Wilkes-Barre City Guide

Local food highlights pierogies and pizza. Some international options like Italian, Mexican, and Chinese. Vegetarian options available, vegan growing. Late-night food mostly fast food and diners.

Nightlife is modest with local bars, pubs, and a few casual spots.

Mix of national chains and some local independents. Focus is on convenience over specialty coffee.

Tipping is expected in restaurants, taxis, and services, usually 15-20%. Optional but appreciated for counter service.

You can buy SIM cards at carrier stores like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile or at electronics retailers like Best Buy. Good coverage is available. ID is usually needed for post-paid plans.

Cleanliness varies by area. Main commercial streets are well maintained. Regular waste and recycling services.

Some pharmacies have 24-hour locations. Minimarts like Sheetz and Wawa operate round the clock. Emergency rooms are 24/7. Late-night food options are mostly fast food and diners.

Major supermarkets like Weis, Giant, and ShopRite offer common goods. Specialty international products may be limited to specialty shops. Stores usually open 7 AM to 10 PM and are open Sundays with reduced hours.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash might be handy for small vendors or tips.

ATMs are common at banks like PNC, Wells Fargo, Citizens Bank, as well as supermarkets and convenience stores. Expect $2.50 to $5 fees for out-of-network use.

Local schools are mainly public and taught in English. Few international schools; families may consider nearby metro areas for more options.

Limited digital nomad presence with no dedicated meetups or co-living. Local cafés and libraries serve as informal hubs.

Kirby Park is the main green space with shaded walking and running paths by the river.

Popular running routes include Kirby Park paths and local neighborhoods. Generally safe during the day with good air quality.

Gyms offer day passes and short-term memberships.

Public hard courts in parks like Kirby Park. Mostly first-come, first-served. Equipment rental not common.

No padel courts available.

Several studios offer styles like Vinyasa, Hatha, and restorative yoga. Drop-in and membership options, all English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms teach Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, boxing, and MMA. English-speaking instructors and drop-in policies vary.

Several ski resorts like Montage Mountain and Jack Frost Big Boulder are 30-60 minutes away. Season runs late December to March. Rentals available with terrain for all levels.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available on the Susquehanna River and nearby lakes like Harveys Lake. Rentals and guided tours are limited and seasonal.

No surfing available as the city is inland.

No diving options inland.

Healthcare is good, with hospitals like Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens have common OTC meds. Staff generally speak English.

Tap water meets federal and state safety standards and is generally safe to drink.

Parks like Kirby Park have playgrounds. Restaurants are family-friendly but few dedicated kid cafés. Baby supplies are easy to find. Activities include local baseball games and parks.

Generally accepting with some safe spaces and legal protections in the state.

Pet-friendly parks require leashes. Many pet-friendly hotels and outdoor restaurant seating. Veterinary clinics and pet supply stores available.