Living in the Greater Wilkes-Barre Region of Luzerne County, PA
Living in the Greater Wilkes-Barre region means access to family-friendly neighborhoods, strong local schools, community parks, and everyday conveniences that keep life moving smoothly. Downtown blocks, riverfront streets, and nearby suburbs offer options for many lifestyles, from walkable city living to quiet residential areas.
The Greater Wilkes-Barre area sits along I-81 near Pittston, Nanticoke, Mountain Top, and the Back Mountain, with quick access to Route 309, Route 315, Route 11, and the Cross Valley Expressway. Nearby connections to the PA Turnpike and I-80 make it easy to reach destinations across Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains, and surrounding states.
Stretching across riverfront neighborhoods, hillside communities, and growing commercial corridors, Greater Wilkes-Barre includes the City of Wilkes-Barre; the townships of Bear Creek, Buck, Hanover, Plains, and Wilkes-Barre; and the boroughs of Forty Fort, Swoyersville, Kingston, Bear Creek Village, Luzerne, Edwardsville, Ashley, Pringle, Laurel Run, Larksville, Courtdale, Sugar Notch, and Warrior Run. Residents enjoy Kirby Park, Nesbitt Park, the River Common, the Luzerne County Levee Trail, Seven Tubs Recreation Area, and Natural Lands’ Bear Creek Preserve. Dining spans local cafés, pizzerias, pubs, bakeries, and destination restaurants in Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Plains Township, and surrounding communities.
The region also serves as a convenient base for exploring downtown Wilkes-Barre, nearby Wyoming Valley towns, and outdoor recreation across Luzerne County. With a mix of cultural attractions, major employers, medical centers, colleges, and shopping districts, Greater Wilkes-Barre remains a popular choice for students, professionals, families, and long-time residents.
Community Life & Local Connections
Community life in Greater Wilkes-Barre centers on parks, riverfront spaces, schools, neighborhood organizations, and seasonal events. Local municipalities and community groups host youth sports, recreation programs, library activities, and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Riverfront concerts, the Fine Arts Fiesta on Public Square, and community events at Kirby Park showcase the region’s artistic talent and active lifestyle. Farmers markets, family activities, holiday celebrations, and races along the Luzerne County Levee Trail help strengthen local connections across the Wyoming Valley.
Whether planning a weekend outing, searching for things to do near Wilkes-Barre, or exploring one of Luzerne County’s most dynamic regions, Greater Wilkes-Barre offers memorable experiences in every season with easy access to outdoor adventure and regional attractions across NEPA.
A Glimpse of Life in the Greater Wilkes-Barre Region
Spring brings riverfront walks, bike rides along the Luzerne County Levee Trail, and early-season hikes at Kirby Park, Seven Tubs Recreation Area, and Bear Creek Preserve. Summer invites kayaking on the Susquehanna River, evenings at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, outdoor concerts, and park picnics across the valley.
Fall showcases colorful foliage along hillside neighborhoods, campus homecomings, and scenic drives through the Wyoming Valley. Winter offers snow-dusted walks at nearby state forest lands, festive downtown events, Penguins hockey games at Mohegan Arena, and warm meals at local cafés, pubs, and restaurants.
A weekend in Wilkes-Barre might include a riverfront stroll, local shopping, dinner downtown, a show at the F.M. Kirby Center, or a Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins game. Visitors searching for things to do in Wilkes-Barre will find year-round options, from live entertainment to trails near Wilkes-Barre and outdoor recreation throughout Luzerne County.
The region’s food scene features independent coffee shops, pizzerias, bakeries, breweries, family restaurants, and destination dining across Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Plains Township, and neighboring communities. With riverfront trails, local flavors, seasonal activities, and community events, the Greater Wilkes-Barre region offers year-round appeal supported by healthcare providers, colleges, fitness centers, and essential services.
