Things To Do
in South Abington

South Abington Township sits just east of Scranton, Pennsylvania, offering a quiet suburban landscape with easy access to city amenities. The area blends residential charm with parks, local eateries, and scenic river views along the Lackawanna River. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Pocono region and the broader Lackawanna County while maintaining a small-town feel.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation, friendly neighborhoods, and approachable dining without straying far from urban conveniences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Local Parks
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll in Abington Community Park, where you can enjoy serene walking trails surrounded by lush greenery. Breathe in the fresh air as you soak up the morning sun and listen to the sounds of nature. Don’t forget to pack a light breakfast to enjoy by the duck pond.

afternoon
:

After your refreshing morning, make your way to the nearby Abington Art Center to explore local art exhibitions. Engage with artists and participate in any workshops they might offer, immersing yourself in the creative spirit of the community. Take some time to relax in the sculpture garden and appreciate the artistry in the open air.

evening
:

As the sun sets, choose a quaint local restaurant for dinner, indulging in regional specialties that highlight the flavors of Pennsylvania. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you unwind from your day of exploration and conversation with locals. Consider wrapping up your evening with a stroll along the nearby Rinehimer Park, enjoying the tranquil ambiance under the stars.

day 2
Historical Discoveries
morning
:

Begin your day at the Abington Historical Society, where you can learn about the rich history of the area. Engage with knowledgeable volunteers who will share fascinating stories about historic events and figures from the community. Make sure to take notes so you can share these local anecdotes later!

afternoon
:

Explore the charming Abington Library in the afternoon, browsing through its extensive collection of books and historical documents. Relax in one of their cozy reading nooks, or attend a scheduled lecture or event that dives deeper into the region's past. It’s a perfect respite to immerse yourself in both knowledge and comfort.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a nearby steakhouse that boasts a mix of classic American dishes and contemporary flavors. Engage in conversation with fellow diners, many of whom may have stories about the local history to share. Afterward, enjoy a quiet evening walk through Library Park, reflecting on your historical discoveries.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🏡One-bedroom apartment (monthly)$700-1,100
🚆Public transit monthly pass$60-75
Coffee shop latte$3-5
🛍️Groceries for one week$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close-knit community feel
  • Proximity to Scranton and natural areas
  • Affordable dining and lodging
  • Easy driving and moderate traffic
  • Limited nightlife
  • Smaller range of services than a city center
  • Public transit outside peak hours can be limited
  • Winter weather can be harsh and snow-prone

Places to Visit in South Abington

Visit one of these nice places.

Lackawanna River Overlook

A vantage point along the river with a tranquil water backdrop, ideal for golden hour photography of the water and surrounding trees.

Abington Park Arboretum Sunset View

Open green spaces with seasonal colors and tree-lined paths perfect for portrait and nature shots at dusk.

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail Bridge

Rail bridges and river views along the paved trail, offering nice lines and reflections especially in the early morning.

Culinary Guide

Food in South Abington

South Abington and the Scranton area celebrate hearty American and Pennsylvania-influenced fare, with a mix of Italian-American, Eastern European-inspired dishes, and farm-to-table options. Expect approachable portions, comforting flavors, and casual atmospheres perfect for family-friendly meals and relaxed evenings.

South Abington Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pierogies

Handmade dumplings filled with potato and cheese or meat, often found at local diners and Polish-influenced eateries.

Must-Try!

Scranton-Style Italian Hoagie

A substantial sub featuring Italian meats, cheeses, vegetables, and a garlicky oil-based dressing, commonly found in neighborhood delis.

Shoofly Pie

A molasses-based Pennsylvania Dutch dessert pie, frequently available at bakeries and cafe menus.

Kielbasa with Sauerkraut

A comforting plate popular in Eastern European-influenced menus, typically served with potatoes or bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Abington Market (local market district)

A small market area offering fresh produce, regional specialties, and ready-to-eat treats—great for sampling local flavors.

