Best attractions and places to see in Luzerne County include a diverse array of natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania, the county features significant natural areas like state parks and recreation areas, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Its history, particularly related to the anthracite coal industry, is preserved in various sites. The region provides a variety of experiences for visitors exploring its natural beauty and historical depth.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Numerous waterfalls staircase down Kitchen Creek on shale slabs, forming small pools beside the trail. In the autumn you are more likely to have the falls to yourself and the changing leaves make Ricketts Glen especially beautiful.
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Moon Lake State Forest Natural Area is a beautiful outdoor playground for nature lovers. The multi-use trails are a hotspot for mountain biking, with plenty of trails for hiking. There is a beautiful lake teeming with trout in the park's center, several campgrounds, and open fields with lots of wildflowers. It's a fantastic location, offering something for everyone.
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This charming town is the northernmost starting point for Lehigh Gorge State Park. It is a popular destination due to its access to hiking and biking trails converted from former railway lines along the beautiful Lehigh River. There are several great local restaurants close to the trails, making it the perfect place to start and finish a hike through the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge.
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This picturesque 25-acre lake includes a lovely trail for a scenic hike around its perimeter. Nestled on 246 private acres, parking is allowed on Coxton Road, with two trail gates for reservoir access. The state land gate allows public access entry to enjoy this incredibly scenic area.
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This magnificent bridge, built in the early 1900s, spans 1,400 feet across the Susquehanna River, connecting the communities of Wilkes-Barre and Kingston via East Market Street. It provides access to Kirby Park, the west side neighborhoods, and the Luzerne County Levee Trail, making it one of the county's most popular locations for walking, jogging, and sightseeing. On each side of the bridge are massive pylons topped with eagle statues weighing 5,500 pounds—heavier than a fully grown rhinoceros. These four statues pay tribute to the fallen veterans of World War I. It offers a spectacular backdrop, worthy of stopping to capture some memorable photos.
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Buttermilk Falls is stunning, cascading 35 feet down the mountain, and is a fantastic reward after a long hike. There is also a small dirt road pull-off area along White Haven Road if you want to take a shorter hike to visit these beautiful falls. It is best to visit in the spring after a rain, although it's gorgeous any time of year and a great spot to capture some spectacular photos.
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Nestled within the lush forest, this magnificent waterfall tumbles gracefully from a height of 20 feet, forming a tranquil pool at its base. The surrounding area is adorned with vibrant rhododendrons and majestic pine trees, creating a picturesque setting, perfect for a place to stop for lunch and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this natural area.
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Luzerne County is rich in natural beauty. You can hike the renowned Falls Trail, Ricketts Glen State Park, famous for its 21 named waterfalls. Another unique spot is the Seven Tubs Recreation Area, featuring distinctive sandstone 'tubs' formed by glacial meltwater. For a serene experience, visit Campbells Ledge Reservoir, which offers excellent views, especially near sunset.
Yes, the county has a rich history. Explore White Haven, a town with historical significance related to coal and lumber transport, now a popular access point for the Lehigh Gorge. You can also step back in time at Eckley Miners' Village, a preserved 19th-century coal mining town, or visit the Luzerne County Historical Society Museum to learn about the Wyoming Valley's past.
Luzerne County offers extensive outdoor opportunities. The Lehigh Gorge Trail is a 26-mile gravel trail perfect for cycling or hiking, offering views of waterfalls and potential wildlife. For mountain biking, Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area provides well-maintained singletrack trails. You can find more detailed routes for various sports on our dedicated guides, such as Road Cycling Routes in Luzerne County or Waterfall Hikes in Luzerne County.
Absolutely! Many natural areas like Nescopeck State Park and Frances Slocum State Park offer trails and lakes suitable for families. The Lands at Hillside Farms provides a family-friendly experience with a working farm and animals. For active fun, Nova Trampoline Park is a popular choice, and the Choke Creek Falls are also considered family-friendly.
For easier hikes, consider the short loop trail around the 'tubs' at Seven Tubs Recreation Area. The perimeter trail around Campbells Ledge Reservoir is also a scenic and accessible option. Nescopeck State Park features diverse habitats with trails suitable for various skill levels, including easier paths.
A truly unique spot is Concrete City near Nanticoke, an abandoned experimental concrete housing development from the early 1900s. For a different kind of experience, the Reading and Northern Railroad offers scenic train rides through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Yes, beyond the famous Ricketts Glen, you can visit Choke Creek Falls, which is another notable waterfall. Additionally, Buttermilk Falls is a beautiful natural monument worth exploring. Many of these are featured in our Waterfall Hikes in Luzerne County guide.
Many of Luzerne County's state parks and natural areas are dog-friendly, though leash laws and specific regulations may apply. White Haven, as a gateway to the Lehigh Gorge, is a popular spot for dog owners to access trails. Always check park-specific rules before visiting.
The autumn months are particularly beautiful in Luzerne County, especially for places like Falls Trail, Ricketts Glen State Park, where the changing leaves enhance the scenery. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions for hiking, biking, and water activities, while winter provides opportunities for skiing and snow tubing at Montage Mountain Resorts.
For cultural entertainment, the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts in Wilkes-Barre is a beautifully restored Art Deco theater hosting various shows. Sports enthusiasts can catch a Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins hockey game at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza or a RailRiders baseball game at PNC Field.
Yes, the region's industrial heritage is well-preserved. Eckley Miners' Village offers an immersive experience into 19th-century coal mining life. While primarily in Lackawanna County, the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour are frequently visited regional attractions that delve into the area's significant industrial past.
Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve, spanning nearly 4,000 acres, is home to a wide array of wildlife, including black bears, grey foxes, and various bird species. Nescopeck State Park also provides diverse habitats ideal for observing local fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the Lehigh Gorge Trail as well.


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