Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 5 Day Itinerary

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Bethlehem & Moravian History

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Zinke’s Bakery and Deli, a local favorite offering homemade pastries and sandwiches.
  • Visit the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem to learn about the town’s rich history and the impact of the Moravians, who founded Bethlehem in 1741.
  • Walk along Main Street, admiring its unique shops, galleries, and historic architecture. Don’t miss the Bethlehem City Hall and Goundie House.
  • Lunch: Savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine at Vintage Grille & Wine Bar, featuring local wines and a variety of dishes.
  • Afternoon: Explore Hanover Hall and the Moravian Book Shop, America’s oldest bookstore.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bethlehem Brew Works, featuring handcrafted beers and American pub fare.

Day 2: Arts & Culture

  • Morning: Begin with breakfast at Blue Ridge Coffee Roasters, offering a variety of coffee blends and pastries.
  • Visit the Baum School of Art and explore the current exhibitions.
  • Head to the Bethlehem Area Public Library for a glimpse into local literature and history.
  • Lunch: Try authentic Mexican cuisine at El Rincon de Maria.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Bachmann Killian House & Farm Museum, showcasing 19th-century rural life. Then, visit SteelStacks to see the historic blast furnaces and check out any performances or events.
  • Evening: Dine at Apollo Grill, known for its creative American cuisine and extensive wine list.

Day 3: Outdoor Activities & Nature

  • Morning: Fuel up with breakfast at Baker’s Kitchen, offering a variety of breakfast options.
  • Visit the Sun Inn National Historic Site, an 18th-century inn and tavern.
  • Spend the afternoon at Hugh Moore Park, home to the DaVinci Science Center and the Lehigh Canal Museum. Take a boat tour on the Lehigh Canal.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at the Sun Inn Courtyard Café.
  • Afternoon: Explore the 500-acre Bushkill Park, with attractions like a carousel, train ride, and mini-golf.
  • Evening: Dine at Sabbia Ristorante Italiano, featuring authentic Italian cuisine.

Day 4: Lehigh University & SouthSide Bethlehem

  • Morning: Start with breakfast at The Bay, offering a variety of breakfast dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Visit the Asa Packer Campus of Lehigh University and check out the beautiful campus architecture, including Taylor Hall and Linderman Library.
  • Head to the Moravian College Historic District and explore the campus’s historic buildings, including Main Hall and Reeves Memorial Chapel.
  • Lunch: Try Asian fusion cuisine at Taqueria La Placita.
  • Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring SouthSide Bethlehem, known for its vibrant arts scene, unique shops, and street art. Don’t miss the SouthSide Arts District and Godfrey Daniels, a nonprofit arts center featuring live music and events.
  • Evening: Dine at The Social Still for craft cocktails, small plates, and a speakeasy atmosphere.

Day 5: Shopping & Departure

  • Morning: Begin with breakfast at your preferred spot from the previous days.
  • Spend the morning exploring Bethlehem’s unique shops along Main Street, SouthSide Bethlehem, and the West End Historic District. Don’t miss the Bethlehem Farmers Market (Saturdays).
  • Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Fork & Cooper, featuring modern American cuisine with global influences.
  • Afternoon: Take some time to relax and soak up the atmosphere before departing. If you have time, visit the Bethlehem Rose Garden or take a stroll along the D&L Trail.

Transportation:

  • Parking is available throughout downtown Bethlehem, but be sure to read parking signs carefully as some areas require meters or permits.
  • The City of Bethlehem provides free parking on Sundays in city-owned lots and on-street spaces.
  • The Bethlehem Area Transit (BAT) offers public transportation throughout the city, with routes connecting popular destinations like Moravian College, Lehigh University, and downtown Bethlehem.

Tips:

  • Many attractions offer discounted admission for students, seniors, and members of the military. Be sure to ask when purchasing tickets.
  • The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including Christmas markets during the holiday season, Musikfest in August, and the Bethlehem Food & Wine Fest in September. Check the city’s event calendar for upcoming events.
  • For more information, visit DiscoverLehighValley.com or contact the Bethlehem Visitors Center.

Enjoy your trip to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania!