Things To Do
in Coal
Coal is a small, historically coal-mining community in central Pennsylvania surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and old industrial sites that tell the story of the region's anthracite past. The town has a quiet, rural character with a tightly knit local population and easy access to nearby small cities and state parks. Visitors will find a handful of local eateries, historic markers, and scenic country roads ideal for drives and photography.
Coal makes a good base for exploring Appalachian foothills, local heritage sites, and outdoor recreation without the crowds of larger tourist destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Coal, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area with a visit to the local park to soak in the fresh air. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps spotting some wildlife. Don't forget to grab breakfast at a quaint cafe that showcases local flavors.
After morning exploration, head to the Coal Historical Society to learn about the fascinating history and significance of coal mining in the region. Engage with interactive exhibits and take guided tours that illuminate the challenges and triumphs of the past. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby diner, where locals gather for their comfort food.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot for dinner at a rustic restaurant where you can taste traditional American cuisine. Choose from a delightful selection of dishes while enjoying live music that mirrors the rich cultural tapestry of Coal. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll through the town's main street, experiencing the small-town charm illuminated by the evening lights.
Start your day early with a fulfilling breakfast at a local bakery, where the aroma of fresh pastries fills the air. Then embark on a scenic hike at the nearby state park, where trails wind through breathtaking landscapes and lead you to stunning viewpoints. Make sure to capture the beauty of the sunrise lighting up the mountains.
Post-hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amid nature, surrounded by the tranquility of the woods. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby waterfalls or hiking additional trails that offer different perspectives of the area's natural wonders. Consider a guided wildlife observation tour to enhance your appreciation of local fauna.
Conclude your day with a barbecue dinner at a campsite, where you can grill your own meal while sharing stories with fellow adventurers. As night falls, gather around a bonfire, roasting marshmallows and stargazing while absorbing the peaceful silence of the night. Reflect on your day in the company of new friends under the vast, open sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee / Bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🏨Budget motel room (per night) | $60-100 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic week) | $40-75 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
- Good access to outdoor recreation and scenic drives
- Lower costs than nearby tourist hubs and less crowded attractions
- Limited nightlife, dining variety, and cultural attractions within town
- Fewer public transit options and limited services on weekends or off-season
- Cell and internet service can be patchy in more rural spots
Places to Visit in Coal
Visit one of these nice places.
Old mine entrances, spoil heaps, and disused rail beds provide textured, atmospheric subjects particularly dramatic in low light.
Winding rural roads, stone walls, barns, and farm fields create classic pastoral compositions, especially at dawn and dusk.
Small creeks, deciduous forest stands, and seasonal wildflowers are ideal for nature and macro photography in spring and summer.
Elevated spots in the surrounding hills offer sweeping fall color views—prime for wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Coal
Coal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Polish-style dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or meat — common in central PA and often available at diners, church fundraisers, and local festivals.
Must-Try!
Crispy shredded potato pancakes served with applesauce — a comfort favorite at breakfast or community events.
Large breakfast platters, club sandwiches, and battered fish or meat sandwiches — find these classics at the town diner or family restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets or roadside stands (spring–fall) offering fresh apples, corn, tomatoes, preserves, baked goods, and occasionally prepared foods from local vendors.
Frequent community events and church fundraisers where you can sample homemade pierogi, soups, donuts, and pies — great for authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents tend to be polite and reserved but friendly—greet with a smile and simple small talk. Saying hello and thanking people goes a long way.
Many scenic sites are on private land or adjacent to active industrial sites—observe signage and avoid trespassing. Ask permission before photographing on private property.
Church and volunteer-run community events are important local traditions—participation is welcome and organizers appreciate polite, respectful behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Coal
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, standard tipping is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service. Leave $1–2 per drink at bars, and tip delivery drivers $3–5 or 10% for large orders. Tip hotel housekeeping a few dollars per night if staying in local lodging.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most businesses, but smaller diners, markets, and rural vendors may prefer cash—carry some cash for roadside stands. Contactless payments are less common in small establishments than in larger cities; check ATM availability in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool, variable weather with budding trees and blooming wildflowers. Roads can be muddy after snowmelt; bring layers and waterproof footwear. Great time for bird migration and early wildflowers.
Warm to hot days and humid conditions; pleasant evenings for outdoor dining. Peak season for farmers’ markets and festivals, but also higher insect activity—pack repellent.
Crisp, comfortable days and spectacular fall foliage typically from mid-September through October—excellent for hiking and photography. Book accommodations early for peak foliage weekends.
Cold with snow and ice likely; roads can be slick and some rural routes may be less maintained. Winter sports like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are possible; check local weather and road conditions.
Coal at Night
Hiking in Coal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of trails and unpaved routes through state game lands for hikers, birdwatchers, and hunters—good for short to moderate hikes.
Offers scenic river overlooks, picnic areas, and easy trails—suitable for families and photographers who want river views and easy walks.
Regional ridge trails provide longer hiking opportunities and fall foliage viewpoints; terrain can be moderate with some rocky sections.
A bit farther by car but worth a day trip for its famous waterfalls and well-maintained loop trails—popular for hikers and nature photographers.
Airports
How to reach Coal by plane.
Approximately 45–60 minutes’ drive depending on traffic; offers regional commercial flights and car rental services—convenient for arrivals to northeastern central Pennsylvania.
About an hour to 1.5 hours’ drive; larger airport with more airlines and rental options, suitable when flying in from major hubs.
Around 1–1.5 hours by car; serves regional flights with access to the Lehigh Valley and eastern Pennsylvania.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households have lived in the area for generations with strong ties to mining and local industry history.
Residents who commute to nearby towns and small cities for work in healthcare, education, retail, and light industry.
A noticeable retiree population enjoys the slower pace, community activities, and lower housing costs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Friday night high school football is a community focal point—local games draw families and neighbors and are great cultural experiences.
Hunting in season and freshwater fishing are popular pastimes tied to regional outdoor traditions and local game lands.
Youth and amateur leagues for basketball and baseball are common recreational outlets throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options are modest but available: many diners can adapt sides, salads, and breakfast plates to be vegetarian-friendly. Ask for vegetable or cheese pierogi and potato-based dishes; larger nearby towns will have more vegetarian-specific restaurants.
Vegan choices can be limited in small-town eateries. Bring snacks or plan visits to supermarkets in nearby larger towns for plant-based supplies, or request simple vegetable sides and salads without dairy at local restaurants.
Awareness of gluten-free options varies—gluten-free bread and pasta may be scarce at small diners. Ask staff about preparation and cross-contamination; supermarkets in regional centers offer better selection.