2023-12-19 06:44:52
This is a tale of two cities—or rather, two sides of the same city. Throughout Pennsylvania, cities large and small offer uniquely different experiences during the day, and then come alive in a whole new way at night. Jim Thorpe DAY: Nestled in the southern Pocono Mountains, this quaint town is ideal for exploring the outdoors. Take in scenery with a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway or hike the trails in Lehigh Gorge State Park to see waterfalls and wildlife. Or spend the day on the water with a rafting trip led by Pocono Whitewater Rafting. NIGHT: This town may be small, but it packs a mighty punch when it comes to historic nightlife venues. At the Mauch Chunk Opera House, watch everything from stand-up comedy to tribute bands in a venue that dates to 1881. In the Victorian-era Harry Packer Mansion inn, sit in the plush parlor of Libations Lounge and sip a specialty cocktail. Or grab a burger or steak for dinner—followed by live music—in the ornate Broadway Grille + Underground. York DAY: History comes to life in this centuries-old city, where Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation. At Central Market, stroll through a Romanesque Revival style building built in 1888 to explore more than 50 food and beverage vendors. Learn about local history and industries at the Agricultural & industrial Museum and York County History Center. NIGHT: Once the sun goes down, explore the dynamic craft cocktail and culinary scene. Sip classic cocktails while listening to live music at The King George Speakeasy or enjoy the extensive wine list and pastas at The Handsome Cab. The Left Bank Restaurant & Bar serves up fresh seafood and Black Angus beef steaks in a sleek setting. Bethlehem DAY: A bona fide colonial-era time capsule, this town is filled with remnants of its earliest beginnings. Explore the history and architecture of the Moravian settlers who founded the city at the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem, housed inside the Gemeinhaus, built in 1741. Then, visit the Colonial industrial Quarter and Moravian Book Shop for more insight into this longstanding community. NIGHT: Jam out with some tunes and enjoy some craft brews. Catch comedy, live concerts, and big-name artists at Wind Creek event Center or visit during Musikfest—featuring over 300 free performances—at SteelStacks. Then order a glass of cider at Five Maidens Cider Company or beer at Bonn Place Brewing Company. Scranton DAY: For a transportation history hub, make a pit stop in Scranton, the “Electric City.” Learn about the history of steam railroad transit at the Steamtown National Historic Site or peek into the past of electric trolleys at the Electric City Trolley Museum. NIGHT: Take in the magic of the stage with vibrant performing arts venues. Catch everything from ballet and Broadway musicals to comedy and concerts at Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. See local talent with open mic nights and karaoke at The V Spot Bar or watch music in an outdoor amphitheater at The Pavilion at Montage Mountain. Wellsboro DAY: Start your day with a classic pancake breakfast in the dining car-style Wellsboro Diner. Shop at Dunham’s, one of the country’s last remaining family-owned and -operated department stores, or peruse antiques at The Farmer’s Daughers. Then, stop for a scoop of creative ice cream at The Main Street Creamery. NIGHT: You’ll also find plenty of cultural experiences. At the Deane Center for the Performing Arts, watch live productions and an outdoor summer concert series. The Warehouse Theatre features performances by Hamilton-Gibson Productions, a local community theater company. At Arcadia Theatre, watch the latest blockbuster hits on the big screen.
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