Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Scranton, PA

  • Published 2022/11/19

Usually known for being the home base of the popular TV show The Office, Scranton, Pennsylvania is home to many tourist attractions.

Whether you’re looking to take a solo hike through the wild, have an adventure with your gang, or go on a tour with the whole family, there’s much to do in this city.

Interested to know more about this place?

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania:

Hike, Swim, Chill at Nay Aug Falls

Water flowing through the rocks at Nay Aug Park

Jennifer Theresa Barrett / Shutterstock.com

Take in the beautiful sights of Nay Aug Park while hiking through the trails running along the western slope.

The 22-feet high Nay Aug Falls is the destination most hikers set as aim.

There are two looking platforms on each bank, built to facilitate better access to the scenic view of the majestic fall.

Top view of Nay Aug Falls

Jason Healey Photography / Shutterstock.com

Relax in Nay Aug Park’s Swimming Pools

While jumping off a cliff to the depths of waterfalls may seem cool in movies, it’s risky and not permitted in real life.

If you wish to relax, taking a dip in the swimming pools of Nay Aug Park is a better, safer idea.

The pools are Olympic-sized and even offer water slides.

Enjoy the view from David Wenzel Tree House, built by Forever Young Inc. in 2007.

The treehouse is a one-of-a-kind attraction in the park, providing a view of the surrounding forest.

It is also handicapped-accessible.

Learn History at the Everhart Museum

Exterior of Everhart Museum in Scranton

Jeffrey from Dunmore, PA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Built in 1908, the Everhart Museum was named after Civil War veteran Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everhart, the first financer and a substantial provider of its expansive natural history collection.

The museum was initially dedicated to displaying a collection of native birds and wildlife specimens, but as the varieties of themes in their collections grew, so changed the museum’s focus.

At the start, the museum’s collection only included Oceanic, Japanese, and African art.

It was later granted a generous assortment of American art in 1940.

Visit the Anthracite Heritage Museum

Closer view of Anthracite Heritage Museum

Billy Hathorn at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This is not only a museum to educate you about the coal mining industries, but it is also a place to rediscover the tale of European immigrants to Northeastern Pennsylvania in search of work in the textile and mining industries.

Listen to the story of the Anthracite people.

There are displays of moments in the daily lives of the people that built the town on the back of the mining industry while going through hardships themselves.

Witness the Scranton Iron Furnaces

Stone buildings of Scranton Iron Furnaces

Noel Biesecker / Shutterstock.com

There are four blast furnaces that are remainders of the historical iron industry age of America.

One of the blast furnaces at the Scranton Iron Furnaces

Noel Biesecker / Shutterstock.com

The furnaces teach visitors how significant Scranton’s coal mining industry is to the national economy.

The view inside one of Scranton Iron Furnaces

Noel Biesecker / Shutterstock.com

Jog around the Trails of Lake Scranton

Scenic view of Lake scranton

Bruce Goerlitz Photo / Shutterstock.com

Looking for a place to have your morning jog without worrying about bikers and crowded places?

The walking trail around Lake Scranton is the perfect pick.

It’s a 3.57-mile loop trail, secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city and yet with moderate foot traffic of walkers and joggers.

Trees near lake scranton

Bruce Goerlitz Photo / Shutterstock.com

It takes around 10 minutes to get there from the city area, and parking is free.

Swimming in the lake and biking on the trails is strictly prohibited; it’s a place to walk and jog in peace while taking in the beautiful sights of the area only.

Sunny day at Lake Scranton

Stephanie Roiser / Shutterstock.com

Feel the Classic Vibe at Steamtown National Historic Site

View of Steamtown National Historic Site

George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com

Technology may keep advancing, but classics will always be classics.

There may be bullet trains aplenty nowadays, but there’s something about the idea of steam engine trains that draws tourists to the Steamtown National Historic Site.

The “Scranton Limited” short train rides are the site’s most famous attraction.

Steam trains at Steamtown National Historic Site

George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com

The passage takes you by the Lackawanna River and past Radisson (Lackawanna Station Hotel), briefly takes a stop a the University of Scranton, and comes back to the boarding area at Steamtown National Historic Site.

It’s usually a-30 minute round trip.

A caboose is a rear end of the train, usually reserved for its crew members.

Steam locomotive at Steamtown National Historic Site

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

With the “Caboose experience,” visitors can ride in the caboose and feel like a part of the crew in the past.

It’s an inclusive part of the “Scranton Limited” ticket.

This site, in its essence, is a documentation of the US train history, with the use of steam engine trains rides and exhibitions.

