Things To Do
in Lehigh
Lehigh Valley in eastern Pennsylvania is anchored by the cities of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, blending industrial heritage with modern arts and food scenes. The region sits along the Lehigh River and farmland, offering brick-lined streets, hillside views, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy a mix of historic sites, museums, and farm-to-table eateries within a short drive of urban amenities.
It's a convenient base for exploring the Delaware River Valley, nearby wineries, and scenic countryside year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic district, taking in the architecture and visiting quaint shops. Don't miss the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum to learn about the area's rich history.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local cuisine before heading to the Allentown Art Museum. Wander through the museum's impressive collection of American art and decorative arts. Once done, take a walk in the adjacent Cedar Beach Park to relax by the pond and enjoy the natural surroundings.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local brewery for a tasting of craft beers made on-site. Pair your drinks with hearty pub fare while enjoying live music or a cozy atmosphere. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the scenic Lehigh River waterfront, appreciating the view and the calmness of the night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a family-friendly diner before making your way to the Lehigh Valley Zoo. Spend the morning exploring the exhibits, including the African and North American animal sections, while learning about wildlife conservation. Participate in interactive experiences where you can feed the animals and engage with zookeepers.
After a morning full of animal encounters, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the zoo's designated areas, surrounded by nature. Continue your exploration of the zoo, taking in the various habitats and educational programs available. Don't forget to visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs to remember your visit.
Wrap up your zoo adventure with dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers a kid-friendly menu. Share stories about your favorite animals and experiences from the day. If time permits, catch an outdoor movie or event happening in the area to end the day on a festive note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-100 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant arts and food scene with strong farm-to-table options
- Compact downtowns in Bethlehem and Allentown with rich industrial heritage
- Easy day trips to riverside trails and nearby wineries
- Seasonal crowds around major events (Musikfest, farmers markets)
- Traffic on peak times along major routes
Places to Visit in Lehigh
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobblestone streets and 18th-century architecture ideal for moody cityscapes and dusk photography.
Industrial revival site with brick smokestacks, festival spaces, and river views.
Architectural details, green spaces, and river views along the historic canal.
Food in Lehigh
Lehigh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soft cream-filled cookie sandwich, a Pennsylvania Dutch classic widely available in bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
A molasses-based pie often found at bakeries and farmers markets.
Freshly baked pretzels found in bakeries and street stands across the valley.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A long-running market in Allentown offering produce, baked goods, and local snacks.
Seasonal local vendors and street foods around Market Square and Main Street.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, a handshake is common; hold doors for others and use courteous language in queues.
Safety
Tipping in Lehigh
Ensure a smooth experience
In dining, 15-20% tip is standard; larger parties may incur service charges. Tips are appreciated for taxi rides and services.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is convenient in markets and smaller eateries; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flowers; occasional rain showers—pack a light jacket.
Warm, sometimes humid days; plan outdoor activities early or late and stay hydrated.
Vibrant foliage across the valley; perfect for photography and scenic drives.
Cold with possible snow; indoor attractions and cafes are cozy options.
Lehigh at Night
Hiking in Lehigh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive nature reserve with diverse trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic overlooks.
Delaware River Valley park with riverfront trails and forested routes.
Lehigh Valley trail system along Little Lehigh Creek with easy-to-moderate trails.
Airports
How to reach Lehigh by plane.
Located near Allentown, about 40-60 minutes from Bethlehem; convenient for domestic flights.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours by road; frequent flights and good connections.
New York City-area hub about 1.5-2.5 hours away by car/train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Lehigh University (Bethlehem) and nearby Lafayette and Penn State extension programs attract students from across the country.
Many families reside in suburban neighborhoods with good schools, parks, and family-friendly attractions.
Healthcare, education, and tech sectors attract young professionals to Allentown and Bethlehem.
A growing community enriching the region with diverse culture, food, and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lehigh Valley IronPigs, AAA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, play in nearby Allentown.
College teams and local leagues; basketball events in university arenas and community centers.
Local clubs and high school teams; community leagues in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lehigh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-forward dishes, ask for plant-based proteins, and check for vegetarian menus.