Things To Do In Scranton

Scranton, Pennsylvania is a city located in the northeastern part of the state. Known as the “Electric City,” it has a rich history in the coal and railroad industries, and is also the setting for the popular TV show “The Office.” With its mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities, there are plenty of things to see and do in Scranton. In this response, we will cover both free outdoor activities and paid attractions in Scranton.

Free Outdoor Activities:

1. Parker Street Landing, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a popular access point to the Lackawanna River for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Situated along the scenic Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, the landing provides a gateway to explore the natural beauty of the area and engage in various recreational activities.
2. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is a scenic multi-use trail located in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and the Olive Street Trailhead serves as a starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the trail. The trailhead is situated in Scranton, PA, providing convenient access to this beautiful and historic recreational resource.
3. The Marywood University Arboretum is a beautiful and serene natural space located on the campus of Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Spanning over 100 acres, the arboretum serves as a living laboratory for education, research, and the appreciation of nature. The arboretum features a diverse collection of trees, plants, and flowers, carefully curated to provide a rich and immersive botanical experience. It serves as a valuable resource for students, faculty, and the community, offering opportunities for learning, relaxation, and exploration.
4. The Electric City Sign: Located on the side of the Scranton Electric Building, this iconic sign overlooks downtown Scranton and serves as a symbol of the city’s nickname, “The Electric City.” It’s a popular spot for capturing panoramic views of the cityscape.
5. Nay Aug Park is a beautiful and expansive park located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Spanning over 150 acres, the park offers a diverse range of recreational activities, natural attractions, and amenities for visitors of all ages. One of the main highlights of Nay Aug Park is its stunning waterfalls. The park is home to the Nay Aug Gorge, which features two impressive waterfalls: the Nay Aug Falls and the Roaring Brook Falls. These cascading waterfalls provide a picturesque backdrop and create a serene and peaceful atmosphere within the park.
6. University of Scranton Campus: The University of Scranton is situated on a hilltop, providing picturesque views of the city and its surroundings. The campus offers various viewpoints where visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of Scranton.
7. Steamtown National Historic Site is a popular attraction located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is a living museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of steam railroading in the United States. The site is situated on the former Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad yards, which played a significant role in the region’s industrial heritage.
8. Novembrino Park is a public park located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and community events. The park offers various amenities and facilities to visitors of all ages.
9. Weston Park, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a charming neighborhood park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. Nestled within the residential area of West Scranton, the park provides a serene and well-maintained outdoor space for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
10. Gerrity Park, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a popular community park that offers a range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. The park is named after the Gerrity family, who generously donated the land for public use, and it has become a beloved gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
11. McDade Park, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a beautiful and spacious park that offers a variety of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. The park is known for its picturesque natural setting, well-maintained grounds, and diverse range of attractions. One of the highlights of McDade Park is its extensive trail system, which provides opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling. The trails wind through lush greenery, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s serene atmosphere and the chance to observe local flora and fauna.

Paid Attractions:

1. Electric City Axe Throwing is a popular recreational activity located in Scranton, PA. It offers a unique and thrilling experience for individuals and groups looking for a fun and competitive outing. Axe throwing has gained popularity as a recreational sport, allowing participants to test their skills and aim by hurling axes at wooden targets.
2. Bee’s Backyard is a local indoor children’s playground with fun activities, including a bounce slide and obstacle courses. There is even a toddler area for younger children in addition to a snack bar.
3. The Houdini Museum, Tour & Magic Show is a unique and entertaining attraction located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Named after the legendary escape artist Harry Houdini, the museum offers visitors a chance to explore the life and magic of one of the world’s greatest magicians.
4. The Catlin House Museum is a historic house museum located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is housed in the former residence of George H. Catlin, a prominent attorney and businessman in the area. The museum is operated by the Lackawanna Historical Society and offers visitors a glimpse into the history and heritage of the region. The Catlin House itself is a beautifully preserved Victorian-era home, reflecting the architectural style and charm of the late 19th century. The museum showcases a collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Scranton and the surrounding area. It provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the Catlin family and the development of the region throughout history.
5. The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den is an exciting and educational attraction located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is a unique facility that offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about aquatic life and reptiles from around the world. The aquarium section of the facility features a diverse range of aquatic species, including colorful fish, mesmerizing corals, and fascinating invertebrates. Visitors can observe vibrant tropical fish swimming in beautifully themed tanks, marvel at the delicate beauty of coral reefs, and even get up close to unique creatures like seahorses and jellyfish. The aquarium provides a captivating underwater experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and diversity of marine life.
6. The Scranton Iron Furnaces is a historic site located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is a remnant of the city’s industrial past and serves as a symbol of the region’s iron and steel heritage. The iron furnaces were built in the mid-19th century and were once part of a larger iron-making complex.
7. The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour is a unique and educational attraction located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time and experience the fascinating history of the region’s coal mining industry. The tour takes place at the Lackawanna Coal Mine, which operated from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century. During its peak, the mine played a vital role in supplying coal to fuel the industrial revolution in the United States. Today, it stands as a preserved site that provides a glimpse into the challenging and often dangerous life of coal miners.
8. The Everhart Museum, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant institution dedicated to preserving and promoting art, science, and natural history. Established in 1908, the museum is housed in a beautifully restored historic building and is known for its diverse collection and engaging exhibitions.
9. The Anthracite Heritage Museum, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a fascinating institution that preserves and showcases the rich history and culture of the region’s anthracite coal mining industry. It serves as a tribute to the hardworking men and women who toiled in the mines and contributed to the growth and development of the coal region.
10. The Electric City Trolley Museum is a captivating attraction located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It celebrates the rich history of electric traction and trolley cars, providing visitors with an immersive and educational experience.

In conclusion, Scranton, PA offers a wide range of free outdoor activities and paid attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or urban amenities, there is something for everyone in this city.