Philadelphians Shouldn’t Sleep on this Pennsylvania Getaway this Summer
Photo credit: Colin Coleman Photography
When planning a summer escape from Philly, the usual suspects tend to come up: the Shore, the Poconos, maybe a quick flight somewhere down south. But if you’re looking for a trip that requires less planning and more relaxing, the real answer is just up the Northeast Extension.
From wooded trails in Macungie to concerts at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, the Lehigh Valley is the kind of place where you can experience a little of everything without feeling rushed. You can also tap into the energy building around America 250, whether that’s strolling through the historic locations on the Lehigh County Treasure Trail or joining a guided trip tracing the path of the Declaration of Independence.
Spend a day, turn it into a weekend, or come back more than once—there’s enough variety to make each visit feel different. Here’s how to get started:
Get out
If your idea of a reset starts with fresh air, towns across the Lehigh Valley deliver a variety of trails and parks for all experience levels. The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, locally known as the D&L Trail, spans 165 miles along the Lehigh Canal towpath, making it an easy starting point for walking, running, or biking.
Cool off with a tubing trip down the Delaware River.
Follow it along the river, stop for scenic overlooks, or break for a shaded picnic. If you’re looking to add time on the water, head to Historic Bethlehem River Tours, where you can paddle a 5-mile stretch of the Lehigh River, pass the iconic Steel Stacks, and even swap your kayak for a bike ride back along the D&L Trail.
Because everything is close by, you don’t have to overcommit. A few hours outside can easily turn into a full day or leave you time to explore what’s next.
Browse galleries
Lehigh Valley may have started in steel, but what’s grown alongside its industrial past is a creative scene that’s equal parts gritty and refined.
Spend an afternoon at the Allentown Art Museum, where exhibitions range from historic works to contemporary pieces, including “Revolution Retold,” an exhibit that commemorates American independence.
Faith Ringgold (American, 1930‑2024), “Taxes on us Without our Consent” on display at Allentown Art Museum.
In Easton, the Williams Center for the Arts at Lafayette College highlights the spirit of creativity and cultural expression with a diverse lineup of performances and exhibitions spanning dance, music, theater, and the visual arts.
Break curfew
When the sun goes down, the valley shifts gears. Throughout the summer, outdoor concerts, local performances, and events make it easy to turn a day trip into an overnight stay.
Enjoy live music under the stars at Levitt Pavilion in Bethlehem all summer long. Photo credit: Colin Coleman Photography.
Catch a show at the Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks in Bethlehem, where free outdoor concerts draw a mix of local and national acts. For a larger venue experience, Wind Creek Event Center brings in big-name headliners, while Coca-Cola Park hosts Lehigh Valley IronPigs games and epic summer experiences. This year at the park, Let Freedom Sing and Liberty Ignited feature live music and one of the largest fireworks displays in the state—both part of the America 250 festivities.
Dine out
Any good getaway calls for a few standout meals. Across the region, there’s cuisine for every mood.
Take in downtown Easton’s public art and lively local scene. Photo credit: Henry Hung Photography.
Easton Public Market and the downtown area make an easy starting point for a laid-back lunch, while nearby Bethlehem and Allentown add even more options for post-hike brunch or a relaxed dinner after a full day of exploring.
Craft beer enthusiasts can make stops at one of the many local breweries throughout the region (Bonus: sign up for Ales & Tales on June 6 for a Revolutionary-era bar crawl through Historic Bethlehem).
If beer isn’t your first choice, explore local wineries like Vyncrest in Breinigsville, or one of the area’s unique distilleries like Eight Oaks Farm Distillery, a veteran-owned, sustainability-focused labor of love in New Tripoli.
Stay over
What starts as a quick day trip can easily turn into a weekend away.
Book a stay at Historic Hotel Bethlehem, an iconic spot in the heart of downtown, or a luxurious retreat at the Wilbur Mansion. For pet parents, Glasbern in Fogelsville is a gorgeous, laid-back inn that welcomes four-legged friends, plus the on-site spa makes it easy to take your trip to next-level relaxation.
Cozy accommodations and scenic views make Glasbern the perfect countryside getaway.
So whether it’s a spontaneous day trip or a long weekend out of the city, Lehigh Valley is easy to get to but just far enough away to feel like a true getaway.
To learn more, visit DiscoverLehighValley.com.
This is a paid partnership between Discover Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia Magazine
