Exploring Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania: Landmarks, Historical Sites, and Points of Interest
Wilkes-Barre is a city where industrial history and natural beauty intersect, offering visitors a unique blend of Gilded Age architecture, riverfront recreation, and cultural institutions. As one of the capitals of the former anthracite coal region, the city is home to preserved mansions, grand civic buildings, and a revitalized downtown centered around its colonial-era layout. Whether you are a history buff interested in the industrial revolution or an outdoor enthusiast looking for scenic parks, Wilkes-Barre provides a diverse array of points of interest that tell the story of the Wyoming Valley's resilience and evolution.
Things to Do and Points of Interest in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Public Square
Located at the very heart of the city's street grid, Public Square is the primary gathering place and historic center of Wilkes-Barre. Originally laid out in 1770, the square has evolved from a colonial grazing pasture to a bustling civic plaza. Today, it serves as the hub for the city’s transit system and hosts major community events, such as the weekly Farmers Market and the annual Fine Arts Fiesta. The square is surrounded by a mix of modern business centers and historic commercial buildings, making it the perfect starting point for a walking tour of the downtown district.
The River Common
The River Common is a revitalized parkland that stretches along the eastern bank of the Susquehanna River, serving as the city’s "front yard." This scenic landscape features paved walkways, the Millennium Circle amphitheater, and majestic views of the river and the Market Street Bridge. It is particularly popular during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, rivaling those seen in larger cities. The Common connects the urban core to the natural beauty of the Susquehanna, hosting concerts, festivals, and recreational walkers year-round.
Luzerne County Courthouse
Often cited as the crown jewel of Wilkes-Barre architecture, the Luzerne County Courthouse is a stunning example of the Beaux-Arts style. Completed in 1909, this cross-shaped structure is topped by a massive dome and features a rotunda lined with marble and gold leaf. The interior is famous for its intricate murals depicting the legal and industrial history of the county. It stands prominently on the River Common and remains a functioning government building as well as a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts.
F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
The F.M. Kirby Center is a cultural landmark housed in a lavish Art Deco movie palace originally opened in 1938 as the Comerford Theater. Located on Public Square, the theater was saved from demolition and restored to its original grandeur, complete with its opulent lobby and chandeliers. Today, it serves as the premier performing arts venue in Northeastern Pennsylvania, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, comedy acts, and classic film screenings, keeping the arts alive in the downtown corridor.
Market Street Bridge
Spanning the Susquehanna River to connect Wilkes-Barre with Kingston, the Market Street Bridge is an iconic monumental structure built in the 1920s. The bridge is defined by its four massive limestone pylons, each topped with a sculpted eagle, which have become symbols of the city. The bridge offers one of the best vantage points for viewing the city skyline and the river valley, particularly at sunset, and serves as a grand ceremonial gateway into the city.
Frederick Stegmaier Mansion
For a glimpse into the immense wealth generated during the coal era, the Frederick Stegmaier Mansion is a key historic site. Located in the River Street Historic District, this High Victorian-style home was built in the 1870s and later owned by the famous local brewer Frederick Stegmaier. The mansion has been impeccably restored and now operates as a bed and breakfast and event venue. Its intricate woodwork, stained glass, and period furnishings offer visitors a tangible connection to the "Diamond City's" Gilded Age past.
Luzerne County Historical Society Museum
Situated just behind the main library on Franklin Street, this museum is the oldest county historical society in Pennsylvania. The building itself is a historic artifact, and inside, visitors can find changing exhibits that cover everything from the Native American history of the Wyoming Valley to the rise and fall of the anthracite coal empire. It serves as the primary repository for the region's stories, offering artifacts, documents, and educational programs that contextualize the local area.
Kirby Park
Across the river from downtown lies Kirby Park, one of the region's most cherished green spaces. The park was originally designed by the famous Olmsted Brothers firm (sons of the Central Park designer) in the 1920s. While the massive floods of 1936 and 1972 altered much of its original landscaping, it remains a vital recreational hub with sports fields, running paths, and a natural area that offers birdwatching opportunities. It stands as a testament to the philanthropy of the Kirby family, who donated the land to the city.
Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre
Recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in the United States, the Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre is a historic cultural institution. Establishing its own permanent home in a stunning converted historic building on North Main Street, the theater has been producing high-quality dramas, musicals, and comedies for nearly a century. It represents the deep-rooted community spirit and artistic dedication of the local residents.
Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza
While located just outside the city limits in Wilkes-Barre Township, the Mohegan Sun Arena is a central pillar of the area's modern identity. This 8,000-seat venue is the home of the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the AHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Beyond hockey, the arena draws visitors from across the state for major concerts, circuses, and conventions, driving the local tourism economy and serving as a modern landmark for entertainment.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area
Although situated in the surrounding woodlands of Plains Township, the Seven Tubs Recreation Area is inextricably linked to Wilkes-Barre tourism. This unique geological formation was created by glacial meltwater, which carved a series of "tubs" and flowing cascades into the sandstone bedrock. It offers a network of hiking trails that allow visitors to see the waterfalls and deep pools up close, providing a rugged natural counterpoint to the urban landmarks of the city center.
From the soaring dome of the Courthouse to the quiet trails of the River Common, Wilkes-Barre's landmarks offer a comprehensive look at an American city that has constantly reinvented itself. These sites not only preserve the legacy of the region's coal-mining dominance but also highlight its present-day status as a center for arts, government, and recreation in Northeastern Pennsylvania.