While regarded historically as an important lynchpin in the state’s early industrial era, Greater Hazleton continues to thrive today as one of the region’s largest, most diverse and fastest-growing economic hubs. The tight-knit communities making up Greater Hazleton feature a healthy mix of conveniently-located urban, suburban and rural neighborhoods.
The City of Hazleton serves as the central hub for Greater Hazleton. An easy downtown stroll reveals a bustling arts scene paired with an inclination toward historical preservation. And if you venture into any of the nearby communities, there’s certainly no shortage of options for outdoor recreation. Enjoy a brewery visit in Conyngham. Take a peaceful stroll along Lake Irene at Hazle Twp. Community Park. Or head to the rolling hills and valleys of Sugarloaf for a round of golf.
Of course, when you get hungry, Greater Hazleton offers a seemingly never-ending list of local restaurants from fine dining to a quick slice to ethnic specialties and regional staples. And you certainly can’t call it a day in NEPA if you don’t end it with a little ice cream.
Known For:
Vibrant, culturally-diverse cities
18 playgrounds & community parks
Small, walkable downtowns
Greater Hazleton Rails to Trails
A flourishing local restaurant scene
Nescopeck State Park
Amazing cultural events & festivals
By the Numbers:
Geographical Area: 179.97 Sq. Miles
Estimated Population: 63,843
Colleges & Universities: 3
School Districts: 1
Regional Makeup: This area includes the city of Hazleton, the townships of Black Creek, Butler, Foster, Hazle, Sugarloaf, the boroughs of Conyngham, Drums, Freeland, Nuremburg, Sybertsville and West Hazleton
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Greater Hazleton sits at the foothills of the Pocono Mountains. The region offers rolling hills, quiet valleys, bustling downtowns, friendly neighborhoods, plenty of green space and fresh mountain air.
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Serving as a geographical buffer surrounding the vibrant city of Hazleton, this quieter, suburban township offers cozy neighborhoods, plenty of nature and convenient access to major roadways.
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A Peak into Greater Hazleton’s Past
The City of Hazleton had originally been settled in the late 18th century as a lumbering outpost along the “Warrior’s Trail,” a Native American trade route. At the time, what is now known as Hazleton, was merely an intersection of two roads in an otherwise unforgiving terrain. The very first building was put up in 1809. Less than 10 years later, massive deposits of anthracite coal were discovered. By the 1830s, Hazleton and its blossoming coal industry brought in the railroad and with it waves of European immigration. To accommodate the growing labor force, many “patch towns” or company towns were developed around the city and eventually became what we now recognize as the Greater Hazleton Area.
Did you Know?
Greater Hazleton is widely known as the birthplace of Pitza (pronounced locally as simply Pitz), a unique version of square, bar-style pizza that’s meant to be eaten cold. The curious delicacy can be found at local bakeries and some popular bars. Establishments offering “pitz” are quite often the first stop for visiting foodies and returning Greater Hazleton natives.
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