Founded in 1770, this former coal town along the Susquehanna is an excellent base from which to explore 18 Poconos ski areas and take in live harness racing at Pocono Downs. Minor league hockey fans can watch the Pittsburgh farm team, the Penguins, and baseball buffs can watch the Red Barons at the Lackawanna County Stadium. Beer enthusiasts can visit the century-old Lion Brewery. The arts are an important part of Wilkes-Barre, too: the Sordoni Art Gallery stages historical and contemporary exhibitions and lectures, and the Fine Arts Fiesta presents demonstrations and performances every year. Wilkes-Barre is home to 16 colleges and universities, including a branch of Penn State University.