19 Best & Fun Things To Do In Scranton (Pennsylvania)

Your knowledge of Scranton, Pennsylvania might be limited to watching reruns of “The Office.”

However, the Electric City is worth seeing beyond its television portrayal.

These are 19 of the best and most fun things to do in Scranton, PA.

1. Electric City Trolley Museum

“The Electric City” moniker for Scranton comes from the early presence of the electric trolley in the city.

This was a huge development when it came to mass transit.

Visiting the Electric City Trolley Museum is easily one of the best things to do in Scranton.

This museum displays genuine trolley cars that rode through these streets decades upon decades ago.

You’ll also learn about the region’s long and loving relationship with transportation.

Don’t miss out on a chance for an antique trolley ride either.

Go to the Electric City Trolley Museum if you’re wondering what to do for things that will teach you about Scranton’s past.

It’s open every day of the week, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission, without a trolley ride, is $4 for all guests, ages four and up.

Address: 300 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

2. Everhart Museum

Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everheart was one of the most esteemed figures in Scranton in his lifetime.

His name and legend continues, as he gave the city the Everheart Museum.

Since opening more than 110 years ago, the Everheart Museum has become everything a museum should be.

The Everheart Museum values curiosity and the people who dare to wonder.

Their exhibits include stunning paintings, fossils dating back for millions of years, and illuminating rocks and minerals.

It’s also great if you’re looking for places to visit with your children.

They have some really cool teaching events.

Visiting the Everheart Museum is what to do in Scranton for seeing amazing things and learning incredible information.

It’s such a blessing to have these items so well preserved.

The Everheart Museum’s admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and $3 for children, ages six to 12.

Active military members with proper ID receive free admission.

Address: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

3. Church Picnics

You may not belong to any parishes in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

However, you can still enjoy their hospitality and share yours as well.

One way to do that is to attend a church service.

Another is to round up the potato salad and come to a church picnic.

Lots of these picnics take place in smaller towns around Scranton.

They are some of the most fun events in the city.

Along with the delectable food, much of its highlighting the parish’s cultural heritage, they have lots of games and activities.

There’s just too much going on at these picnics to pass them up.

The lovely church picnics in this area make it one of the most beautiful places in America.

If you’re near Scranton and want to really experience some community engagement, come to a church picnic.

These summertime events can elate the whole family.

4. Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

While Scranton is known as “The Electric City,” it’d be wrong to dismiss the importance of coal to this city.

A Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour takes you through an actual coal mine.

While it might not be operating any longer, its preservation lets you see how miners worked not so long ago.

Say goodbye to the sunny sky and enter a mine car that brings you 300 feet underground through this coal mine, established more than 160 years ago.

You’ll both witness incredible sights and hear astonishing information.

This is one of the most important Scranton attractions, especially if you have any coal miners in your family.

Few cities have stuff to do that’s quite as interesting as a Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

The tours are available between April 1 and November 30, except for Easter and Thanksgiving.

Adults pay $10 for admission, while seniors pay $9.50 and military members pay $9.

Children, between ages three and 12, are charged $7.50.

Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

5. Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society

When trains were the reigning form of transportation, a phenomenal meal was not out of the question.

The Erie Lackawanna Dining Car Preservation Society operates near Scranton, in Dunmore, Pennsylvania.

They’re excellent at teaching about the history of dining cars, with vivid, vintage pieces for demonstration.

These tours bring you through their rehabilitated train cars.

They’ve all been kept in terrific condition.

If you want to really get the dining car experience, check out their calendar to see when they’re offering meals and rides.

The Erie Lackawanna Dining car Preservation Society should be heralded for keeping the past alive through their efforts and enthusiasm.

Dining cars might not be prevalent today, but this society shows why they should be appreciated.

Give them a call, and schedule a tour to see these cars.

Address: 201 S Blakely St, Dunmore, PA 18512, United States

Visiting other parts of Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the things to do in Erie, PA & some of the things to do in Lancaster, PA?

6. Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den

There’s something fishy going on in Scranton, and you can see it at the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den.

Lots of creatures, full of fins and scales, live here.

It’s what to see when you love animals, no matter how furry they may or may not be.

The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den is part of the Marketplace at Steamtown, a downtown shopping center.

They take you through the ocean with their fish, octopi, sharks, and more.

All kinds of reptiles and amphibians can be seen at their reptile house, such as snakes, lizards, and tortoises.

They also host feedings, which shows you how big the appetites of some of these creatures are.

It’s really fun to go to the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den.

If you’re visiting Scranton with your kids this weekend, be sure to take them here.

It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

A day pass is $18.95 for adults, $15.95 for children, from ages two to 12, and $16.95 for college students, seniors, military members, and first responders.

Address: 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

7. Rattlesnake Falls

Waterfalls, regardless of size or global recognition, are always some of the most wondrous places to visit.

Rattlesnake Falls, nestled inside Pinchot State Forest in Spring Brook Township, encapsulates what the best tourist attractions can be.

It’s definitely worth the hike to reach this piece of natural beauty.

