Added: 12/28/2005 |
Places To Visit In Bethlehem, PennsylvaniaOnce known mainly for its steel production, the new Bethlehem, PA has much more to offer. Not only can you visit what used to be the second largest steel producer in the country, you can also enjoy historic sites, the Bach Choir and of course, a wide variety of Christmas related activities in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Because Bethlehem takes its name from the birth place of Jesus, it has become a hot spot for those looking to capture the Christmas spirit. In kind, the residents of Bethlehem have embraced their own holiday spirit in creating exhibits and festivals for people from all over the world.
The Moravians settled in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in 1741. Therefore, the town has many historic sites that are fun to visit. You can visit the Burnside Plantation, a 6.5 acre farm that shows how the Moravians lived in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania from 1748 to 1848. For children, the HistoryWorks! gallery makes a great day trip. This hands-on museum lets children grind corn in a quern, hammer out nails, and even dress up in colonial garb. For the adults, there's the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts. In addition to galleries and period rooms containing paintings, antique toys and furniture and china, the museum is also home to a beautiful Victorian garden. When it comes to museums in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Kemerer is a must-see.
The internationally renowned Bach Choir also makes its home in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Each May, the choir performs in the Bethlehem Bach Festival. The choir consists not only of a full orchestra, but also a vocal ensemble and world famous soloists. Their repertoire includes 15 of the larger Bach pieces, 133 cantatas and all of Bach's motets.
Perhaps the most popular attractions and events in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania are those related to Christmas. One of the most popular events is the Bethlehem by Night Tour. The town is lit with candles and lights and this bus tour takes visitors throughout the town to see the various displays. The highlight of the tour is the view of the Lehigh Valley from the top of South Mountain and the opportunity to see the Star of Bethlehem.
Another popular holiday season event in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is Luminaria Night. On Luminaria Night, neighborhoods throughout the town purchase luminaries and light them all throughout the streets. Over 800 homes participate, with an estimated 10,000 luminaries being lit yearly.
Bethlehem also plays home to Christkindlmarkt, a Christmas craft and art market that was modeled after the famous open-air markets held throughout Germany during the holiday season. Christkindlmarkt features over 75 artists from across the country, as well as a variety of foods, children's activities, holiday music - and of course a visit from Santa Claus. While visiting Christkindlmarkt, visitors can also take advantage of the horse and carriage rides offered during the holiday season in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The 20-minute old fashioned horse and buggy ride takes you through historic downtown Bethlehem, where you can enjoy the festive decorations and atmosphere.
While visiting Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, many people fall in love with the wonderful small town atmosphere. Fortunately in terms of real estate, Bethlehem, PA still has a lot to offer. In addition to the quaint town houses of downtown, there are many affordable places to live in the surrounding area. Best of all, the amenities offered in the Lehigh Valley are second to none, even as compared to more metropolitan areas.
If you're looking for some place to visit this Christmas season, think first of Bethlehem. They take their connection to the birthplace of Jesus seriously, and the Christmas spirit abounds.
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