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Wilkes-Barre, United States
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Wilkes-Barre, United States
1. River Common
River Common delivers lively riverfront events and easy access to the Susquehanna waterfront. Walk tree lined paths, enjoy outdoor concerts, or rent a kayak for a riverside view.
2. F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
Historic 1937 movie palace restored to a lively performing arts center, worth visiting for architecture and live shows. Expect Broadway tours, concerts, and ornate interiors perfect for photos.
3. Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza
Big-name concerts and local sports pack an energetic, intimate arena near downtown Wilkes-Barre. Expect close-up sightlines, lively crowds, and easy parking.
Book a FREE walking tour in Wilkes-Barre, United States
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Kirby Park
Riverfront park with shady paths and seasonal live music, great for a relaxed outdoor escape. Stroll tree-lined trails, picnic on the lawn, and catch summer concerts at the bandshell.
5. Luzerne County Courthouse
Grand Beaux-Arts courthouse with a striking clock tower worth seeing. Explore marble halls, ornate courtrooms, and photogenic staircases.
6. Stegmaier Brewery
Historic brewery with a welcoming taproom and local-brewed ales. Sample flights, meet the staff, and photograph the brick facade.
7. Public Square
Historic heart of Wilkes-Barre with monuments, a central fountain and frequent community events. Expect seasonal farmers markets, concerts and easy people-watching on the green.
8. Hollenback Cemetery
Peaceful Victorian cemetery with ornate monuments and local history. Walk winding lanes to see 19th-century statuary, Civil War graves, and photogenic views.
9. Market Street Bridge
River views and skyline panoramas make Market Street Bridge worth a short detour. Walk the span for riverfront photos, skyline silhouettes, and seasonal color.
10. Wilkes University
Compact hilltop campus with river and city views, lively student life and public events. Wander tree-lined paths, snap skyline photos, and join free lectures or gallery shows.
Additional popular things to do in Wilkes-Barre, United States
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Paczki
Polish jelly-filled doughnuts traditionally eaten on Fat Tuesday, local bakeries in Wilkes-Barre draw long lines and festive crowds every year.
Babka
A sweet braided yeast cake served at Easter and other holidays, babka reflects the strong Central and Eastern European baking traditions in the region.
Kolaczki
Small cream cheese-based cookies filled with fruit or jam, kolaczki are a staple at Polish bakeries and holiday trays across Wilkes-Barre.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Pierogi
Dumplings stuffed with potato, cheese, or meat, pierogi are a signature comfort food at local festivals and family gatherings.
Halupki (Stuffed Cabbage)
Cabbage leaves filled with seasoned meat and rice, slow-baked in tomato sauce, halupki are a beloved dish at church dinners and community events.
Haluski
Pan-fried cabbage and egg noodles, haluski is a humble, hearty coal-region classic enjoyed by generations of local families.
Traditional Beverages
Kompot
A non-alcoholic stewed fruit drink made from seasonal fruits, kompot is commonly served in Polish and Ukrainian households in the Wilkes-Barre area.
Birch Beer
A sweet, aromatic soda flavored from birch, birch beer is a regional Pennsylvania favorite found in local stores and diners.
Hard Cider
With orchards throughout northeastern Pennsylvania, hard apple cider has a long local tradition and seasonal varieties from area cideries are popular at harvest fairs.
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Day trips
Scranton, PA
Historic downtown, Steamtown National Historic Site, museums.
Google MapsJim Thorpe, PA
Scenic Victorian town, hiking, Lehigh Gorge railroad rides.
Google MapsDelaware Water Gap
Riverside trails, waterfalls, kayaking and scenic overlooks.
Google MapsNew York City, NY
Major museums, Broadway, dining, shopping and city sights.
Google MapsComments (5)
Farmers market on Saturdays at River Common has cheap ready meals and good coffee, go around 10am before lunchtime crowds and vendor sellouts.
Concert at the arena was fun, traffic was manageable and security quick. Grab pizza near Public Square, skip the chain spots by the casino.
Small city with a pleasant riverfront, friendly diners and a surprising bakery scene. Two days is enough unless you plan Pocono day trips.
Weather in June was humid and gray, downtown felt a bit sleepy at night. Nice if you want a low key weekend, not a party city.
Park in the municipal garage on Public Square, it is cheaper than meter spots along the river and within easy walking distance to restaurants.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Heritage and excursion trains; local bus connections
Amtrak Northeast Corridor; regional rail connections
Amtrak, NJ Transit; PATH access to New York City
From AVP take a taxi, rideshare, or rental car to downtown Wilkes-Barre; buses connect Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.
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