Expert Connection
Scranton

South Side, Scranton Neighborhood

South Scranton / South Side is a charming community distinguished by a selection of single detached homes and duplexes, offering diverse unit sizes from lofts to larger residences. The neighborhood features an inviting ambiance characterized by quiet streets and several nearby public green spaces, perfect for moments of relaxation. Grocery stores and various dining establishments offer convenient access to daily necessities and dining options, making errands simple to complete. Educational institutions including both public and private schools are easily accessible within the area. Although bicycling infrastructure is limited due to the terrain, the community maintains a peaceful environment that provides a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

Home buyers who prefer a relaxed ambience will enjoy South Scranton / South Side. Green spaces are very well-located and there are a few of them nearby for residents to check out, which makes them easy to get to. This area is reasonably quiet overall, as there tend to be low levels of noise from traffic - although there are still several louder sections, especially closer to I-81 or one of the railway lines.

Highlights of South Side

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 South Side Sports Complex

Located along Eagle Lane, this expansive public park and recreational facility is a magnet for local families and sports enthusiasts, featuring baseball and soccer fields, a walking track, and playgrounds amid a pleasant tree-lined setting.

🏫 John F. Kennedy Elementary School

Situated on Prospect Avenue, JFK Elementary offers neighborhood children a close-knit educational environment and serves as a hub for various South Side community events and activities throughout the year.

🍽️ Birney Avenue Restaurant Row

Birney Avenue is famed locally for its diverse array of eateries and longtime favorites, from homestyle diners to pizza shops, making it a must-visit strip for anyone seeking authentic neighborhood flavors.

🛒 South Side Shopping Center

Centrally located on River Street, this convenient shopping plaza provides residents with access to groceries, pharmacy needs, and essential services including a Giant Market and other retailers serving the local community.

🚴 Lackawanna Heritage Trail South Side Access

Starting near Elm Street, the South Side entrance to the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail invites walkers, runners, and cyclists to explore scenic river views and connect to miles of regional greenway stretching beyond the neighborhood.

A Scranton Neighborhood

This June in South Side

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

June 6–7, 2026

Arts on Fire Festival

Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum & Iron Furnaces, Scranton • Saturday 11:00 AM–Sunday 5:00 PM

A two‑day free festival featuring hands‑on art activities, a craft market, live music, iron pour and youth art showcase—great for families and locals interested in community heritage and creative fun right in Scranton’s South Side area.

June 12–14, 2026

The Music Man (Broadway Theatre League of NEPA)

Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple • Fri 7:30 PM, Sat 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM, Sun 1:00 PM

A beloved classic musical that promises toe‑tapping tunes and family‑friendly entertainment, perfect for South Side residents looking for high‑quality theater within Scranton.

June 26, 2026

Another Day Dawns Concert

The Ritz Theater, Scranton • 7:00 PM–11:00 PM

Local alt‑rock favorites return for an energetic hometown show—ideal for music lovers in South Side looking for lively nightlife without traveling far.

June 15–30, 2026

Big Boy Reunion

Steamtown National Historic Site, Scranton • Daily 9:00 AM–3:00 PM (timed entries)

Historic event showing two iconic Big Boy steam locomotives side‑by‑side during America250—an exciting and educational outing for families and rail history fans in the Scranton area.

June 19, 2026

Juneteenth Open House

Black Scranton Project Center for Arts & Culture, 1902 N. Main Ave., Scranton • 2:00 PM–6:00 PM

A free celebration of Juneteenth featuring music, snacks and community memory—ideal for South Side residents interested in culture, history, and local community connections.

June 28–30, 2026

Jewish Food Fest

Nay Aug Park, Scranton • Daily 11:30 AM–6:30 PM (with special events Mon & Tue evenings)

Open‑to‑all festival of Jewish cuisine, including pony rides, petting zoo and live music during evening “Sunset at the Fest” and “Kids’ Fest”—a delicious and family‑friendly outdoor outing close to South Side.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in South Side

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for South Side

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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