Welcome to Wilkes-Barre, PA
Located in the historic Wyoming Valley, Wilkes-Barre is the county seat of Luzerne County. The Susquehanna River flows through the Wyoming Valley and has just undergone a major renovation on the riverfront complete with stunning views of the river, rich perennial gardens and a boat launch for recreation access. An amphitheater is a stone’s throw from Main Street where art galleries, Barnes and Noble, an ice cream parlor, other retail shops, loft apartments, movie theatres and a variety of restaurants allow visitors and residents alike the ability to walk and enjoy.
The Kirby Center for the Performing arts brings the philharmonic, Broadway shows, opera, ballet, children’s travel shows and concert venues to Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Wachovia Center, home to the Wilkes-Barre Penguins (farm team of the Pittsburgh Penguins) offers arena football, concerts, the circus, Sesame Street live, magic shows and Disney on Ice.
A short 20 mile drive and you can take in a Yankees triple A baseball game, attend a NASCAR event, take a ride on an original steam train, travel into the depths of a coal mine, pick a winner at live harness racing or try your luck at the Mohegan Sun Casino. 61 scenic Golf courses, 17 ski resorts, water parks, hiking and biking trails, roller hockey facilities, Pocono water canoeing and white water rafting, fishing, camping and boating at one of our many state parks or area lakes complete the recreational options in the Wilkes-Barre area.
The cultural opportunities are enhanced by 6 local colleges and universities (Kings and Wilkes in downtown Wilkes-Barre) that offer music institutes, theater on the green; world renowned speakers such as Colin Powell, Jazz concerts, Musicals, art shows and a variety of other mediums. Finally, dine with ease at one of the local favorite eateries or nationally recognized Ruth” Chris Steak House or Wolfgang Puck.
The Wyoming Valley is rich in historical landmarks. In addition to the 6 fine colleges and universities, there are three junior colleges, three college preparatory schools, twelve school districts all with well respected high schools and a variety of private and parochial schools.
Even though the original roots of Wilkes-Barre were as the Anthracite Capital of the World, the economic focus has diversified and is composed of service, manufacturing, industrial, wholesale, retail, technology, internet and medical industries. Casinos are new to the area. The close proximity to Interstates 81, 80 and the PA turnpike is attractive to businesses looking to relocate to an affordable, business friendly environment with a quality work force. Our location also makes traveling to New York City and Philadelphia a fun easy adventure with only a two hour commute. And a trip to Washington, D.C. is a short 3 hour journey.
