Greater Pittston

Greater Pittston is a popular place for living, working, and finding things to do in Luzerne County. Living in the Greater Pittston region means access to family-friendly neighborhoods, strong local schools, community parks, and everyday conveniences that keep life connected and comfortable. The area sits between Wilkes-Barre and Scranton with direct access to I-81, the PA Turnpike, Route 315, and Route 11 for easy travel across Northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond. For those considering a move, the Greater Pittston area is known for convenient commuting, affordable living, and access to recreation and local services.

Stretching across riverfront neighborhoods, historic downtowns, suburbs, and commercial corridors, the Greater Pittston region includes the city of Pittston; the townships of Exeter, Jenkins, Pittston, and West Pittston; and the boroughs of Avoca, Dupont, Duryea, Exeter, Hughestown, Laflin, West Wyoming, Wyoming, and Yatesville. Residents enjoy Frances Slocum State Park, Riverfront Park, the Luzerne County Levee Trail, and community parks throughout the region. Dining spans classic pizza shops, cafés, pubs, breweries, and destination restaurants that draw visitors from across NEPA and throughout Greater Pittston, PA. These Greater Pittston restaurants and cafés highlight local flavors, seasonal menus, and NEPA culinary traditions.

Community Life & Local Connections

The Greater Pittston region blends historic river communities with growing commercial areas, outdoor recreation, and some of Luzerne County’s most well-known annual events. Community life centers around downtown Pittston, neighborhood parks, local schools, and year-round events. A full calendar of Greater Pittston events — including festivals, markets, performances, and family programs — keeps residents connected throughout the year. Seasonal favorites include the Pittston Tomato Festival, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and Second Friday Art Walk, which showcase local arts, food, music, and small businesses. Farmers markets, youth sports, library programs, and nonprofit events add even more ways for residents to get involved.

Whether planning a weekend outing, exploring things to do near Wilkes-Barre and Scranton, or searching for one of Luzerne County’s most energetic river communities, the Greater Pittston region offers memorable experiences in every season with easy connections to outdoor adventure across NEPA. Visitors will also find many Greater Pittston attractions located just minutes from major highways.

Greater Pittston has deep roots in early settlement, transportation, and coal mining along the Susquehanna River. The land around present-day Pittston was first surveyed in the late 1700s and named in honor of British statesman William Pitt the Elder. As anthracite coal was discovered in the Wyoming Valley, early mines near Pittston helped power regional growth and industry.

Nearby Wyoming played a key role in the 1778 Battle of Wyoming during the Revolutionary War, a pivotal moment in local history. Later, canals and railroads connected Greater Pittston to metropolitan markets, moving coal, goods, and agricultural products. That legacy remains visible in the region’s historic downtown blocks, riverfront, and preserved landmarks. Historical societies, museums, and community organizations continue to share this story through tours, exhibits, and educational programs.

Did you know?

Pittston gained the nickname “Quality Tomato Capital of the World” in the early 1900s. Fertile river-fed soils and access to the North Branch Canal helped local growers ship flavorful tomatoes to major markets, a tradition celebrated today at the annual Pittston Tomato Festival.