Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Bethlehem’s History and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 am - 10:00 am: Start the day with breakfast at The Farmhouse Restaurant, a cozy farm-to-table eatery serving delicious omelets, pancakes, and more.
  • 10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Visit the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH), located in a restored 19th-century steel mill. Explore exhibits on American industrial history, including steelmaking, railroads, and more.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Head to Historic Downtown Bethlehem, where you can stroll along the charming Main Street, lined with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Visit the Bethlehem Area Public Library, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Explore the library’s impressive collection, including rare books and local history archives.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at The Apollo Grill, serving contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
  • 9:00 pm - 11:00 pm: Catch a show or concert at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center, a popular venue hosting various performances throughout the year.

Accommodation Suggestion

  • Hyatt Place Bethlehem: A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a free breakfast buffet.

Transportation

  • Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is approximately 15 minutes from Bethlehem.
  • Public transportation options include the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) bus system.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Things to Know

  • Bethlehem is known as the “Christmas City” due to its rich history of Christmas celebrations, dating back to 1741.
  • The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including Musikfest, Christkindlmarkt, and more.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Local Flavors

Morning

  • 9:00 am - 10:30 am: Begin the day with a scenic hike at Lehigh Parkway, offering trails for all skill levels and stunning views of the Lehigh River.
  • 11:00 am - 12:30 pm: Visit the Illick’s Mill, a historic gristmill turned restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch options.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm: Take a guided tour at the Burnside Plantation, a beautiful 6.5-acre farmstead featuring gardens, orchards, and walking trails.
  • 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Explore the Bethlehem Brew Works, a local brewery offering tours, tastings, and a restaurant serving pub-style fare.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at The Brick, a contemporary American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • 10:00 pm: End the evening with a relaxing stroll along the Lehigh River Heritage Trail, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Be sure to check the schedules and availability for each attraction, as they may change seasonally.
  • Consider purchasing a Discover Lehigh Valley Pass, which grants access to various attractions at a discounted rate.
  • Don’t miss the Bethlehem Christmas Market, held annually in December, featuring handmade crafts, food vendors, and more.