About Scranton
Scranton, Pennsylvania, known as “The Electric City,” is a vibrant hub of history, culture, and industry in the scenic Lackawanna River Valley. Once a center for coal mining and railroads, Scranton has evolved into a modern city while preserving its rich heritage. It is a popular tourist destination because of its warm attitude, varied cultural offers, and historic charm. Scranton blends industrial heritage and modern experiences in a distinct, sophisticated, and beautiful way.
Top 6 Family-Friendly Tourist Attractions in Scranton
Here is the list of the best places to visit in Scranton
1. Steamtown National Historic Site – Rail Museum
Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a premier rail museum that preserves the history of steam locomotives and the railroad industry in the United States. Located on a former train yard site, Steamtown transports visitors back to when trade and transportation in the United States relied heavily on steam engines.
Location:
The Steamtown National Historic Site is situated at 350 Cliff Street in the heart of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and is conveniently accessible from Interstate 81.
Key Attractions:
- Historic Steam Locomotives: Steamtown’s collection features several restored steam locomotives, including the massive Union Pacific “Big Boy,” one of the most significant steam engines ever built.
- Roundhouse and Turntable: The operational roundhouse showcases how staff maintain locomotives, and visitors can watch the turntable in action as it moves engines from one track to another.
- Railroad History Museum: The museum inside Steamtown offers interactive exhibits about the rise of railroads in America, the technology behind steam engines, and the lives of railroad workers.
Things to Do:
- Train Rides: Take a trip behind a vintage steam or diesel locomotive on one of Steamtown’s beautiful train excursions around the surrounding countryside.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about the inner workings of steam engines and the development of railroads in America.
- Visit the Gift Shop: Pick up railway-themed souvenirs, books, and memorabilia in the Steamtown gift shop to remember your visit.
2. Nay Aug Park – Park and Garden
Nay Aug Park is Scranton’s largest and most popular green space, offering a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike. This historic park is perfect for outdoor activities, leisure, and family enjoyment because it combines natural beauty with recreational amenities. With its colorful gardens, strolling routes, and magnificent waterfall, the park offers a peaceful haven in the middle of Scranton.
Location:
Nay Aug Park is at 500 Arthur Avenue, between the city center and primary highways in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Key Attractions:
- Nay Aug Falls: The park’s star attraction, this beautiful waterfall, is set in a gorge that offers scenic views and photo opportunities. A pedestrian bridge allows visitors to enjoy the sight from above.
- David Wenzel Treehouse: Nestled among the trees, this raised treehouse provides breathtaking views of the gorge below and the park’s natural environs.
- Everhart Museum: Located within the park, this museum features art, natural history, and science exhibits.
Things to Do:
- Hiking and Walking: Explore the park’s scenic trails, including routes along the gorge and through wooded areas, perfect for leisurely walks or light exercise.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic in one of the many shaded areas or designated picnic spots, ideal for families and groups.
- Playgrounds: Children can enjoy the park’s playgrounds, which offer swings, slides, and climbing equipment.
3. Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den – Aquarium
The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Located within The Marketplace at Steamtown, this modern facility features a wide range of aquatic life and reptiles, from exotic fish and sea creatures to fascinating reptiles and amphibians. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anybody curious about the animal kingdom’s wonders will find it an ideal trip.
Location:
The Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den is in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, at 300 Lackawanna Avenue, inside The Marketplace at Steamtown.
Key Attractions:
- Aquatic Exhibits: The aquarium features various marine environments, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and deep-sea creatures. Visitors may see everything from vibrant fish and jellyfish to sharks and stingrays.
- Reptile Den: Home to an array of reptiles and amphibians, the Reptile Den showcases snakes, turtles, lizards, and more, giving visitors an up-close look at these fascinating creatures.
- Touch Tanks: These interactive displays provide a hands-on learning experience by letting visitors feel and touch marine creatures like stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and starfish.
Things to Do:
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in feeding sessions and touch tank interactions to engage with animals up close and learn more about their behaviors.
- Attend Animal Talks and Demonstrations: The aquarium offers educational presentations and talks by expert staff, providing insights into the animals’ lives, care, and conservation efforts.
- Birthday Parties and Events: The aquarium offers packages that include guided tours and unique animal encounters, making it a great place to host a birthday party or private event.
4. Everhart Museum – Art Museum
The Everhart Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a renowned cultural institution that offers a unique blend of art, natural history, and science exhibits. Founded in 1908, it serves as a space for education and inspiration, showcasing diverse collections ranging from fine art to fossils. The museum is located within Nay Aug Park, making it a perfect destination for those looking to explore art, history, and nature in one visit.
Location:
The Everhart Museum is in Nay Aug Park, 1901 Mulberry Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania, accessible from downtown Scranton.
Key Attractions
- Fine Art Collection: The museum houses an impressive collection of American and European art, including paintings, sculptures, and works on paper. The collection spans various periods and styles and features contemporary and historical works.
- Natural History Exhibits: The museum’s natural history section includes displays of taxidermy animals, fossils, and geological specimens, providing insights into the region’s natural environment and the broader world.