Reaching Rattlesnake Falls isn’t too much of an ordeal.

The hike only takes about 15 minutes, and Pinchot State Forest is such a beautiful area, you’ll hopefully want to see even more of it.

Keep your ears open for the sound of the water gushing out.

You might feel like an explorer, feasting your eyes upon the amazing sights of an undiscovered place.

Rattlesnake Falls can knock you off your feet with how incredible it is.

This is also really nice if you’re looking for romantic things to do near Scranton.

It’s an attraction that can make you smile and tear up as you think about how amazing nature is.

Address: Spring Brook Township, PA 18444, United States

8. Houdini Museum

Harry Houdini paved the way for so many magicians and changed the world in the process.

Scranton’s Houdini Museum teaches all about this incredible escape artist through important pieces from his lifetime.

In a few hours, you can unravel the mindblowing story of Harry Houdini.

The Houdini Museum experience involves watching a film about his life, touring through the museum, and even seeing a magic show.

These all show how important Houdini was, not only for magicians but for entertainment lovers in general.

Tourist attractions like the Houdini Museum set Scranton apart from other small cities.

There’s fun and magic to be found inside every corner of the Houdini Museum.

Every Halloween, they hold a Houdini Seance, which is great if you want to feel in communication with Houdini.

Address: 1433 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508, United States

9. Lahey Family Fun Park

Lahey Family Fun Park is located near Scranton in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, also in Lackawanna County.

This attraction promises exactly what its name delivers.

Come to Lakey Family Fun Park for plenty of excitement with your kids.

This is the place to be for when you want to feel like a kid again.

It has go-karts, an arcade, and bumper boats.

This can be a great way to see how your reflexes are doing, especially if you try the batting cages.

If you’re looking for places to go for games and giddiness in Scranton and the surrounding region, come to Lahey Family Fun Park.

Their winter business hours are Fridays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Summer hours are from Sundays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Address: 500 Morgan Hwy, Clarks Summit, PA 18411, United States

10. Nay Aug Park

Nay Aug Park immerses you in nature so well, you may forget that you’re still in Scranton city limits.

This is the city’s biggest park, and the area makes all the difference.

They’ve designed this park so well, utilizing every piece of this astonishing plot of land.

This park offers plenty of excellent free things to do.

Take a hike along one of its trails, and prepare to see a waterfall.

There’s also some swimming happening in the summer.

Nay Aug Park is also home to some mammoth waterslides and a giant treehouse.

Going to Nay Aug Park is a real treat, and it illustrates how Scraton is among the best Pennsylvania vacation spots.

This is also where the Everhart Museum is located.

They’re open every day, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.

Address: 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

Going on a road trip around Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Philadelphia & some of the fun things to do in Pittsburgh?

11. First Fridays

Going to Scranton early in the month is a grand idea.

This is when the city has its “First Friday” gallery walks.

If you’ve never been on one of these, get ready for one of the most fun cultural activities you can experience.

First Fridays are also awesome free things to do in Scranton.

They take you through different businesses, such as restaurants and art galleries, and let you see the great work of Scranton-area artists.

Everyone is a friend at First Fridays, and you could find a piece of art that really speaks to you.

On First Fridays, you can get some much-needed exercise, meet some great people, and see amazing art.

There are just too many intriguing things to see to skip it.

These take place on the first Friday of each month, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

12. Anthracite Heritage Museum

The significance of coal to Scranton, Pennsylvania has already been mentioned, but the specific importance of anthracite coal must not be brushed off.

The Anthracite Heritage Museum is one of the top places for learning about coal mining.

It belongs in a hallmark of all-time great Scranton attractions.

You’ll see how much anthracite coal means to the whole of northeastern Pennsylvania.

As you tour the Anthracite Heritage Museum, you’ll learn about the role immigration played in coal mining, as well as stories of the miners.

There are also quite a few great things to see from this era, such as an old lace machine.

Visiting the Anthracite Heritage Museum is definitely among the top things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania, especially if you’re interested in the history of the coal industry and its workers.

This museum is open between Mondays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m.

General admission is $7.

However, those 65 and up get in for $6, and those ages three to 11 get in for $5.

Active military members and their immediate family receive free admission.

Address: 22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

13. See the RailRiders Play

Scranton, Pennsylvania might not have a Major League Baseball team, but the Minor League Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are still a lot of fun to watch.

They’re actually an affiliate of the New York Yankees, and you can really see some Major League potential among players.

It’s also among the most fun activities because there’s nothing quite like seeing a baseball game, right?

The RailRiders play at PNC Field, in Moosic, Pennsylvania.

The 10,000-seat layout is really cool, and it’s pretty easy to get a good view of the excitement on the field.

Think of how much fun it’d be to chomp on a hotdog and try to catch a foul ball in the stands at this park.

If you’re eager to see sports around Scranton, Pennsylvania get some tickets for a RailRiders game.

You can also use this a way to introduce your kids to the wonders of baseball.

A trip to PNC Field lets you experience Major League entertainment at Minor League prices.

