Looking for cheap Flights to Wilkes Barre, Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA (AVP) airport?

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, accessible via cheap flights to AVP airport (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport), represents the heart of Pennsylvania’s historic Coal Region, offering a deep dive into industrial heritage, a strong sense of community, and surprising cultural attractions, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and those seeking authentic Americana. The Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton is a major unique attraction, preserving the history of steam railroading in North America with an impressive collection of steam locomotives, interactive exhibits, and train rides, offering a powerful glimpse into the industrial age. The Everhart Museum in Scranton showcases diverse collections spanning natural history, science, and art, including a notable collection of Dorflinger Cut Glass.

The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour in Scranton provides an immersive experience, taking visitors deep underground into a former working anthracite coal mine, offering a chilling and educational look at the lives of miners. In Wilkes-Barre, the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts is a beautifully restored historic theater that hosts a wide range of concerts, Broadway shows, and community events. The Anthracite Heritage Museum and the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum (near Scranton) further explore the region's coal mining history, focusing on the immigrant experience and the industrial impact. The Scranton Iron Furnaces, remnants of a 19th-century iron-making complex, stand as a testament to the region's industrial past. Explore the Delaware & Hudson Rail-Trail for walking and biking along former rail lines. Annual events like La Festa Italiana in Scranton celebrate the region's strong Italian-American heritage with food, music, and festivities. Savor hearty Pennsylvania comfort food, including pierogies, kielbasa, and local pizza styles. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton’s unique focus on its pivotal role in American industrial history, particularly coal mining and railroads, combined with its strong ethnic heritage and a burgeoning arts scene, makes it a compelling and educational destination for those looking to uncover the working-class roots of America.

Why Visit Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton captivates with its industrial heritage at Steamtown National Historic Site, underground Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, and vibrant F.M. Kirby Center. Enjoy La Festa Italiana, bike the D&H Rail-Trail, or savor pierogies. Perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and cultural explorers.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Nickname: The Electric City (Scranton), Diamond City (Wilkes-Barre)
• Airport: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP)
• Key Attractions: Steamtown National Historic Site, Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, F.M. Kirby Center
• Population: Wilkes-Barre ~41,000, Scranton ~76,000
• Major Event: La Festa Italiana (annual, Scranton)

Geographic Location & Climate

In Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Lackawanna Valley, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has a humid continental climate with warm summers (average high 82°F) and cold, snowy winters (average low 20°F). Fall and spring are ideal for rail-trail biking and mine tours.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Total Population

Wilkes-Barre ~41,000, Scranton ~76,000 (2025 estimate).

Age Distribution

Median age ~38 years, with diverse families and young professionals.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

• White: 75%
• Hispanic or Latino: 15%
• Black or African American: 7%
• Asian: 2%
• Other: 1%

Gender Breakdown

Approximately 49% male, 51% female.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.4, with families and singles.

Population Growth Trends

Stable, with slight growth from tourism and education sectors.

Economy & Living Standards In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Major Industries & Employers

• Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center: 1000 E Mountain Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• University of Scranton: 800 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18510
• Amazon Fulfillment Center: 250 Enterprise Way, Pittston, PA 18640
• Wilkes-Barre Area School District: 730 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment ~4.5%, with jobs in healthcare, education, and logistics.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income $50,000; cost of living below national average.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate 18%, linked to post-industrial transitions.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Growing in logistics, healthcare, and cultural tourism.

Health & Wellness In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

General Health Overview

Robust healthcare via Geisinger, with community wellness focus.

Common Health Issues

Respiratory issues from coal history, seasonal allergies.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Planet Fitness: 3300 Wilkes Barre Township Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
• Anytime Fitness: 1000 S State St, Clarks Summit, PA 18411
• Scranton Yoga Studio: 400 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Mental Health Resources

• Geisinger Behavioral Health: 1000 E Mountain Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Scranton Counseling Center: 326 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Public Health Initiatives

Coal region health programs and rail-trail fitness events.

Hospitals & Clinics In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Major Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center: 1000 E Mountain Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Moses Taylor Hospital: 700 Quincy Ave, Scranton, PA 18510

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• Geisinger ConvenientCare: 3 W Olive St, Scranton, PA 18508
• MedExpress Urgent Care: 2200 Wilkes Barre Township Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

Specialty Medical Centers

• Geisinger Cancer Center: 1000 E Mountain Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Scranton Orthopedic Specialists: 334 Main St, Dickson City, PA 18519

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Geisinger and Moses Taylor offer telehealth services.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Northeast Veterinary Referral Hospital: 242 S River St, Plains-registry
• Scranton Animal Hospital: 509 Cedar Ave, Scranton, PA 18505

