Each month, Get Your Tail on the Trail’s Northeast Pennsylvania chapter will share a Trail of the Month to explore. This month, we’re featuring the Wilkes-Barre Walkitecture tour. Log your miles on tailonthetrail.org at the location “Wilkes-Barre Walkitecture” through May 31 to be entered in a giveaway. One lucky winner will receive a $50 gift card to a local outdoor gear store. Don’t forget, you can also earn the Luzerne County Badge by logging five trails in Luzerne County!
Our 165-Mile Challenge has begun! Register online and log 165 miles—the length of the D&L Trail upon completion—through November 7, 2022 to earn a fitness incentive! Past incentives have included insulated mugs, t-shirts and more. Share your trail selfies on social media with #GetYourTailOnTheTrail.
Take a Stroll Through History on This Self-Guided Tour
Founded in 1769, the city of Wilkes-Barre is full of rich history, beautiful architecture, diverse cultures and savory foods. Thanks to the Wilkes-Barre City Health Department and the Wilkes-Barré Preservation Society, you can experience a glimpse of the historic city. Wilkes-Barre Walkitecture is a self-guided, 2.2-mile loop with 24 different stops showcasing some of the beautiful architecture found in the city.
Follow along with the Wilkes-Barre Walkitecture phone app to learn about the courthouse, churches, mansions and other architectural wonders that you pass. The app includes a short description and historic photos of each location.
Don’t have a smart phone or want to “disconnect” during your tour? You can print out a booklet to follow along! The booklet also contains cool AR features when paired with the app.
The route forms a rectangle between Ross Street, Franklin Street, North Street and River Street. This area is the heart of Wilkes-Barre’s historic district with magnificent, stately buildings around every corner. While on your tour, you will uncover the history of the Luzerne County Courthouse, learn about the construction the Zebulon Butler House (the oldest home in the city) and even see a mansion where President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once stayed!
Things to Do in Downtown Wilkes-Barre
While in the city, there is no scarcity of places to eat and activities to enjoy. The city is known for its diverse ethnic food options including Thai, Greek, Caribbean and, of course, lots of pizza! Check out DiscoverNEPA for dozens of restaurants in downtown Wilkes-Barre that can satisfy your craving.
While downtown, you can read in a quiet coffee shop, visit local boutique stores or grab tickets for a live show at the box office of the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.
The City of Wilkes-Barre always has different events happening throughout town. Make sure to follow their Facebook page to stay in the know about special announcements. From parades and festivals to markets and celebrations, there is no shortage of things to do!
In addition to city organized events, the Diamond City Partnership has lots of initiatives and events to support local businesses. One of the most fun events of the season, the Rockin’ the River Concert Series, is back for July 15, 22, and 29 of this year. Make sure to visit for a free concert along the river!
Address: 304 South Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Accessibility: Level sidewalks throughout the city
Pets: Pets are welcome to take the Walkitecture tour with you.
Trail Connections: The D&L Trail Northern Terminus is located on the banks of the Susquehanna River.
