Hazleton Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Hazleton, Pennsylvania with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, best hiking and biking routes, food scene, accommodations, and more!


Introduction to Hazleton

Located in the Coal Region of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Hazleton is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Surrounded by scenic views and outdoor adventures, this is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore plenty of impressive museums, historical places, and hike/bike trails to experience the best of Hazleton. The city is also known for its diverse food scene, local culture and customs, and friendly people. Whether you are planning a quick weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, Hazleton offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Hazleton

Hazleton has a wide range of attractions, so here are some top highlights for you to explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Greater Hazleton Historical Society Museum - This museum showcases the fascinating history and culture of Hazleton. From the region’s coal mining roots to its heritage and traditions, there is so much to discover here.
  • Eckley Miner’s Village - This living history museum gives visitors a glimpse into life in a coal mining company town from the 1800s. You can explore the authentic buildings and chat with costumed interpreters to learn more about the region’s past.
  • Hollywood Diner - A traditional 1950s-era diner, Hollywood Diner has been serving up delicious meals for travelers and locals alike for decades.

Natural Attractions of Hazleton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hazleton Rails to Trails - This picturesque trail winds its way through scenic landscapes, historic towns and offers an enjoyable outdoor experience for hikers and bikers alike. Visitors can spot beautiful wildlife and bird species on the way.
  • Hazel Street Park - This green space situated on rolling hills offers incredible panoramic views of the city. Visitors can hike up to the top of the hills to catch the mesmerizing vistas.
  • Conyngham Valley Overlook - Located just outside Hazleton, Conyngham Valley Overlook extends outstanding views of the valley and the small towns. Visitors can have a picnic and enjoy beautiful sunsets here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hazleton

Hazleton is home to many trails for outdoor adventures:

  • Lehigh River Gorge Trail - A popular trail for both biking and hiking, Lehigh River Gorge Trail is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trail spans 25 miles and winds through several state forests and natural areas.
  • Black Diamond Trail - Known for its panoramic views, the Black Diamond Trail follows the path of a former rail bed through the Pocono Mountains.
  • Susquehanna Warrior Trail - This trail runs along the Susquehanna River, offering hikers and bikers a truly scenic experience.

Best Things to Do in Hazleton: Activities and Tours

Here are a few exciting activities that you can indulge yourself in Hazleton:

  • Let’s Ride Equine Therapy Program - This unique program offers therapeutic horseback riding to people with disabilities. Visitors can enjoy pony rides and learn more about the bond between horse and rider.
  • Wine and Brew Tours - Take a tour of Pennsylvania’s renowned wineries and breweries while enjoying spectacular views of the countryside.
  • Hazleton Art League - This art league offers classes, workshops, and events focusing on visual and performing arts. Visitors can witness the extraordinary talents of local artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hazleton

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Hazleton:

Day Activities
1 Visit Greater Hazleton Historical Society Museum and Laurel Mall
2 Take a tour of Eckley Miner’s Village and have lunch at the Hollywood Diner
3 Go for hiking and biking on Lehigh River Gorge Trail and enjoy a scenic sunset
4 Explore Hazleton Rails to Trail, followed by a relaxing afternoon in Sugarcreek Valley Park
5 Take a winery and brewery tour, followed by a romantic dinner at Top of the 80s
6 Enjoy horseback riding at Let’s Ride Equine Therapy Program and walk through Hazleton Art League En Plein Air Festival
7 Explore Conyngham Valley Overlook and have a picnic in Hazle Township Community Park

Food and Drink Scene of Hazleton

Hazleton is known for its mouth-watering cuisine and local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogies - These are scrumptious Polish dumplings stuffed with potatoes and cheese, and served with butter and chopped onions.
  • Dutch Kitchen Bake Shop - This famous bake shop offers a variety of sweet and savory baked goods, including pies, donuts, sticky buns, and sandwiches.
  • Pork Barbecue - Tender, juicy, and flavorful, this barbecued pork is slow-cooked over an open flame, and served with cornbread, baked beans, and coleslaw.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling - Known as “America’s Oldest Brewery,” Yuengling has been brewing beer since 1829. Visitors can tour the brewery and enjoy a cold pint in their tasting room.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch Birch Beer - This non-alcoholic drink is a sweet, spicy, and tangy beverage made from birch bark extract.
  • Schnitz un Giggles - Located in neighboring Berwick, this winery offers a unique experience with a tasting room inside a renovated barn. Visitors can enjoy wine flights and tours of the vineyard.

