Visit Kingston

Kingston is a borough in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, located on the west side of the Susquehanna River opposite Wilkes-Barre. It was incorporated in 1857 and has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era.

Kingston was founded in the early 1770s by a group of Connecticut settlers who were part of the Susquehannah Company. The company was formed to purchase land in the Wyoming Valley, which was then part of Pennsylvania but claimed by Connecticut. This led to a series of conflicts with the Pennsylvanian government and eventually the Battle of Wyoming in 1778, in which many of the settlers were killed by British and Iroquois forces.

After the American Revolution, Kingston became a hub for coal mining and transportation. The first anthracite coal mine in the Wyoming Valley was opened there in 1807, and the town became a major center for the coal industry in the 19th century. Many of the historic buildings in Kingston date from this era, including the Victorian-style homes on Wyoming Avenue.

In the 20th century, Kingston’s economy diversified and became more focused on retail and services. The borough is now a popular destination for shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation.

Some popular attractions for visitors to Kingston include the Kingston Armory, which was built in the 1890s and is now a community center; the Forty Fort Meeting House, a historic Quaker meetinghouse that dates from 1806; and the Back Mountain Trail, a scenic hiking and biking trail that runs through the borough.

Kingston, PA has a lot to offer visitors. Some of the top things to do in Kingston are:

1. Visit the Kingston Corners Historic District: This neighborhood has a collection of beautiful historic homes and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Walk along the Susquehanna River: The riverfront in Kingston has a paved path that’s perfect for a scenic walk or jog.
3. Explore the Hoyt Library: This historic library has a beautiful interior and is home to a wide range of books, magazines, and other resources.
4. Check out the artwork at the Wyoming Valley Art League: This community art center hosts exhibits, classes, and workshops.
5. Visit Forty Fort Cemetery: This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many of the area’s early settlers.
6. Enjoy the outdoors at Kirby Park: This park has trails for hiking and biking, a playground, picnic areas, and a pool.
7. Explore the shops and restaurants on Wyoming Avenue: This main street is home to a variety of businesses, including boutiques, cafes, and bars.
8. Tour the Market Street Bridge: This bridge spans the Susquehanna River and offers great views of the river and the city.
9. Attend an event at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts: This historic theater hosts concerts, plays, and other events throughout the year.
10. Learn about local history at the Luzerne County Historical Society Museum: This museum has exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the Wyoming Valley region.