Northeastern Pennsylvania Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Northeastern Pennsylvania, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Northeastern Pennsylvania

Located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America, Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. The region is home to charming small towns, historic landmarks, scenic natural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Whether you want to explore the great outdoors or soak up the local culture, NEPA is sure to impress.

List of Places to Visit in Northeastern Pennsylvania

NEPA is a diverse and exciting region that offers plenty of attractions and activities. Below is a list of some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Steamtown National Historic Site: Located in Scranton, the Steamtown National Historic Site celebrates the history of steam locomotives and their impact on transportation. Visitors can explore the museum, take a guided tour, and even ride a steam train.

  • Eckley Miners’ Village: This living history museum in Hazel Township tells the story of coal mining in the 19th century. Visitors can tour different buildings and learn about the daily life of miners and their families.

  • Anthracite Heritage Museum: Located in Scranton, the Anthracite Heritage Museum showcases the region’s coal-mining history. Exhibits cover topics such as mining tools, company stores, and the lives of immigrant miners.

Natural Attractions of Northeastern Pennsylvania: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bushkill Falls: Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is a series of eight cascading waterfalls in the Pocono Mountains. Visitors can hike the trails and enjoy the beautiful views.

  • Glen Onoko Falls: Located in Jim Thorpe, Glen Onoko is a natural area that offers hiking trails and waterfalls. The trails can be challenging, but the views are worth it.

  • Hickory Run State Park: This park in White Haven features hiking trails, swimming areas, and a boulder field for rock climbing. Visitors can also fish in Sand Spring Lake and visit the Boulder Field Natural Area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeastern Pennsylvania

NEPA offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region. Here are some of the top routes:

  • D&L Trail: This 165-mile trail follows the path of the Delaware and Lehigh Canals. It passes through small towns and historic landmarks, offering a unique view of the region’s history.

  • Lehigh Gorge Trail: This 25-mile trail follows the path of the Lehigh River, offering scenic views of waterfalls and rapids. It’s a popular destination for hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting.

  • Pocono Bike Trail: This 26-mile trail runs through the heart of the Pocono Mountains, offering stunning views of the landscape. It’s a popular destination for biking and hiking.

Best Things to Do in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Activities and Tours

NEPA offers a wide range of activities and tours that are sure to please. Here are some of the best:

  • Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour: This tour takes visitors 300 feet underground, giving them a taste of the region’s coal-mining history. It’s a unique and informative experience.

  • Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm: This living history museum in Stroudsburg showcases the daily life of early Pennsylvania Germans. Visitors can interact with costumed interpreters and learn about traditional crafts and farming practices.

  • Jim Thorpe Adventures: This company offers a variety of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, biking, and ziplining. It’s a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeastern Pennsylvania

If you have a week to spend in NEPA, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Tour Scranton, including the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Lackawanna Coal Mine
2 Visit Jim Thorpe, including the Glen Onoko Falls and a whitewater rafting trip
3 Explore the Pocono Mountains, including the Bushkill Falls and the Pocono Bike Trail
4 Relax at one of NEPA’s lakes or swimming holes, such as Lake Wallenpaupack or Promised Land State Park
5 Visit the Anthracite Heritage Museum and the Eckley Miners’ Village to learn about coal-mining history
6 Hike or bike the Lehigh Gorge Trail, followed by a visit to Jim Thorpe Adventures
7 Take a scenic drive through NEPA’s countryside, stopping at local farms and markets to sample regional cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Northeastern Pennsylvania

NEPA is known for its hearty cuisine and local specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogies: These potato-filled dumplings are a staple of Pennsylvania’s Polish community and can be found at many restaurants in NEPA.

  • Scrapple: A Pennsylvania Dutch specialty, scrapple is a pork-based breakfast meat that’s fried until crispy.

  • Chicken and Waffles: This Southern-inspired dish has become popular in NEPA and can be found at many brunch spots.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer: America’s oldest brewery is located in Pottsville and offers tours and tastings.

  • Pennsylvania Wine: NEPA is home to several wineries, including the Antler Ridge Winery in Rome and the Maiolatesi Wine Cellars in Scott Township.

  • Boilo: This traditional Welsh-American hot toddy is made with whiskey, honey, citrus, and spices and is often served during the holidays.

Where to Stay in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

NEPA offers a variety of lodging options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the top choices:

  • The Settlers Inn: Located in Hawley, this charming inn features cozy rooms and a farm-to-table restaurant.

  • The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort: This historic resort in Shawnee-on-Delaware offers a variety of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and cottages. It also features a golf course, spa, and restaurants.

  • The Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton: This restored train station in Scranton offers modern amenities and a central location.

What to Buy in Northeastern Pennsylvania: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from NEPA. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Locally made crafts: NEPA is home to many talented artisans who create pottery, jewelry, and other crafts.

  • Pennsylvania maple syrup: Maple syrup is a popular product in NEPA, and many local farms and markets offer it for sale.

  • Antiques: The region is home to many antique shops and markets, offering unique finds like vintage furniture, clothing, and collectibles.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeastern Pennsylvania

NEPA has a rich cultural history, shaped by a variety of European ethnic groups and the coal-mining industry. The region is known for its strong work ethic and traditional values, as well as its love of good food and drink.

Best Time to Visit Northeastern Pennsylvania

NEPA is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique attractions and activities. The fall is a popular time to visit, as the leaves change color and the region’s many festivals begin. The winter offers skiing and other outdoor activities, while the spring and summer are perfect for hiking, biking, and swimming.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeastern Pennsylvania

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, especially traditional dishes like pierogies and scrapple.

  • Do explore NEPA’s natural attractions and outdoor activities.

  • Do learn about the region’s history and cultural traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the region’s weather: be prepared for cold winters and hot, humid summers.

  • Don’t forget to tip your server: tipping is customary in the United States.

  • Don’t ignore safety precautions when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northeastern Pennsylvania

NEPA is a relatively safe region, but visitors should still take common safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables out of sight, especially in urban areas.

Health in Northeastern Pennsylvania

Visitors to NEPA should take the same health precautions as they would while traveling in any other part of the United States. Tap water is safe to drink, but visitors should be aware of food and water safety recommendations.

Getting to Northeastern Pennsylvania: Transportation Options and Logistics

NEPA is easily accessible by car, bus, train, or plane. Here are some options for getting there:

Airports Near Northeastern Pennsylvania

  • Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport: This small airport offers flights to several major cities, including Philadelphia and Chicago.

  • Lehigh Valley International Airport: Located in Allentown, this larger airport offers flights to several major East Coast cities.

Bus Stations Near Northeastern Pennsylvania

  • Martz Trailways: This bus company offers transportation to and from several cities in NEPA, including Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The Amtrak train station in Scranton offers service on the Keystone route.

  • Car Rental: Car rental companies are available at all major airports and in many larger towns.

How to Get Around in Northeastern Pennsylvania

Renting a car is the best way to get around NEPA, as public transportation options are limited. However, visitors can also take taxis or use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Northeastern Pennsylvania: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

NEPA is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Pennsylvania and the surrounding region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Philadelphia: This historic city is located a few hours’ drive from NEPA and offers attractions like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

  • New York City: The city that never sleeps is located just a few hours away from NEPA and offers world-famous attractions like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park.

  • Lancaster County: Known for its rich Amish history and picturesque countryside, Lancaster County is located just a few hours’ drive from NEPA and offers attractions like the Sight & Sound Theatre and the Strasburg Railroad.

Conclusion

NEPA is a unique and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural history, visitors are sure to be impressed. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Fork in the road in Luzerne County Fork in the road in Luzerne County


    Coal Region
    Pocono Mountains