People in one of the steam trains of Steamtown National Historic Site

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Take a Trip to the Past at the Electric City Trolley Museum

Scenic view of Electric city trolley museum

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Train enthusiasts visiting Scranton should head to the Electric City Trolley Museum.

Electric City Trolley Museum's station

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy the exciting ride connecting Steamtown National Historic Site to a trolley restoration facility in Moosic.

The trip offers a long tunnel ride, making you feel as if you’ve just glimpsed a part of life in the 1920s.

View inside a trolley of Electric City Trolley Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

The museum has a gallery where visitors can watch the ongoing repairs on trolleys and interurbans.

Front part of a trolley at Electric City Trolley Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

Be Amazed at the Houdini Museum

Get to know the wondrous life and times of Harry Houdini, check out some of his authentic artifacts, and watch spellbinding magical events at the Houdini Museum!

The museum is managed by the world-famous “First Lady of Magic” Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Brooks.

It’s one of the places with the most positive feedback by visitors, for its beautiful display of various information related to Harry Houdini’s life by talented hosts and outstanding magic shows.

Try Out the Best Places to Eat and Drink in Scranton

Head to Savory Maza to enjoy Lebanese specialties an authentic dining experience.

Check out the Seafood of Cooper’s Seafood House, an excellent place to get quality seafood and enjoy eating and drinking on the patio.

If you want to check out a Mediterranean restaurant, The Gardens is the perfect choice.

With Modern Middle Eastern and Mediterranean recipes and outdoor seating, it’s a great place to grab a quick bite.

Have your fill of craft beer of Backyard Ale and be amazed by their quality.

House Scranton, a premier craft beer hub, has an outdoor patio and various dining options available.

It’s a good place to hang out with your gang.

For a romantic evening with your partner, enjoy the fine dining experience at Posh.

Reservations are recommended.

Check Out Archbald Pothole State Park

Closer view of Archbold Pothole state Park

Clint, stitched and cropped by Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Found accidentally by miners in 1884 while blasting the area to expand a mining tunnel, Archbald Pothole State Park is now known as the world’s largest glacial pothole.

It’s 38 feet deep and 42 feet wide.

It was formed by the subsiding glacier meltwater swirl during the Ice Age.

Before the mining accident, it was undiscovered and untouched for about 10,000 years.

Meet Marine Wildlife at Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

If you think HD images and videos are awe-inspiring, you’ll be impressed by exotic species of fish swimming under the sparkling blue waters and reptiles lurking in their artificial habitat.

Electric City Aquarium offers an interactive educational walk-through experience, introducing you to majestic stingrays, intimidating sharks, camouflaging octopuses, and other aquatic animals.

You can also take an informative tour of their reptile den, where you’ll learn fun facts about many different types of amphibians.

Along with reptiles of all sizes, including lizards, tortoises, snakes, and crocodilians, you might even get to see some critters that aren’t your average reptiles.

If you go on a self-guided tour, the expert keepers will share facts about each specific species and its important places in the ecosystem.

Enjoy Live Entertainment at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple

Exterior of Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple

ARK NEYMAN / Shutterstock.com

Once called the Masonic Temple and Scottish Rite Cathedral, the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple is a cultural center and performing arts theater on Washington Avenue.

A National Register of Historic Places, the Cultural Center is a hub for learning and creativity, things of interest to many people in the community, young and old alike.

This building was designed by architect Raymond Hood, Harry V. K. Henderson, and Godley & Fouilhoux, and inside it is the Scranton Cultural Center.

Night light of Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple

Noel Biesecker / Shutterstock.com

An exciting breakthrough in combining elements of the Romanesque, Gothic, and Richardsonian Romanesque architecture with contemporary Art Deco influences makes The Masonic Temple an aesthetic masterpiece.

Like a cultural smorgasbord, the Cultural Center offers the most flavorful of theater, musicals, opera, foreign films, art exhibits, and dance performances.

If you’re looking for comedy, it’s a cozy spot to grab a few laughs.

Various well-known personalities in the contemporary music business such as Dave Matthews, Jason Mraz, N Sync, Alice Cooper, Breaking Benjamin, and Maroon 5 have made legendary performances in this theater.

Night lights of Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple

Noel Biesecker / Shutterstock.com

Channel Your Inner Artist at Artworks Gallery & Studio

Situated in the heart of Scranton’s historic restoration district, Beacon Specialized Living proudly presents ArtWorks Gallery & Studio.

