Northeastern PA Bucket List | Can't Miss Adventures in NEPA

A Definitive "Must-Do" List of Northeastern PA Bucket List Adventures

Whether you’re a lifelong local or a repeat visitor who just can’t stay away, there’s no better time to dive into the ultimate Northeastern PA Bucket List. This curated list of unforgettable experiences spans the adventurous to the everyday, highlighting what makes this region unlike anywhere else.

From high-adrenaline thrills like skydiving or race car driving to more laid-back joys like sipping a cold pint at America’s oldest brewery, every item on this list celebrates the spirit and character of Northeastern Pennsylvania. It’s a mix of big bucket list dreams and small-town charms—each one rooted right here in NEPA.

These adventures aren’t just things to do—they’re moments that define the region. So whether you’re chasing scenic hikes, cheering at hometown festivals or making memories with family, your next NEPA experience starts here.

Go ahead—start checking off your Northeastern PA Bucket List.

Northeastern PA Bucket List Adventures

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Jump from a Plane

Multiple Locations

Take your bucket list to new heights with an unforgettable skydiving adventure in NEPA. Tandem jumps with experienced professionals make it thrilling and safe. It’s the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience that starts with nerves and ends with pure exhilaration.

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Go Snowtubing

Multiple Locations

Snow tubing is a must-try winter adventure and one of the easiest ways to enjoy NEPA’s snowy slopes. Many NEPA skiing and snowboarding resorts also offer dedicated snow tubing lanes for fast, family-friendly fun. Grab a tube, bundle up, and hit the hill for a day of thrills and laughs.

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OF 40

Try Old Forge Pizza

A rectangular pan of Sicilian-style pizza from Revello's is shown, with one slice being lifted out by a spatula. The pizza has a thick crust, is topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, and is cut into rectangular slices.

Multiple Locations

No NEPA Bucket List is complete without a slice of iconic Old Forge pizza. Known as the Pizza Capital of the World, this small town serves up its own delicious twist on the classic. This local favorite is the crown jewel of the legendary Lackawanna County pizza scene. Grab a tray, share it with friends, and taste a true regional favorite.

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Pittston Tomato Festival

Pittston, PA

Add some flavor to your summer with a visit to the Pittston Tomato Festival in downtown Pittston. This beloved annual event celebrates NEPA’s tomato heritage with parades, food, live music, and family-friendly fun. It’s a signature stop on any NEPA festival circuit and a must for your local bucket list.

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Pennsylvania Rail Bike

Hawley, PA

See NEPA from a whole new perspective with a ride on the Pennsylvania Rail Bike in Hawley. Pedal along historic railroad tracks along the Lackawaxen River, through the Pocono Mountains and into the Pocono Lake Region. It’s a fun and unique outdoor adventure perfect for families, friends or a relaxing solo outing.

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Stock Car Racing Experience

Long Pond, PA

Feel the rush of high-speed thrills with the Stock Car Racing Experience at Pocono Raceway. Drive or ride shotgun in a real NASCAR-style stock car on the iconic Tricky Triangle at Pocono Raceway, one of the country’s most legendary tracks. It’s a pulse-pounding adventure that puts you in the middle of the action in the Poconos.

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OF 40

Tame a Wild River

Multiple Locations

Make a splash with unforgettable river recreation adventures across NEPA. From kayaking and canoeing to guided rafting trips, local outfitters and guides help you explore the Lehigh, Lackawanna, Delaware and Susquehanna rivers. Whether you’re chasing thrills or looking to unwind, there’s no better way to experience NEPA from the water.

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Knoebels Amusement Resort

Elysburg, PA

Make memories that last a lifetime at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg. This family-friendly amusement park offers free admission, timeless rides, and some of the best amusement park food in the country. From wooden coasters to tasty treats, Knoebels delivers classic fun for all ages.

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OF 40

Have Fun at the Farm

Three calves nestled together in a straw-filled barn stall at The Lands at Hillside Farms. The calf in the middle is mostly white with brown spots, while the two calves on either side are mostly brown with white spots.

