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Dunmore, PA

Dunmore is a historic borough adjacent to Scranton, PA, known for its small-town charm, educational institutions like Marywood University, and access to outdoor recreation.

About Dunmore

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The full official name of the borough is Dunmore. It is a borough located in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, in the United States . Dunmore is not a state capital or county seat but is an important borough directly adjoining the city of Scranton, the county seat. Lackawanna County is a historic region in Northeastern Pennsylvania, once at the heart of the anthracite coal mining industry, which fueled the nation's industrial growth .

Date of Founding and Age

The area that is now Dunmore was first settled by Europeans in 1835. It was officially incorporated as a borough in 1862 . As of 2026, Dunmore is 191 years old since its settlement and 164 years old since its incorporation. The borough's name is derived from Dunmore Park in the Falkirk area of Scotland .

Geographical Position and Coordinates

The geographic coordinates of Dunmore are 41°25′3″N 75°37′28″W . It is located in Northeastern Pennsylvania, directly bordering the larger city of Scranton . The borough lies in the valley of the Lackawanna River, with its southeastern side rising onto the slopes of the Moosic Mountains . The elevation of the borough is approximately 1,001 feet (305 meters) above sea level . It is a suburban borough with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Historically an industrial center with extensive anthracite coal, brick, and silk interests, Dunmore has evolved into a residential and commercial community . Today, it functions as a suburban hub and is home to several educational institutions. Key economic pillars include education (Marywood University and Penn State Scranton), healthcare, and local businesses . It is also a base for corporations like Gertrude Hawk Chocolates . The Keystone Industrial Park, located within the borough, is a major center for business and employment .

Population and Demographics

At the 2020 census, the population of Dunmore was 14,042 . With this population, Dunmore is classified as a small borough. Its population peaked in the mid-20th century during its industrial heyday, reflecting the historical shifts in the region's economy .

The Borough's "Calling Card" (In Short)

Dunmore offers a charming blend of small-town appeal and modern amenities, nestled against the scenic backdrop of the Moosic Mountains . Visitors and residents enjoy its vibrant local businesses, historic character, and easy access to both outdoor recreation at spots like the Dunmore Reservoir and the urban conveniences of nearby Scranton .

Geography

Mountains and Mountain Ranges

The southeastern side of Dunmore is situated on the slopes of the Moosic Mountains . This range is a defining geographical feature, and a gorge cut through these mountains by Roaring Brook, known as the Nay Aug Gorge, is a notable landscape within the borough .

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

Dunmore is situated along the Lackawanna River, a major hydrological feature in the area known for its diverse fish population, including trout and bass . Another significant water body is Roaring Brook, which flows from the southeast and passes through the Nay Aug Gorge . The Dunmore Reservoir is a key feature, serving as a vital source of drinking water for the area and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts . It is approximately 1.2 miles long and is surrounded by wooded hills and countryside, offering opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and fishing .

National and State Parks

While there are no national parks within Dunmore itself, the borough is located less than an hour from the Pocono Mountains, a vast region known for its outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and water activities .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Dunmore has a humid continental climate, characterized by warm, wet summers and cold, snowy winters . The weather is partly cloudy year-round, with moderate precipitation throughout the year .

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures in Dunmore vary significantly by season. The warmest month is July, with an average high of 82°F (28°C) and an average low of 63°F (17°C) . The coldest month is January, with an average high of 34°F (1°C) and an average low of 21°F (-6°C) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Dunmore receives approximately 1,043 mm (41 inches) of rain per year, with average humidity levels near 78% . Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with June, July, and September typically being the wettest months . Snowfall is significant in winter, with January averaging about 7.6 inches of snow .

Best Time to Visit

Based on tourism scores, the best time to visit Dunmore for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to mid-September . During this period, the weather is most favorable for exploring the area's parks, trails, and outdoor attractions. The fall season (October-November) also offers pleasant weather and the added beauty of autumn foliage in the surrounding mountains .

Landmarks and Attractions

The Dunmore Reservoir and "Top of the World" Trail

The Dunmore Reservoir is a central landmark for outdoor recreation, offering scenic views and a peaceful setting . Nearby, the "Top of the World" hiking trail is a popular destination located within the Dunmore Reservoir Watershed. This roughly 3.5-mile moderate hike rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the Lackawanna Valley and the surrounding mountains from its summit .

Marywood University Arboretum

Adjacent to Dunmore and located in Scranton, the Marywood University Arboretum is a 115-acre natural park that serves as an outdoor educational resource and a serene environment for the community . The arboretum features various ecosystems, including wetlands, woodlands, and gardens, and is home to over 200 species of trees identified with plaques . It offers walking trails and picnic areas.

The Historic Dunmore Corners

The heart of the borough is the Dunmore Corners, a traditional town center that holds many family-run stores, restaurants, and bars . This area is the focal point for the community's small-town charm and is home to several historic local businesses .

