Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Sunday

Morning

  • Bethlehem Historic District: Start your day by strolling through the charming historic district, exploring its picturesque streets lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
  • Bethlehem Visitor Center: Stop by the visitor center to get an overview of the city’s history, attractions, and events.

Afternoon

  • Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem: Visit the Sands for a taste of Las Vegas in the Lehigh Valley. Try your luck at the slots or table games, or enjoy a meal at one of their many restaurants.
  • Christkindlmarkt: If you’re visiting in November or December, be sure to check out the Christkindlmarkt, a festive holiday market featuring local vendors and entertainment.

Evening

  • The Hotel Bethlehem: Treat yourself to dinner at this historic hotel’s restaurant, which serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Santo Beano’s Restaurant & Bar: End your night with a visit to Santo Beano’s for some delicious Italian food and a lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Monday

Morning

  • Bethlehem Steel National Historic Landmark: Start your day by visiting the historic steel mill, which played a significant role in America’s industrial history.
  • Liberty Bell Museum: Stop by the Liberty Bell Museum to learn about the rich history of the Liberty Bell and its significance in American culture.

Afternoon

  • Lehigh University Campus: Take a stroll through the beautiful campus of Lehigh University, exploring its historic buildings and scenic grounds.
  • Bethlehem Farmers Market: Visit the farmers market on Monday afternoons for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

Evening

  • The Tavern at The Hotel Bethlehem: Enjoy dinner at this upscale restaurant, which serves classic American cuisine with a focus on steaks and seafood.
  • Blu: End your night with a visit to Blu, a trendy bar serving craft cocktails and small plates.

Day 3: Tuesday

Morning

  • Burnside Plantation: Visit Burnside Plantation, a historic farmhouse turned museum that showcases the history of agriculture in America.
  • Society Hill Neighborhood: Explore this charming neighborhood, featuring beautiful homes, parks, and community gardens.

Afternoon

  • Bethlehem Museum: Stop by the Bethlehem Museum to learn about the city’s rich industrial history, art, and culture.
  • Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs Baseball: Catch a minor league baseball game at Coca-Cola Park, home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.

Evening

  • The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley: Treat yourself to dinner and shopping at this upscale outdoor mall, featuring a variety of restaurants and stores.
  • Santo Beano’s Restaurant & Bar (again!): End your night with another visit to Santo Beano’s for some delicious Italian food.

Day 4: Wednesday

Morning

  • South Bethlehem Greenway: Start your day by exploring the South Bethlehem Greenway, a scenic walkway along the Lehigh River featuring public art installations and beautiful views.
  • The Hotel Bethlehem’s Garden: Visit the hotel’s garden for a peaceful spot to relax and take in the surrounding scenery.

Afternoon

  • Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum: Stop by the museum to learn about the region’s rich history, from the earliest Native American inhabitants to modern-day industry and culture.
  • Bethlehem Trolley: Take a ride on the historic trolley, which offers a narrated tour of the city’s attractions.

Evening

  • The Tavern at The Hotel Bethlehem (again!): Treat yourself to dinner one last time at this upscale restaurant, serving classic American cuisine with a focus on steaks and seafood.
  • Blu: End your night with another visit to Blu for some craft cocktails and small plates.

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: The best way to get around Bethlehem is by walking or using public transportation. There are also taxi and ride-sharing services available.
  • Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially during the spring and fall seasons.
  • Hours of Operation: Check the hours of operation for each attraction and restaurant before heading out.

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some local cuisine, such as shoofly pie or whoopie pies!
  • Take a stroll through the historic district, exploring its picturesque streets and charming shops.
  • Visit during peak season (November-December) for the Christkindlmarkt and holiday festivities.

Additional Attractions:

  • The Banana Factory: A former banana storage facility turned art studio, featuring local artists’ work and classes.
  • Bethlehem’s Art Scene: Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and street art installations throughout the city.