Bangor Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bangor, Pennsylvania with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to cultural customs and transportation options.


Introduction to Bangor

Located in the heart of Lehigh Valley in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania, Bangor is a charming town that is perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation. Known for its rich history and natural beauty, Bangor offers a unique mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious local cuisine. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top things to see and do in Bangor, as well as provide tips for getting there and getting around.

List of Places to Visit in Bangor

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Bangor Historical Society and Museum

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Bangor, be sure to visit the Bangor Historical Society and Museum. This small museum features exhibits on the town’s early settlement, as well as its industrial and community heritage.

2. Slate Belt Heritage Center

Located in nearby Pen Argyl, the Slate Belt Heritage Center celebrates the region’s slate industry, which dates back to the mid-1800s. The center features exhibits on slate mining and manufacturing, as well as displays on the local Native American culture.

3. Jacobsburg State Park

Jacobsburg State Park is a great place to learn about the region’s hunting and fishing history. The park features a museum that showcases the tools and techniques used by early Pennsylvania settlers to hunt and fish, as well as displays on the park’s natural history.

Natural Attractions of Bangor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Bangor Fish Hatchery

If you’re interested in fishing, be sure to visit the Bangor Fish Hatchery. The hatchery raises rainbow and brown trout, which are stocked in local streams and rivers. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the hatchery’s operations.

2. Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail runs through nearby Wind Gap, and is a great place to enjoy some hiking or biking. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Bushkill Falls

Located about 30 minutes from Bangor, Bushkill Falls is a great place to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania’s natural scenery. Nicknamed the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” the falls feature a series of eight waterfalls that cascade down into a deep, lush gorge.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bangor

1. Bangor Bike Trail

This 3.3-mile trail runs along the Bangor and Portland Railroad beds and offers stunning views of the Lehigh Valley. The trail is suitable for all skill levels and is open year-round.

2. Lehigh Gap Nature Center Trail

This 10.5-mile trail winds through the Lehigh Gap Nature Center and offers stunning views of the Kittatinny Ridge. The trail is open year-round and is suitable for all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Bangor: Activities and Tours

1. Bangor Farmers’ Market

The Bangor Farmers’ Market is a great place to sample some of the region’s finest local produce. The market runs from May to November and features fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal crafts.

2. Bangor Wine and Chocolate Weekend

If you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway, be sure to check out the Bangor Wine and Chocolate Weekend. This annual event features wine tastings, chocolate pairings, and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bangor

Day Activities
1 Visit Bangor Historical Society and Museum
2 Hike the Bangor Bike Trail
3 Explore Appalachian Trail and Wind Gap
4 Visit Jacobsburg State Park Museum and Bangor Fish Hatchery
5 Scenic drive to Bushkill Falls
6 Check out local shops and boutiques in Bangor
7 Enjoy the Bangor Wine and Chocolate Weekend

Food and Drink Scene of Bangor

Must-Try Dishes

1. Pierogies

A traditional Polish dish, pierogies are dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. You can find delicious pierogies at various restaurants and markets throughout Bangor.

2. Lehigh Valley Apple Pie

Made with locally grown apples, Lehigh Valley apple pie is a delicious dessert that is a must-try for anyone visiting Bangor.

Local Beverages

1. Yuengling Beer

One of America’s oldest breweries, Yuengling beer has been brewed in the region since 1829 and is a great way to experience the local beer scene.

2. Southpaw Winery

Located in nearby Richmond, Southpaw Winery is a small, family-owned winery that produces a variety of award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Bangor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

1. The Sayre Mansion Inn

Located in nearby Bethlehem, the Sayre Mansion Inn is a historic bed and breakfast that offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the Lehigh Valley.

2. The Lafayette Inn

Located in Easton, about 15 minutes from Bangor, the Lafayette Inn is a charming bed and breakfast that features spacious and elegantly furnished rooms and suites.

What to Buy in Bangor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

1. Slate Products

Slate is a major industry in the region and you can find a variety of slate products such as coasters, placemats, and cheese boards in local stores.

2. Pickles

Many local farmers grow and pickle their own vegetables, including cucumbers. You can find delicious pickles at local farmers markets and stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Bangor

Bangor is a small town with a rich history and culture. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to explore the town’s many historic sites and natural attractions.

Best Time to Visit Bangor

The best time to visit Bangor is during the fall, when the leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of red and orange. This is also a great time to sample some of the region’s finest local produce, such as apples and pumpkins.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bangor

Do:

  • Take a scenic drive to Bushkill Falls
  • Visit Jacobsburg State Park Museum and Bangor Fish Hatchery
  • Try some of the locally produced pickles

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage any of the natural attractions
  • Ignore traffic laws when driving or cycling
  • Speak loudly or disrespectfully in public areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Bangor

Overall, Bangor is a safe place to visit. However, visitors should take precautions to protect themselves against theft and should be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Bangor

Bangor has a number of hospitals and medical centers, including St. Luke’s University Health Network and Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Getting to Bangor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bangor

The closest airport to Bangor is Lehigh Valley International Airport, which is located about 20 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Bangor

Greyhound and other major bus lines serve the Allentown Bus Terminal, located approximately 20 miles away from Bangor.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi or ride-sharing service to travel to Bangor.

How to Get Around in Bangor

Visitors can get around Bangor on foot, by bike, by car, or by taxi. There is also a local bus service, known as the LANTA, which operates throughout the Lehigh Valley.

Where to Go Next from Bangor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

1. Bethlehem

Located about 15 miles from Bangor, Bethlehem is a historic town that is known for its charming Main Street, local shops, and restaurants.

2. Easton

Easton is another historic town located about 10 miles from Bangor. There are a number of cultural attractions in Easton, including the Bachmann Publick House and the State Theatre Center for the Arts.

Conclusion

Bangor, Pennsylvania, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique mix of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local cuisine, Bangor has something to offer everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your next visit to this charming town.

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