Explore Luzerne County, Pennsylvania: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Luzerne County boasts of a vibrant culture, historical landmarks, natural wonders, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, an adrenaline junkie, or a nature lover, Luzerne County has something to offer.

Top Attractions

Start your Luzerne County adventure by visiting some of the top attractions in the area. These include:

The Steamtown National Historic Site, where you can learn about the history of steam locomotives and explore the museum and train yard.
The Mohegan Sun Pocono Casino, which offers a variety of gaming options, restaurants, and entertainment.
The Frances Slocum State Park, where you can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming.

Hidden Gems

If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Luzerne County has plenty of hidden gems to explore. These include:

The Eckley Miners’ Village, a preserved coal-mining town that offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
The Seven Tubs Natural Area, a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that are perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.
The Ricketts Glen State Park, a 13,000-acre park with 24 waterfalls and over 26 miles of hiking trails.

Food Scene

Luzerne County’s food scene is a melting pot of different cuisines, from classic American fare to Italian, Mexican, and Asian dishes. The area is known for its pizza, pierogies, and coal-fired steaks. Some must-try restaurants include:

Abe’s Hot Dogs, a local institution that has been serving hot dogs since 1949.
Alfredo’s Pizza Cafe, which offers some of the best pizza in the area.
The Polish Club, a hidden gem that serves authentic Polish cuisine.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling to Luzerne County on a budget? Here are some tips to help you save money:

Visit during the off-season when hotel rates and attraction prices are lower.
Take advantage of free events and activities, such as hiking, swimming, and visiting museums and parks.
Eat like a local and try some of the area’s affordable and delicious street food options.

Outdoor Adventures

Luzerne County’s natural beauty and diverse terrain make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor activities include:

Hiking in the Appalachian Mountains, which offer scenic trails and breathtaking views.
Fishing in the Susquehanna River, which is home to a variety of fish species.
Skiing and snowboarding in the winter at the Montage Mountain Resort.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Luzerne County has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. These include:

The Crayola Experience, a hands-on interactive attraction where kids can create their own crayons and works of art.
The Knoebels Amusement Resort, a family-owned amusement park with rides, games, and live entertainment.
The Luzerne County Children’s Museum, which offers fun and educational exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.

Natural Wonders

Luzerne County is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Pennsylvania. These include:

The Glen Onoko Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that are perfect for hiking and swimming.
The Lehigh Gorge State Park, a 4,548-acre park with hiking and biking trails, whitewater rafting, and scenic overlooks.
The Hickory Run State Park, which features the Boulder Field, a unique geological formation that is over 20,000 years old.

Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Luzerne County comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the top places to check out include:

The Breakers at Mohegan Sun Pocono, which offers live music, dancing, and drinks in a chic atmosphere.
The V-Spot, a popular dive bar that serves craft beers and hosts trivia and karaoke nights.
The River Street Jazz Cafe, which showcases local jazz musicians and has a cozy atmosphere.

Local Markets

For a taste of local flavor, be sure to visit some of Luzerne County’s farmers’ markets and artisanal shops. These include:

The Wilkes-Barre Farmers’ Market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.
The Pittston Farmers’ Market, which features live music, food trucks, and a variety of vendors selling everything from honey to jewelry.
The Back Mountain Farmers’ Market, which offers a wide selection of organic and locally grown produce and meats.

Beaches and Mountains

From sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains, Luzerne County has it all. Some of the top places to explore include:

The Lake Wallenpaupack, a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.
The Pocono Mountains, which offer scenic drives, hiking trails, and ski resorts.
The Francis Walter Dam, which boasts of breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for picnics and hiking.

Cultural Immersion

Luzerne County has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through its museums, festivals, and events. Some of the top cultural experiences include:

The Luzerne County Historical Society Museum, which showcases the history of the area through exhibits and artifacts.
The Italian Festival, which celebrates the area’s Italian heritage with food, music, and entertainment.
The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world.

Art and Music Scene

Luzerne County has a thriving art and music scene, with galleries, museums, and venues showcasing local talent. Some of the top places to visit include:

The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts concerts, plays, and other live performances.
The Sordoni Art Gallery, which features rotating exhibits of contemporary art.
The Luzerne County Art Museum, which houses a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Luzerne County is on foot. There are several walking tours available that offer a glimpse into the area’s history and culture. These include:

The Wilkes-Barre Downtown Walking Tour, which takes you through the city’s historic district and highlights its architecture, landmarks, and cultural institutions.
The Wyoming Valley Walking Tour, which explores the history of the Wyoming Valley and its role in the American Revolution.
The Greater Pittston Historical Society Walking Tour, which takes you through the borough of Pittston and showcases its historic homes and buildings.

Architectural Marvels

Luzerne County is home to several architectural marvels that are worth checking out. These include:

The Luzerne County Courthouse, a stunning Beaux-Arts building that was built in 1906.
The Frederick Stegmaier Mansion, a Victorian-era mansion that is now a bed and breakfast.
The Wilkes-Barre City Hall, which features a clock tower and a mural depicting the history of the area.

Historical Sites

For history buffs, Luzerne County is a treasure trove of historical sites and museums. Some of the top places to visit include:

The Huber Breaker Preservation Society, which preserves the history of the anthracite coal industry in the area.
The Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum, which offers exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history of the anthracite coal region.
The Eckley Miners’ Village, which is a preserved coal-mining town that offers a glimpse into the region’s past.