Multiple Locations

Spend a day at one of NEPA’s local farms and enjoy a full lineup of wholesome, family-friendly fun. Explore seasonal corn mazes, meet farm animals, and shop farm stands filled with fresh produce and dairy. With strawberry and blueberry picking, plus visits to vibrant farmers’ markets, there’s something for everyone down on the farm.

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Steamtown Marathon

Scranton, PA

Challenge yourself with the Steamtown Marathon, one of NEPA’s most iconic annual races. This Boston Marathon qualifier winds through scenic Lackawanna County and finishes in downtown Scranton, with portions of the course running along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a high-energy event worth the bucket list spot.

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OF 40

Go Off Road

An ATV rider wearing a full-face helmet and safety gear splashes through a muddy trail at the Lost Trails ATV Adventure Park.

Multiple Locations

Kick up some dirt and explore NEPA’s rugged terrain at one of the region’s ATV and UTV parks. With miles of off-road trails, mud pits, and forest paths, these parks offer adrenaline-pumping fun for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, off-roading in NEPA is a wild ride worth the bucket list.

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Yuengling Brewery

Pottsville, PA

Tour America’s oldest brewery and get a taste of NEPA’s rich brewing history at Yuengling in Pottsville. Explore the historic facilities, underground caves, and brewing process that date back to 1829. Every guided tour ends with a free beer sample for guests 21 and over and a stop at the gift shop packed with Yuengling gear and souvenirs.

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Bury the Hatchet

Multiple Locations

Blow off some steam and try your hand at axe throwing at one of NEPA’s unique indoor or outdoor venues. It’s part game, part workout, and all-around fun with friends. Many spots offer drinks, snacks and a laid-back vibe perfect for groups.

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La Festa Italiana

Scranton, PA

Celebrate food, family, and tradition at La Festa Italiana in downtown Scranton. This beloved Labor Day weekend festival fills the streets with Italian cuisine, live entertainment, and community spirit. It’s a delicious way to close out summer and a must-do for any NEPA festival fan.

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Capture that Fall Foliage

Multiple Locations

Take in the breathtaking beauty of fall with a scenic drive or hike through Northeastern PA’s top fall foliage destinations. From rolling mountains to colorful lakeside trails, the region offers unbeatable leaf-peeping views. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the crisp air and seasonal colors on your NEPA Bucket List.

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Hit the Trail(s)

A hiker walks along a narrow dirt path through a lush green forest along the Frost Hollow & Snowflake Trails at Lackawanna State Park. The trail is surrounded by tall trees with fallen logs and branches scattered along the sides.

Multiple Locations

Lace up your hiking boots and explore NEPA’s incredible network of trails. Discover scenic walking trails, peaceful paths, and stunning waterfall hikes throughout the region. Whether you’re chasing views or just getting some fresh air, there’s a trail in Northeastern PA for every kind of explorer.

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Get in Touch with the Past

Multiple Locations

Step back in time and explore Northeastern PA’s coal mining heritage with a visit to a real coal mine or historic company town. Go underground for hands-on tours that highlight the tough, inspiring stories that helped shape the region. It’s a powerful and educational experience that connects you to the roots of NEPA.

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Hit the Slopes

Multiple Locations

Embrace the winter season with a trip to one of Northeastern PA’s scenic ski resorts in the Pocono Mountains or Endless Mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, these resorts offer a wide range of trails, lessons, and equipment rentals to make your day on the slopes a success. Snowboarders will find terrain parks and fresh powder, while families can enjoy snow tubing hills for laid-back fun. With cozy lodges, beautiful mountain views, and winter adventure around every corner, it’s a perfect cold-weather escape worth checking off your bucket list.

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Take the Ultimate Ice Cream Tour

Multiple Locations

Cool off with a sweet treat from one of Northeastern PA’s legendary ice cream spots. From classic roadside stands to scoop shops offering vegan, dairy-free options and Dole Soft Serve, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Grab a cone, sundae or milkshake and taste your way through the NEPA Ice Cream List.

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Polar Plunge

Multiple Locations

Brave the chill with a polar plunge into the icy waters of Lake Wallenpaupack or Montage Mountain. These bold winter events draw crowds and raise funds for great local causes. It’s a freezing-cold thrill that’s pure Northeastern PA tradition.

