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.
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!
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#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.
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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!!!