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Wilkes-Barre Veterinary Clinic: 1002 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Grooming: 3200 Wilkes Barre Township Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
• Scranton Kennels: 1515 Cedar Ave, Scranton, PA 18505

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Delaware & Hudson Rail-Trail: 101 Main St, Simpson, PA 18407
• Nay Aug Park: 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510

Local Government & Public Services In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Wilkes-Barre City Hall: 40 E Market St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Scranton City Hall: 340 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

County Government Services

• Luzerne County Courthouse: 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Lackawanna County Courthouse: 200 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Public Records and Licensing

• Luzerne County Recorder: 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Lackawanna County Recorder: 135 Jefferson Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Wilkes-Barre Planning Dept: 40 E Market St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Scranton Planning Dept: 340 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Luzerne County Treasurer: 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Lackawanna County Treasurer: 135 Jefferson Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Wilkes-Barre Police Dept: 15 N Washington St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
• Scranton Police Dept: 100 S Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
• Wilkes-Barre Fire Dept: 50 S Washington St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
• Scranton Fire Dept: 340 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18503

Courts and Legal Aid

• Luzerne County Courthouse: 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Lackawanna County Courthouse: 200 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
• North Penn Legal Services: 33 N Main St, Pittston, PA 18640

Public Works and Utilities

• Wilkes-Barre Public Works: 40 E Market St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
• Scranton Public Works: 101 W Poplar St, Scranton, PA 18508

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Luzerne County Voter Services: 20 N Pennsylvania Ave, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
• Lackawanna County Voter Services: 123 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
• U.S. Senators: Bob Casey (D), John Fetterman (D)
• U.S. House Representative: Matt Cartwright (D), District 8

Education & Libraries In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Public School Districts

• Wilkes-Barre Area School District:
  • Daniel J. Flood Elementary: 565 N Washington St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705
  • Dodson Elementary: 80 Jones St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
  • Dr. David W. Kistler Elementary: 301 Old River Rd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
  • Heights-Murray Elementary: 1 S Sherman St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
  • G.A.R. Middle School: 300 S Grant St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
  • James M. Coughlin High School: 80 N Washington St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
  • E.L. Meyers High School: 341 Carey Ave, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
• Scranton School District:
  • Charles Sumner Elementary: 401 N Rebecca Ave, Scranton, PA 18504
  • Frances Willard Elementary: 1100 Eynon St, Scranton, PA 18504
  • Isaac Tripp Elementary: 1000 N Everett Ave, Scranton, PA 18504
  • John Adams Elementary: 927 Capouse Ave, Scranton, PA 18509
  • John F. Kennedy Elementary: 2200 Prospect Ave, Scranton, PA 18505
  • McNichols Plaza Elementary: 1111 S Irving Ave, Scranton, PA 18505
  • Neil Armstrong Elementary: 1500 N Lincoln Ave, Scranton, PA 18508
  • Robert Morris Elementary: 1824 Boulevard Ave, Scranton, PA 18509
  • Northeast Intermediate School: 721 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18510
  • South Scranton Intermediate School: 355 Maple St, Scranton, PA 18505
  • West Scranton Intermediate School: 1401 Fellows St, Scranton, PA 18504
  • Scranton High School: 63 Mike Munchak Way, Scranton, PA 18508
  • West Scranton High School: 1201 Luzerne St, Scranton, PA 18504

Charter and Private Schools

• Holy Cross High School: 501 E Drinker St, Dunmore, PA 18512
• Scranton Preparatory School: 1000 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA 18509

Colleges and Universities

• University of Scranton: 800 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18510 - Main Majors: Business, Nursing, Biology, Education, Psychology
• Wilkes University: 84 W South St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 - Main Majors: Engineering, Business, Nursing, Education, Pharmacy
• King’s College: 133 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711 - Main Majors: Business, Education, Biology, Criminal Justice, Physician Assistant Studies

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Albright Memorial Library: 500 Vine St, Scranton, PA 18509
• Osterhout Free Library: 71 S Franklin St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has produced notable figures in politics, sports, and media.

• Joe Biden (Politician): 46th U.S. President, born in Scranton
• Hughie Jennings (Athlete): MLB Hall of Famer, born in Pittston
• Gerry McNamara (Athlete): NCAA basketball star, Syracuse assistant coach
• Ed Walsh (Athlete): MLB Hall of Famer, born in Plains
• Jane Walsh (Journalist): Pioneering newspaper editor, born in Scranton

Flights & Travel Logistics In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Cheap Flights to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton

Book cheap flights to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA (AVP) and save up to $151 with early booking.

Best Time to Book

Book 2 months ahead for summer festivals or fall foliage.

Airlines That Serve Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

• American Airlines
• United Airlines
• Allegiant Air

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

• Allentown (ABE): 60 miles south
• Binghamton (BGM): 70 miles north

Transportation After Arrival

Rentals, taxis, and shuttles at AVP; Luzerne County Transit buses locally.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Book mine tours early; pack for variable weather.

