Even though the region of Lehigh Valley is not a prime tourist spot, but there are a lot of tourist attractions which you would thoroughly enjoy. Whether indoors or outdoors, the Lehigh Valley region won’t disappoint you, and there are a lot of things to do in Lehigh Valley that you won’t find in general travel guides.
That’s why below, I have mentioned and explained 15 hidden gems in Lehigh Valley in detail, which includes five indoors, five outdoors, and five lesser-known restaurants that will help you find your ideal off-the-beaten spot in the region.
Table of Contents
Indoor Hidden Gems in Lehigh Valley
1. Mack Trucks Historical Museum, Allentown
Address: 2402 Lehigh Pkwy S, Allentown, PA 18103
The first must-visit hidden gem in Lehigh Valley is the Mack Trucks Historical Museum, which is in Allentown and has a collection of various vintage and classic trucks on display. If you are an automotive enthusiast, you will surely enjoy visiting this place.
As you go there, you will see a wide range of Mack trucks all around. The place is clean, with each truck cleaner than the other. This collection has different vintage, classic, and modern-day trucks, from military to dump, and Mack transport trucks. The overall collection inside is really impressive.
With each truck, you will see a sign describing its history and purpose. At the same time, there is also going to be a guide who will explain each truck’s purpose and use in even more detail. Along with trucks, there are also different memorabilia related to the Mack trucks. Overall, it will be a one of a kind experience where you will not only learn about the history of Mack trucks but will also see them.
Read More: 15 Underrated Tourist Spots in Minneapolis Including Restaurants
2. National Museum of Industrial History, Bethlehem
Address: 602 E 2nd St, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Housed in a 1913 Bethlehem Steel facility, the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem provides excellent history about the rise of industries in the US.
Inside the museum, you will see massive machinery used in industries like steelmaking, textiles, printing, welding, steam engines, iron and steel production artifacts, etc. Not only the giant, but you will also see different small-size equipment and artifacts related to the industries.
Along with that, you will specifically get to know more about Bethlehem Steel in more detail. You will get to know about how different industries have evolved over time with the help of various posters and photographs. Overall, it’s a fascinating museum with exhibits that every visitor will enjoy visiting.
3. Allentown Art Museum, Allentown
Address: 31 N 5th St, Allentown, PA 18101
With artwork of different forms on display, the Allentown Art Museum in Lehigh Valley also deserves a visit.
The art on display in this museum is extensive, with an overall collection of more than 20,000 objects. The collection has both local and global traditions with art forms like decorative arts, drawing, jewellery, painting, photography, prints, sculptures, and others.
Frank Lloyd Wright Library is also an important part of this museum, where you will see his timeless designs. Regardless of your preference for art, you will spend quality time here. Lastly, head to the gift shop to purchase any souvenir and cafe to have a light meal before leaving.
Similar Read: 13 Must Visit Hidden Gems in Greenville, NC
4. Sigal Museum, Easton
Address: 342 Northampton St, Easton, PA 18042
For those who like to learn about local history, Sigal Museum in Easton is a must-visit of Lehigh Valley. There are various interesting and exciting exhibits that are both entertaining and educational and ideal for people of all ages.
Exhibits and artifacts include pre-European settlement artifacts, where you will learn about how the early settlers used to live here. You will also see various artifacts related to the industrial revolution, with displays on the textile, slate, and steel industries. Along with that, different artifacts like vintage textiles, statues, household items, farming tools, and military memorabilia also holds great importance.
Lastly, Jane S. Moyer Library is where you’ll find a wide range of books. The museum also has rotating special exhibits which keep changing over time, and you will always see something new there.
5. Lehigh County Heritage Museum, Allentown
Address: 432 Walnut St, Allentown, PA 18102
The last indoor spot on this list is Lehigh County Heritage Museum in Allentown. This museum not only has artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Lehigh Valley but also about the American history.
Inside the museum are six different galleries, each with something unique. Some of the permanent exhibits includes Lenape tools, WWI, WWII, Korean and Vietnam War memorabilia, a bell from Pennsylvanian German folk art, various authentic Native American artifacts, a separate exhibit where visitors got to know about US presidents like Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy etc., the journey of Donald P. Miller (a well-known philanthropist in the Lehigh Valley region), and exhibits about the American history.
Lastly, in the Scott Andrew Trexler II Research Library and Archives, you will see different books, newspapers, social records, photographs, personal and family papers, business documents, and many other valuable artifacts.
Outdoor Hidden Gems in Lehigh Valley
6. Illick’s Mill Park, Bethlehem
Address: 100 Illick’s Mill Rd, Bethlehem, PA 18017
The first outdoor hidden gem in Lehigh Valley is Illick’s Mill Park. This peaceful park in Bethlehem is ideal for the masses whether you want to go picnic with family or just want to spend some time alone in nature.
Upon reaching this park, you will see a fine stonework on the walking trails with historic buildings in the surroundings on the lush green area, making this park look even better. The land area is clean and also has different benches and pavilions for visitors to enjoy the views of the surroundings.
The main highlight of this park is the creek and a small waterfall which is sandwiched between the park, and seeing it flowing peacefully is so refreshing. From kids to adults, this park is a perfect place for all.
7. Saucon Rail Trail, Bethlehem
Address: Bethlehem, PA 18015
Whether you are looking for a place to jog, walk, hike, cycle, or just looking for a naturally gifted place to spend some time, the Saucon Rail Trail in Bethlehem is the most underrated spot for these activities.
