining equipment and artifacts used during the heyday of coal mining in the area.

At the end of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the history of coal mining in the area and its impact on Scranton’s economy.

After your tour, you can take home a souvenir from the gift shop or grab a bite to eat at nearby restaurants.

#12. McDade Park

McDade Park is an excellent destination for visitors to Scranton, Pennsylvania. It provides beautiful scenery for a variety of outdoor activities.

Whether looking for a day out with the family or a romantic date night, McDade Park has something for everyone.

The park offers a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, a boat launch, and fishing opportunities.

The kids will love the train-themed playground and splash pad area, while adults can take a leisurely walk along the river or explore some hiking trails.

There’s also an 18-hole disc golf course if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, McDade Park also offers canoe rentals and guided tours.

After your excursion, grab a bite to eat at the snack bar or enjoy a picnic lunch with friends.

No matter what your interests are, McDade Park is the perfect place to spend some quality time outdoors. With its stunning views, convenient amenities, and various activities, it’s no wonder this popular park is so beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Address: 1 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18507, United States

#13. The University of Scranton

One of the best things about Scranton, Pennsylvania, is the University of Scranton. Located at 800 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18510, United States, this Jesuit university is home to some of the most talented students in the country.

From its top-tier academic programs to its diverse and vibrant campus culture, the University of Scranton offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re a student looking to explore the city or an alum looking to revisit your alma mater, The University of Scranton offers something unique.

On campus, you can find some of the most beautiful architecture. The University’s Loyola Science Center, an impressive story building, is a must-see.

You can find labs, classrooms, and lecture halls that teach various scientific disciplines.

You can also tour the elegant grounds surrounding the University and visit some of the other impressive buildings like St. Thomas Hall, Pilarz Hall, and Hyland Hall.

In addition to its academic offerings, The University of Scranton also offers a plethora of extracurricular activities for students.

There’s something for everyone, from sports clubs and intramural teams to performing arts organizations and special interest clubs.

Students can also take advantage of the University’s excellent cultural and performing arts venues, such as the Royal Theater, Center for Performing Arts, and Houlihan McLean Center.

From its stunning architecture to its vibrant campus life, The University of Scranton is one of the top places to visit in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or visitor, you’ll find something to appreciate at this great university!

Looking for more thrills around Kentucky? Why not check out the best things to do in Ashland (Kentucky) , Elizabethtown (Kentucky) , Newport (Kentucky) , and Somerset (Kentucky) .

#14. East Scranton field

If you’re looking for a great spot to take in some sports in Scranton, Pennsylvania, then East Scranton field is the place for you.

The park offers plenty of recreational opportunities, including five softball fields, soccer fields, football fields, a playground, and a dog park. Several picnic sites with grills also make it perfect for family gatherings or even a romantic evening.

The park offers running trails, tennis courts, and a basketball court if you want to get active.

If you’re interested in history, there is also a historic homestead on the property. The homestead was built in the early 1900s and preserved in its original condition.

Kids will also love the fun activities available throughout the day, like face painting and inflatables. If you want to experience baseball in Scranton, then make sure to head over to East Scranton field.

With its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s sure to be an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day out for the whole family or an opportunity to explore the history of Scranton, PA, East Scranton field is a great place to visit!

Address: 853 Richter Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States.

#15. Delaware Lackawanna Railroad Brady Yard

When it comes to visiting Scranton, Pennsylvania, one place must be included on your list: the Delaware Lackawanna Railroad Brady Yard.

This historic railroad line was used to transport anthracite coal throughout the region. Today, it is a popular destination for those exploring the city’s history and culture.

The Delaware Lackawanna Railroad Brady Yard is a great way to see the city interestingly. The ride is full of beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, and you’ll have plenty of time to appreciate the historic architecture along the route.

Located at 1 Laurel Line Dr, Scranton, PA 18505, United States, you can even hop off at stops to explore local attractions such as museums, churches, and even a museum dedicated to the history of Scranton.

