Bethlehem Pennsylvania 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Bethlehem

  • Morning:

    1. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Blue Bay Diner (20 W Broad St), a classic diner known for its friendly service and delicious pancakes.
    2. Visit the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem (66 W Market St) to learn about the Moravians, the first settlers in Bethlehem, and their impact on the town’s history.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Explore the Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, which includes the 1741 Gemeinhaus, the 1861 Sun Inn, and the 1758 single-room schoolhouse.
    2. Take a stroll through the Bethlehem Green (329 W Broad St), the oldest park in America still in use as such.

  • Evening:

    1. Dine at Vollmecke’s Restaurant & Tavern (5 W Church St) for some German and American fare, or try The Bayou (31 W Broad St) for Creole cuisine.
    2. End your day with a visit to Bethlehem Brew Works (429 S New St), a microbrewery that offers tours, tastings, and a delicious menu.

Day 2: Culture and Nature in Bethlehem

  • Morning:

    1. Have breakfast at Lovin’ Oven Bakery & Cafe (8 E 5th St), offering a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
    2. Visit the Bachmann Public Library (65 W Church St) to see one of the largest collections of children’s books in the world.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Head to the Bethlehem Area Public Library (11 W Broad St) and explore its unique exhibits and resources.
    2. Spend the afternoon at Hugh Moore Park (5801 Shimerville Rd), home to the National Canal Museum, a canal boat ride, and beautiful gardens.

  • Evening:

    1. Dine at Diana’s Seafood Place (45 W Broad St) for fresh seafood or Karben4 (8 Sunnybrook Rd), known for its craft beers and innovative menu.
    2. Catch a show at the Godfrey Daniel Hoops Family Hall (77 E Packer Ave) or the Bethlehem Area Community Theater (350 Quarry Hill Dr).

Day 3: Art, Shopping, and Leisure in Bethlehem

  • Morning:

    1. Start your day with breakfast at Steel & Grain (23 S New St), featuring locally sourced ingredients.
    2. Visit the Bethlehem House Gallery (50 E Market St) to see works by local artists.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Explore the Baum School of Art (510 Linden St) and take a class or workshop if you’re feeling creative.
    2. Spend the afternoon shopping at unique boutiques like Lehigh Valley Wine & Gourmet (31 E 4th St), The Little Apple (6 E 5th St), and Bethlehem Flowers (9 E 5th St).

  • Evening:

    1. Dine at 1741 on the Terrace (2 W Broad St) for fine dining with a view, or try Graffiti (36 S New St) for modern Mediterranean cuisine.
    2. Take a leisurely walk along the D&L Trail, enjoying the scenic views of the Lehigh River and the city lights.

Things to Know:

  1. Parking can be limited in downtown Bethlehem, so consider using parking garages or street meters.
  2. Many attractions offer group discounts, so check their websites before you visit.
  3. The city has a rich Christmas tradition, with the Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) being a must-see during the holiday season.
  4. Bethlehem is known as “Christmas City USA,” and its decorations are up year-round.

Transportation:

  1. Walking is the best way to explore downtown Bethlehem, but you can also use the LVAD Bus System for longer trips.
  2. Rent a bike from Bethlehem Bikes or the D&L Trail Bike Shop to explore the trails.
  3. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available if you prefer not to walk or bike.