Coal Mine Tour | Wilkes Barre

The Coal Mine Tour is an underground educational attraction located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. It offers visitors a firsthand experience of historical anthracite coal mining operations.

Visual Characteristics

The tour descends into a former anthracite coal mine. The primary material is coal seam rock, characterized by its black, lustrous appearance. The mine shafts are reinforced with timber supports. Ambient light is provided by the tour's lighting system, revealing the rough-hewn rock walls and narrow passages.

Location & Access Logistics

The Coal Mine Tour is situated at 75 South Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701. It is approximately 0.5km South of the city center. Parking is available on-site in a dedicated lot. Public transport options include Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) bus routes that stop within walking distance of the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

This site was originally the Huber Breaker, a coal processing facility that began operations in 1942. It was later converted into an educational mine tour to preserve and showcase the history of anthracite coal mining in the region, which dates back to the early 19th century. The geological origin is the Appalachian Basin, specifically the Southern Anthracite Field.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors participate in a guided tour that descends 300 feet below the surface via a mine elevator. The tour includes an explanation of mining equipment and techniques. Participants walk through actual mine tunnels and observe coal seams. The duration of the tour is approximately 1 hour.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the visitor center. Limited shaded areas are present at the surface entrance. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally unavailable underground. Food vendors are not present on-site, but are available in the nearby city center.

Best Time to Visit

The tour operates year-round. The temperature inside the mine remains a constant 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius). Mid-morning tours often provide a less crowded experience. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical fact is that the Huber Breaker was one of the last breakers in the region to cease operations, closing in 1976. A common visitor tip is to wear closed-toe shoes and a light jacket, regardless of the outside temperature.

Nearby Landmarks

• 0.8km North: Wyoming Monument
• 1.2km Northwest: F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
• 1.5km West: Susquehanna River
• 2.0km Northeast: Coal Street Park