This is a unique opportunity to experience a piece of history and admire some of Scranton’s most iconic sights.

For those looking for something more leisurely, the Delaware Lackawanna Railroad Brady Yard also offers several walking trails, perfect for taking in the area’s beauty.

#16. Dickson Avenue Bridge

One of the most iconic attractions in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is the Dickson Avenue Bridge.

This historic bridge was built in the 80s and is the longest and oldest stone arch bridge in the state.

Located at Dickson Ave, Scranton, PA 18509, USA, This bridge is breathtaking, connecting the downtown area to South Scranton.

Plenty of benches to relax and take in the bridge’s beauty, making it a great spot to have a romantic evening with a loved one.

The views from the bridge are also incredible and can provide a stunning backdrop for any photos you want to capture.

The Dickson Avenue Bridge is a must-see for anyone visiting Scranton, Pennsylvania. The stunning views, romantic atmosphere, and historical importance make it a fantastic place to explore and enjoy.

#17. The Scranton Iron Furnaces

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Scranton, Pennsylvania, then the Scranton Iron Furnaces are a must-see.

Located at 159 Cedar Ave, Scranton, PA 18505, United States, the furnaces offer visitors a look back at the city’s industrial heritage.

Built-in 1848, these furnaces represent a proud part of Scranton’s history and provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the area’s roots.

When you visit the furnaces, you’ll find that they are made up of four stacked blast furnaces that were once used for smelting iron ore.

The furnaces are now preserved in their original condition, so visitors can get an up-close look at how they worked. In addition to the blast furnaces, there is a forge, a blacksmith shop, and a museum that offers more information about the furnaces’ history.

The Scranton Iron Furnaces is a fascinating and educational way to explore the city.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s history or want to take in some impressive sights, this is one of the most exciting places to visit.

Time to spare? You can check out the best places to visit in Athens (Ohio) , Findlay (Ohio) , and Port Clinton (Ohio) .

Is it worth visiting Scranton PA?

Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a city with a rich history. Historically, it served as an important center for the coal and textile industries and has various enterprises and attractions.

Scranton’s recorded history, which includes the Steamtown National Historic Site, which honors the city’s railroad past, is one of the key attractions. 

In addition to museums like the Everhart Museum, which has exhibitions on natural history, science, and art, the city is home to various theaters, such as the Scranton Cultural Center and the Theatre at North.

What is Scranton PA famous for?

The vibrant culture and rich history of Scranton, Pennsylvania, are well known. Historically, it served as an important center for the coal and textile industries and has various enterprises and attractions.

The Steamtown National Historic Site honors the city’s railroad history. Some of the most popular things to do in Scranton are the Lackawanna to Coal Mine Tour, which takes people down into a real coal mine, and the Scranton Cultural Center, which has many artistic and cultural events.

The city also offers many museums and chances for outdoor activities like skiing and hiking. With a large selection of eateries, pubs, and breweries, Scranton is an excellent spot to sample regional cuisine and beverages.

Plan Your Trip To Scranton Pennsylvania

Scranton, Pennsylvania, is one of the most famous countries in the coal mining industry and has remained a big-time name in the history of mining in Pennsylvania. Vacations and tours to Scranton, Pennsylvania, are typical of that adventure and fun one seeks.

Just a step towards those thoughts will bring you to a world of unique unimaginable things that you are yet to have memories of, and vast tourist assures you of such experiences with the things to do in Scranton, Pa (Pennsylvania).

Happy Travel !!!

I'm not just a traveller, I'm a wanderer. A world explorer. An adventure seeker. I love to discover new things and learn about cultures around the world.

My goal in traveling the world goes beyond merely collecting passport stamps; instead, it is to build connections between various cultures, close gaps between different worlds, and promote a sense of world unity.

Every place I go serves as a new chapter in my lifelong quest to learn more, expand my horizons, and cultivate my profound appreciation for the beauty found in the infinite variety of our world.

I am not constrained by limits or borders when I am exploring; my only constraint is the boundless depth of my own curiosity.