This vibrant venue provides the community with an opportunity to explore creativity and serve as an inspiring space for artists and people with disabilities of all levels of ability.

This open-plan studio features a multipurpose room that embraces difference, providing a welcoming place for everyone in their journey of artistic self-discovery.

Artworks Gallery & Studio is one of the most popular events to experience during First Friday in downtown Scranton.

An emerging trend in the art industry is the concept of a “Community Art Walk.”

With first Fridays in Scranton, galleries and other local businesses will participate by inviting artists to set up displays of their original artwork to give patrons a chance to see more variety than they would at one company.

Take a Look around the Catlin House Museum

Catlin House, constructed in 1912, served as George and Helen Catlin’s previous household.

The structure has served as a museum, research station, lecture center, and library since converted into the Lackawanna Historical Society’s administrative center.

Explore the area and learn about its past, from the hall that served as a welcome area and meeting spot for huge events to the living room created for special events.

The living room has elaborate woodwork, an Italian marble-fronted fireplace, Rococo Empire furnishings, and a distinctive Kashan carpet.

Original furnishings from the Catlin and Archbald residences are used in the dining room.

The gift section is stocked with a wide selection of items, including clothes, toys, DVDs, and literature of local significance.

Explore the Shops and Streets of the Marketplace at Steamtown

Exterior of the Marketplace at Steamtown

quiggyt4 / Shutterstock.com

The Marketplace at Steamtown, originally The Mall at Steamtown, is a two-story retail center in Scranton featuring a food hall that looks out over the Steamtown National Historic Site.

It is a vibrant mixed-use building that houses entertainment, business offices, retail stores, and recreational services.

The Marketplace at Steamtown is conveniently located for doing errands throughout the workweek or stopping by for a post-exercise routine.

Interior of the Marketplace at Steamtown

JohnDziak, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

It provides plenty of on-site shaded parking as well as validation.

With indoor entertainment, distinctive shops, regional cuisine, and community activities everything under the roof, it’s indeed a fantastic weekend getaway spot.

Indulge in Exquisite Wines at Lucchi Family Wine Cellars

Northeastern Pennsylvania is home to the family-owned winery Lucchi Family Wine Cellars.

Robert and Mark Lucchi are proprietors of the traditional, handmade wine school.

They have constructed a cutting-edge manufacturing complex in the center of North Scranton.

Furthermore, they currently make more than 35 distinct types of wine.

Lucchi Family Wine Cellars grows its grapes on-site or imports them from all over the world.

Five countries supply them with their fruits, juice, and grapes: California, Italy, New York, Pennsylvania, and South America.

Make Use of Top-Notch Faclities at Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton

Exterior of Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton

Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton welcomes its guests to experience the ideal fusion of Pennsylvania’s history and present with its French Renaissance design and contemporary amenities.

Numerous of the original elements remain in the 1908-opened historic hotel, formerly a railroad station.

You will have a great visit under one of their 146 guest rooms or suites, which have granite bathrooms, a historic vibe, and high-end facilities.

Interior of Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton

Allen McGregor from Brampton, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The refrigerator in your room may store extra supplies of your preferred beverages, and room service is available for delectable meals.

Consider switching to one of their suites for features like a sizable living area or a relaxing whirlpool.

For your impending business conference, gala, or wedding party, the Radisson can easily manage up to 800 people with its assortment of dance halls, boardrooms, and luxury suites.

View of Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton at night

Noel Biesecker / Shutterstock.com

Create a Unique Scent at Noteology

Noteology’s narrative is sparked by the passion and begins with wonder.

This quest, rich with scents, was begun by the creator, Danielle Fleming, more than 20 years ago.

Noteology was established with the main purpose of introducing individuals to the power of fragrance.

Danielle’s goal was to establish a company that would promote colognes and fragrances just for their aromas and the capacity to feel things.

You may choose from a variety of fragrances at Noteology.

Anyone could pick from their Signature Collection of distinctive Fine Fragrances for him and women, or you can use their Custom Studio to make your scent.

Examine, create, analyze, and re-connect with the feelings that each note and each perfume bottle contain.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Take a Side Trip to Knoebels Amusement Park

Colorful rides at Knoebels amusement park

Helen89 / Shutterstock.com

If you’re already in the city and actively trying to find fun things to do, then why not take a short side trip to Knoebels Amusement Park?

It’s located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, approximately an hour and a half away from Scranton.

People swimming on the pool of Knoebels Amusement Park

Larry Porges / Shutterstock.com

Knoebels claims to be the biggest free entry-fee amusement park in America.

