The short answer
Downtown Wilkes-Barre offers a compact, walkable center built around Public Square and the Susquehanna riverfront, with two universities, a performing arts center and a growing number of apartments in and around the business district. It suits people who want city convenience at a Northeastern Pennsylvania scale.
What downtown living is like
Downtown Wilkes-Barre is the county seat of Luzerne County. Daily life centers on Public Square, the surrounding commercial streets and the River Common park along the Susquehanna.
Wilkes University and King's College are both located downtown, which keeps the area active through the academic year and supports coffee shops, restaurants and services.
Walkability
The core of downtown is compact enough that offices, the courthouse, campuses, the square and the riverfront are within a short walk of each other. For many residents, that means errands and evenings out without driving.
Restaurants and amenities
Restaurants, bars and cafes cluster around Public Square and the adjoining blocks. The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, touring shows and community events, and the River Common hosts seasonal events and trail access along the river.
Openings and closings change regularly, so check current listings before you plan around a specific venue.
Transportation
Downtown sits close to Interstate 81 and the North Cascade Parkway, with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension a short drive away. Local bus service is provided by the Luzerne County Transportation Authority, and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport serves the region.
Residential options and what to look for
Downtown housing ranges from apartments in converted historic buildings to newer or renovated residential properties. When comparing options, consider:
- Distance to where you work or study, and whether you can walk it.
- Parking arrangements and cost, if you keep a car.
- Which utilities are included in rent.
- Building management responsiveness and maintenance process.
- Lease terms and application requirements, confirmed directly with the property.
Riverview West
Riverview West is D&D Realty Group's downtown Wilkes-Barre residential property, positioned near the Susquehanna riverfront and the business district. Current availability, floor plans and applications are handled on the Riverview West website — D&D does not duplicate that information here.
Frequently asked questions
Is downtown Wilkes-Barre walkable?
The core — Public Square, the campuses, the courthouse area and the riverfront — is compact and walkable. Access to larger grocery and retail options may still require a short drive or bus ride.
Where can I see Riverview West availability?
On the Riverview West website, which is the source of truth for availability, floor plans and applications.
Is downtown Wilkes-Barre close to Scranton?
Yes. Scranton is roughly a 25–30 minute drive via Interstate 81, depending on traffic.