I want to use my travels to paint the world with the brushstrokes of my experiences, highlighting the intricate tapestry of humanity and inviting other travelers to join me on a life-changing odyssey that will forever change us as people.

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Things to Do in Scranton, PA - Scranton Attractions

Things to do in scranton.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Soldiers and Sailors Monument of Lackwanna County

32. Shree Swaminarayan Mandir

33. Scenic Overlook

34. St. Ann's Monastery And Shrine Basilica

35. riverfront sports, 36. renaissance park at 500, 37. artworks gallery & studio | scranton.

38. Lackawanna County Children's Library

39. connell park | scranton, 40. connell park baseball fields.

41. Scranton City Hall

42. broadway theatre league of nepa, 43. trinity studio & gallery - scranton, 44. bank towers, 45. lackawanna historical society.

46. Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau

47. first liberty bank and trust building.

48. DICK’S HOUSE OF SPORT - Scranton

49. boscov's, 50. groove brewing, 51. marywood university arboretum, 52. volpe field, 53. gabe's, 54. nancy kay holmes branch library, 55. macy's, 56. valor field at veterans memorial stadium, 57. analog culture, 58. robinson park, 59. weston field.

60. The Pavilion At Montage Mountain

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Scranton

Things to do in scranton, explore popular experiences, tours in and around scranton.

Scranton Scramble Scavenger Hunt

Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour

Delaware Water Gap Air Tour

3 Lap Stock Car Ride Along at Pocono Raceway

20 Mile Stock Car Drive Experience at Pocono Raceway

6 Lap Stock Car Ride Along at Pocono Raceway

40 Mile Stock Car Drive Experience at Pocono Raceway

Candle Making or Terrarium Workshop in the Poconos

Private Pop Up Picnic and Painting in Shawnee on Delaware

Paintball in the Pocono Mountains Pennsylvania

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Best places to visit in pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania features cities large and small, foodie spots, sports hubs, scenic state parks and more. Plus, the Keystone State experiences all four seasons, meaning you can pick your favorite time to visit. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and accessibility, in addition to expert and user feedback, to decide the best places to visit in Pennsylvania. Have a favorite spot? Vote for your top Pennsylvania destination below to help us determine next year's list.

The Poconos

Philadelphia, ricketts glen state park, lehigh valley, valley forge, delaware water gap, lake wallenpaupack.

Hershey is known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth" – and for good reason. Here, you'll find Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can take a free tour of the facility to see how Hershey's chocolate and candy are made. Once you've satisfied your sweet tooth, head next door to Hersheypark to enjoy more than 70 chocolate-themed attractions designed for thrill-seekers of all ages. For a more laid-back vacation, visit ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park to see the 200-plus animals or Hershey Gardens to stroll through its 23 flower-filled acres (don't miss the rose garden's 3,000 roses if you're visiting during the summer months).

History buffs will love Gettysburg. Travelers can tour the roughly 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park (the site of the Civil War's bloodiest battle) and check out other historical attractions, such as the Jennie Wade House (where the only civilian casualty from the Battle of Gettysburg died) and the Eisenhower National Historic Site (a farm that once belonged to former President Dwight D. Eisenhower). Those who prefer a spookier glimpse of Gettysburg's past can sign up for a ghost tour. After sightseeing, visit an antiques store to find a piece of war memorabilia to take home as a souvenir.

An up-and-coming foodie destination, Pittsburgh woos travelers with restaurants that serve everything from Polish staples to mouthwatering burgers. In addition to eating your way through the Steel City, you'll want to visit the Andy Warhol Museum to see its extensive collection of the late pop art legend's work or head to the Senator John Heinz History Center for a wide array of Pittsburgh-related exhibits. Also save time for a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game (or a tour) at PNC Park and a ride on the Duquesne Incline, which takes passengers to the top of Mount Washington.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway with your significant other, a vacation full of nonstop adventure or something in between, the Poconos have you covered. This mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania is home to several state parks featuring forests, waterfalls, lakes and streams, making it an ideal place to hike, ride horses, swim, hunt and camp in summer. Plus, the Pocono Mountains draw skiers and snowboarders in droves in winter thanks to their more than 185 slopes and trails. Whenever you choose to visit, plan on staying at one of the Poconos' luxurious resorts , all-inclusive lodgings or charming inns.

