Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Bethlehem

  • Morning: Start your day at the Bethlehem Visitor Center (505 Main St) to grab a map and get an overview of the city.
  • Breakfast: Head to The Flying Egg (4510 Bath Pike) for a delicious breakfast with a twist.
  • Sightseeing: Walk along Main Street, lined with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to visit Christ Church Bethlehem (75 E. Church St), the oldest continuously operating congregation in Pennsylvania.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite at The Bethlehem Diner (313 W. 4th St), a classic American diner.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Industrial History (505 Seneca St) to learn about the city’s industrial past.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Apollo Grill (85 W. Broad St), offering upscale American cuisine.
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Bethlehem (437 Main St), a historic hotel with elegant rooms.

Day 2: History and Heritage

  • Morning: Visit the Bethlehem Area Public Library (11 W. Church St) to explore its unique architecture and browse the shelves.
  • Sightseeing: Take a guided tour of Historic Bethlehem Museum & Sites (505 Main St), featuring seven historic buildings, including the 1810 Goundie House.
  • Lunch: Head to The Brick (134 N. New St) for gourmet sandwiches and salads.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem (77 Sands Blvd) for some gaming excitement or entertainment options.
  • Dinner: Savor dinner at Mama Nina’s (546 W. 4th St), serving up Italian favorites.
  • Evening: Catch a show or concert at SteelStacks (101 Founders Way), an outdoor amphitheater with great views of the city.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Start your day with a scenic hike at Illick’s Mill Park (1325 Illick’s Mill Rd).
  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at The Wise Bean Coffee & Espresso Bar (634 E. Broad St).
  • Sightseeing: Visit the Lehigh River Heritage Trail, a 12-mile trail suitable for walking, jogging, or biking.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at Monocacy Creek Park (1581 Illick’s Mill Rd).
  • Afternoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Wilderness Adventures (1325 Illick’s Mill Rd) and explore the Lehigh River.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Farmhouse Restaurant & Bar (1449 W. 4th St), featuring farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 4: Arts and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Banana Factory (25 W. 3rd St), a former banana distribution plant turned arts center.
  • Sightseeing: Explore the SouthSide Arts District, featuring galleries, studios, and street art.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at The La Lupita Cafe (444 E. 4th St), serving Mexican cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Attend a performance or exhibit at the Zoellner Arts Center (420 E. Packer Ave).
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Bistro 903 (903 W. 4th St), offering French-inspired cuisine.

Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping at The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley (5522 Promenade Shops Blvd), an outdoor lifestyle center.
  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at The Coffee Spot (5524 Promenade Shops Blvd).
  • Relaxation: Treat yourself to a spa day at The Spa at SteelStacks (101 Founders Way) or take a leisurely stroll along the Lehigh River.
  • Lunch: Head back to downtown Bethlehem for lunch and exploration.

Things to Know

  • Transportation: Use the LANTA bus system or call a taxi/ride-sharing service. Parking is available throughout the city, but be mindful of time limits and fees.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the Lehigh Valley can experience sudden changes in temperature and precipitation.
    • Take advantage of the city’s many free parking options on Sundays.
    • Explore the city’s numerous festivals and events, which take place throughout the year.

Other Things of Interest

  • Lehigh University: Take a stroll through the beautiful campus, featuring historic buildings and scenic views.
  • Burnside Plantation: Visit this 6.5-acre farmstead, offering tours and demonstrations of farming practices from the 18th century.
  • Martin Guitar Factory Tour: Get an inside look at the famous guitar manufacturer’s facility (510 Sycamore St).