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Soar Over NEPA

Multiple Locations

Take it slow and soak in the views with a relaxing hot air balloon ride over Northeastern PA’s scenic countryside. Float above rolling hills and lush valleys for a peaceful, sky-high adventure. Some rides even end with a celebratory champagne toast—bucket list bliss from start to finish.

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OF 40

Be a Little Irish

Multiple Locations

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Northeastern PA with lively parades, classic Irish pubs, and festive events across the region. From Wilkes-Barre to Scranton, each city brings its own energy to the holiday with marching bands, green crowds, and traditional fare. Use our Scranton Parade guide to plan a day full of music, food, and celebration.

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Hit the Open Road

Multiple Locations

Hit the open road in a Polaris Slingshot and explore Northeastern PA’s scenic routes with a little extra adrenaline. Part motorcycle, part sports car, these three-wheelers are perfect for winding roads and mountain views. Rent one from Pocono Slingshot Rentals in Blakeslee for a ride to remember.

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Fill Up on NEPA Favorites

A close-up of golden brown pierogies frying in a pan with onions.

Multiple Locations

Celebrate NEPA’s rich cultural traditions with delicious stops at the Edwardsville Pierogi Festival and Plymouth Kielbasa Festival. These beloved summer festivals are packed with food, music and community pride—and pair perfectly with the region’s many summer bazaars. Come hungry and leave happy after a day of local flavor and fun.

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Festival of Lights

Tunkhannock, PA

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Festival of Lights in Tunkhannock, a drive-through winter wonderland filled with glowing displays and festive cheer. This family-friendly event features thousands of lights, holiday music and seasonal treats at Stone Hedge Golf Course. It’s a shining addition to your Northeastern PA Bucket List, and one of many dazzling displays across NEPA that make the season bright.

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Sip Some NEPA Wine

A bottle of red wine is being poured into a Maiolatesi Wine Cellars glass on an outdoor patio table.

Multiple Locations

Sip your way through the DiscoverNEPA Wine Trail and enjoy local flavors from the region’s award-winning vineyards. This self-guided tour takes you through scenic countryside stops where you can sample wines, relax with friends, and shop local. It’s a flavorful, laid-back adventure that pairs perfectly with a weekend in Northeastern PA.

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Experience NEPA by Train

The Stourbridge Line train with a black, red and white engine winds through a forest in the fall, surrounded by trees with vibrant autumn leaves.

Multiple Locations

See Northeastern PA’s charming towns and mountains from the comfort of a vintage steam train. Seasonal rides include summer excursions, fall foliage train tours, and festive holiday trains where you can meet Santa or the Easter Bunny. It’s a timeless way to explore the region and a must on any local bucket list.

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Ricketts Glen State Park

Benton, PA

Explore waterfalls, hike scenic trails, and paddle on a peaceful lake at Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton. The Falls Trail showcases over 20 cascading waterfalls, making it one of the region’s most unforgettable hikes. With options for swimming, fishing and camping too, this park is a true NEPA Bucket List destination.

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Hit the Water

Two smiling young men in life jackets are being towed on a blue and black inflatable tube behind a boat on Lake Wallenpaupack. One man is holding a GoPro camera.

Multiple Locations

Cool off in style with exciting watersports adventures on lakes across Northeastern PA. From boating at Lake Wallenpaupack to water skiing on Harveys Lake, there are endless ways to enjoy summer on the water. It’s classic warm-weather fun that belongs on every NEPA Bucket List.

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Take in the Arts & Culture

Two women are viewing photographs at The Fine Arts Fiesta in Wilkes-Barre, PA. The photos on display feature landscapes, such as a beach, mountains and forests. The women are standing in front of the booth with their backs to the camera.

Multiple Locations

Experience the creative spirit of Northeastern PA with live music, theater, art festivals and museums happening year-round. From small galleries to big stages, the region’s arts and culture scene rivals that of any major city. It’s a vibrant part of NEPA life that every bucket list should include.

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Skirmish Paintball

Albrightsville, PA

Gear up for an action-packed day at Skirmish Paintball in Albrightsville, home to one of the world’s largest paintball facilities. With over 50 themed battlefields spread across vast wooded terrain, it’s the perfect place for friendly competition and team play. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned player, Skirmish offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the Pocono Mountains.

