Things to do in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- The city was founded on Christmas Eve in 1741 by Moravian settlers, which is the source of its name.
- Bethlehem became known as 'Christmas City, USA' after the local Chamber of Commerce officially adopted the title in 1937.
- For decades, the city's skyline was dominated by the Bethlehem Steel plant, which once provided the structural steel for major landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and the Chrysler Building.
- The city maintains a unique 'Colonial Industrial Quarter' that represents one of the most significant 18th-century industrial complexes in the United States.
- Bethlehem hosted the first recorded performance of Bach's Mass in B Minor in the United States in 1900.
About Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem is a city defined by its deep industrial history and 18th-century Moravian roots, situated along the Lehigh River in Pennsylvania. Visitors can trace this heritage at the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem - 1741 Gemeinhaus, which preserves the life of the city's early settlers. The city transforms annually during Musikfest, one of the largest free music festivals in the United States. Beyond its urban core, residents and travelers utilize outdoor spaces like Monocacy Park for recreation. Its unique preservation of both the colonial period and the Steel Age sets it apart from other regional hubs.
Highlights of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Parks
This sprawling park offers extensive trails and a dedicated dog park along the Monocacy Creek.
Parks
Visitors can explore the historic mill structure and enjoy the surrounding forested walking paths.
Venues
This professional venue hosts high-quality theatrical performances and musical concerts throughout the year.
Venues
The city shuts down streets for this massive multi-day musical festival featuring hundreds of artists.
Historical places
This 18th-century farmstead provides a look into the agricultural life of early Moravian settlers.
Venues
Known for original and experimental works, this theater is a hub for community-engaged performance art.
Museums
Tour the oldest building in the city to understand the daily lives and faith of the founding Moravian community.
Historical places
This site features preserved natural trails and historical buildings situated along the Monocacy Creek.
Top things to do in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
The 96 highest-rated places in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, ranked by travellers.
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Amusement parks
Crayola Experience in Easton is the original flagship interactive attraction dedicated to the science and art of crayon...
2
Parks
Nockamixon State Park is anchored by the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon, which serves as a major hub for boating and fishing...
3
Parks
Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark is Pennsylvania's largest outdoor waterpark, situated within the Pocono Mountains at the Ca...
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Parks
Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark is a 125,000-square-foot facility located within the Camelback Resort complex in Tannersville...
5
Amusement parks
Land of Make Believe is a family-oriented amusement park located in Hope, New Jersey, specifically designed for children...
6
Parks
Big Pocono State Park occupies 1,306 acres on the summit and slopes of Camelback Mountain. It offers panoramic views ext...
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Parks
Ringing Rocks County Park is a 128-acre park famous for a seven-acre boulder field composed of igneous rocks that emit a...
8
Parks
Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center is a 1,168-acre state park focused on the ecological and industrial history of...
9
Amusement parks
Mountain Adventures is a seasonal outdoor recreation park situated within the Camelback Resort complex in the Pocono Mou...
10
Zoos
Pocono Snake & Animal Farm is a family-owned roadside attraction that has operated in East Stroudsburg since 1957. The f...
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Venues
The State Theatre Center for the Arts is a historic non-profit venue located in downtown Easton, Pennsylvania, housed in...
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Parks
Delaware Canal State Park preserves a 60-mile-long historic towpath corridor stretching between Easton and Bristol, Penn...
13
Parks
Monocacy Park is a 138-acre municipal green space in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, centered around the Monocacy Creek watersh...
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Parks
Worthington State Forest is a 7,000-acre protected area located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area i...
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Parks
Jenny Jump State Forest is located on a ridge in Warren County, New Jersey, reaching elevations of approximately 1,100 f...
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Places of interest
Delaware River Railroad Excursions operates historic scenic train rides along the Delaware River departing from Phillips...
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Parks
Illick's Mill Park is a 10-acre municipal park located along the Monocacy Creek in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The site is...
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Parks
Riverside Park is located at the confluence of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers in downtown Easton, Pennsylvania. The park...
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Parks
Louise Moore County Park is a 122-acre recreational facility in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, featuring a diverse la...
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Venues
Zoellner Arts Center is the primary performing arts facility for Lehigh University, situated on its Asa Packer Campus in...
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Parks
Dansbury Park is a community recreation hub in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, managed by the Stroud Region Open Space a...
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Parks
Quakertown Memorial Park serves as the primary community recreation hub in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, spanning significan...
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Parks
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Venues
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Museums
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Parks
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Parks
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Parks
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Natural attractions
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Historical places
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Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on the map
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Plan your visit to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
August, when the city hosts the extensive Musikfest, or December for the unique holiday-themed events and light displays.
2-3 days to explore the historic district, steel stacks, and local park systems.
The historic district is highly walkable, but a car is typically necessary to access regional parks and surrounding areas.
Stay in the Historic District near Main Street for proximity to museums and dining, or choose the South Side for a more industrial-chic atmosphere near the arts venues.
Mid-range; lodging and dining prices are moderate compared to nearby major metropolitan areas.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 96 curated attractions in and around Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, ranked by traveller ratings.
Crayola Experience is the highest-rated place to visit in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania right now.
The largest category is parks, with 36 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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