A Journey Through the History, Creativity & Culture of Bethlehem, PA
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is a captivating city where history and modernity meet. Explore the charming streets lined with historic buildings, once the heart of the nation’s steel industry. You’ll find a vibrant arts scene, with world-class performances and inspiring galleries, along with a diverse culinary journey, from authentic Pennsylvania Dutch fare to international flavors. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Bethlehem Steel Stacks, enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Lehigh River, or attending a Lehigh University football game, Bethlehem offers unforgettable experiences. Let’s uncover the best of what this charming city has to offer in Storage Sense’s guide to Bethlehem, PA.
Table of Contents
II. The Holiday Season in Christmas City
IV. Dining & Outdoor Attractions
A Glimpse into Bethlehem’s Steel History
Population: 76,555
Median Home Value: $220,300
Median Rent: 1,218
Bethlehem’s rich history is deeply rooted in the steel industry. Once home to Bethlehem Steel, one of the largest steel-producing and shipbuilding companies in the world, from producing rails for the nation’s growing railroads to constructing iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. Bethlehem Steel’s impact was immense.
The SteelStacks, located on the former industrial site, now offer a dynamic mix of shopping, entertainment, and dining options. The remnants of Bethlehem Steel now host Musikfest, celebrated as the world’s largest non-gated, free outdoor music festival. Musikfest is a multi-day summer extravaganza with hundreds of free and paid performances spanning various genres, from rock to classical. This iconic festival attracts crowds from far and wide.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem by Discover Lehigh Valley lic
Holiday Season in Historic Downtown Bethlehem
The holiday season is a magical time to visit Bethlehem, known as “Christmas City USA.” The city’s festive spirit comes alive with the Christkindlmarkt, a German-style Christmas market featuring one-of-a-kind gifts, crafts, and holiday treats. Don’t miss the enchanting Christmas Huts, brimming with handcrafted treasures from local artisans. Beyond the markets, Bethlehem offers a variety of holiday-themed events:
- Live Advent Calendar: Experience a daily countdown to Christmas with the Live Advent Calendar, featuring different festive performances and activities throughout the city.
- Carriage Rides: Enjoy a romantic or family-friendly carriage ride through the city’s historic district.
- Live Music and Performances: Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season with carolers, orchestras, and other musical performances.
Experience the magic of the season in this enchanting city.
Fun Fact: Bethlehem is home to Just Born Quality Confections, the maker of iconic candies such as Peeps, Mike and Ike, and Peanut Chews. The city celebrates this sweet heritage with PEEPSFEST, a New Year’s Eve festival where a giant Peep is dropped to ring in the new year, mimicking the ball drop in Times Square.
Get to Know the Area: Living & Learning in the City
Major Universities in the Region
Bethlehem is also a hub for higher education, hosting two prestigious institutions:
- Lehigh University: Located on the south side of Bethlehem, Lehigh University is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus on the edge of South Mountain.
- Moravian University: Situated near Liberty High School on the north side of the Lehigh River, Moravian College boasts a rich history as the sixth-oldest college in the United States.
Exploring Bethlehem’s Surrounding Neighborhoods
Bethlehem’s surrounding neighborhoods each offer their own unique charm and attractions:
- Hellertown, PA: Just a short drive from Bethlehem, Hellertown offers a quaint, small-town feel with charming shops and eateries.
- Allentown, PA: As one of Pennsylvania’s largest cities, Allentown features a bustling downtown area, diverse dining options, and numerous cultural attractions.
- Middletown, PA: This peaceful suburb provides a quiet escape with beautiful parks and family-friendly activities.
- Freemansburg, PA: Known for its historic canal and scenic views, Freemansburg is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Durham, PA: A rural haven, Durham offers picturesque landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Fountain Hill, PA: Nestled close to Bethlehem, Fountain Hill is a cozy neighborhood with a strong sense of community.
Dining Across Bethlehem
Bethlehem boasts a pretty unique culinary scene, from fine dining to casual eateries. Here are some must-visit spots:
- Apollo Grill: Located in downtown Bethlehem, Apollo Grill is known for its innovative American cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
- Billy’s Downtown Diner: This classic diner offers American comfort food favorites in a nostalgic setting.
- The Bookstore Speakeasy: Step back in time at this Prohibition-era speakeasy offering craft cocktails and live jazz music.
- Fegley’s Brew Works: Another top spot for craft beer enthusiasts, Fegley’s offers a lively atmosphere and a delicious menu.
- Tapas on Main: Indulge in a delightful selection of Spanish tapas, paired with a glass of sangria, in a lively atmosphere.
- Twisted Olive: Savor Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a modern twist, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
- Vegan Treats: A must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, Vegan Treats offers delectable vegan desserts that even non-vegans will love.
Nature & Recreation for Fresh Air Fun
Bethlehem’s natural beauty and outdoor spaces provide endless opportunities for recreation. Sand Island Park, located along the Lehigh River, offers trails for hiking and biking, as well as scenic picnic spots. This park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its serene atmosphere and beautiful views.
For a more tranquil setting, Illick’s Mill Park is a perfect choice. This park features walking trails, a historic mill, and a picturesque creek, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The park’s well-maintained trails are great for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike.
Monocacy Park is another excellent destination for outdoor activities. This park is ideal for family outings, with its dog park, playgrounds, and plenty of open space for picnics. Whether you’re planning a day out with the kids or a quiet afternoon with your furry friend, Monocacy Park offers a variety of amenities to suit your needs.
Crafting Your Perfect Bethlehem, PA, Home with Storage Sense
Moving to the Bethlehem area soon? Storage Sense is here to assist you with any moving or organizational project. Our storage facility on Hellertown Road offers drive-up storage units and vehicle storage spaces in a range of sizes. Staff members can assist you in choosing the right size and amenities for your belongings. Just call or visit our nearby Easton office for assistance. We can provide storage units for Bethlehem, PA, residents and businesses alike. Check out our available storage units online. Then reserve yours today to start organizing your space!
