Lehigh Valley Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania with our ultimate travel guide.
- Introduction to Lehigh Valley
- List of Places to Visit in Lehigh Valley
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lehigh Valley
- Best Things to Do in Lehigh Valley: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lehigh Valley
- Food and Drink Scene in Lehigh Valley
- Where to Stay in Lehigh Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Lehigh Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Lehigh Valley
- Best Time to Visit Lehigh Valley
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lehigh Valley
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lehigh Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lehigh Valley
- Where to Go Next from Lehigh Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Lehigh Valley, located in Pennsylvania’s Philadelphia region, is a charming destination that has something for everyone. Visitors can dive into its rich history, explore its natural beauty, taste local cuisine, and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the must-see sights, best places to eat and stay, transportation options, and more.
Introduction to Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley is a region in eastern Pennsylvania that comprises three counties – Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon. The region is located about 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City.
Steeped in history, the region was founded in the 18th century and was a hub for the steel and manufacturing industry in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, Lehigh Valley is a bustling metropolitan area that offers a glimpse into its rich past while embracing modernity.
List of Places to Visit in Lehigh Valley
Here’s a list of the must-visit places in Lehigh Valley:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- National Museum of Industrial History: A museum dedicated to chronicling America’s industrial heritage. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, vintage machinery, and life-size dioramas.
- Historic Bethlehem: This charming town is a treasure trove of colonial and Victorian-era architecture. Visitors can explore museums, craft studios, and art galleries in this National Historic Landmark District.
- Allentown Art Museum: This museum showcases a diverse collection of American art, including works by Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Edward Hopper.
- Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum: This museum explores the history of Lehigh Valley and features exhibits on the region’s Native American tribes, European settlements, and industrial revolution.
Natural Attractions of Lehigh Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom: An amusement park featuring thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.
- Bear Creek Mountain Resort: This resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing during the winter months. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining.
- Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: A scenic route that takes visitors through the vineyards and wineries of Lehigh Valley. Visitors can sample wines and enjoy scenic views of the countryside.
- Lehigh Valley Zoo: This 29-acre zoo is home to over 200 animals, including African lions, North American river otters, and South American alpacas.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region:
- Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor: This 165-mile trail runs along the Delaware River and Lehigh Canal and offers breathtaking views of the region’s natural beauty.
- South Mountain Preserve: A 468-acre nature reserve with over 10 miles of hiking trails, including a scenic overlook of the Lehigh Valley.
- Trexler Nature Preserve: This 1,100-acre nature reserve features hiking trails, fishing ponds, and a wildlife sanctuary.
- Lehigh Gorge State Park: A stunning state park that offers hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting in the Lehigh River.
Best Things to Do in Lehigh Valley: Activities and Tours
In addition to the above, there are many other activities and tours to indulge in. Here are the best things to do in Lehigh Valley:
- Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride over the rolling hills and countryside of Lehigh Valley for a truly unforgettable experience.
- Dorney Park Halloween Haunt: Experience the thrills and chills of the Halloween season in Dorney Park during the month of October.
- Lehigh Valley Grand Prix: A high-speed go-karting experience that is perfect for adrenaline junkies.
- Easton Farmers’ Market: A vibrant market that offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, local wines, and much more.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lehigh Valley
Here’s an itinerary for making the most of a week in Lehigh Valley:
- Day 1: Explore Historic Bethlehem and the National Museum of Industrial History.
- Day 2: Visit the Allentown Art Museum and the America On Wheels Museum.
- Day 3: Hike South Mountain Preserve and enjoy lunch in downtown Easton.
- Day 4: Go skiing or snowboarding at Bear Creek Mountain Resort or enjoy indoor thrills at Dorney Park.
- Day 5: Visit the Lehigh Valley Zoo or embark on a Lehigh River whitewater rafting adventure.
- Day 6: Drive the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail and sample local vineyards.
- Day 7: Take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic countryside of Lehigh Valley.
Food and Drink Scene in Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley has a flourishing food and drink scene that features diverse cuisines and local specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Diners must try the scrapple, a breakfast specialty made from pork scraps and cornmeal.
- Bethlehem-style pizza, made with a thick, pillowy crust and topped with tomato sauce and cheese.
- Philly-style cheesesteaks, which are a sandwich staple in the region.