- Anthropology Exhibits: These exhibits explore the cultural history of different civilizations, with artifacts from ancient Egypt, Native American cultures, and other global societies.
Things to Do:
- Attend Special Events and Lectures: The museum regularly hosts educational events, lectures, and workshops on art, history, and natural sciences.
- Family and Children’s Programs: Participate in interactive family programs and children’s workshops that encourage hands-on learning and creativity.
- Museum Store: Visit the museum’s gift shop to purchase art-inspired gifts, educational toys, and books.
5. Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple – Performing Arts Theatre
In Scranton, Pennsylvania, the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple is a significant center of the arts and historical performing arts facility. Housed in a stunning 1930s Gothic Revival-style building, it serves as a center for the arts, offering various performances, concerts, and events. The center also showcases its architectural grandeur, making it a destination for history enthusiasts and arts patrons.
Location:
The Scranton Cultural Center is at 420 North Washington Avenue in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, within walking distance of the city’s main attractions.
Key Attractions:
- Performing Arts Theatre: The center’s main theater is known for hosting various performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance recitals, and community theater productions.
- Grand Ballroom: The grand ballroom, with its elegant design and historical ambiance, is used for formal events, galas, and private functions.
- Architectural Tours: Visitors can explore the Masonic Temple’s rich history and architecture through guided tours, highlighting the building’s intricate design and craftsmanship.
Things to Do:
- Attend a Performance: Enjoy various performances, from national touring acts and Broadway shows to local theater productions and live concerts.
- Participate in Workshops: Enroll in one of the many educational programs and workshops designed for aspiring artists, musicians, and performers.
- Host an Event: The venue is available for weddings, corporate events, and private functions in its stunning ballroom and other event spaces.
6. The Electric City Trolley Museum – Rail Museum
The Electric City Trolley Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania, celebrates the rich history of electric trolley transportation that once played a pivotal role in the region. This engaging rail museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past with restored trolley cars, informative exhibits, and a ride along a historic rail line. It’s a must-visit for history buffs, rail enthusiasts, and families.
Location:
The Electric City Trolley Museum is at 300 Cliff Street in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, adjacent to the Steamtown National Historic Site.
Key Attractions:
- Restored Trolley Cars: The museum showcases a collection of beautifully restored electric trolleys that once operated throughout Pennsylvania and beyond, offering a nostalgic look at early 20th-century public transportation.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can explore exhibits that detail the history of trolley systems, the technology behind them, and their impact on urban development.
- Trolley Excursion Rides: One of the museum’s highlights is riding an authentic electric trolley on a 10-mile journey through the scenic Lackawanna Valley, passing through tunnels and historical sites.
Things to Do:
- Watch Restoration Work: Observe artisans restoring historic trolleys in the museum’s workshop, showcasing the detailed work that goes into preserving these vehicles.
- Visit the Gift Shop: Browse the museum’s gift shop for trolley-themed merchandise, books, and souvenirs related to rail history.
- Combined with Steamtown Visit: Given its location next to the Steamtown National Historic Site, visitors can enjoy a full day of rail history by exploring both museums.
Culinary Delights
Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers a rich and diverse culinary scene that reflects its history, culture, and local traditions. From classic American comfort food to ethnic specialties, the city’s restaurants and eateries cater to various tastes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something unique, Scranton’s food scene has something for everyone.
- Old Forge Pizza: Known as the “Pizza Capital of the World,” the nearby town of Old Forge has a unique style of pizza that is famous in Scranton. This rectangular pizza has a thick crust, a mix of cheeses, and a flavorful tomato sauce, often served in “cuts” instead of slices.
- Pierogies: Reflecting Scranton’s rich Polish heritage, pierogies are a local favorite. These dough-filled dumplings, typically stuffed with mashed potatoes, cheese, or sauerkraut, can be found in many restaurants and are often served with butter, onions, and sour cream.
- Haluski: Another Eastern European comfort food, haluski is a dish made from sautéed cabbage and noodles. It’s a simple but hearty meal often served at local festivals, church events, and traditional restaurants in Scranton.
- Texas Wiener: A Scranton specialty, the Texas Wiener is a hot dog served with mustard, onions, and a signature spicy meat sauce. It’s a local favorite at diners and hot dog stands across the city.
- Chicken Riggies: This creamy, mildly spicy tomato sauce is served with rigatoni pasta, chicken, bell peppers, and hot cherry peppers in an Italian-American dish particularly well-liked in Scranton and upstate New York. It’s a popular dish in neighborhood Italian restaurants.
- Kielbasa: Scranton’s sizeable Polish community has embraced kielbasa (Polish sausage) as a staple in the local culinary scene. People often serve this flavorful sausage, whether smoked or fresh, at family gatherings and festivals or pair it with sauerkraut in local eateries.
- Porketta Sandwich: This Italian-inspired sandwich features slow-roasted, herb-seasoned pork, typically served on a fresh roll. Scranton’s porketta sandwiches at local delis and food stands offer a delicious and savory bite.
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