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Scranton

Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States

Discover Scranton: Where Blue-Collar Grit Meets Modern Charm Nestled in the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Scranton offers a captivating blend of industrial history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural attractions.…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Scranton.

Top Hotels in Scranton

Top Flights to Scranton

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Scranton.

Tours

Explore the Electric City Trolley Museum

Discover the history of electric traction and the impact of trolleys on the Scranton area through exhibits and restored trolley cars.

Visit Steamtown National Historic Site

Learn about the history of steam engines and explore vintage locomotives at this interactive historic site.

Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple

Attend a show or event in this historic center that hosts a variety of performances and cultural events.

Explore the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour

Take an underground tour of a former coal mine and learn about the history of coal mining in Scranton.

Shopping

Shopping at The Marketplace at Steamtown

Enjoy a variety of shops ranging from big brands to local boutiques in the heart of Scranton.

Outdoor

Discover Nay Aug Park

The largest park in Scranton featuring walking trails, waterfalls, and the Everhart Museum.

Enjoy a Day at Montage Mountain Resorts

A year-round resort offering skiing, water park activities, and outdoor concerts.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Scranton.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

77.1 thousand

Languages

English, English, Spanish

Average weather

Scranton

Jan

1°-8°

Feb

3°-6°

Mar

8°-3°

Apr

15°3°

May

21°8°

Jun

26°13°

Jul

28°16°

Aug

27°15°

Sep

23°11°

Oct

17°5°

Nov

10°0°

Dec

4°-5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Scranton.

What people love

Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to offer. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Scranton:

Historical Sites: Scranton is home to several historical sites, including the Steamtown National Historic Site, which preserves the history of steam railroading in America. Visitors can explore vintage trains, take a ride on a steam locomotive, and learn about the importance of railroads in shaping the nation's history.
Outdoor Recreation: The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Nearby state parks, like Lackawanna State Park and Nay Aug Park, provide scenic spots for picnicking and enjoying nature.
Cultural Attractions: Scranton has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing local art and performances. The Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science & Art and the Scranton Cultural Center are popular venues for art enthusiasts and history buffs.
Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Scranton hosts a variety of events and festivals that celebrate the city's heritage and culture. From the annual La Festa Italiana to the Scranton Jazz Festival, there's always something happening in the city that offers visitors a taste of local flavor.
Friendly Community: Scranton is known for its friendly residents who take pride in their city and welcome visitors with open arms. Travelers can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere as they explore the city and interact with locals.

Overall, traveling to Scranton can be a rewarding experience for those interested in history, culture, and outdoor adventures.

What to know

Traveling to Scranton, Pennsylvania, like any other destination, may have its drawbacks. Some potential cons of visiting Scranton include:

Limited public transportation: Scranton's public transportation system is not as extensive as in larger cities, which can make getting around the area more challenging for visitors who do not have access to a car.
Limited nightlife options: Scranton is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling nightlife may find the options in Scranton to be limited.
Weather extremes: Scranton experiences all four seasons, including cold winters and hot summers. Visitors should be prepared for potential weather extremes depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited tourist attractions: While Scranton has some interesting landmarks such as the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, the city may not offer as many tourist attractions as other more popular destinations.
Industrial heritage: Scranton has a history tied to coal mining and heavy industry, which may not appeal to all visitors seeking a more picturesque or nature-oriented destination.
Limited dining options: While Scranton has a variety of dining establishments, the options may not be as diverse or upscale as in larger cities.

It's important to note that these cons are subjective and may not apply to all visitors. Some travelers may appreciate the city's unique heritage and quieter atmosphere.

Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a city with a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. It is the largest city in Lackawanna County and serves as its county seat. Here is a detailed history of Scranton:

Early Settlement and Founding:

Scranton's area was originally inhabited by the Lenape (Delaware) Native Americans.
European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and the area began to develop in the early 19th century, initially known as Slocum Hollow.

Industrial Growth:

Scranton's growth is closely tied to the anthracite coal industry. The discovery of anthracite coal in the region led to an economic boom in the mid-19th century.
In 1840, the Scranton brothers, Selden and George Scranton, established an iron forge, which later became the Lackawanna Iron & Coal Company. This company was instrumental in producing T-rails, which helped establish the city's reputation as an industrial hub.
The arrival of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad in the 1850s further facilitated coal and iron transportation, accelerating Scranton's growth.

Incorporation and Growth:

Scranton was incorporated as a borough in 1856 and became a city in 1866.
The city was named after the Scranton family, who were influential in its early development.

20th Century:

By the early 20th century, Scranton had become a major industrial city, known for coal mining, railroads, and textiles.
The city's population peaked in the 1930s, reaching over 140,000 residents.
However, the decline of the coal industry and the Great Depression hit Scranton hard, leading to economic challenges and population decline.

Post-Industrial Era:

In the latter half of the 20th century, Scranton struggled with economic restructuring as industries moved away. However, efforts to revitalize downtown and attract new businesses have been ongoing.

Significant Historical Figures:

The Scranton family, particularly Selden and George Scranton, played a crucial role in the city's early industrial development.
Vice President Joe Biden, who served as the 47th Vice President of the United States, was born in Scranton in 1942 and spent part of his childhood there.

Important Landmarks:

Steamtown National Historic Site: A museum and heritage railroad located in downtown Scranton, preserving the history of steam railroading in America.
Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour: Provides a glimpse into the region's coal mining history.
Electric City Trolley Museum: Celebrates Scranton's nickname as the "Electric City," highlighting its history with electric trolley systems.
Scranton Cultural Center: An architectural landmark that hosts a variety of cultural events and performances.
Everhart Museum: A natural history, science, and art museum located in Nay Aug Park.

Scranton remains a city with a unique historical legacy, reflecting the broader story of America's industrialization and subsequent economic shifts. Despite challenges, it retains a strong sense of community and cultural heritage.