Known For:
F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
Mohegan Pennsylvania and Mohegan Arena
Susquehanna Riverfront & River Common
Kirby Park and Nesbitt Park
Luzerne County Levee Trail
Seven Tubs Recreation Area
Bear Creek Preserve
Colleges and universities in downtown Wilkes-Barre
Lively dining scene
By The Numbers:
Estimated Population: 112,886
Geographical Area: 152 square miles
Communities: This area includes the city of Wilkes-Barre; the townships of Bear Creek, Buck, Hanover, Plains and Wilkes-Barre; and the boroughs of Forty Fort, Swoyersville, Kingston, Bear Creek Village, Luzerne, Edwardsville, Ashley, Pringle, Laurel Run, Larksville, Courtdale, Sugar Notch and Warrior Run
School District: Greater Wilkes-Barre is served by Hanover Area School District, Wilkes-Barre Area School District, and Wyoming Valley West School District, all known for active extracurricular programs, strong community involvement, and a wide range of student services. Additional options include Bear Creek Community Charter School and several private and parochial schools. Families also benefit from close proximity to King’s College, Wilkes University, and Luzerne County Community College.
Housing & Neighborhoods: The region features historic city blocks, riverfront neighborhoods, tree-lined suburban streets, hillside homes, and nearby rural properties, offering a wide range of housing options in one of NEPA’s most connected river valley communities.
Commute & Accessibility: Major routes including I-81, Route 309, Route 11, Route 315, and the Cross Valley Expressway provide efficient travel to Scranton, Hazleton, the Back Mountain, and recreation areas across the Pocono Mountains and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Nearby access to the PA Turnpike supports convenient regional and interstate travel.
Wilkes-Barre, the seat of Luzerne County, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a central role in NEPA’s cultural, economic, and political landscape. The city offers a mix of historic sites, entertainment venues, and annual events like the Cherry Blossom Festival and Fine Arts Fiesta. With scenic views along the Susquehanna River, a thriving local business scene, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Wilkes-Barre is a welcoming community.
view all things to do in Wilkes-Barre City
Hanover Township, located just south of Wilkes-Barre, is a thriving community with a rich industrial history and a strong sense of local pride. The township is home to major employers, a dedicated municipal government, and reliable emergency services, making it a safe and welcoming place for families. With convenient access to nearby cities and natural scenery, Hanover Township continues to be a hub for both work and recreation.
View all things to do in Hanover Twp.
Located just west of Wilkes-Barre, Kingston offers a blend of suburban living and easy access to urban amenities. The borough is known for scenic views along the Susquehanna River, with popular spots like Kevin’s, AmberDonia Bakery and the Hoyt Library. Memorial and Nesbitt Parks provide green space for outdoor activities, while the Kingston Community Pool offers a refreshing summer retreat. Its proximity to major highways makes it an ideal spot for those seeking both suburban tranquility and urban convenience.
View all things to do in Kingston
Plains Township is a lively suburb nestled between Wilkes-Barre and Pittston, offering a mix of historic farmland and thriving business districts. Residents enjoy a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with convenient access to major entertainment hubs like Mohegan Pennsylvania and The Woodlands. The township is also home to top healthcare facilities and strong community services, making it an ideal place to live in NEPA.
View all things to do in Plains Twp.Welcome to Luzerne County
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A Peek Into the Greater Wilkes-Barre Region’s Past
Greater Wilkes-Barre grew through the discovery of anthracite coal in the 19th century, which transformed a modest river community into a busy industrial center. Railroads, canals, and coal breakers supported a booming economy and drew immigrants from across Europe and beyond.
Neighborhoods, churches, schools, and civic institutions developed around this industry, shaping the cultural and architectural character visible today. As coal declined, Greater Wilkes-Barre shifted toward healthcare, education, services, and new industries while preserving its historic downtown and many traditional neighborhoods.
Historical societies, museums, and parks share this heritage through tours, exhibits, and educational programs highlighting the region’s coal mining, transportation, and civic history.
DID YOU KNOW?
Babe Ruth hit one of the longest home runs in history in Wilkes-Barre’s Artillery Park, near the site of the current Kirby Park, on October 12, 1926. The Yankee slugger was in town to play an exhibition game between Hughestown and Larkesville and crushed a fastball pitch an estimated 650 feet. To this day, it’s still believed to be the record-holder for the longest home ever.
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