Things To Do
in Mountain Top
Mountain Top is a small township in Luzerne County, northeastern Pennsylvania, tucked into the Pocono foothills. It features leafy residential streets and a relaxed, community feel while remaining within easy reach of the Wilkes-Barre-Scranton metro area. The surrounding countryside offers scenic drives, parks, and access to outdoor recreation year-round.
It serves as a convenient base for day trips to Ricketts Glen, Frances Slocum and the broader Northeastern Pennsylvania region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a sunrise hike on one of Mountain Top's scenic trails, surrounded by the crisp air and vibrant wildflowers. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at a viewpoint where you can soak in the stunning views of the valley below. As the sun rises, the landscape comes alive, filling you with energy for the day ahead.
After your morning hike, head to a local café to refuel with a hearty lunch featuring fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby artisan shops, showcasing handmade crafts and local art that capture the essence of the region. Don’t forget to stop by a local winery for an afternoon tasting of exquisite wines produced from the area’s vineyards.
As the sun sets over Mountain Top, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a cozy restaurant offering seasonal dishes paired with locally sourced wines. After dinner, take a tranquil stroll through the charming town square, which often features live music and community activities, soaking in the friendly atmosphere. Cap off the night by sitting outside by a bonfire, sharing stories under a blanket of stars.
Begin your day by visiting a local museum that showcases the history and culture of Mountain Top, browsing through intriguing exhibits and artifacts. Engage with the friendly staff and ask about guided tours that might provide deeper insight into the area’s heritage. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby diner where locals gather to start their day.
In the afternoon, head to a cultural festival happening in the town, where you can experience live performances, traditional food stalls, and craft workshops. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and mingle with residents passionate about their community and traditions. Capture the essence of the event with photographs and perhaps even take part in a dance or craft activity.
Finish the day with dinner at an ethnic restaurant offering authentic culinary experiences, such as Mediterranean or Asian fusion dishes. After your meal, check out a local theater performance, showcasing regional talent and stories that resonate with the audience. If the mood strikes, find a cozy pub for a nightcap while reflecting on your enriching cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠One-Bedroom apartment (monthly) | $900-1,200 |
| 🛏️Hotel or motel night (budget) | $90-150 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic countryside and easy access to outdoor recreation
- Proximity to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton for culture and services
- Relaxed pace and family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife within Mountain Top itself
- Rural area means more driving for many activities
- Public transit options are limited
Places to Visit in Mountain Top
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop vantage along a main road where farmlands and the Pocono foothills stretch to the horizon.
A tranquil lakeside scene ideal for early morning reflections and sunset silhouettes.
Iconic cascading waterfalls through deep woods, with stone staircases and viewpoints.
River silhouettes, bridges, and canal towpaths provide urban-rural contrast for photography.
Food in Mountain Top
Mountain Top Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A molasses-based pie classic of the Pennsylvania Dutch region, often found at local bakeries and diners.
Must-Try!
Soft dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese or onions, common at family restaurants and Eastern European–influenced spots.
Warm, chewy pretzels served with mustard; widely available at bakeries and snack shops.
Hearty sausage with sauerkraut and potatoes at traditional eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area offering fresh produce, baked goods, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hello and a friendly nod go a long way; address people as Mr./Ms. until invited to use first names.
Wait your turn in line and avoid crowding others in small spaces like shops and elevators.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces and yield to pedestrians on sidewalks.
Safety
Tipping in Mountain Top
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, 15-20% is standard; for counter service or takeout, tipping is optional but appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in smaller eateries and for tips; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days with humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Pack sunscreen, water, and be prepared for showers during hikes.
Foliage peaks in fall, offering golden landscapes and cool, comfortable hiking weather.
Cold, snowy conditions are common; plan for winter driving and layered clothing; nearby resorts offer skiing.
Parks come alive with wildflowers and rain showers; great for budding trees and longer daylight hours.
Mountain Top at Night
Hiking in Mountain Top
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous cascading waterfalls with a multi-mile loop through dense woods.
Gentle lakeside paths ideal for family hikes and wildlife watching.
Scenic river-side trail popular for biking and easy hiking near the Susquehanna River.
Airports
How to reach Mountain Top by plane.
Nearest commercial airport with flights to major hubs; rental cars are available on-site.
Major international hub about a 2.5–3 hour drive; additional long-haul options.
Mid-size airport within a couple hours’ drive for regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly White, with growing Black and Hispanic communities; families and retirees form a large share of residents.
Mix of long-time residents and newcomers attracted to the quiet neighborhoods and proximity to urban centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region, with local youth leagues and nearby professional teams.
Common summer activity with local parks and leagues.
Community leagues and school programs throughout the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mountain Top.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most diners offer veggie burgers, salads, and pasta; clearly communicate dietary needs and ask about egg or dairy preferences.