Address: 235 Montage Mountain Rd, Moosic, PA 18507, United States

14. Lackawanna Historical Society Museum

One county can affect the world at large.

That seems to be the thesis behind the Lackawanna Historical Society Museum, and it’s one worth paying attention to.

Lackawanna might be the newest county in Pennsylvania, but this museum shows its importance is unquestionable.

This organization started a mere eight years following Lackawanna County’s creation.

From the 1940s to today, it’s been hosted at the Caitlin House, an early 20th-century building located on the University of Scranton campus.

This was the home of George and Helen Catlin, and touring this museum also clues you in on their domestic life.

The Lackawanna Historical Society Museum lets every part of Lackawanna County’s story shine in its own way.

You may not expect to find the history of coal and the military to be so interesting, but you’d be surprised.

This museum is open from Tuesdays to Fridays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You’ll need to schedule an appointment first.

Address: 232 Monroe Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, United States

15. Steamtown National Historic Site

The sound of a steam locomotive is as powerful of a sensation as you’ll ever witness.

The Steamtown National Historic Site is a delight if you’re looking for awesome places to visit involving transportation and machinery.

Take a tour here for enlightening and fun things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

You’ll learn about steam locomotives in many exciting ways, from looking at photos, watching a film, and even seeing a rehabilitated train, the “Scranton Limited” yourself.

Whether transporting pounds of coal or people, these trains were vital parts of this region and this country.

The Steamtown National Historic Site definitely deserves to be called such.

You can go sightseeing here every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It’s free to visit the museum, but $5 per guest to ride the “Scranton Limited.”

Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503, United States

Looking for more things to do in Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the things to do in Hershey, PA?

16. Old Forge Pizza

The town of Old Forge, Pennsylvania made a pretty bold declaration, calling themselves the “Pizza Capital of the World.”

Many Italians and New Yorkers would surely beg to differ, but this is also some of the best pizza around.

Old Forge Pizza is one of the top-tier culinary tourist attractions around Scranton.

Old Forge Pizza is said to have started in 1926 at the now-closed Ghigiarelli’s Restaurant.

The pizza is distinguished by its light yet still crispy crust.

They offer white and red pizzas, with the red having a mix of cheeses.

Pizzas are referred to as “trays” and slice are known as “cuts.”

If you’re hungry in Scranton, Pennsylvania this weekend, you need to get some pizza in Old Forge.

It’s only five miles away from Scranton, and it’s what to do for true pizza lovers.

You’ll see why Old Forge pizza continues to be so beloved today.

17. Archbald Pothole State Park

Exploring Archbald Pothole State Park is absolutely one of the most and exciting and fun things to do in Scranton.

Sure, this park might not be quite as big as others, but it’s got some awesome things to see.

Anyone interested in geology or prehistory should come here.

Archbald Pothole State Park has a hole that’s actually the biggest glacial pothole.

That’s in the entire world, not just in Pennsylvania or even North America.

Come here if you’re looking for places to see unlike any other on Earth.

You can also get some of your best vacation footage by visiting Archbald Pothole State Park.

It may count as one of the free things to do in Archbald, but the experience has so much value.

Archbald Pothole State Park is located in Archbald, Pennsylvania.

Address: 960 Scranton Carbondale Hwy, Archbald, PA 18403, United States

18. Lackawanna River Heritage Trail

Lots of the best places to visit in Scranton are outdoors, and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail helps you to experience them.

This entire trail is 70 miles, and it can be experienced in a multitude of ways.

Activities such as walking, running, and cycling can all be enjoyed on the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.

Enjoy the outdoor sightseeing as well as your favorite activities.

These woods and their trees are absolutely beautiful, as is the Lackawanna River itself.

Lots of fun things to do in Scranton take place on this trail, such as races and clean-up initiatives.

There’s no doubt that the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail should be called one of the top places to visit in Scranton.

The whole journey lets you see both nature and people at their best.

If you can only see part of it, you’re still bound to have a really fun time.

19. Pronto

One of the most-loved Scranton attractions is one of the finest restaurants in Pennsylvania.

Pronto is Italian food done with integrity and amazing ingredients.

At night in Scranton, you’ll feel on top of the world as you dine on Pronto’s fantastic offerings.

As you’d expect, Pronto has lots of pasta on their menu.

However, this isn’t the leftover spaghetti you reheated from last night.

Their menu has “Papardelle Pronto” and “Rigatoni Bolognese” made with the perfect layering of flavors.

They also have stunning non-pasta options, such as “Shrimp Pronto,” “Pollo Marsala,” and a New York strip steak.

Want to know what to do for dinner when you’re in Scranton, Pennsylvania tonight?

There are a lot of options, but we’d highly recommend you get a table at Pronto.

They’re open from Mondays until Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: 110 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18504, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Scranton, PA

This isn’t all of the great Scranton attractions, but it’s definitely some of the coolest and most significant.

Visit Scranton, Pennsylvania this weekend, or come later when you have more time to plan your trip.

In any case, you should have a great time in the Electric City.

Happy travels!