Local Beverages
- Local craft breweries, such as Weyerbacher Brewing Company and Funk Brewing Company, offer an array of diverse and flavorful beers.
- Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery is known for its wide variety of wines, including sparkling wines, reds, and whites.
Where to Stay in Lehigh Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Lehigh Valley offers visitors a wide range of accommodations that cater to every budget and preference. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget-friendly motels, and cozy bed & breakfasts. Some of our top recommendations include:
- Hotel Bethlehem: A historic hotel nestled in the heart of downtown Bethlehem.
- Historic Hotel Easton: A charming bed & breakfast located near Easton’s downtown.
- Courtyard Allentown Bethlehem/Lehigh Valley Airport: A cozy and modern hotel located near Lehigh Valley International Airport.
What to Buy in Lehigh Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
From local crafts to locally made wines, there are many souvenirs and products to take home from Lehigh Valley. Here are some of the best:
- Handmade crafts and jewelry from Banana Factory Arts Center in Bethlehem.
- Leather goods and accessories from Lehigh Valley Leather in Northampton.
- Sweet treats from Josh Early Candies, a local chocolatier.
- Locally made wines and other beverages from Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery and other local wineries.
Local Culture and Customs of Lehigh Valley
The people of Lehigh Valley are warm and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to embrace the local customs and traditions. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the region’s cultural heritage and to behave in a courteous and friendly manner.
Best Time to Visit Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley has something to offer visitors throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and fall seasons when the region’s natural beauty is at its peak.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lehigh Valley
Do:
- Explore the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Enjoy the local cuisine and craft beverages.
- Take advantage of the region’s abundant outdoor activities.
Don’t:
- Be disrespectful of the region’s cultural heritage and customs.
- Litter and harm the natural beauty of the region.
- Be rude or aggressive towards locals or other visitors.
Safety and Health
Safety in Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley is a relatively safe region, with low rates of crime. However, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as not walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and locking their doors and windows at night.
Health in Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley has several hospitals and clinics that offer high-quality medical care. Visitors should ensure they have health insurance coverage before visiting the region.
Getting to Lehigh Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
Visitors can get to Lehigh Valley via several modes of transportation.
Airports Near Lehigh Valley
- Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Bus Stations Near Lehigh Valley
- Trans-Bridge Lines: Offers bus services to and from Lehigh Valley to its surrounding areas.
Other Options
- Driving: Visitors can also drive to Lehigh Valley, as it is accessible via the Pennsylvania Turnpike and I-78 highways.
How to Get Around in Lehigh Valley
Visitors can get around Lehigh Valley via several modes of transportation. Local buses, taxis, and rideshare services are available. Driving and cycling are also popular options, especially for those looking to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Where to Go Next from Lehigh Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Lehigh Valley is surrounded by several other charming towns and cities that are worth a visit. Here are some of the best:
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: A historic city located about 60 miles south of Lehigh Valley, known for its iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- New York City, New York: A bustling metropolis located about 90 miles east of Lehigh Valley, known for its museums, cultural landmarks, shopping, and dining.
- Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania: A picturesque town located in the Pocono Mountains, known for its charming Victorian architecture and scenic railways.
Conclusion
Lehigh Valley is a region that offers visitors a wide range of activities, attractions, and natural beauty to explore and enjoy. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its delicious cuisine and outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this charming region.
Lehigh Valley Image Gallery
Main terminal at Allentown#Get in
Interstate 78 eastbound approaching Allentown in the Lehigh Valley
The still standing steel stacks of Bethlehem Steel in Bethlehem (Pennsylvania). Bethlehem Steel was the world's second largest steel manufacturer throughout the 20th century. In 1982, however, the company suspended most of its operations. It declared bankruptcy in 2001 and was dissolved in 2003. It remains one of the most vivid images of America's late 20th century Rust Belt decay.
Allentown Art Museum at 31 N. 5th St. in Center City Allentown
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom's Steel Force and Thunderhawk roller coasters outside Allentown. Steel Force is the eighth tallest steel roller coaster in the world
Coca-Cola Park in East Allentown, home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies
Musikfest, the nation's largest non-gated free music festival, is held annually in August in Bethlehem (Pennsylvania)
PPL Center at 701 Hamilton St. in Allentown, the home arena of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms of the American Hockey League, the primary development team of the Philadelphia Flyers of the National Hockey League.