Scranton, Pennsylvania, may be best known as the setting for the popular TV show “The Office,” but this charming city has much more to offer than just a fictional paper company. If you’re looking for unique and offbeat experiences, Scranton has a variety of unusual things to do that will make your visit memorable. From exploring underground coal mines to attending quirky festivals, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Scranton. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a fan of the arts, this city has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to uncover the unusual things to do in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Visit the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour
Essential Information
– Address: Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Tours every hour)
– Fee: $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, $9 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, families with older children
Why is it so unusual
The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour in Scranton, Pennsylvania offers a unique experience that delves into the depths of the region’s coal mining history. What sets this attraction apart is the opportunity for visitors to descend 300 feet beneath the earth’s surface into an authentic coal mine.
Upon entering the mine, visitors are greeted with a cool, dimly lit environment that instantly transports them back in time to the heyday of coal mining. The tour guides, who are former miners themselves, provide insightful commentary on the harsh conditions and daily life of the miners who toiled underground.
One of the most unusual activities at the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour is the chance to ride a mine car deep into the tunnels, giving visitors a firsthand experience of the cramped quarters and arduous work that miners endured. The tour also includes a demonstration of the powerful machinery used to extract coal from the earth, showcasing the ingenuity and grit of the miners.
As visitors explore the labyrinthine tunnels, they can witness the remnants of the mining equipment and learn about the technological advancements that revolutionized the industry. The eerie silence and darkness of the mine create a haunting atmosphere that highlights the dangers and challenges faced by the miners on a daily basis.
For those seeking a glimpse into a bygone era and a deeper understanding of the coal mining heritage of Pennsylvania, the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour offers a truly unusual and immersive experience that is both educational and enlightening.
Explore the Electric City Trolley Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 300 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503
– Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
– Fee: Adults $10, Seniors $9, Children (Ages 4-17) $8
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, families with kids
Why is it so unusual
The Electric City Trolley Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers a unique experience for visitors looking to delve into the history of electric transportation. What sets this museum apart is its interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that allow guests to truly immerse themselves in the world of trolleys.
One of the most unusual attractions at the Electric City Trolley Museum is the opportunity to take a ride on a vintage trolley car. Visitors can step aboard a meticulously restored trolley and travel along a historic track, experiencing the sights and sounds of a bygone era.
For those looking for a more hands-on experience, the museum also offers trolley driving simulators. Guests can try their hand at operating a virtual trolley, learning about the skills and techniques required to navigate these unique vehicles.
In addition to the interactive exhibits, the museum houses a collection of historic trolleys dating back to the early 20th century. Visitors can explore these beautifully preserved vehicles up close, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and engineering of the time.
Overall, the Electric City Trolley Museum stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its combination of interactive experiences, historic exhibits, and unique trolley rides. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, this museum offers something truly special for visitors of all ages.
Tour the Houdini Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 1433 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday-Saturday)
– Fee: $20 per adult, $15 per child
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, magic enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Houdini Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a glimpse into the world of magic and mystery. Unlike traditional museums, this attraction focuses solely on the life and illusions of the legendary escape artist, Harry Houdini. Guests can witness mind-boggling magic shows, participate in interactive exhibits, and even try their hand at some of Houdini’s famous tricks.
One of the most unusual activities at the Houdini Museum is the opportunity to learn how to escape from handcuffs and straitjackets, just like the master himself. Visitors can also explore a collection of authentic Houdini artifacts, including handcuffs used in his daring escapes and original posters from his performances around the world.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of magic, the museum offers workshops on sleight of hand and illusion techniques. Guests can test their skills in a magic workshop led by experienced magicians, gaining insight into the secrets behind some of Houdini’s most mystifying acts.
Overall, the Houdini Museum stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its immersive and hands-on approach to showcasing the life and magic of Harry Houdini. Whether you’re a history buff, a magic enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of illusions, a visit to this museum is sure to leave you spellbound.
Check out the Steamtown National Historic Site
Essential Information
– Address: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
– Fee: $10 per adult, children under 16 free
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, train enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a glimpse into the bygone era of steam locomotives. What sets this attraction apart is its hands-on approach to exploring the history of railroads in America. Unlike traditional museums, Steamtown allows visitors to not only view vintage trains but also participate in various activities that bring the past to life.
One of the most unusual aspects of Steamtown is the opportunity to take a ride on a historic steam train. Visitors can board a restored locomotive and embark on a scenic journey through the picturesque countryside, feeling the rhythmic chug of the engine beneath them. This immersive experience allows guests to step back in time and imagine what travel was like in the golden age of steam.
