Visit Hazleton

Hazleton is a city in northeastern Pennsylvania, located in Luzerne County. The area was first settled in the late 1700s by people of German, Welsh, and English ancestry. Hazleton grew as a coal mining and transportation hub during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting immigrants from Italy, Lithuania, Poland, and other countries. Today, Hazleton is home to a diverse population and is known for its historic architecture, outdoor recreation, and cultural events.

In the early 20th century, Hazleton was a major center for the coal mining industry. Immigrants from around the world came to work in the mines, and the city’s population grew rapidly. The mining industry declined in the mid-20th century, but Hazleton continued to grow as a commercial center for the surrounding area. Today, the city is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Hazleton YMCA/YWCA building, which was built in 1928 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In recent years, Hazleton has become known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The nearby Pocono Mountains offer opportunities for skiing, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. The city is also home to several parks, including City View Park, which offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Hazleton is home to a number of cultural events throughout the year, including the Funfest celebration in September, which features live music, food, and crafts, and the Hazleton Art League’s annual arts festival, which showcases the work of local artists. The city also has a strong tradition of Italian American culture, and hosts the annual Festival of Italy each summer.

Hazleton, PA has several attractions and things to do for visitors, including:

1. Eckley Miners’ Village: A historic village that was once a coal mining town, now preserved as a museum.
2. Hazleton Art League: A nonprofit organization that promotes the arts through exhibits, classes, and events.
3. Greater Hazleton Historical Society and Museum: A museum that showcases the history of Hazleton and the surrounding area.
4. Laurel Mall: A shopping mall with various stores and restaurants.
5. Community Park: A public park with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
6. Pocono Whitewater Rafting: A popular activity for visitors, offering guided whitewater rafting trips down the Lehigh River.
7. Funfest: An annual festival held in September featuring live music, food vendors, crafts, and more.
8. Hazleton Farmers Market: A weekly market where visitors can purchase fresh produce and other locally made goods.
9. Hazle Township Community Park: A park with a variety of recreational amenities, including walking trails, sports fields, and a playground.
10. Rails to Trails: A 21-mile trail that runs from Hazleton to Mountain Top, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
11. Penn’s Peak: A concert venue located in nearby Jim Thorpe, PA, featuring a variety of musical acts and events throughout the year.
12. The Drifton Softball Complex: A popular destination for softball tournaments and games.
13. Pocono Raceway: A race track located in nearby Long Pond, PA, where visitors can attend NASCAR races and other events.
14. Hazleton Art and Culture Center: A new arts center currently in development, which will offer classes, exhibits, and performances.
15. Mountain Valley Golf Course: A public golf course with scenic views of the surrounding mountains.