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Drink Local Beer

Multiple Locations

Tour the region’s vibrant craft beer scene with the DiscoverNEPA Brewers Loop. This self-guided trail connects local breweries across scenic towns and countryside, offering a taste of Northeastern PA’s best pours. From IPAs to stouts, every stop brings fresh flavor and a chance to support local.

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Go Fishing

Multiple Locations

Cast a line at one of Northeastern PA’s top fishing spots, from peaceful lakes to winding rivers. Whether you’re after trout, bass or panfish, local fishing outfitters and guides can help make the most of your time on the water. It’s a relaxing way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors year-round.

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Bloomsburg Fair

Bloomsburg, PA

Celebrate the season at the Bloomsburg Fair, one of Northeastern PA’s biggest September events and a highlight of the region’s county fair scene. Enjoy rides, concerts, farm animals, contests and more at this massive end-of-summer tradition. With food, fun and small-town charm, it’s the perfect way to welcome fall.

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Head to the Waterpark

A young boy and girl are laughing and splashing in the shallow water of a splash area at Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, with a large octopus statue spraying water on them.

Multiple Locations

Make a splash with year-round fun at Northeastern PA’s indoor water parks and outdoor waterpark resorts. Soak up the sun on towering water slides, relax in wave pools or try your skills on surfing simulators during the summer months. When the weather cools down, head inside for climate-controlled thrills, spa amenities, arcades and dining—all perfect for a family getaway.

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Become a Crack Shot

The barrels of four shotguns rest on a wooden ledge, lying in the grass of an open field.

Hausmann’s Hidden Hollow — Friendsville, PA

Sharpen your aim at Hausmann’s Hidden Hollow, a premier clay shooting range in Friendsville. Set on 110 acres in the Endless Mountains, it features 16–30 sporting clay stations, a five stand, skeet field, tower, and more. With fly casting lessons, event space, and public access by reservation, it’s a top-tier outdoor shooting experience in Northeastern PA.

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The Friedman Observatory

Lehman, PA

Gaze into the night sky at The Friedman Observatory, located on the campus of Penn State Wilkes-Barre in Lehman Twp. Open to the public on select nights, the observatory offers telescope access and guided stargazing led by local astronomers. It’s a stellar way to explore the cosmos right here in Northeastern PA.

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Electric City Aquarium

Scranton, PA

Get up close with creatures of the land and sea at the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den in Scranton. From sharks and stingrays to snakes and lizards, this indoor kid-friendly attraction offers hands-on exhibits and live animal encounters. It’s a fun and educational stop for families exploring Northeastern PA.

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Swing Away

Multiple Locations

Tee off across Northeastern PA at scenic public golf courses, signature holes, and modern indoor golf simulators. Whether you’re chasing birdies outdoors or practicing your swing inside, there’s a course or range for every skill level. With mountain views, challenging layouts, and year-round options, golf in NEPA is always in season.

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Explore a State Park

Multiple Locations

Explore the wild beauty of Northeastern PA with a trip to one of the region’s state parks. Hike scenic trails, camp under the stars, paddle on quiet lakes or enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. With year-round adventures across the Pocono Mountains and beyond, NEPA’s state parks offer something for every kind of explorer.

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Ready to Check Off Your Northeastern PA Bucket List?

From iconic attractions and outdoor adventures to local eats and one-of-a-kind experiences, this Northeastern PA Bucket List highlights just some of the incredible things to see and do across the region. Whether you’re planning your next weekend outing or dreaming up a season full of memories, these ideas are just the beginning.

Looking for even more inspiration? Explore our hiking trails, local restaurants, family-friendly events calendar, hidden gems and so much more. Your next NEPA adventure is only a click away—start exploring today!

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Northeastern PA Bucket List Highlights

From outdoor thrills to unforgettable attractions, these videos showcase the best of what NEPA has to offer. Get inspired and start planning your DiscoverNEPA Bucket List adventures today!

Northeastern PA Bucket List Highlights

From outdoor thrills to unforgettable attractions, these videos showcase the best of what NEPA has to offer. Get inspired and start planning your DiscoverNEPA Bucket List adventures today!