For those looking for a more interactive experience, Steamtown offers workshops where visitors can learn about the mechanics of steam engines and even try their hand at operating a miniature train. This hands-on approach appeals to both young and old alike, providing a deeper understanding of the technology that shaped the modern world.
In addition to train rides and workshops, Steamtown hosts special events throughout the year, such as steam engine demonstrations and historical reenactments. These unique activities offer a glimpse into the past and showcase the importance of preserving our railroad heritage for future generations.
Overall, the Steamtown National Historic Site stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its interactive and engaging approach to showcasing the history of steam locomotives. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the world of trains, a visit to Steamtown is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for this iconic mode of transportation.
Experience the Scranton Ghost Walk
Essential Information
– Address: Scranton, Pennsylvania
– Opening Hours: Evenings, check website for specific times
– Fee: $20 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers, history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Scranton, Pennsylvania, known for its industrial history, offers visitors a unique experience with the Scranton Ghost Walk. This unusual attraction takes participants on a guided tour through the city’s streets, revealing eerie tales and haunted legends that have lingered for generations.
As dusk falls, brave souls gather to embark on a journey filled with spine-chilling stories of the supernatural. The ghost walk delves into the darker side of Scranton’s past, uncovering mysteries and unexplained phenomena that continue to intrigue both locals and visitors alike.
Participants are led by knowledgeable guides who share captivating narratives of ghostly encounters and paranormal activity that have been reported in various locations throughout Scranton. From haunted buildings to mysterious alleyways, each stop on the ghost walk offers a glimpse into the city’s haunted history.
One of the highlights of the experience is the opportunity to visit sites that are said to be frequented by restless spirits. As participants explore these eerie locations under the cover of night, they can’t help but feel a sense of unease and anticipation, wondering if they will encounter something otherworldly.
For those seeking a different kind of thrill during their visit to Scranton, the Ghost Walk provides a unique blend of history and mystery that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you believe in the supernatural or simply enjoy a good ghost story, this unusual attraction offers an unforgettable evening of spooky entertainment.
Visit the Everhart Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510
– Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 12pm-5pm
– Fee: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for students
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Art and history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Scranton, Pennsylvania, known for its rich industrial history, is home to the Everhart Museum, a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of art, science, and natural history. What sets the Everhart Museum apart is its collection of taxidermy dioramas that showcase various ecosystems and wildlife in a lifelike setting. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of these displays, from the lush vegetation to the meticulously preserved animals.
In addition to the taxidermy exhibits, the Everhart Museum houses a fascinating collection of ancient artifacts, including Egyptian mummies and pottery from indigenous cultures. The museum’s eclectic mix of exhibits provides a glimpse into different time periods and civilizations, making it a truly one-of-a-kind destination for history buffs.
One of the most unusual attractions at the Everhart Museum is the Cabinet of Curiosities, a collection of oddities and artifacts that defy categorization. From bizarre medical instruments to mysterious relics, this exhibit offers a glimpse into the strange and fascinating world of the unknown.
For those looking to experience something out of the ordinary, the Everhart Museum is a must-visit destination that promises to surprise and delight visitors with its quirky and unconventional offerings.
Explore the Nay Aug Park and Waterfall
Essential Information
– Address: 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510
– Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
– Fee: Free admission
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers, families, hikers
Why is it so unusual
Scranton, Pennsylvania, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of natural wonders, but Nay Aug Park and Waterfall offer a unique and unexpected experience for visitors. While the park itself is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely strolls, it’s the waterfall that truly sets this destination apart.
Unlike other waterfalls that require a long hike to reach, Nay Aug Park’s waterfall is conveniently located within the park, making it easily accessible to all visitors. What makes this waterfall unusual is the opportunity it provides for visitors to actually walk behind the cascading water. This immersive experience allows you to feel the power of the waterfall up close and provides a unique perspective that you won’t find at many other natural attractions.
In addition to the waterfall, Nay Aug Park also features a series of natural waterslides carved into the rock formations. These slides offer a thrilling way to cool off on a hot day and are a favorite spot for adventurous visitors looking for a unique outdoor experience.
For those seeking a bit of history along with their nature exploration, the park also boasts a historic treehouse that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This unusual feature provides a glimpse into the past while allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the present moment.
Overall, Nay Aug Park and Waterfall offer a blend of natural beauty and unexpected attractions that make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience something out of the ordinary in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
