Scranton
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Scranton's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local diner, savoring classic American pancakes and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the vibrant architecture and unique storefronts. Don't forget to stop by the Scranton Cultural Center, housed in a former Masonic temple, to learn about the area's rich history.
Visit the Steamtown National Historic Site, where you can explore the fascinating world of steam locomotives and learn about the history of railroads in America. Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby café, relishing a hearty sandwich while watching the trains roll by. Continue your exploration by visiting the Electric City Trolley Museum, where you'll uncover the stories behind the city's trolley system.
As the sun sets, head to the Montage Mountain Resort, where you can enjoy stunning views over the city. Choose a restaurant for dinner that offers local flavors, perhaps trying the famous pierogies that Scranton is known for. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, listening to live music from local artists.
After a restful night, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Nay Aug Park for a morning of natural beauty. Walk along the park's scenic trails, crossing the picturesque Nay Aug Gorge and discovering stunning waterfalls. Take a moment to appreciate the lush greenery and the fresh morning air as you meander through this urban oasis.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, bringing along homemade sandwiches or items from a local deli. After lunch, visit the Everhart Museum, located within the park, to explore its impressive collection of art and natural history exhibits. Engage with the interactive displays and learn about the local flora and fauna.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodations to refresh before dinner. Choose a family-friendly restaurant back in downtown Scranton, where you can enjoy a hearty meal in a casual atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the park to witness the sunset, casting a magical glow over the landscape.
Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, fueling up for an exciting day ahead. Head to the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, where you'll take a fascinating descent into an actual coal mine, experiencing the life of a miner firsthand. The knowledgeable guides will share stories that highlight the importance of coal mining to Scranton's history.
After your mine tour, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in comfort food, perhaps trying some local favorites. Spend your afternoon exploring the Scranton Iron Furnaces, where you can learn about the industrial history that shaped the region's economy. The site offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved structures and informative displays.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that showcases local cuisine, immersing yourself in Scranton's culinary scene. If you're interested in nightlife, check out a local theater for a performance or a comedy show, experiencing the city's vibrant arts scene. Wrap up your evening with dessert at a nearby bakery, indulging in some sweet treats.
Kick off your day with breakfast in a quaint café that offers artisanal pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Spend your morning at the Wyoming Monument, taking in the historical significance and enjoying the view from the top. The surrounding park is perfect for a leisurely walk as you appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.
After a morning of exploration, head to the nearby Lackawanna Historical Society for a fascinating glimpse into the area's past. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro, sampling seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Scranton Museum of Art to admire a diverse collection of works, from contemporary pieces to classic masterpieces.
As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that features local craft beer and innovative cuisine. Consider attending a local gallery opening or art walk, where you can mingle with artists and fellow art enthusiasts. Cap off your night by visiting a local coffee shop for a warm drink while reflecting on your day.
Start your day at a beloved local bakery, enjoying a scrumptious breakfast pastry and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, visit the Scranton Farmers Market to discover local produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Engage with the vendors and perhaps pick up some snacks for later.
For lunch, stop at a farm-to-table restaurant where you can savor seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. After lunch, embark on a brewery tour, visiting some of Scranton's finest craft breweries to taste their unique offerings. Learn about the brewing process and the stories behind each beer.
As the day comes to a close, enjoy dinner at a brewery that features a lively atmosphere with great food and drinks. Consider trying a flight of their craft beers to pair with your meal. Finish your evening with a nightcap, sharing stories from the day with your companions in a relaxed setting.
After breakfast, head to the Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den for a morning filled with fun and learning. Watch as your family interacts with various aquatic creatures and reptiles, making it an unforgettable experience for the kids. Enjoy the interactive exhibits that provide an educational twist to your visit.
Following your aquarium visit, enjoy lunch at a family-friendly restaurant nearby that offers a variety of kid-approved dishes. Spend your afternoon at the Steamtown National Historic Site, where you can explore the locomotives and enjoy a ride on a vintage train. This hands-on experience will surely delight both young and old.
As the sun sets, gather for dinner at a local pizzeria, indulging in Scranton's famous pizza while reminiscing about the day. After dinner, catch a family-friendly movie at a nearby cinema, enjoying a relaxing end to your fun-filled day. Consider stopping for ice cream afterward, treating everyone to a sweet finale.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading to Lackawanna State Park for a day of outdoor adventure. Upon arrival, explore the park's extensive trails, taking in the beautiful scenery and vibrant wildlife. The fresh air and morning sunlight will invigorate your senses as you navigate the paths.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the serene lake, surrounded by nature's beauty. After lunch, rent a kayak or paddleboat to explore the waters, soaking in the tranquility of your surroundings. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing or hiking to one of the park's scenic overlooks.
As evening approaches, return to Scranton and freshen up before dinner. Choose a casual dining spot that offers local favorites for a relaxed meal. After dinner, take a scenic drive around the area or visit a lookout point to witness the city lights twinkling below.
Start your shopping day with breakfast at a trendy café in downtown Scranton, enjoying specialty coffee and fresh pastries. Afterward, explore the unique shops and boutiques that line the streets, discovering local art, handmade crafts, and vintage treasures. Spend some time chatting with shop owners and learning about their products.
For lunch, grab a bite at a downtown eatery that serves hearty sandwiches and salads. Continue your day by visiting the Scranton Cultural Center, where you can check out any ongoing exhibitions or performances. If time allows, stop by the local art galleries to appreciate the work of regional artists.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu. After dinner, consider catching a live performance at a local theater or concert venue, immersing yourself in Scranton's arts scene. Cap off the night with a visit to a local dessert shop for a sweet treat.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner, where you can enjoy hearty portions and classic American fare. After breakfast, visit the Anthracite Heritage Museum to learn about the region's coal mining history and its impact on the local community. Take time to explore the exhibits that tell the stories of the miners and their families.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a restaurant that features dishes inspired by the region's mining heritage. Afterward, take a short drive to the nearby coal mine tour, where you'll experience a guided journey through the tunnels and learn about coal extraction. The tour will provide a unique perspective on the labor and dedication of miners.
As evening arrives, gather for dinner at a restaurant known for its traditional Eastern European cuisine, a nod to the immigrant communities that settled in Scranton. Reflect on the day's experiences over a comforting meal. To end the night, consider attending a local event or festival that celebrates the city's rich heritage.