This trail stretches over 7.5 miles, is well-maintained, and is easy for everyone. Along the way, you will see scenic views of forests, open fields, and small towns in the surrounding. You will also encounter parks in the middle, which are ideal spots to have some rest. The creeks among the greenery are also something you shouldn’t miss when you are here, as the creek is also considered the main photography spot as well.
8. Scott Park, Easton
Address: 130 Larry Holmes Dr, Easton, PA 18042
Located at a very unique location where two rivers meet, Scott Park in Easton should be a must-visit for those looking for a peaceful place to spend some time outdoors in Lehigh Valley.
The size of this park is fairly average and offers scenic views of Lehigh River and Delaware River. The park’s well-maintained land area is also inviting and ideal for a casual jog and walk in front of the river.
There is also a statue of boxing legend Larry Holmes, and close to the park is the Northampton Street Bridge, in case you would like to view the river from a height. Lastly, there is a small playground in the park, which keeps children busy playing around.
9. Lehigh Parkway Disc Golf Course, Allentown
Address: 1628 Park Dr, Allentown, PA 18103
Although it’s highly unlikely that you haven’t heard about the Lehigh Parkway in Allentown, but the disc golf course is what most people missed while visiting the park, which you should definitely check out.
This golf course is beautiful, and with the Little Lehigh Creek flowing nearby, the overall environment become even more pleasant. Though beginners may find this place moderately challenging, but for the rest, it’s ideal.
The primary highlight of this course is its location and surroundings, which is a 10/10. After golfing, just sit in front of the creek for some rest before leaving to end your visit in an ideal way.
10. Union Terrace Park, Allentown
Address: Allentown, PA 18104
The last underrated outdoor destination in this list is the Union Terrace Park, which is in Allentown. It’s a very peaceful park, and it often remains less crowded.
This park is full of greenery and trees and has a lot of shady areas to sit. In the middle is the Cedar Creek, which made the views of the surroundings even better. Overall, it’s a simple park where you can relax for some time and can walk and jog near the creek.
Hidden Gem Museums in Lehigh Valley
11. Sahara Mediterranean Cuisine, Allentown
Address: 5661 Hamilton Blvd #3, Allentown, PA 18106
The first hidden gem restaurant in Lehigh Valley on this list is the Sahara Mediterranean Cuisine. As the name suggests, you will get authentic Mediterranean food here.
The decor inside is comfortable, with different seating options and a combination of different small lighting on top. On the walls, there are different paintings and art pieces hanging, which also makes the overall environment look cool.
The menu is extensive, with various Greek dishes, which include meatballs, spanakopita, Greek appetizer platter, Greek fries, salad, Greek sandwiches, wraps, chicken kabob, beef kabob, grilled beef, platter, Greek veg platter, baklava, and many other options.
12. Ashley’s Signature Restaurant, Easton
Address: 229 N 11th St, Easton, PA 18042
Ashley’s Signature Restaurant in Easton is also an underrated spot, considering the kind of experience you will get here.
The atmosphere inside the restaurant is so pleasant and attractive. The tree-themed interior with different small lights on it is so satisfying. Different paintings on the wall are also eye-catching here. The seating area is also comfortable, with the option of sitting outdoors as well.
The menu is not the most extensive here, and they offer items like soups, salads, beef tips, lamb lollipops, sandwiches, mac n cheese, falafel, burgers, wings, filet mignon, salmon, pasta, shrimp, crab cake, curry risotto, and some others.
13. Mitzi’s Table, Bethlehem
Address: 3650 Nazareth Pike, Bethlehem, PA 18020
An ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, Mitzi’s Table in Bethlehem also goes unnoticed by the masses. The decor inside is simple but inviting, with blue walls, chairs, and sofas. The seating area, in particular, is very comfortable, with wall lamp lights for each table making it look even better.
On the menu, their main speciality is beignets, which is easily the best item on the menu. Other than that, they also offer pancakes, French toast, egg benedict, egg sandwiches, different sandwiches, burgers, salads, soups, quesadillas, mac n cheese, and some other items.
14. Yiannis Taverna, Bethlehem
Address: 3760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Yiannis Taverna, another Greek restaurant in Lehigh Valley, is in Bethlehem. The most eye-catching thing apart from the food here is the decor.
The modern decor with floor-to-bottom windows and comfortable seating options is so attractive. There are different artwork on the wall, which also looks cool. And not to forget the outdoor seating area which is also ideal for the masses.
On the menu, you are going to have options like calamari, meatballs, swordfish souvlaki, lamb chops, filet mignon, bone-in cowboy ribeye, roasted chicken, mushroom pasta, moussaka, shrimp, royal dorado, European sea bass, salads, roasted items, and many others.
15. U & Tea, Bethlehem
Address: 119 E 3rd St, Bethlehem, PA 18015
The last restaurant on this list is for those who like eating chinese food. U & Tea, which is in Bethlehem, offers authentic Chinese dishes and should be a must-visit.
The ambiance is very simple with not much style and over decor. In the seating area, you’ll see wooden chairs and tables with some paintings on the wall. Overall, the decor is what you’ll find in many local restaurants.
On the menu, you will find options like spicy chicken, shrimp, dumplings, noodles, beef, lamb, wings, fish, different varieties of fried rice, soups, fish, tofu, dessert, and many other options.
FAQs
1. What is special about Lehigh Valley?
Lehigh Valley consists of different cities, which is what makes it special.
2. Is Lehigh Valley a major tourist spot?
No, Lehigh Valley is not a major tourist spot.
3. What is the best time to visit Lehigh Valley?
September to November are among the best times to visit Lehigh Valley.
4. Is Lehigh Valley expensive for tourists?
No, cities in the Lehigh Valley are considered to be affordable compared to other cities in the region.