Where to Stay In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Red Roof Inn Wilkes-Barre: 1035 PA-315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
• Econo Lodge Scranton: 1175 Kane St, Scranton, PA 18505

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• Hilton Scranton & Conference Center: 100 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Mohegan Sun Pocono: 1280 PA-315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Hampton Inn Scranton: 22 Montage Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18507

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Residence Inn Scranton: 947 Viewmont Dr, Scranton, PA 18519

Getting Around In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Public Transportation Overview

Luzerne County Transit and COLTS buses serve the area.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

• Enterprise: 1100 PA-315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
• Uber/Lyft available

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown Scranton and Wilkes-Barre walkable; D&H Rail-Trail bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Paid downtown parking; watch for coal region traffic.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

National Parks and Scenic Areas

• Steamtown National Historic Site: 350 Cliff St, Scranton, PA 18503

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Delaware & Hudson Rail-Trail: 101 Main St, Simpson, PA 18407
• Lackawanna River Heritage Trail: 800 Susquehanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18509

Wildlife Viewing

Birdwatching along Lackawanna River.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Lackawanna River: Access at Nay Aug Park, Scranton, PA 18510

Camping and RV Parks

• Lackawanna State Park Campground: 1839 Abington Rd, North Abington Township, PA 18414

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Kayaking in summer; snowboarding at Montage Mountain in winter.

History & Heritage In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Founding and Historical Background

Wilkes-Barre founded 1769, Scranton 1866; both grew as coal and rail hubs.

Major Disasters and Events

1959 Knox Mine disaster ended coal era; 2011 Tropical Storm Lee caused $5M damage. Events: 1840s coal boom; La Festa Italiana since 1970s.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster: 2011 Tropical Storm Lee

The 2011 flooding prompted recovery efforts. Federal: FEMA provided $7M for infrastructure. State: PA DEP rebuilt floodwalls. Local: Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties aided 500 families; Red Cross set up shelters. Private: Geisinger donated medical supplies; Amazon provided logistics. Recovery restored 90% of areas by 2013.

Historical Landmarks

• Scranton Iron Furnaces: 159 Cedar Ave, Scranton, PA 18505
• Luzerne County Courthouse: 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Anthracite Heritage Museum: 22 Bald Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA 18504
• Everhart Museum: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510

Local Folklore and Legends

Tales of coal miners and railroad ghosts.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Lenape and Iroquois tribes; Irish and Eastern European settlers.

Arts & Culture In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Performing Arts Venues

• F.M. Kirby Center: 71 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
• Scranton Cultural Center: 420 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Everhart Museum: 1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510
• Afa Gallery: 101 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Local Artists and Artisans

Coal-inspired art and glasswork.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• La Festa Italiana: 200 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Music Scene and Live Performances

Concerts at F.M. Kirby Center and Scranton Cultural Center.

Food & Drink In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Top Restaurants by Cuisine

• Carmen's Restaurant (Italian): 700 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
• Glider Diner (American): 890 Providence Rd, Scranton, PA 18508

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Pierogies, kielbasa, and local produce.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Susquehanna Brewing Co.: 635 S Main St, Pittston, PA 18640

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Food trucks at La Festa Italiana: 200 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Available at Eden-A Vegan Cafe in Scranton.

Shopping & Leisure In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Downtown Scranton Shops: 300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Viewmont Mall: 100 Viewmont Dr, Scranton, PA 18508
• Wyoming Valley Mall: 29 Wyoming Valley Mall, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

Antique Stores and Markets

• Scranton Antique Mall: 1210 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

Coal miner artifacts and railroad memorabilia.

Events & Entertainment In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Annual Festivals and Parades

• La Festa Italiana: 200 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
• Scranton Jazz Festival: 400 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Scranton Farmers Market: 900 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18510

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins hockey at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

Winter light festivals and summer heritage events.

Nearby Destinations In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Popular Day Trips

• Pocono Mountains: 1004 PA-611, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 (40 miles south)

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Archbald Pothole State Park: 701 State Route 1001, Archbald, PA 18403

Scenic Drives and Routes

Lackawanna Valley Scenic Byway.

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Houdini Museum: 1433 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508

Audience-Specific Guides In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Family Travel Tips

Steamtown train rides and Everhart Museum.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Coal Mine Tour and Iron Furnaces.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Carmen’s, stay at Mohegan Sun Pocono.

Business Travel Essentials

Stay near AVP for conventions.

Accessible Travel Resources

Luzerne County Transit ADA; contact tourism board.

Natural Resources In Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pennsylvania

Rich in anthracite coal, Lackawanna River water, and timber.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 30, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.