Lackawanna Heritage Valley NHA Headquarters
About
The Lackawanna Heritage Valley NHA Headquarters serves as an excellent starting point for families looking to explore Scranton's natural areas and outdoor trails. This free visitor center offers educational exhibits about local ecology, detailed trail maps, and knowledgeable staff who can recommend family-friendly hiking routes based on your kids' ages and abilities. It's the perfect place to plan your outdoor adventures and learn about the region's natural and industrial heritage.
Highlights
- ✓Free trail maps and guides for family-friendly hiking routes in the area
- ✓Educational exhibits about local ecology and wildlife
- ✓Knowledgeable staff who provide personalized outdoor activity recommendations
- ✓Information about seasonal events and nature programs
- ✓Resources about the region's heritage combining natural and industrial history
Pro Tips
- 1.Stop here first before heading out to trails. Staff can provide current trail conditions, difficulty levels, and recommendations for kid-friendly routes.
- 2.Pick up free trail maps and educational materials about local plants and animals that kids can use as scavenger hunt guides during hikes.
- 3.Visit during weekday mornings for more one-on-one time with staff who can provide personalized recommendations.
- 4.Ask about seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities like bird migrations or wildflower blooms to make your outdoor adventures more engaging for kids.
- 5.The center is located on Railroad Avenue, making it easy to combine with a visit to Steamtown National Historic Site nearby.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings between 9-11am when staff have more time to provide detailed information and recommendations. Spring and fall are ideal seasons to plan trips here before embarking on comfortable-weather hikes.
What to Know
Admission is completely free. This is primarily an information center rather than an attraction itself, so plan to spend time here gathering resources before heading out to explore the actual trails and natural areas they recommend.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though hours may vary seasonally. Spring through fall offers the most hiking opportunities, while winter visits can help you plan snowshoeing or winter nature walks. Call ahead to confirm hours, especially during holidays.
Nearby Eats
TheGart Hotel Restaurant and Establishment 222 are both within walking distance and offer kid-friendly menus. For a quick bite, try Cooper's Seafood House, a Scranton favorite known for its nautical theme and casual atmosphere that kids enjoy.
More Activities Near Scranton
Lake Scranton Walking Trailhead
Lake Scranton Walking Trailhead offers families an accessible introduction to nature with well-maintained trails perfect for little explorers. This free outdoor gem provides a peaceful escape where kids can spot local birds, enjoy lakeside views, and burn energy in a safe, scenic environment that's ideal for teaching children to appreciate the outdoors.
Catlin House Museum
Step back in time at the Catlin House Museum, a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion in Scranton that brings local history to life through guided tours. This intimate museum offers families a chance to explore authentic period rooms, learn about life in the 1800s, and appreciate stunning architectural details that will captivate curious minds. With its perfect 5-star rating and budget-friendly admission, it's an educational outing that won't break the bank.
Steamtown National Historic Site
Steamtown National Historic Site brings railroad history to life with an impressive collection of vintage locomotives and train cars that kids can explore up close. The museum features interactive exhibits perfect for hands-on learners, guided train yard tours where families can see restoration work in progress, and special excursion train rides that let children experience what travel was like in the golden age of railroads.
McDade Park
McDade Park is a sprawling family paradise in Scranton offering something for every age, from refreshing lake swimming to paddleboat adventures. With its excellent playground, miles of walking trails, and abundant picnic areas, this free park delivers an entire day of outdoor fun without breaking the bank. The highly rated facility is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its well-maintained grounds and variety of activities.