From Wikitravel

Bethlehem is a city in Pennsylvania. Originally settled by a small group of Moravians in the late 1700's, the town thrived as a center of trade. As the industrial revolution began, it once again took center stage as the home of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. With the demise of the steel industry in the region, Bethlehem is undergoing a cultural and economic revival while maintaining its historic roots. It is home to multiple music and cultural festivals.

In the near future, Bethlehem along with the Sands corporation will be opening a gaming facilitiy on the grounds of the old steel mills. This will also bring hotels and high-end shops to the area. The Sands Bethworks is expected to add to the city's existing attractions like Musikfest with a brand new Event Center. Information about the Bethworks project can be found at http://sandsbethworks.com/

[edit] Get in

The Lehigh Valley International Airport is not far from the main attractions of Bethlehem and provides travel to and from a wide array of destinations. http://www.lvia.org/

[edit] Get Around

[edit] Bus Service

The LANTA Metro system provides affordable transportation in Bethlehem and surrounding cities of Allentown and Easton. During Musikfest, schedules are updated to accommodate the festival. LANTA provides a Metro Plus service for those who are unable to ride the regular Metro due to disability or requirement of special attention. Schedules are available at https://lantabus-pa.gov/

[edit][add listing] Do

[edit] Musikfest

Musikfest is an annual music festival held the first full week of August. It is held in the historic district of Bethlehem. During Musikfest, the population of Bethlehem grows to more than twice its size. Performers in past years have included The Beach Boys, George Clinton, Air Supply, Fuel, Staind, The Dixie Chicks, Alice in Chains, Alice Cooper, and a wide variety of others. In addition to mainstream performers, a wide variety of local musicians and traveling groups perform at smaller stages throughout the festival. Musikfest does not require payment for admission and only charges for headliner acts. A large number of artists and food vendors adorn the streets of Bethlehem during the festival. Information about this year's Musikfest can be found at: http://www.musikfest.org

[edit] Celtic Classic

Celtic Classic (aka Celtic Fest) is an annual festival in Bethlehem celebrating Celtic heritage. The festival is host to the U.S. National Highland Games and provides an environment filled with a wide variety of traditional elements. Included are traditional musicians, food vendors, clothing vendors, artists, and more. More information about Celtic Classic can be found at http://www.celticfest.org

[edit] SouthSide Film Festival

The SouthSide Film Festival started in 2004. Films of all genres are accepted from any type of filmmaker. The festival will take place again in June of 2008. Ticketing and submission information can be found at http://www.ssff.org/

[edit] Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp

The Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp is located at Lehigh University in South Bethlehem from July through August. Spectators can watch the Eagles practice and meet players on special autograph days. More information about the training camp can be found at the Philadelphia Eagle's official website: http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/TrainingCamp.html

[edit][add listing] See

[edit] The Star of Bethlehem

At night, a large star lights up Bethlehem's south mountain. Known as "The Star of Bethlehem", this attraction is visible throughout the city. During the Easter season, the star's lighting is moderated to form the shape of a cross.

[edit] The Christmas City

Bethlehem is known as the Christmas City for more than just its name. During the holiday season in December, the city is decorated in extravagant lights. The city's utility poles are adorned with small Christmas trees and lights. Downtown Bethlehem and the surrounding area is a sight to be seen as the streets are brightened with an impressive display of lighting arrangements. Many tourists travel to see the display.

[edit] First Friday

On the first Friday of every month, an art show is held at the Banana Factory on the south side of Bethlehem. Local artists put their work on display. Admission is free.

[edit] Stabler Arena

Located on Lehigh University's campus, Stabler Arena is a great place for concerts and other events. The Dalai Llama is scheduled to perform a five day lecture there this summer.

[edit][add listing] Eat

[edit] Downtown Bethlehem

Downtown Bethlehem is home to a number of local favorites. Fans of Bethlehem's historic setting should visit The Main Street Depot and The Hotel Bethlehem. The Main Street Depot, a converted train station located along the Lehigh River in the heart of Musikfest, offers exquisite fine dining in a cozy historic environment. The Hotel Bethlehem is a landmark of Bethlehem and is difficult to miss. Those seeking a hip and modern location should visit the Apollo Grill and the Edge, located along Broad Street in downtown Bethlehem. Fans of microbrewing visiting the downtown area should check out The Bethlehem Brew Works, which offers a variety of locally brewed beers. Hotel Bethlehem. All of these places are located in the downtown area just minutes from the Moravian College Campus. If you're headed to the South Side of Bethlehem, Starters Riverport is also a great place to eat, and drink, and bring the kids. This facility has an arcade and more TVs in the dining room and bar than any build in the Lehigh Valley. The Bethlehem Brew Works is not too far away, located on 4th Street.

[edit] Local Favorites

Bethlehem is home to a variety of Italian restaurants and pizzerias. These include: Martelucci's Pizza, Victory Pizza, and Lehigh Pizza. Another local favorite is "The Cup" aka "The Bethlehem Dairy Store located along Linden Street. It's the best home made ice cream that you'll find. Pot's Hot Dogs and Yocco's Hot Dogs are also local favorites in Bethlehem and its surrounding areas.

[edit][add listing] Drink

McGradys Pub located on Lehigh Universitys campus is a hot spot for college students to grab a few drinks. Other popular bars include Starter's Sports Bar and Grille, The Bethlehem Brew Works, Machs Gute, and Beer Belly's.

Located just off Main Street is Potts' Hot Dogs, and Nicks Pizza. New Street has the best Pizza in town, at Nicks Pizza.

Your Welcome Inn is the local metal/scene/dive bar.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

A number of hotels are located on airport road and the immediate areas surrounding it. These are located near the airport. Bethlehem is also home to some very pleasant bed and breakfast locations.

Hotel Bethlehem is an historical hotel with fine dining and upscale suites.

Comfort Suites lies on south side Bethlehem, on 3rd Street close to the 378 Hill to Hill bridge.

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