Things To Do
in Plains
Plains is a small borough in Lackawanna County, nestled near the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre metro area. It offers a quiet residential atmosphere with easy access to outdoor recreation and regional attractions. The town roots run deep in Northeast Pennsylvania’s immigrant heritage, reflected in local eateries and neighborhood generosity.
Visitors will find a convenient base for exploring both nature and the nearby cities while staying connected to small-town charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Denver International Airport and take a leisurely drive to explore the vibrant city. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, soaking in the mountains' views. Visit the Denver Art Museum to admire its stunning collection of Native American art.
After lunch at Union Station, discover the historic Larimer Square for boutique shopping and local crafts. Spend time at the Denver Botanical Gardens, where you can wander through various themed gardens. Capture photos in the lush greenery, and don't miss the vibrant colors in bloom.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the sun setting over the Rockies. Stroll around the bustling downtown area, experiencing the lively nightlife. End your evening with a visit to a jazz bar for live music.
Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park, where the scenery will take your breath away. Begin with the Bear Lake Trailhead, enjoying a refreshing hike surrounded by towering mountains. The crisp morning air will invigorate you as you take in the natural beauty.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks, taking in the breathtaking views of the alpine lakes. Explore more of the park's hiking trails, like the Emerald Lake Trail, which leads to stunning vistas. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including elk and deer.
As dusk approaches, find a quiet spot to watch the stars come out, creating a dazzling sky away from city lights. Enjoy dinner at a cozy lodge near the park, reflecting on the day's adventures. Share stories around a warm fire, appreciating the serene surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for one week | $60-100 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $900-1,200/month |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $60-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with approachable charm
- Easy access to outdoor recreation and nearby cities
- Limited nightlife options
- Can be seasonal in tourism and weather-dependent
Places to Visit in Plains
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick storefronts, vintage signage, and early-20th-century architecture create timeless urban scenes, especially at golden hour.
Water reflections and tree-lined banks provide tranquil nature-splashback shots with a nearby industrial edge.
Open greenspaces along the river with sunset backdrops and subtle silhouettes of local landmarks.
Food in Plains
Plains Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stuffed dumplings typically filled with potato and cheese or farmers’ cheese; widely available at local delis and Polish-inspired eateries.
Must-Try!
A classic sausage dish served with sauerkraut and potatoes, common in neighborhood grills and traditional delis.
A comforting skillet featuring egg noodles and sautéed cabbage with onions, often found on pub menus and in family-run restaurants.
A sweet molasses-based pie representing regional dessert staples, frequently offered at bakeries and diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for a quick bite and ingredient ideas.
A compact market space with vendors selling regional specialties and street-food-inspired options on weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite hellos and small-town courtesy go a long way. Give someone your attention, hold doors, and avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Respect residential parking rules and form orderly lines at markets or cafés; patience is valued in busy times.
Appreciate local history and family-owned businesses; discuss regional heritage with curiosity and politeness.
Safety
Tipping in Plains
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is customary for good service. For counter-service or coffee shops, rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated. Tipping in cash directly to servers is common, though many places accept card payments with tip options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with frequent showers; great for outdoor strolls and blossom photography, but carry a light rain layer.
Warm to hot days with humidity; plan outdoor activities in mornings or evenings and stay hydrated; afternoon storms are common.
Crisp air and brilliant foliage; ideal for scenic drives and hiking; bring layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Cold with potential snow and ice; plan for winter footwear and indoor attractions as backups; shorter daylight hours.
Plains at Night
Hiking in Plains
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for cascading waterfalls and a network of trails; a premier option for serious hikers and nature photographers.
Scenic lakefront trails and easy-to-moderate hikes suitable for families and casual walkers.
Airports
How to reach Plains by plane.
Serves the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area; a common gateway for travelers to Plains, typically about a 40-60 minute drive depending on traffic.
A major hub offering extensive domestic and international flights; about a 2.5-3 hour drive or rail trip from Plains.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Overall demographics skew toward White residents with a mix of immigrant heritage in pockets, including Polish and Ukrainian influences.
Many households are family-oriented, with multi-generational living patterns common in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local leagues and school programs foster community support and family-friendly games during warmer months.
Strong youth and adult pickup games; community centers often host tournaments and practices.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plains.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetarian options like veggie burgers, salads, pierogi fillings with cheese, and side dishes such as roasted vegetables. Many casual eateries can accommodate requests with advance notice.