It’s a perfect classical getaway to enjoy rollercoasters, swimming, and picnicking with your family on the weekend.

The main attractions of the amusement park are the laser tag maze, mini-golf course, XD theater, and bald eagle habitats.

Water splash of Knoebels Amusement Park's pool

Cvandyke / Shutterstock.com

If your family is in the mood for some splish-splashing fun, there are also water slides of varying kinds and a kiddie pool area for small children.

In case you’re planning to spend your whole weekend at the amusement park, there are many choices available, such as the Knoebels Park Campground, Lake Glory Campground, cozy log cabins (single cabin for up to six people), and other places ranging from budget to luxury stays.

A thrilling ride in Knoebels Amusement Park

Dee Dalasio / Shutterstock.com

Go on a Short Trip to Ricketts Glen State Park

Scenic Ganoga Falls in Ricketts glen state park

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock.com

Just a 57-minute ride away from Scranton is one of the top tourist attractions of Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen State Park.

This state park is known for its 22 waterfalls, the most notable being the 94-foot Ganoga Falls.

Scenic waterfalls in Ricketts Glen State Park

JMarro / Shutterstock.com

There are hiking trails of varying difficulty and family-friendly activities aplenty in the park.

It’s a great place for a weekend trip with your family.

A wooden bridge in Ricketts Glen State Park

MH Anderson Photography / Shutterstock.com

Fishing, hunting, and swimming are allowed for all in this park.

There are also log cabins and campsites for those who would like to spend the night here.

A lake in Ricketts Glen State Park

Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock.com

Admire the Beauty of Nature at Bushkill Falls

Beautiful Bushkill Falls on a sunny day

Chiragsinh Yadav / Shutterstock.com

Bushkill Falls is located high up in the Poco Mountains and is a little over an hour away from Scranton.

With a spectacular series of eight waterfalls and long winding forest hiking trails, wooden bridges, and gushing rivers, it’s one of the best tourist attractions of entire Pennsylvania.

A trail along Bushkill Falls

Songquan Deng / Shutterstock.com

The hiking trails vary in difficulty, so make sure to pack all the necessary hiking gear (mainly appropriate hiking shoes) and a first aid kit.

The waterfalls can be viewed from closer up through the wooden bridges constructed over the rivers.

Be sure to check out the tallest waterfall, which has an impressive height of 100 feet.

Trees framing a footpath at Bushkill Falls

Songquan Deng / Shutterstock.com

There are options for fishing, paddle boats over the river, a playground for children, and specified picnic areas.

It can get crowded past 11 am, so you may want to plan an early trip and buy your tickets online to avoid the long lines.

Rushing waters of Bushkill Falls

cwieders / Shutterstock.com

Have Fun Times at Camelbeach Mountain Outdoor Waterpark

Located in the Pocono Mountains, about 45 minutes away from Scranton, Camelbeach Mountain Outdoor Waterpark claims to be the biggest waterpark in Pennsylvania.

With more than 37 rides, slides, and family-friendly attractions, it’s an excellent place to check out if you’re looking for things to do around Scranton.

While taking a break from the waterpark, you can enjoy nearby attractions that offer ski and snow activities, casinos, fishing, boating, restaurants, adventure parks, and many more.

Admire Nature at Choke Creek Falls

Picturesque view of the Choke Creek Falls

Nicholas A. Tonelli from Northeast Pennsylvania, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you love hiking and witnessing natural hidden gems, taking a short hike to Choke creek falls should be on your list of things to do in Scranton.

Located in the Thornhurst Tract of the Pinchot State Forest, the waterfall is 20 feet tall and similarly wide with two drops.

It attracts non-resident visitors and resident hikers alike.

Seek the Hidden Rattlesnake Falls

 Nice view of Rattlesnake falls

JMarro / Shutterstock.com

Travelers, especially lovers of nature, often enjoy exploring forests and waterfalls on their travels.

If it’s a hidden gem, then all the better.

Rattlesnake Falls is about 20 high and carves out a gorge below.

Scenic view of Hidden Rattlesnake Falls

Jason Healey Photography / Shutterstock.com

The whole area is picturesque and best for solo hikers looking for some quiet and seclusion in the heart of nature.

This hidden waterfall is located in the Pinchot forest nearby the Nestbitt Reservoir.

Final Thoughts

Pennsylvania is a state like no other, and Scranton is a special gem tucked away.

Whether you’re from the area or coming from out of town on business or pleasure with friends or family, there are tons to do for any traveler.

Reference this list for tips on how to make your trip one to remember!

© All rights reserved.