things to do in northeast pa

Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things to do in the area:

Outdoor Activities:

1. Hiking and Biking: Explore the many trails in the Pocono Mountains, including the Appalachian Trail and the McDade Recreational Trail.
2. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Lehigh River with companies like Jim Thorpe River Adventures.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at resorts like Jack Frost Big Boulder, Montage Mountain, and Camelback Mountain Resort.
4. Fishing: Try your luck in the many lakes, rivers, and streams of NEPA, including the Susquehanna River.

Attractions:

1. Bushkill Falls: Known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," these eight waterfalls are a must-see.
2. Claws ‘n’ Paws Wildlife Park: Get up close and personal with animals like tigers, bears, and monkeys.
3. Houdini Museum: Learn about the life and legacy of Harry Houdini at this museum in Scranton.
4. Steamtown National Historic Site: Explore historic locomotives and take a train ride through the Poconos.
5. The H2Oooohh Indoor Waterpark: Enjoy water slides, a wave pool, and more at this indoor waterpark in Lake Harmony.

Food and Drink:

1. Try a traditional NEPA dish: Sample local specialties like pierogies, kielbasa, and Old Forge-style pizza.
2. Visit a brewery: NEPA is home to many craft breweries, including the Susquehanna Brewing Company and the Lion Brewery.
3. Wine tasting: Explore the region’s wineries, such as the Maiolatesi Wine Cellars and the Cherry Valley Winery.

Events and Festivals:

1. The Great Allentown Fair: One of the largest fairs in the country, featuring live music, rides, and food.
2. The Scranton Fringe Festival: A celebration of arts and culture with performances, exhibits, and workshops.
3. The Pocono 400: A NASCAR racing event held at the Pocono Raceway.
4. The Musikfest: A 10-day music festival in Bethlehem featuring over 500 performances.

Other Activities:

1. Visit the Everhart Museum: A museum of natural history, science, and art in Scranton.
2. Take a scenic drive: Explore the beautiful countryside and scenic byways of NEPA.
3. Go shopping: Visit the many malls and shopping centers in the area, including the Mall at Steamtown and the Wyoming Valley Mall.
4. Attend a sports game: Catch a game by the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (baseball) or the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (hockey).

These are just a few of the many things to do in Northeast Pennsylvania. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply exploring a new region, NEPA has something for everyone.