South Bethlehem Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near South Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
1. SteelStacks
ARTS & CULTURE CENTER
SteelStacks is a ten-acre campus dedicated to arts, culture, and community events, located in the shadow of the historic blast furnaces of the former Bethlehem Steel plant. The venue hosts concerts, festivals, film screenings, and family-friendly programming year-round, creating a vibrant cultural hub. Its striking industrial backdrop and dynamic calendar make it a must-visit for both history buffs and arts enthusiasts.
2. Hoover Mason Trestle
INDUSTRIAL WALKWAY EXPERIENCE
Hoover Mason Trestle is an elevated linear park built on a former industrial railway, offering panoramic views of Bethlehem's iconic blast furnaces and SteelStacks complex. The walkway features interpretive signage that shares the story of the region's steel-making legacy and the workers who powered it. Visitors enjoy a unique blend of history, industry, and modern urban park design.
3. National Museum of Industrial History
SMITHSONIAN-AFFILIATED MUSEUM
The National Museum of Industrial History showcases more than 200 industrial artifacts housed in a former Bethlehem Steel facility. As a Smithsonian affiliate, the museum offers interactive exhibits and engaging stories about America's manufacturing evolution and local industrial heritage. It's an educational destination for all ages with significant ties to both local and national history.
4. Moravian Museum of Bethlehem
COLONIAL HERITAGE LANDMARK
The Moravian Museum of Bethlehem resides in the 1741 Gemeinhaus, the city's oldest standing building and a National Historic Landmark. The museum offers visitors insight into the lives and history of the Moravian settlers who founded Bethlehem in the 18th century. Exhibits span early religious traditions, daily life, and the city's transformation over the centuries.
5. Christkindlmarkt
SEASONAL HOLIDAY MARKET
Christkindlmarkt is Bethlehem's popular German-inspired Christmas market held annually on the SteelStacks campus. The market brings together unique artisan vendors, festive décor, live music, and delicious foods in a lively holiday atmosphere. It draws crowds from across the region seeking gifts and seasonal cheer in a historical industrial setting.
6. Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites
HERITAGE & ARCHITECTURE TOUR
Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites operates 20 historic buildings and museums within the city, preserving the area's Moravian and colonial history. Highlights include the Single Sisters' House, the 1752 Apothecary, and the 1762 Waterworks, all offering immersive glimpses into 18th-century life. Guided tours provide deep context into Bethlehem's role in American history and architecture.
7. The Outlets at Wind Creek
MODERN SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Outlets at Wind Creek is a contemporary shopping center attached to Wind Creek Bethlehem, offering a range of retail stores and dining experiences. Shoppers can find popular brands, specialty shops, and convenient amenities all under one roof. Its location beside the city's casino and entertainment complex makes it a popular stop for visitors seeking both leisure and retail therapy.
8. Wind Creek Bethlehem
CASINO & ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Wind Creek Bethlehem is a full-service casino and entertainment complex featuring slot machines, table games, live music, and upscale dining. Adjacent to the SteelStacks and shopping outlets, it serves as a major leisure destination in the region. Guests enjoy a blend of excitement, luxury accommodations, and nightlife.
9. Colonial Industrial Quarter
EARLY INDUSTRY DISTRICT
The Colonial Industrial Quarter is the nation's earliest industrial park, containing restored buildings and ruins from Bethlehem's 18th-century past. Visitors can explore original mills, a tannery, and historic workshops set along the Monocacy Creek. Guided and self-guided tours reveal the area's pivotal role in America's colonial economy.
10. Godfrey Daniels
LIVE MUSIC INSTITUTION
Godfrey Daniels has been a beloved listening room and live music venue since 1976, hosting folk, blues, bluegrass, and storytelling performances. Renowned for its intimate setting and community spirit, the venue attracts both legendary acts and rising stars. It remains a cornerstone of Bethlehem's dynamic arts scene.
11. Captured LV Escape Room
INTERACTIVE PUZZLE ADVENTURE
Captured LV Escape Room offers immersive, themed escape experiences for groups, challenging participants to solve puzzles and unlock mysteries within set time limits. Each room provides a unique adventure, suitable for friends, families, or team-building events. It's a fun way to engage with local entertainment beyond traditional attractions.
12. Historic District Shopping
ARTISAN SHOPS & BOUTIQUES
Bethlehem's Historic District features cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, specialty boutiques, and inviting cafes. Shoppers can browse unique handmade goods, vintage finds, and local artwork in a charming colonial setting. The district's walkable layout and architectural beauty make it a favorite for leisurely exploration and shopping.
13. SouthSide Arts District
VIBRANT CULTURAL CORRIDOR
The SouthSide Arts District is an energetic neighborhood bustling with murals, artist studios, independent shops, and eclectic dining. This area showcases Bethlehem's creative spirit, hosting regular events like art crawls and outdoor performances. It's a must-visit for those seeking a blend of culture, shopping, and nightlife.
14. Apollo Grill
AWARD-WINNING DINING
Apollo Grill is a celebrated restaurant in downtown Bethlehem, known for its American fare, inventive appetizers, and stylish atmosphere. The eatery frequently earns accolades for both its cuisine and welcoming service. It's a top choice for visitors seeking a memorable dining experience in the city center.
15. The Bayou Southern Kitchen & Bar
SOUTHERN-INSPIRED CUISINE
The Bayou Southern Kitchen & Bar serves up Southern comfort food with contemporary twists, offering favorites like fried chicken, po' boys, and craft cocktails. Its relaxed, rustic vibe and inventive menu appeal to both locals and visitors. It stands out among Bethlehem's dining options for its bold flavors and lively ambiance.