Where to Stay in Hazleton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hazleton has a variety of accommodations options suitable for every taste and budget. Some top-rated options include:

  • Comfort Inn West Hazleton - Conveniently located right off I-81, this newly renovated hotel offers a complimentary breakfast and an indoor pool.
  • The Inn at Turkey Hill - This charming bed and breakfast provides a delightful stay in a peaceful environment with clean and spacious rooms, and serves farm-to-table breakfast.
  • Ramada Inn Hazleton - Located just minutes from downtown, this hotel offers exceptional amenities like an indoor heated pool, fitness center, and on-site bar and restaurant.

What to Buy in Hazleton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Want to take a piece of Hazleton back home with you? Here are some must-buy souvenirs and local products:

  • Hazleton T-Shirt - Get a T-shirt with the Hazleton logo, and show love for the city you visited.
  • Pierogies Mix - Purchase pierogies mix and make delicious pierogies right at home.
  • Handmade Candles - Stop by local stores and grab a unique handmade candle in one of many delightful scents.

Local Culture and Customs of Hazleton

Hazleton is a cultural melting pot, as it has a significant influence from various ethnic groups that migrated here over the years. Engage in the following activities to experience the local culture of Hazleton:

  • Heritage Trail - Take a walk on the heritage trail to learn more about the history of Hazleton’s ethnic regions, including Irish, Lithuanian, and Italian neighborhoods.
  • Hazleton Art League En Plein Air Festival - Join the Hazleton Art League En Plein Air Festival to admire works of art and engage with local artists.
  • Annual Celebration of St. Joseph - Join the Annual Celebration of St. Joseph during mid-March; it is a traditional Italian festivity event that includes a parade, music, and food.

Best Time to Visit Hazleton

Hazleton offers exciting experiences throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the city has pleasant weather and offers more outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy the annual Hazleton Funfest in September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hazleton

Here are a few things to keep in mind during your visit to Hazleton:

Do:

  • Explore the beautiful hiking and biking trails
  • Try the local cuisine, including pierogies and barbecued pork
  • Embrace the city’s cultural diversity and attend festivals and events

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the natural surroundings
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions
  • Get too close to the wildlife, especially if you are near the hiking trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Hazleton

Hazleton is a small and friendly city with low crime rates. However, it’s always best to take precautions while traveling by being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables safe.

Health in Hazleton

It’s always best to carry a small first aid kit while traveling. Hazleton has a decent medical infrastructure and hospitals in case of emergencies.

Getting to Hazleton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hazleton is easily accessible via various modes of transportation:

Airports Near Hazleton

  • Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport - Located 32 miles from Hazleton, this airport offers daily non-stop flights to various destinations within the US.

Bus Stations Near Hazleton

  • Hazleton Intermodal Center - This is a bus station and transportation hub providing regularly scheduled bus services to New York City, Philadelphia, and other cities.

Other Options

It’s always best to rent a car if you plan to explore the city and surroundings on your own.

How to Get Around in Hazleton

The best way to explore Hazleton is by renting a car or using a taxi service. Public transportation is also available in the form of buses and trolleys.

Where to Go Next from Hazleton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of destinations around Hazleton that visitors can explore:

  • Jim Thorpe - This small town offers exciting outdoor spaces and comprises cycling trails, hiking, and skiing opportunities along with world-class restaurants and shopping centers.
  • Ricketts Glen State Park - A must-visit for adventure enthusiasts, Ricketts Glen State Park has many magnificent waterfalls and trails that lead you through the beautiful natural landscape.
  • Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom - This amusement park is a perfect destination for families. It’s just an hour’s drive from Hazleton and is home to thrilling rides, water parks, and many other family-friendly attractions.

Conclusion

Hazleton is a charming city with something for everyone. From its cultural heritage to its scenic landscapes, the city is an excellent choice for exploring Pennsylvania. Tour museums, sample local cuisine, hike and bike trails, enjoy the local arts scene, or simply relax in a serene environment. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty and charm of Hazleton!

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