Things To Do
in Nanticoke
Nanticoke, Pennsylvania is a small former coal‑mining city in Luzerne County on the western edge of the Scranton–Wilkes‑Barre metro area. The town combines working‑class heritage, pockets of historic architecture, and easy access to rivers, lakes, and Appalachian foothills. Visitors will find a low‑key, community‑oriented atmosphere with Polish and Eastern European cultural influences visible in food and festivals.
Nanticoke also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby state parks, waterfalls, and larger urban amenities a short drive away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Susquehanna Riverfront, where the tranquility of the water sets the perfect tone. Stop by a local café for breakfast, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while overlooking the river. Enhance your morning experience by visiting the nearby museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
Spend the afternoon discovering the lush landscapes at a nearby state park, where hiking trails offer stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the scenic picnic areas surrounded by nature. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak for a unique perspective of the river.
As twilight descends, head to a local eatery to savor traditional American cuisine, making sure to try some regional specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk, soaking in the serene ambiance and beautiful night views. Finish your evening with a visit to a local brewery or wine tasting room, enjoying flavors unique to the region.
Begin your day at the local farmers' market, where you can browse fresh produce and artisanal goods while mingling with residents. Taste local delicacies and engage with the vendors about their crafts for a deeper connection to the community. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a cozy diner famous for its homemade dishes.
Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the Nanticoke Historical Society to understand the rich heritage of the area through various exhibits and artifacts. Next, take a guided tour of the nearby landmarks, including historical sites that tell the stories of the town's past. Wrap up your cultural excursion with a visit to an art gallery showcasing local artists.
For dinner, select a restaurant that showcases the culture of the region with its vibrant seasonal menu. After dining, catch a local theater performance, featuring productions by community groups or traveling acts, to celebrate the artistic flair of Nanticoke. Cap off your night with a nightcap at a nearby pub known for its live music scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🚕Local taxi / rideshare short trip | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong local character and working‑class heritage with authentic community events and food.
- Affordable prices and convenient base for exploring state parks, waterfalls, and the Susquehanna River.
- Close to larger cities (Wilkes‑Barre / Scranton) for expanded dining, shopping, and entertainment.
- Limited public transportation and a modest local nightlife—a car is recommended.
- Winters can be harsh with snow and icy roads that affect travel plans.
- Fewer upscale dining and accommodation options directly in town compared with nearby cities.
Places to Visit in Nanticoke
Visit one of these nice places.
Shots of the wide river, bridges, sunrise/sunset reflections, and passing barges; best light early morning or late afternoon.
Capture community murals, classic storefronts, and ornate church facades that reflect the town’s immigrant heritage and architectural history.
Industrial textures, reclaimed landscapes, and railroad bridges offer gritty, atmospheric compositions—exercise caution and stick to public paths.
A must for waterfall photography—multi‑tiered falls, mossy rocks, and forest trails provide dramatic scenes, especially in spring and after rain.
Lakeside vistas and tree‑lined trails that are beautiful in all seasons, particularly during fall foliage.
Food in Nanticoke
Nanticoke Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dumplings filled with potato, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat—commonly found at Polish bakeries, church fundraisers, and diners across the region.
Must-Try!
Fried cabbage and noodles often served with bacon or kielbasa at Polish or Slovak‑influenced restaurants and community events.
Classic northeastern Pennsylvania sandwiches and thin‑crust pizzas from local shops; easy, reliably good options for a quick meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers markets in the Luzerne County area sell fresh produce, baked goods, and local honey; look for homemade pierogi, preserves, and baked pastries in summer and fall.
On festival days and summer weekends you’ll find food stands at community events selling sausages, fried dough, and ethnic specialties—great places to try authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People tend to be straightforward and community oriented—greet shopkeepers and say thank you; a brief chat often goes a long way.
Community events, church festivals, and memorials reflect local history—observe respectfully, ask before photographing individuals at small gatherings, and support local vendors.
Respect parking rules in downtown areas and private lots; be courteous when merging on rural roads and keep headlights on in poor weather.
Safety
Tipping in Nanticoke
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping norms apply: roughly 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars if not included, rounding up taxis or rideshares, and small tips for hotel staff. For exceptional service consider more; table service may include gratuity for large groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; many places take contactless payments. Small vendors, markets, and some diners may prefer cash, so carry some for markets or church fundraisers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures arrive but trails can be muddy; wildflowers emerge and waterfalls run strong—bring rain gear and waterproof footwear.
Warm and humid with long daylight hours good for boating and festivals; expect comfortable hiking in early morning/evening and higher insect activity near water.
Prime time for leaf color—crisp days and cool nights, ideal for scenic drives and photography; book accommodations early on popular weekends.
Cold with snow and icy roads; winter sports are available nearby but driving can be challenging—carry winter gear and check road conditions.
Nanticoke at Night
Hiking in Nanticoke
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Renowned for its series of waterfalls and well‑maintained trails; about an hour’s drive and excellent for photography and day hikes.
A local park featuring a scenic lake, picnic areas, and easy to moderate trails—great for family outings and birdwatching.
Offers trails, a large lake for boating and fishing, and open woods—suitable for hiking and outdoor recreation within a short drive.
A bit farther but rewarded with dramatic gorge scenery, rail‑trail biking, and riverside hiking for longer outdoor excursions.
Short, accessible trails and converted rail corridors along the Susquehanna and nearby creeks provide easy walks and cycling close to town.
Airports
How to reach Nanticoke by plane.
The closest commercial airport (about 20–30 minutes by car) with regional flights and rental car services; convenient for domestic connections and car rental.
Approximately 1–1.5 hours away by car; offers additional domestic flight options and is a reasonable alternative if schedules or fares are better.
Major international airport about 2–3 hours by car; useful if you need international connections or a wider choice of carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding working‑class communities shaped by the coal‑mining industry with strong family and neighborhood ties.
Significant Polish, Slovak, Ukrainian, Italian, and Irish heritage influences are visible in churches, food, and cultural events.
Like many small former industrial towns, Nanticoke has an older demographic segment; community services often reflect that population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Friday night high school football is a community focal point with strong local support and traditions.
Ice hockey is popular in the region, with community rinks, youth leagues, and nearby collegiate or minor‑league teams.
Outdoor sports like fishing, hunting, and angling are common recreational activities given the area’s rivers, lakes, and woodlands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanticoke.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist but are often basic—diner salads, cheese pierogi, and sides like roasted vegetables. Larger nearby towns have more dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants; mention dietary needs when ordering.
Gluten‑free choices can be limited in small traditional bakeries and diners; check menus, ask staff, and consider bringing snacks or visiting supermarkets in Wilkes‑Barre for more options.
Staff at family‑run places are usually accommodating if you clearly explain allergies, but cross‑contamination is possible in small kitchens—exercise caution.