The best things to do in Northeastern Pennsylvania


Of all the regions in Pennsylvania, few are as diverse as Northeastern Pennsylvania. Occupying an area of northern Pennsylvania along the Interstate 81 corridor, this region used to be one of the largest industrial centers in the country and a focal point of the U.S. coal industry. Today, however, much of that industry is gone and the area is left with some of the most beautiful outdoor spots in the state and several fantastic museums.

Cities like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, once marred by the collapse of their industries, are on the rebound and have turned some of their industrial relics into amazing tourism destinations, such as the fantastic Steamtown National Historic Site and the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

The other four counties in the region are dominated by isolated forests are home to some of the most beautiful spots on the east coast.

There might be no better hiking trail than the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park, while nearby State Game Lands 13 hides its many waterfalls in relative obscurity. Other spots like Worlds End State Park and Loyalsock State Forest have amazing natural treasures to explore.

It’s not just industrial history and outdoor attractions that this region has to offer. Great cultural and historic museums like the Everhart Museum in Scranton, the Eagles Mere Air and Auto Museums in Sullivan County, and French Azilum in Bradford County offer the chance to learn more about our past.

There’s no question that this easily one of the most diverse and fun regions of the state to explore.

Note: Despite its name, this region doesn’t cover the northeasternmost corner of the state. That honor would go to the Poconos.

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Where do you want to go?


Things to do in Bradford County, PABradford County is located in the region’s northwestern corner and offers fascinating history and great natural beauty. Highlights here include Frenzh Azilum, Knapp Covered Bridge, and hiking at Mount Pisgah State Park.
Things to do in Lackawanna County, PALackawanna County is the home of Scranton, one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania. Once a major industrial center, the county is now a great destination for visitors. Highlights include Steamtown National Historic Site, Nay Aug Park, the Houdini Museum, and Choke Creek Falls.
Things to do in Luzerne County, PALuzerne County is the southernmost county in the region and was also a major industrial center in the past. Visitors to Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding county can enjoy incredible natural beauty at Ricketts Glen State Park and Seven Tubs Natural Area or explore history at Eckley Miners’ Village and Forty Fort Meetinghouse.
Things to do in Sullivan County, PASullivan County is one of the least populated counties in PA but is a mecca for outdoor adventure and is home to some fantastic museums. Outdoor activities abound in Worlds End State Park and Loyalsock State Forest, while museums like the Eagles Mere Air Museum and the Eagles Mere Auto Museum are worthy of exploration.
Things to do in Susquehanna County, PASusquehanna County is a peaceful county in the region’s northeastern corner. It is home to Salt Spring State Park and a great historical society museum. It’s also the birthplace of the Mormon faith.
Things to do in Wyoming County, PAWyoming County is located in the heart of the region and offers many great activities for visitors. Take time to explore the county’s nice historical society museum, the imposing Tunkhannock Viaduct, and the legacy of baseball great Christy Mathewson.

 


Top places to visit in Northeastern Pennsylvania


Hiking the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State ParkHiking the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park – There might be no better trail in PA than the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen. Here, you’ll fine more than 20 waterfalls along a 7.2-mile trail.
Steamtown National Historic Site in ScrantonVisiting Steamtown National Historic Site – If you love trains and transportation history, don’t miss the fantastic Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton. This museum showcases the history of railroading and how it impacted the region and the country.
Things to do in Worlds End State ParkThe Best Things to Do in Worlds End State Park – Sullivan County’s World’s End State Park and the Loyalsock State Forest that surround it are filled with many fantastic waterfalls, vistas, and hiking trails. Don’t miss this great destination in northeastern PA.
Visiting French AzilumExploring French Azilum – French Azilum is a historic colony that assisted French aristocrats fleeing the French Revolution in the late 1700s. It’s even said that Marie Antoinette was to have come here if she’d escaped France alive.
Hiking in Salt Springs State ParkHiking in Salt Springs State Park – Salt Spring State Park is often overlooked, but is home to three beautiful waterfalls. The park’s official trail takes you straight up the stream and requires you to climb directly up the falls.
The Tunkhannock ViductThe Imposing Tunkhannock Viaduct – Rising nearly 250 feet over the town below, the Tunkhannock Viaduct crosses over a valley and directly above a town. This was once the largest concrete structure in the world and is still used by trains crossing the valley.


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