Hey there, curious explorers! Are you ready to discover a super cool place called Wilkes-Barre? You might not have heard about it much, but trust us, it’s a hidden gem in Pennsylvania. We’re going to take you on a journey to this fantastic city and show you all the awesome stuff you can do there. So, buckle up, because Wilkes-Barre is waiting for you!

Wilkes-Barre by the Numbers
Before we dive into all the fun stuff, let’s start with some numbers. Wilkes-Barre is a city in Pennsylvania, and it’s not too big or too small—it’s just right! About 40,000 friendly folks call it home. The city sits beside the mighty Susquehanna River, making it even more picturesque.
Now, let’s talk about some exciting things you can do in Wilkes-Barre.
Explore the Parks
Wilkes-Barre is a green wonderland! There are lots of parks where you can play, have picnics, and even spot some friendly critters. Kirby Park is a must-visit with its wide-open spaces and a beautiful lagoon. You can feed the ducks, ride your bike, or simply enjoy the fresh air.
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 1: Did you know that Kirby Park has a big, beautiful rose garden? Imagine all the colorful flowers!
Dive into History
History might sound boring, but not in Wilkes-Barre! The Luzerne County Historical Society Museum is like a time machine. You’ll see amazing artifacts, old-fashioned clothes, and learn about the people who lived here a long time ago. It’s like a real-life history book!
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 2: In the museum, you can see what a school from the olden days looked like. Imagine studying with chalkboards and quill pens!
Visit the Coal Mining Museum
Wilkes-Barre has a special connection to coal mining. The Anthracite Heritage Museum will teach you all about it. You can even go inside a real coal mine! Don’t worry; it’s not spooky; it’s super interesting.
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 3: The coal mines were dark, but the miners used cool headlamps to see. You’ll get to see those headlamps at the museum!
Enjoy Delicious Food
Are you getting hungry after all that exploring? Wilkes-Barre has you covered! There are restaurants and cafes with tasty food. Whether you love pizza, burgers, or ice cream, you’ll find something delicious to munch on.
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 4: Try the famous “Wilkes-Barre Pierogi.” They’re like little pockets of heaven stuffed with yummy fillings.
Catch a Game
If you’re a sports fan, Wilkes-Barre is perfect for you. The city is home to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, a cool ice hockey team. Watching a game at the Mohegan Sun Arena is so much fun! You can cheer for your team and maybe even catch a puck!
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 5: The Penguins’ mascot is a penguin named “Tux.” Isn’t that adorable?
Explore the Art Scene
Do you love art and creativity? Wilkes-Barre has a vibrant art scene. The Sordoni Art Gallery is a place where you can see amazing paintings and sculptures. It might even inspire you to create your own art!
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 6: Some paintings at the Sordoni Art Gallery are so big; they almost touch the ceiling! Imagine painting something that huge!
Go Shopping
If you enjoy shopping for cool stuff, you’ll love the stores in Wilkes-Barre. The Wyoming Valley Mall has all your favorite shops, from clothes to toys. You might even find a little souvenir to remember your trip.
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 7: Souvenirs are like special memories you can take home with you. Look for something unique!
Watch a Show
Are you a fan of live performances? The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts is the place to be. You can watch plays, concerts, and even comedy shows. It’s like having a blast while sitting in a comfy seat!
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 8: Sometimes, famous artists and actors come to perform at the Kirby Center. You might meet a celebrity!
Explore Nature
Wilkes-Barre is surrounded by nature, and it’s the perfect place for outdoor adventures. You can go hiking, fishing, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery. The Ricketts Glen State Park is a short drive away and has amazing waterfalls to explore.
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 9: Ricketts Glen State Park has more waterfalls than you can count! Each one is like a natural wonder.
Have Fun at Knoebels
Now, here’s the icing on the cake—Knoebels Amusement Resort is not too far from Wilkes-Barre. It’s like a giant playground with roller coasters, bumper cars, and delicious cotton candy. It’s the perfect place to have a day full of fun!
Wilkes-Barre Fun Fact 10: Knoebels is famous for having one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world. It’s a wild ride!
Conclusion
So, there you have it, explorers! Wilkes-Barre is a hidden gem in Pennsylvania that’s just waiting for you to discover. With its beautiful parks, fascinating history, tasty food, and exciting entertainment options, it’s the perfect destination for travelers of all ages.
Don’t forget to explore the parks, learn about history, and try the delicious Wilkes-Barre Pierogi. Catch a game, visit the art gallery, and do some shopping. You can even watch a live show and immerse yourself in nature. And if you’re up for more adventure, Knoebels is just a short drive away!
So, pack your bags, put on your explorer’s hat, and get ready for an amazing journey to Wilkes-Barre. It’s going to be a blast, and you’ll make memories that last a lifetime. Wilkes-Barre is calling, and it’s time to answer that call!