The Best of Wilkes-Barre PA

WilkesBarre Overview

Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers a compelling blend of historic charm, urban convenience, and scenic beauty, making it an increasingly attractive place to visit, study, and live. Nestled along the Susquehanna River in Luzerne County, the city features revitalized downtown streets, respected educational institutions, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you are planning a move, searching for high-performing schools, or looking for memorable tourist activities, Wilkes-Barre provides an impressive variety of options that cater to different interests and lifestyles.

Top Tourist Attractions

Tourists visiting Wilkes-Barre will find an appealing mix of cultural, recreational, and entertainment venues. The city and its surrounding region showcase the heritage of Northeastern Pennsylvania while offering modern amenities that appeal to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. From riverfront parks to historic theaters, Wilkes-Barre presents a well-rounded list of destinations that help visitors get a true sense of the community.

River Common

River Common is one of Wilkes-Barre’s signature outdoor destinations, stretching along the Susquehanna River with landscaped walkways, amphitheaters, and scenic overlooks. This riverfront park is ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying views of the water and downtown skyline. Seasonal events, outdoor concerts, and community festivals regularly take place here, making River Common a central gathering space for residents and tourists alike. Its convenient location near downtown restaurants and shops also allows visitors to pair a riverfront stroll with dining and entertainment.

F M Kirby Center for the Performing Arts

The F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts is a restored 1930s art deco theater that anchors Wilkes-Barre’s cultural scene. Located on Public Square, it hosts national touring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy performances, and community productions. The historic interior, with its ornate details and classic marquee, adds to the overall experience and draws visitors seeking a memorable night out. For tourists wanting to combine live entertainment with a historic setting, the Kirby Center is a must-visit Wilkes-Barre landmark.

Mohegan Pennsylvania Casino and Entertainment

Just a short drive from downtown Wilkes-Barre, Mohegan Pennsylvania (formerly Mohegan Sun Pocono) offers a full resort-style experience. Visitors can enjoy casino gaming, multiple restaurants, bars, live harness racing in season, and frequent entertainment events. Travelers often use this venue as a home base for exploring the region, thanks to its hotel, spa, and dining options. Whether you are interested in nightlife, a weekend getaway, or special events, Mohegan Pennsylvania provides one of the area’s most comprehensive entertainment experiences.

Seven Tubs Recreation Area

For outdoor enthusiasts, Seven Tubs Recreation Area is a standout natural attraction just outside Wilkes-Barre. This 400-acre park is known for its glacial “tubs,” or smooth rock formations carved by flowing water, along with short hiking trails and picturesque cascades. It is an excellent spot for a relaxing hike, nature photography, or a quiet picnic. Families and visitors looking to balance urban attractions with time in nature will appreciate how accessible Seven Tubs is from the city while still feeling tucked away and serene.

Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park, located within a reasonable drive of Wilkes-Barre, is one of Pennsylvania’s premier hiking destinations. The park’s Falls Trail System showcases more than 20 named waterfalls, ranging from small cascades to the impressive 94-foot Ganoga Falls. Day-trippers from Wilkes-Barre often head here for hiking, birdwatching, swimming in Lake Jean, or simply taking in the dramatic scenery. As a result, Ricketts Glen is frequently recommended as a top regional attraction for visitors staying in or near Wilkes-Barre.

Wyoming Valley Mall and Arena Hub

For visitors who prefer shopping and casual entertainment, Wyoming Valley Mall and the surrounding Arena Hub area form a busy retail and dining corridor minutes from downtown Wilkes-Barre. National retailers, local shops, cinemas, and numerous restaurants provide plenty of options for a full day of shopping and leisure. When combined with events at the nearby Mohegan Sun Arena, this district becomes a convenient hub for families seeking multiple activities in one easily accessible location.

Best Schools in WilkesBarre

Education is a key factor for families considering a move to Wilkes-Barre, and the area features a combination of public, private, and higher education institutions. These schools emphasize academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and community involvement. When evaluating the best schools, families typically look at graduation rates, test scores, and the range of programs available, including advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics.

Wilkes University

Wilkes University is a private institution located in the heart of downtown Wilkes-Barre, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, business, pharmacy, nursing, and the arts and sciences. Its compact, walkable campus contributes to the vibrancy of the city center, and the university maintains strong ties with local businesses and organizations. Wilkes frequently appears on lists of regional universities for its student-focused learning environment, internship opportunities, and commitment to community engagement.