Lackawanna County Market

An informal market space with stalls offering bakery items, cheeses, and seasonal snacks; ideal for a casual stroll and tastings.

Climate Guide

Weather

South Abington experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with frequent snowfall, springs are mild and variable, summers can be warm and humid, and autumn brings cool days with colorful foliage. Average temperatures range from the teens to 40s F in winter and 70s to 80s F in summer, with humidity varying by season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Politeness

Polite hellos and brief small talk are common. Respect personal space and maintain a friendly, relaxed demeanor.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Keep voices at a considerate level in cafés, libraries, and residential areas; loud behavior is frowned upon in residential neighborhoods.

Tipping and Service Appreciation

Tipping is customary in service settings; show appreciation with polite thanks and, when appropriate, a tip based on service quality.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is typical for a suburban American township. Stay aware of traffic when walking near roads, keep valuables secure, and be prepared for winter conditions (ice and snow). In case of emergency, dial 911; know the location of nearby hospitals and urgent care centers in Scranton and Lackawanna County.

Tipping in South Abington

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of pre-tax bill is customary. For counter-service or takeout, tips are optional but appreciated; hotel staff and drivers may expect small tips for extra help.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy at smaller establishments; contactless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder weather with budding trees; occasional rain. Great for outdoor strolls, garden photography, and early hikes.

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; enjoy river breezes, outdoor dining, and longer daylight hours for evening walks.

Autumn

Vibrant foliage and cooler air; ideal for scenic drives, hikes, and golden-hour photography.

Winter

Cold with potential snow and ice; plan for warmer layers and indoor activities, but nearby ski opportunities are accessible in the broader region.

Nightlife Guide

South Abington at Night

The nightlife in South Abington is low-key and neighborhood-focused, with casual bars, pubs, and local breweries. Expect relaxed atmospheres, friendly crowds, and occasional live music on weekends; most venues close by midnight. For a more vibrant scene, short drives to Scranton offer a wider selection of bars and music venues.

Hiking in South Abington

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lackawanna River Heritage Trail (Abington Section)

Paved and scenic segment along the river, suitable for easy to moderate hikes with river views.

Ricketts Glen State Park (short drive)

Iconic forested trails and waterfalls; ideal for a half-day or full-day hike with varying difficulty.

Airports

How to reach South Abington by plane.

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP)

Approximately 25-40 miles northwest; serves several major airlines with rental cars and ground transportation available.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

About 2 hours southeast by car; major international hub with extensive flight options and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is solid in village centers and park areas, with sidewalks and pleasant crossings. The township itself is spread-out, so a car or rideshare is helpful for reaching trails, markets, and Scranton attractions beyond the core. Pedestrian areas near parks and local businesses are convenient for short strolls and errands.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White (non-Hispanic)

Historically the predominant demographic in the township, with a mix of families and retirees.

Hispanic/Latino

A growing community contributing to local culture and cuisine.

African American

Present in the broader Scranton area, with communities contributing to regional arts and events.

Asian

Smaller but growing presence, including students and professionals in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball and Softball

Common community and school-team sports with local parks hosting games during spring and summer.

Basketball and Soccer

Popular recreational activities at local gyms and parks; youth leagues are common in the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate, with peak times during morning and evening commuter hours. Major roadways include I-81 and local connectors; public transit is useful for Scranton access, though service hours may be limited outside peak periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting South Abington.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most menus offer vegetarian pasta, salads, and veggie mains. Look for olive oil-based sauces, vegetable-forward dishes, and clearly labeled meat-free options; don’t hesitate to ask for customizations (cheese, eggs, or dairy-free sauces).

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare options are concentrated in Scranton and nearby towns, including regional hospitals and urgent care centers. Local residents rely on facilities such as Geisinger CMC and Lackawanna Specialty Clinics for routine care, with more extensive services available within a short drive.

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