Gertrude Hawk Chocolates and Dunmore Candy Kitchen

For those with a sweet tooth, two local institutions are unmissable. Gertrude Hawk Chocolates, founded in 1936, has its roots and is still based in Dunmore . The Dunmore Candy Kitchen, founded in 1904 by the DiMattio family, is a beloved confectionery store known for its homemade chocolates and fudge made on site, making it a staple of the community for over a century .

Transport

Main Airports

The primary airport serving Dunmore is the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) in Avoca, located about 20 minutes south of the borough . This airport operates daily flights to several major hubs including Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Detroit, and Charlotte . For more extensive international connections, Dunmore is approximately three hours from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) .

Getting to Dunmore by Car

Dunmore is a major gateway for road travelers, as it is the location of the western terminus of Interstate 84 . The borough is easily accessible via several major highways, including I-81, I-84, I-380, and U.S. Route 6, making it a convenient stop for those traveling through Northeastern Pennsylvania .

Getting Around: Public Transport and Local Travel

The County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS) operates public buses throughout the area, with routes connecting Dunmore to Scranton and other parts of the county . For example, the Route 12 Jessup line connects Dunmore and Scranton . Taxi services are available by telephone dispatch, and the borough's compact, small-town nature also makes walking and bicycling safe and easy ways to get around .

Intercity Bus Connections

Long-distance bus services, such as Martz Trailways and Greyhound, have stops in nearby Scranton, just minutes from Dunmore . These lines provide daily service to major cities including New York City, Philadelphia, and others, connecting the borough to the broader regional transportation network .

Higher Education and Academia

Dunmore is home to a campus of one of the most well-known public university systems in the United States.

Pennsylvania State University – Penn State Scranton

Located at 120 Ridge View Drive in Dunmore, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton (often referred to as Penn State Scranton) is a public, four-year undergraduate and graduate college . As a Commonwealth Campus of the prestigious Pennsylvania State University system, it offers students a more intimate educational setting with the backing of a major research university. The campus provides a range of degrees, from associate and bachelor's to master's programs, and is known for its strong support services, including academic and career counseling .

The campus also engages with the local community through its arts programming. The Sordoni Art Gallery on campus serves as a cultural hub for the region, hosting exhibitions that feature both nationally acclaimed artists and the work of local students and faculty .

Colleges and Universities Nearby

While Penn State Scranton is the only college within Dunmore's city limits, its location in the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania puts it within minutes of several other notable institutions of higher learning in the neighboring city of Scranton .

Local Sports and Athletic Tradition

The Dunmore Bucks

High school sports are a major source of community pride in Dunmore. The Dunmore Bucks, representing Dunmore High School, have a storied tradition, particularly in football. The Bucks are a powerhouse in District 2 of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) and compete in the Lackawanna Football Conference . The team regularly fields competitive squads and has produced numerous college athletes.

Recent success highlights the program's strength. Following the 2023 season, three Dunmore players were named to the Pennsylvania Football Writers Class 2A All-State Team :

Cross Country

Beyond football, Dunmore High School also has a competitive cross country program. The school fields men's and women's cross country teams, as well as track and field, competing in Pennsylvania state leagues .

Arts and Culture

The Wonderstone Gallery

For a dose of local art, Dunmore is home to The Wonderstone Gallery, located at 622 E Drinker St . This gallery offers a space for local and regional artists to display and sell their work, contributing to the borough's cultural scene and providing a venue for art enthusiasts to discover unique pieces.

Art Galleries in the Region

While Dunmore itself is not a major museum hub, its proximity to larger cities like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre provides access to a wider range of cultural institutions. Art lovers can easily explore venues just a short drive away, such as the Sordoni Art Gallery at Penn State Scranton , galleries in Narrowsburg, NY, and others throughout Lackawanna County .

Healthcare and Medical Services

While there are no major hospitals located directly within the borough of Dunmore, it is immediately adjacent to the city of Scranton and at the center of a region well-served by several major medical centers. Residents have quick and easy access to a variety of high-quality healthcare facilities within a few miles .

Major Hospitals Nearby (within 2-3 miles)

Several full-service hospitals are located just minutes from Dunmore in Scranton, providing comprehensive medical care :

Specialized and Regional Care

For more specialized medical needs, several other top-tier facilities are within a short to moderate drive from Dunmore :

This dense network of hospitals and specialized centers ensures that Dunmore residents have excellent access to emergency, routine, and advanced medical care.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Dunmore's dining scene offers a surprising diversity, with a strong emphasis on Asian cuisines alongside classic American staples. While the town has its share of familiar options, it also boasts local favorites that have become destinations for food lovers in Lackawanna County.

A Hub for Sushi and Thai Cuisine

Dunmore has developed a reputation for having excellent Thai and Japanese restaurants. The borough is home to several locally-owned establishments that bring authentic and creative flavors to Northeastern Pennsylvania .

Chinese Cuisine

Chinese food is also a staple in Dunmore's culinary landscape. The options range from local takeout spots to well-known national chains.

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