Philly is one of America's most notable historical destinations thanks to top sights like the Liberty Bell (which abolitionists, women's suffrage supporters and other groups have used in their causes as a symbol of liberty) and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed). What's more, the city offers something for travelers of all ages: Kids will enjoy the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo (one of the best zoos in the country ), while adults can stroll through the Reading Terminal Market and admire Rittenhouse Square. Don't forget to try a classic Philly cheesesteak before you go.

Bordered by the Delaware River to the east, New Hope exudes both scenic beauty and small-town charm. Nature lovers can stroll through the meadows, forests and ponds at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, or follow a historical canal towpath in Delaware Canal State Park. Meanwhile, the town's quaint Main Street is home to architectural treasures like the Parry Mansion Museum, as well as a variety of boutiques. And don't let its small size fool you; New Hope punches above its weight when it comes to top-notch riverside dining options and irresistible accommodations, which range from picture-perfect inns to luxurious carriage houses.

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the state's most picturesque locales. Featuring more than 13,000 acres, this impressive state park in Pennsylvania's Columbia, Luzerne and Sullivan counties is home to the Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark. It also offers 26 miles of hiking trails that take you through centuries-old forests and around stunning rock formations. If you only have time to trek one of the park's 11 trails, travelers recommend choosing the Falls Trail. This 7.2-mile loop travels past 21 of the park's 22 free-falling waterfalls, including Ganoga Falls (Ricketts Glen's tallest waterfall).

This valley in eastern Pennsylvania – which comprises larger cities like Allentown and Bethlehem, plus smaller towns like Easton – is packed with things to do. History buffs can learn about Lehigh Valley's Colonial days at historical sights like the 1750 Smithy and the Bachmann Publick House. Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing and white-water rafting. Families will love visiting Easton's Crayola Experience and Allentown's Dorney Park. And for adults, there are dozens of breweries, distilleries and wineries to check out. For even more ambiance, arrive in fall to go leaf peeping and apple picking.

Lancaster is home to the nation's oldest Amish communities, making it an ideal place to disconnect and discover this unique way of life. Lancaster's Amish buggy rides and impressive farmers markets are popular with travelers of all ages, and visitors can learn more about the Amish lifestyle at the Amish Experience and The Amish Farm and House. Other must-dos in the area include the family-friendly Dutch Wonderland theme park, which wins praise for its variety of rides for younger kids. And don't miss shopping at the area's outlets and taking a tour of a local brewery.

Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park to spend your next vacation learning about American history. The village served as the winter encampment for former President George Washington and the Continental Army from 1777 to 1778. You can tour the encampment to see sights like the United States National Memorial Arch, Artillery Park and Washington's Headquarters. The park also offers ranger programs during the warmer months, plus 35 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. When you need a break from the village's rich history, enjoy some retail therapy at the nearby King of Prussia Mall, which features more than 450 stores.

Lovers of the great outdoors flock to the Delaware Water Gap each summer to hike and admire the area's green forests and waterfalls. Travelers can also rent canoes or kayaks and take to the water, fish at numerous lakes and streams or swim at Milford and Smithfield beaches. For those who'd rather stay on land, the roughly 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers ample opportunities to bike, hunt and go rock climbing. Visit in winter to take advantage of cold-weather activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice climbing.

If you're eager to spend some time in and on water, choose Lake Wallenpaupack as your next vacation destination. This man-made lake in the Poconos is one of the largest in the state, occupying 5,700 acres. Popular summer pursuits here include swimming, water skiing, boating and kayaking, while winter activities range from ice skating to snowshoeing to ice fishing. Lake Wallenpaupack also features six recreation areas, so if you need a break from the water, head ashore to enjoy land-based activities like hiking, camping and snowmobiling.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Allegheny National Forest

State College

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FALL FOLIAGE TRAIL

Northeastern Pennsylvania is un-be-leaf-ably breathtaking in the fall. Our landscapes burst with deep oranges, vibrant yellows, and soft reds, making the views magical. Soak in the vibrant colors of our area's fall foliage — it's in the highest definition possible! Uniquely enjoy the scenery by taking a Fall Foliage Train Excursion or a Trolley Ride through the countryside. Or hit the hottest spots by car or on foot for the best views Lackawanna County has to offer. 

• Fall Foliage Map
• Fall Activities

#visitlackawannapa

While you're out finding the best views, spend some time at our area's pumpkin patches and orchards , or get your fright on at our area's haunted attractions and events ! Check out the other great things to do this fall in Lackawanna County and spend a weekend with us .

Peak Leaf-Peeping: Mid-October

Stay in the know of the prime fall foliage time with the  Pennsylvania DCNR's Fall Foliage Reports & Facts .

#1 Hillside Park

#2 Lackawanna State Park

#3 Top of the World - Scenic Vista

#4 Covington Park

#5 Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

#6 Lake Scranton Trail

#7 The Lookout

#8 Nay Aug Park, Gorge, and Treehouse

#9 Aylesworth Park

#10 Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain

#11 Merli-Sarnoski Park

POPULAR LOCATIONS

— region: the abingtons —, — region: scranton —, — region: dunmore —, — region: north pocono —, — region: up-valley — , fall fun in lackawanna.

From  pumpkin patches  to  orchards and farmers' markets  or haunted attractions and haunted trails , Lackawanna County has all of your favorite fall activities ! Check out what other fun you'll have this season!

While You're In Town

Visitors guide.

• LACKAWANNA COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
• 135 Jefferson Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
• 1-800-22-Welcome
• PA Route 6 Alliance
• Lackawanna County
• Visit Pennsylvania
• The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce
• Lackawanna Heritage Valley

Pennsylvania cities among best places to live in the US: 2024 report

(NEXSTAR) — The U.S. is an expansive country, full of widely different cities — from the coastal towns to mountainous neighborhoods, small towns and sprawling metros, your options are nearly overwhelming if you’re looking to relocate.

Of all the places to live in the United States, it’s a Florida city that stands as the best, according to U.S. News and World Report’s latest rankings.

After considering the aspects people are most concerned about , like crime rates , quality of education , air quality , and value , the report found that Naples, Florida, is the top spot in the U.S. Analysts pointed to the city’s “pristine beaches, sprawling golf courses, and fine dining and shopping.”

Naples replaced Green Bay at the top of the list. The Wisconsin city, frequently at the top of U.S. News’ rankings, fell to 12th this year.

Here are the top 10 best places to live, according to the newest report:

• Naples, Florida
• Boise, Idaho
• Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Greenville, South Carolina
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Raleigh, North Carolina
• Huntsville, Alabama
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Austin, Texas
• Boulder, Colorado

While no Pennsylvania cities were named to the top 10, several were named in the report. Pittsburgh was named the 36th best place to live in the United States, scoring higher than top-ranked Naples for quality of life and value.

Lancaster was also ranked 79th best place to live and Scranton ranked 93rd.

While Naples was touted for its beaches, Trip Advisor previously ranked Siesta Beach in Florida’s Sarasota County, some 115 miles north, as the second-best in the country behind Ka’anapali Beach in Hawaii.

If you prefer more populated cities, U.S. News ranked Houston, Texas, as the best place to live among those with a population over 2.5 million (though it ranked 97th overall among the main list).

You can view the full rankings here .

U.S. News also reviewed cities for their desirability for retirees . None of the places listed above ranked among the top 10. Instead, Pennsylvania dominated, with seven of its cities landing among the best places to retire, including No. 1 ranked Harrisburg.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.