Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour
Descend 300 feet into a real anthracite coal mine for an immersive historical journey. Experience a mine car ride and explore tunnels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend 300 feet into a real anthracite coal mine for an immersive historical journey. Experience a mine car ride and explore tunnels.
"A real experience, a must-do activity in Scranton so do not miss this!"
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
The mine stays a cool 50s°F year-round. A jacket is essential for comfort during your underground tour.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slippery and uneven terrain requires closed-toe, sturdy footwear. No open-toed shoes allowed!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mine Car Descent
Entrance to the mine
Experience the thrill of riding a mine car 300 feet below the surface, a unique start to your underground journey.
Underground Tunnel Exploration
Clark Bed level
Walk through real anthracite coal mine tunnels, learning about the challenging lives of miners.
Anthracite Mining History
Throughout the tour
Gain a deep understanding of the region's coal mining heritage and the hardships faced by workers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress for the Deep
Book Ahead for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
The mine stays a cool 50s°F year-round. A jacket is essential for comfort during your underground tour.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slippery and uneven terrain requires closed-toe, sturdy footwear. No open-toed shoes allowed!
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Tours are about an hour, but explore the museum and gift shop for a fuller experience.
📸 Capture the History
While photography is allowed, be mindful of the dark conditions and the group's pace.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
The mine stays a cool 50s°F year-round. A jacket is essential for comfort during your underground tour.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slippery and uneven terrain requires closed-toe, sturdy footwear. No open-toed shoes allowed!
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Tours are about an hour, but explore the museum and gift shop for a fuller experience.
📸 Capture the History
While photography is allowed, be mindful of the dark conditions and the group's pace.
👨👩👧👦 Great for Families
An educational and exciting experience for kids, teaching them about industrial history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour as a 'must-do' in Scranton, highlighting the immersive experience of descending 300 feet into a real anthracite mine. Guides are frequently commended for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the history of coal mining come alive. While the cool, damp conditions and uneven terrain require preparation, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to return.
"Definitely worth a visit. Only $10 pp for a one hour plus guided walking tour. Get a great experience of what it was like. So much the history of the Scranton area. Bring a jacket as it is cool down there. Also, no open toed shoes as it is bit wet as well."
Ricardo Fernandez
"This was a real experience. To go below ground and go into a mine what is every boys boyhood dream - I'm a long time since I was a boy but this was a real experience for us both. The tour guide was excellent and we had a very informative time below ground. It was the first time I was on a historic tour where the guide didn't bring up ghosts but that was just something I noted. The below ground mine is amazing and this is a Must Do Activity in Scranton so do not miss this. The shop is good also and we got some keepsakes before leaving."
Shane McDonald
"When I found out I'd be staying in Scranton to meet up with family, my one request was to do the coal mine tour. Im so glad I did. The tour guide was fantastic and made the the tour not only educational but enjoyable as well. She was very knowledgeable and you could tell she enjoyed what she does. The terrain in the tunnel is slippery and uneven so wear suitable shoes. The temperature is always in the 50s and damp so be sure to dress appropriately. There is a gift shop on the site with a lunch counter. The staff there are super friendly and the cafeteria staff even offered to hold our food we ordered because they decided to make the tour leave early as we were sitting eating our lunch. I highly suggest you take the tour and learn something about American history as you live it 300ft below the surface."
A. “BackSeatRider” W.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour is located at 430 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503. It's easily accessible by car and is often visited in conjunction with other Scranton attractions like the Steamtown National Historic Site.
Yes, there is typically parking available at or near the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most current parking information.
Yes, the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour is within walking distance of many downtown Scranton hotels, including the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. The area is generally walkable, but always be aware of your surroundings.
The tour typically operates from April through November, with hours usually from 10 AM to 4 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. It's best to confirm exact hours on their official website as they can vary seasonally.
The mine tour involves a mine car ride and walking on uneven, potentially wet surfaces. While the staff is accommodating, it may not be suitable for everyone. Contact the attraction directly for specific accessibility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally affordable, often around $10 per person for a guided tour. It's always a good idea to check the official Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
While walk-in tickets may be available, booking your Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or weekends, to secure your spot.
The guided tour itself lasts approximately one hour, but you should plan for additional time to explore the museum exhibits and gift shop.
There are no strict age restrictions mentioned, but the tour involves walking in a dark, cool environment. It's generally considered suitable for most ages, with children often finding it particularly exciting.
Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the specific terms and conditions when purchasing your tickets or contact the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour directly to inquire about their cancellation and refund policy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear layers! The mine is a constant 50s°F and damp. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential due to slippery and uneven surfaces. Avoid open-toed shoes.
While it can be a bit spooky due to the dark and confined spaces, most visitors find it more educational and exciting than scary. The guides are informative and aim to make it an engaging experience.
The temperature inside the mine remains consistently cool, around 50-55°F (10-13°C) year-round, and it is also damp.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the mine. However, be mindful of the low light conditions and the safety of others in your group.
The terrain inside the mine is uneven and can be slippery, especially after rain or due to natural dampness. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are crucial for navigating safely.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a gift shop on-site that includes a lunch counter or cafeteria where you can purchase food and drinks.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before or after your tour, or utilize the on-site facilities. Check with the attraction for their specific policy.
The gift shop typically offers snacks, beverages, and light meal options. It's a convenient place to grab a bite before or after your tour.
Scranton offers a variety of dining options near the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, ranging from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. You can find many choices within a short drive or walk.
Yes, you can enjoy lunch at the on-site cafeteria or explore the numerous restaurants in downtown Scranton before or after your Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the Lackawanna Coal Mine. Visitors are encouraged to capture the unique underground experience.
The mine car ride down, the illuminated tunnel sections, and any historical artifacts or displays offer great photo opportunities. Be mindful of the low light.
While photography is allowed, it's important to be respectful of other visitors and the tour guide. Avoid using flash photography in a way that might disrupt the experience or damage any sensitive exhibits.
Due to low light, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful. Increasing ISO or using a wider aperture can also aid in capturing clearer images.
Absolutely! Most modern smartphone cameras perform well in low light and are perfect for capturing the unique atmosphere of the Lackawanna Coal Mine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Guides are skilled at making the tour engaging for younger audiences, explaining the miners' lives in relatable terms. It's a great way to spark curiosity about history and the hard work that went into powering the nation. Remember to dress everyone in warm layers and sturdy shoes to ensure comfort and safety during the underground exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
This attraction provides a deep dive into local history and a memorable adventure, making it a highly recommended budget-friendly activity in Scranton. Combine it with free or low-cost nearby attractions for a full day of exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Underground: A Miner's Perspective
Once underground, you'll embark on a guided walking tour through the actual mine tunnels. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories and insights into the harsh realities faced by miners in the 19th and 20th centuries. You'll learn about the dangerous working conditions, the physical toll of the job, and the close-knit communities that formed around the mines. The tour emphasizes the 'human-centered' aspect of history, highlighting the hardships and resilience of the people who fueled the industrial revolution.
This experience is not just about seeing a mine; it's about understanding the historical significance of coal mining in the Scranton area and its impact on American history. It's a tangible connection to the past that resonates long after you've returned to the surface.
What to Expect: Practical Tips for Your Visit
Footwear is another critical consideration. The terrain inside the mine is often slippery and uneven. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must; leave your sandals or open-toed shoes at home to ensure safety and prevent slips. This practical advice is frequently echoed by those who have completed the tour.
Beyond attire, consider the tour's duration and pace. The guided tour itself lasts about an hour, but many visitors recommend allocating extra time to explore the accompanying museum exhibits and the gift shop. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding and a chance to pick up a unique souvenir.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit