Things To Do
in Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre is a city located in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania, United States. It is known for its rich history in coal mining and manufacturing industries. The city offers a blend of urban amenities along with easy access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and fishing in the nearby Pocono Mountains.
Wilkes-Barre is also home to several universities and colleges, adding a youthful energy to its community.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Wilkes-Barre Farmers' Market for fresh produce and local goods. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your adventures ahead.
Explore the beautiful River Common park along the Susquehanna River and indulge in a scenic walk. Don't forget to check out local shops and boutiques downtown.
Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Pennsylvania cuisine. After dinner, catch a live performance at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.
Visit the Luzerne County Historical Society to learn about the area’s rich history. Spend your morning exploring artifacts and exhibits that detail Wilkes-Barre's past.
Head to the city's historic landmarks, including the Wyoming Monument and the River Street Historic District. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby deli.
Take a stroll through the downtown area and admire the architecture. Wind down your day with cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Rich historical background with various cultural attractions.
- Access to natural beauty and outdoor activities, including nearby mountains and rivers.
- Strong sense of community with local events and festivals.
- Growing job market in sectors like healthcare and education.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Weather can be harsh, with cold winters and heavy snowfall.
- Economic challenges, including job market fluctuations.
- Some areas may suffer from urban decay and lack of development.
- Access to entertainment and shopping may be limited compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Wilkes-Barre
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and beautiful views of the Susquehanna River.
Explore the tranquil waters and spot local wildlife while kayaking.
Spend a day fishing in the park's serene lakes and ponds.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque trail by the river.
Relax and have a picnic in the park's spacious and scenic surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Wilkes-Barre with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Wilkes-Barre
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of the Susquehanna River and the city skyline, popular for photography
Features picturesque waterfalls and hiking trails, great for capturing nature shots
Beautiful park with views of the river and surrounding landscape, ideal for outdoor photography
Food in Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local specialty, pierogies are dumplings filled with various ingredients such as potato, cheese, and sauerkraut. Head to the renowned Babcia's Kitchen for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
This hearty sandwich features flavorful coal region sausage served on a Kaiser roll. For an excellent version, visit Abe's Hot Dogs, a local favorite.
A breakfast staple made from pork scraps and cornmeal, scrapple is a unique dish worth sampling. Check out the Farmers Market for a delicious rendition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Wilkes-Barre better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a variety of locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. Don't miss the food trucks dishing out delectable street food.
An annual event featuring an array of food vendors showcasing diverse culinary delights, from classic American fare to global street food offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Wilkes-Barre, it is important to respect people's personal space and maintain a comfortable distance while conversing or interacting with others.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Wilkes-Barre. It is important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions and to show respect towards others.
Wilkes-Barre is a diverse city, and it is important to respect and embrace different cultures, traditions, and beliefs while interacting with people in the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Wilkes-Barre with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Wilkes-Barre
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Wilkes-Barre, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxis and hotel housekeeping.
Payment in Wilkes-Barre, United States is commonly done using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and mobile payment methods are also gaining popularity. Contactless payment options are increasingly available, and it is advisable to carry some cash for transactions at smaller establishments or for tipping.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Wilkes-Barre, as the weather is usually mild and the flowers are in bloom. It's a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Summer in Wilkes-Barre is warm and pleasant, with plenty of outdoor events and activities. You can expect to enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports in the surrounding areas.
Fall foliage in Wilkes-Barre is stunning, making it a popular time to visit. The weather is crisp and cool, and you can experience the beauty of the changing leaves.
Winter in Wilkes-Barre can be cold and snowy, but it also offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The holiday season brings festive events and decorations to the area.
Wilkes-Barre at Night
Hiking in Wilkes-Barre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area featuring waterfalls and rock formations, with accessible hiking trails along the water.
Known for its stunning waterfalls and diverse trails, Ricketts Glen offers a range of hiking options suitable for various skill levels.
An easy hiking spot that provides beautiful views and a chance to walk along the scenic surrounding areas.
A flat and well-maintained trail suitable for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature along the old railway line.
Features a variety of trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and picnicking, located in a peaceful wooded area.
A park with a mix of easy and moderately challenging trails that offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Wilkes-Barre by plane.
Located approximately 5 miles from Wilkes-Barre, it is the closest airport serving the area, offering domestic flights.
Located about 125 miles southeast of Wilkes-Barre, it is one of the largest international airports in the region with numerous domestic and international flights.
Situated approximately 100 miles southeast of Wilkes-Barre, it is a major international airport serving the New York metropolitan area.
Located around 115 miles southeast of Wilkes-Barre, it is one of the primary international airports serving New York City.
Located about 160 miles south of Wilkes-Barre, it is a major airport that serves the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Wilkes-Barre, representing a significant portion of the population.
A growing demographic group in Wilkes-Barre, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
An important demographic group in Wilkes-Barre, with historical significance and community presence.
A smaller but increasingly visible demographic group in Wilkes-Barre, adding to the multicultural landscape.
A demographic group that reflects the variety of racial backgrounds in Wilkes-Barre.
A very small demographic group in Wilkes-Barre, representing indigenous populations.
One of the smallest demographic groups in the area, with limited representation in the local community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a popular sport in Wilkes-Barre, especially with the presence of the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, an American Hockey League team.
Baseball enjoys popularity in Wilkes-Barre with local amateur leagues and the nearby Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, a Minor League Baseball team.
Basketball is widely played in Wilkes-Barre through school teams, recreational leagues, and community programs.
American football has a strong following in Wilkes-Barre, with high school teams, local leagues, and community support.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with various youth leagues and adult recreational leagues active in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wilkes-Barre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many of Wilkes-Barre's eateries offer an assortment of plant-based dishes, ensuring vegetarian and vegan visitors have plenty of choices. Look out for the 'V' symbol on menus for easy identification.
Several restaurants in Wilkes-Barre cater to gluten-free diners, providing dedicated menus or clearly marking suitable options. Feel free to inquire with staff for recommendations tailored to your dietary needs.