Things To Do
in Hazle

Dumplings filled with potato, cheese, sauerkraut or meat — commonly available at family restaurants, diners and holiday bake sales.

Must-Try!

Cabbage leaves stuffed with a beef-and-rice filling and simmered in tomato sauce — a regional comfort food often found at Polish or Eastern European eateries.

Smoked sausages served grilled, in sandwiches or alongside sides — look for local butcher shops and delis that make or import them.

Classic American breakfasts, meat-and-potatoes dinners and specialty pies — many neighborhoods have longtime diners worth trying.

Small farmers’ markets and roadside stands sell seasonal fruits, baked goods, preserves and honey — best in late spring through fall.

Occasional church bazaars, pierogi festivals and summer block events where home-cooked traditional dishes and baked goods are available.

Locals are generally polite and helpful; small‑town conversation may be reserved at first but become warm once rapport is established.

Many residents have family ties to coal-mining heritage—show interest and respect when discussing local history and neighborhoods.

Casual clothing is normal; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in residential and religious areas. Follow rules and signage at parks and memorials.

Churches and civic organizations host community events—observe proper conduct, arrive on time for scheduled programs, and support fundraisers when appropriate.

Tipping is customary across the U.S.: typically 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at a bar, and rounding up or a few dollars for taxi or ride-share drivers and service workers. City and local servers often rely on tips for income.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are increasingly available. Small businesses may prefer cash for small transactions, so keep some cash on hand. ATMs are available but can be sparse in rural pockets—check bank branch locations if you need cash.

Cool to mild temperatures with budding trees and wet trails — expect muddy conditions on some paths; good time for wildflowers and migratory birds.

Warm and humid, with long daylight hours — ideal for hiking, fishing and farmers’ markets but bring sun protection and expect occasional thunderstorms.

Crisp, cool days and spectacular fall foliage, making this the most popular season for scenic drives and photography—pack layers for variable temperatures.

Cold with regular snow and icy conditions; snow sports are possible and roads can be challenging—check road conditions, have winter tires and be prepared for early darkness.

Offers a mix of wetlands, forest and ridge trails close to the Hazle area—good for easy to moderate hikes, birding and seasonal wildflowers.

A scenic trail with river vistas and gorge landscapes—ideal for longer day hikes, biking and photography; a bit of a drive but highly rewarding.

Famous for its multi-tiered waterfalls and rugged trails; requires a longer drive but is a top regional destination, especially in fall and spring.

Various local ridgelines and converted rail-trails provide shorter hikes, walking loops and biking opportunities closer to town.

Multi‑generational households with roots in the coal-mining era; typically working-class and active in community organizations.

A growing and significant population in the Hazleton area, contributing to cultural diversity, businesses and events.

People who work in nearby cities or prefer more affordable housing outside urban centers—often commuters to Wilkes‑Barre, Allentown or Scranton.

An aging population segment that values local healthcare, community programs and quieter residential neighborhoods.

Friday night high school football is a local tradition with strong community support and spirited rivalries.

Ice hockey is popular regionally, with youth and adult leagues and local rinks supporting the sport in winter months.

Outdoor sports like hunting and freshwater fishing are culturally significant and widely practiced in surrounding rural areas.

Winter recreational sports, including snowmobiling and local ski areas, attract residents during snowy months.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with urban centers—look for diners offering egg- and cheese-based dishes, salads, pierogi with cheese or potato fillings, and some restaurants that will adapt sides or pasta dishes.

Vegan-specific options are limited; bring snacks or rely on salads, potatoes, and grilled vegetables at restaurants that can accommodate substitutions. Larger grocery stores carry basic vegan staples.

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests (salads, grilled meats), but cross-contamination is possible. Pharmacy and grocery stores stock gluten‑free packaged items.

Always inform staff of allergies; smaller kitchens may be able to adapt meals but have limited ingredient transparency compared with big-city restaurants.