Bethlehem Pennsylvania 5 Day Itinerary

Bethlehem, PA: A 5-Day Itinerary

Overview: This charming city nestled in the Lehigh Valley offers a blend of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife. Explore its colonial roots, indulge in delicious food, and discover hidden gems.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Bethlehem experiences four distinct seasons. Pack accordingly.
  • Currency: US Dollar (USD)
  • Language: English

Transportation:

  • Walking: Downtown Bethlehem is very walkable.
  • Lehigh Valley Transportation Authority (LVTA): Offers bus service throughout the area.
  • Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Bethlehem: Historic hotel with elegant rooms and a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
  • The Sayre Mansion: Victorian mansion offering charming bed and breakfast experience.
  • Airbnbs: Numerous options available for all budgets.

Day 1: Historical Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Industrial History, housed in Bethlehem Steel’s former blast furnace, to learn about the city’s industrial heritage.
  • Afternoon: Explore Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, including the Moravian Book Shop (oldest bookstore in America), the Colonial Industrial Quarter, and the 1741 Gemeinhaus.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Apollo Grill for upscale American cuisine or Twisted Olive for Mediterranean flavors.

Day 2: Arts & Culture

  • Morning: Wander through the Bethlehem Public Market, a bustling hub of local vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods.
  • Afternoon: Catch a performance at the SteelStacks, a former Bethlehem Steel site transformed into a vibrant arts and entertainment complex.
  • Evening: Enjoy live music at The Funhouse, a popular local venue, or indulge in craft cocktails at The Bayou.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Hike or bike along the scenic Lehigh Parkway, offering picturesque views of the Lehigh River and surrounding forests.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lost River Caverns, a natural wonder with stunning limestone formations and underground waterfalls.
  • Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar for traditional pub fare and an extensive whiskey selection.

Day 4: Shopping & Relaxation

  • Morning: Browse the unique boutiques and antique shops in Downtown Bethlehem.
  • Afternoon: Relax and rejuvenate with a spa treatment at The Spa at Hotel Bethlehem.
  • Evening: Savor a romantic dinner at Bolete, known for its innovative farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 5: Sweet Treats & Departure

  • Morning: Indulge in delicious pastries and coffee at The Bake Shop on Main, a local favorite.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Bethlehem Candy Company for handcrafted chocolates and nostalgic sweets.
  • Evening: Depart Bethlehem with sweet memories and a desire to return.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Bethlehem Visitors Pass for discounts on attractions and tours.
  • Check local event listings for festivals, concerts, and other happenings during your stay.
  • Don’t forget to try Bethlehem Steel, the city’s famous craft beer.

Enjoy your trip to Bethlehem!