Kings College

King’s College, another well-regarded private institution in downtown Wilkes-Barre, provides a liberal arts education with strong programs in business, education, health sciences, and the humanities. Known for small class sizes and accessible faculty, King’s emphasizes service, leadership, and ethical development. The college’s presence has helped fuel downtown revitalization, and students benefit from proximity to internships, cultural attractions, and government offices throughout the Wyoming Valley.

WilkesBarre Area High School

Wilkes-Barre Area High School serves students from the wider Wilkes-Barre Area School District in a modern, consolidated facility. The school offers a range of academic tracks, including college preparatory courses, career and technical education, and extracurricular activities in athletics, music, and clubs. As the primary public high school in the area, it plays a central role in the community and continues to invest in updated technology, programs, and facilities to support student success.

Misericordia University Nearby Option

While not within Wilkes-Barre city limits, Misericordia University in nearby Dallas, Pennsylvania, is a popular choice for local residents and is often considered in discussions of the broader Wilkes-Barre academic community. This private Catholic university is recognized for its health sciences programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing, as well as its commitment to service learning. Families and students considering the Wilkes-Barre area appreciate having multiple respected colleges within a short commute.

Best Neighborhoods to Live in WilkesBarre

Choosing the right neighborhood in Wilkes-Barre involves weighing factors such as housing styles, proximity to schools and workplaces, access to parks, and overall community feel. The city offers a variety of residential areas, from historic streets near downtown to quieter suburban-style enclaves, giving new residents a range of options that can fit different budgets and lifestyle preferences.

Downtown WilkesBarre

Downtown Wilkes-Barre has undergone significant revitalization, making it an increasingly attractive neighborhood for professionals, students, and empty nesters. Historic buildings have been converted into lofts and apartments, and residents enjoy walking access to restaurants, cafés, theaters, and the Susquehanna River. With Wilkes University and King’s College nearby, the area maintains an energetic atmosphere. Those who appreciate urban living, cultural events, and minimal commute times often find downtown Wilkes-Barre especially appealing.

Parsons Neighborhood

The Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, located on the eastern side of the city, is known for its residential character and community-oriented atmosphere. Tree-lined streets and single-family homes make it attractive to families and long-term residents. Proximity to parks, local businesses, and schools adds everyday convenience, while easy access to major roads allows for straightforward commutes to other parts of the Wyoming Valley. Overall, Parsons offers a comfortable blend of suburban feel and city access.

Miners Mills Neighborhood

Miners Mills is another well-regarded neighborhood in Wilkes-Barre, especially noted for its strong sense of community and relatively quiet streets. Many homes here reflect the area’s working-class roots, and residents often highlight neighborhood pride and local traditions. With its location near shopping centers, schools, and major highways, Miners Mills is a practical choice for commuters and families seeking a stable, established part of the city.

North End WilkesBarre

North End Wilkes-Barre features a mix of historic homes, multi-family units, and small businesses. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown and to key roadways makes it convenient for professionals and students alike. Residents benefit from access to churches, schools, and local eateries, contributing to a close-knit feel. For those who want to be near city amenities but prefer quieter side streets, North End often ranks as a desirable option.

FamilyFriendly Suburban Areas Nearby

In addition to neighborhoods within city limits, nearby communities such as Kingston, Forty Fort, and Plains Township are frequently considered by families moving to the Wilkes-Barre area. These municipalities, located just across the Susquehanna River or a short drive from downtown, offer additional school options, parks, and residential developments. Because of their proximity, many residents work, shop, or attend events in Wilkes-Barre while enjoying a more suburban lifestyle just minutes away.

Fun Tourist Activities and Seasonal Events

Beyond its permanent attractions and neighborhoods, Wilkes-Barre hosts a variety of fun activities and seasonal events that enhance its appeal as a tourist destination. From summer festivals on Public Square to winter holiday markets, the city offers year-round entertainment. Visitors can attend minor league hockey games at the Mohegan Sun Arena, enjoy outdoor concerts along the riverfront, or explore historical walking tours that highlight the region’s coal mining heritage. As a result, both residents and tourists benefit from an ongoing calendar of events that showcases the best of Wilkes-Barre’s culture, history, and community spirit.

• Best Restaurants in Wilkes-Barre PA