13 Things To Do In Scranton: Complete Guide From The City's Natural Wonders To Historic Landmarks (2024)

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.

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

Waterfall inNay Aug Park, Scranton PA.

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

2 Hike The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Confluence of the Susquehanna River and Lackawanna River

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

The lake in Lackawanna State Park, Pennsylvania

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.

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

Historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Passenger Coach 303 on turntable in Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA.

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

Coal miners preparing to return to work after the great strike, Scranton, PA.

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

6 Learn About Scranton’s History At The Lackawanna Historical Society

Informational sign for the Illinois Central Number 790 steam locomotive at Steamtown National Historic Site

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

Antique SEPTA bullet trolley in the Electric City Trolley Museum, Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA.

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

8 Catch A Performance At The Scranton Cultural Center

Scranton Cultural Center and former Masonic Temple in Scranton, PA.

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)

Related: 8 Of The Most Romantic Getaways You Can Find In Pennsylvania

9 Admire The Lackawanna County Courthouse

A view of 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

10 Check Out The Electricity City Aquarium & Reptile Den

Pedestrian Walkway at Marketplace at Steamtown, Scranton, PA.

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.

11 Cheer The RailRaiders At PNC Field

Indianapolis Indians player swings at a pitch in a game against the Scranton Wilkes Barre Yankees at PNC Field in Scranton, PA.

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.

12 Experience The Beauty Of Nay Aug Falls

Nay Aug Falls and gorge in Autumn, Scranton, Pa

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.

Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA: View of the skybridge at the Marketplace at Steamtown over Lackawanna Avenue

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.

• Address: 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States
• Hours: Monday to Saturday (11 am - 7 pm), Sunday (Noon - 5 pm)

14 Where To Eat In Scranton

Christopher Columbus Statue in front of the Lackawanna Courthouse

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.

Breakfast

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

Lunch

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

View of a church in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Finding a place to stay in Scranton is easy, no matter a traveler's budget.

Hotels

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

• Address: Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States
• 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

• Address: Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States
• Price: From $72
• Amenities: Private room, queen bed, shared bath, smart TV, kitchen access, laundry room

16 Best Time To Visit Scranton

A beautiful park in 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

Road in Scranton PA

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

Scranton 'Electric City' sign on a building.

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.

FAQ

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).