Scranton, PA

Scranton is a city with a storied past, a lively energy and a community that knows how to celebrate. Known as the “Electric City” for being one of the first in the nation to adopt electric streetcars, Scranton blends deep industrial roots with modern energy. Fans of The Office will recognize the city as the beloved backdrop of the hit sitcom, but there’s so much more to explore beyond Dunder Mifflin.

Scranton hosts some of the biggest events in Northeastern Pennsylvania, including the legendary St. Patrick’s Day Parade—one of the largest in the country—and La Festa Italiana, a Labor Day weekend tradition filled with incredible food and live entertainment. The Steamtown Marathon draws runners from near and far, while the Electric City Aquarium brings fascinating marine life to the heart of downtown.

History lovers can step back in time at Steamtown National Historic Site or descend into the Lackawanna Coal Mine for a firsthand look at the region’s industrial past. For outdoor enthusiasts, Nay Aug Park offers scenic trails, waterfalls and a treehouse with stunning views. When it comes to dining, Scranton is home to a mix of local restaurants, serving everything from favorite NEPA comfort foods to elevated culinary experiences.

A City That Honors Its History

Scranton’s history is deeply rooted in the coal and railroad industries that once made it a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution. Known as the “Electric City” for its early adoption of electric streetcars, the city grew rapidly as waves of immigrants arrived to work in the mines and steel mills.

Today, much of that heritage is still visible—from the preserved steam locomotives at Steamtown National Historic Site to the Lackawanna Coal Mine, where visitors can descend into a real anthracite mine for a glimpse of the region’s past. The grand architecture of the Scranton Cultural Center and the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel, the former Lackawanna Train Station, also serve as reminders of the city’s prosperous past.

Whether you’re walking through Courthouse Square, admiring the ornate architecture of St. Peter’s Cathedral, or exploring Nay Aug Park, Scranton seamlessly blends its rich history with modern life, making it a city that honors where it came from while continuing to grow.

Stroll, Shop and Support

Shop small and support the community in Scranton, where walkable streets are lined with locally owned businesses. From clothing boutiques and jewelry stores to antiques and even shops where you can make your own soap and perfume, there’re tons of great options. By shopping here, you’re not just picking up unique items—you’re supporting your neighbors and this community.

Here in Scranton, food is taken to the next level

Scranton offers a flavorful mix of dining options, where you can enjoy everything from upscale dining experiences to casual eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for creative takes on classic dishes or a laid-back meal with friends, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. The city’s culinary offerings range from refined restaurants highlighting locally sourced ingredients to welcoming spots that serve comfort food with a twist.

Whether you’re indulging in a special night out or simply grabbing a bite to eat, Scranton’s dining options cater to every mood and occasion. From sweet treats to local craft brews, there’s always something new to try in the Electric City.

Adventure, entertainment and culture

Scranton is a city that truly has it all, offering endless things to see and do in this expansive community in Lackawanna County. Visit The Marketplace at Steamtown to explore exotic fish, reptiles and mammals at the Electric City Aquarium and Reptile Den. The Great White Way sets up shop on North Washington Avenue throughout the year as the Broadway Theater League of NEPA brings popular Broadway musicals to the Scranton Cultural Center. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the bright marquee of the Scranton Art Haus, a locally-owned movie theater offering in-theater dining and drinks. There’s fun for the whole family across the city, from jumping, climbing and playing at Bee’s Backyard and Defy Scranton, to bowling at Idle Hours North and South, to enjoying concerts at The Ritz Theater.

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Higher Education Thrives in Scranton

With five schools calling it home, Scranton has a steady buzz of students, professors and campus life woven into the community. Attracting students from all over the country, The University of Scranton, Marywood University, Lackawanna College, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and Johnson College offer a diverse range of programs, from hands-on technical training to advanced degrees in medicine, business, and the arts. Students can also easily commute to NEPA’s colleges and universities in the Wilkes-Barre area.