The D&L Blog

Post by: Christina Crawford, D&L Guest Blogger

Summer time in Bethlehem, PA is one of my favorite times of the year. No matter what day of the week it is, there seems to always be something happening around town. Whether you are from out of town and visiting Bethlehem for the very first time, when you venture out on the D&L Trail be sure to make Bethlehem Sand Island Trailhead a stop.

I live in downtown Bethlehem and I am sharing some places I have enjoyed this summer. You can find most of these businesses and events along, or easily accessible from the D&L Trail. It’s already July! I urge you to get out and explore this great town along the D&L National Heritage Corridor.

An aerial view of Bethlehem, PA by Cory Crawford.

Bethlehem by the Weekday

Monday – Monday is always a good day of the week to take it easy. It is always nice to relax and enjoy some great food and drinks while dining outside on a warm summer night. If this sounds appealing to you, you should check out The Wooden Match. The best thing is that this restaurant is literally right off the D&L Trail.

Tuesday – Looking for some fresh and local produce? Stop at the Bethlehem Public Library Tuesdays from 4-6 pm, where Bechdolt Orchards is currently selling local produce through October.

Wednesday – In town for the night? Did you bike to Bethlehem and wanted to meet up with a group for a run around town? Each Wednesday night Aardvark Sports Shop departs the store at 6 pm for a group run. Runs typically consist of 3-5 miles. These runs are a great way to meet new people and explore the town! I run weekly with this group so you already know one person!

Thursday – Tunes at Twilight is a free concert series located at the Sun Inn Courtyard. There is always a big crowd of people, so grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants on Main Street. Next, head over to the Sun Inn Courtyard with your lawn chair to enjoy free concerts. Concerts take place every Thursday night from 6- 8 pm. Tunes at Twilight ends July 20. Don’t miss your chance to experience great music and atmosphere in downtown Bethlehem.

A Weekend in Bethlehem

 Friday – The Tavern at the Sun Inn is a great stop for dinner on a Friday night. They have recently opened a new patio for outside dining which is perfect for the summer time. If you like history and food, this is the restaurant for you! George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, just to name a few, were some of the distinguished guests throughout history that resided at the Sun Inn. You can read more about the Sun Inn history here!

Saturday – If you are looking to explore Bethlehem on a Saturday, bike roughly 1.5 miles off the D&L Trail to the Bethlehem Rose Garden Farmers Market. This farmers market is in its second year, and it is open every Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm this summer until mid-October. You can stop for a snack, lunch or simply pick up some local produce to take back with you along the trail!

Bethlehem Rose Garden Farmers’ Market.

Sunday – I chose Sunday for ice cream day. There is nothing better than enjoying a cone of ice cream during the summer. I have a soft spot for ice cream. I could probably eat it every day. Nonetheless, if you are making a stop in Bethlehem, especially after a bike ride or run you definitely deserve a treat! Stop at the Penn State Creamery Ice Cream at the Shoppe at Historic Hotel Bethlehem and enjoy ice cream at its finest. There are lots of great flavors to choose from. I like to combine chocolate and coffee in a waffle cone (shown in photograph).

Penn State Creamery ice cream at Historic Hotel Bethlehem.

Have I Convinced You?

Bethlehem, PA is a wonderful and charming town with so much history. You won’t be disappointed when you visit. By exploring these shops, restaurants, and events you are supporting your local community. Whether you are running, walking, or bicycling this summer, remember to support your town and the many towns along the Corridor!

Happy summer!