Bethlehem may be known for its Christmas spirit, but we think autumn deserves its time in the spotlight too. Check out these 5 ways to see fall foliage in Lehigh Valley and soak in idyllic scenes and epic experiences. With two picturesque acres featuring century-old trees, a stay at The Sayre Mansion sets the stage for a magnificent fall getaway. Remember to download our free vacation guide chock-full of the best things to see, places to shop and things you need to know.
Canal Boat Ride
Board the Josiah White II for a journey back in time. Located in Hugh Moore Park, this is one of the only remaining mule-drawn canal boat rides in the country. The 45-minute ride along a restored two-mile section of the Lehigh Canal offers scenic views and historical insights. Trees flank both sides of the canal offering lush views in summer and brilliant foliage in the fall. Guides dressed in period clothing share stories of the canal’s heyday during the leisurely tour. The Canal Boat and National Canal Museum are showpieces of the 520-acre Hugh Moore Park, which is located between the Lehigh Canal and the Lehigh River in Easton.
Bike Ride
Pedal along the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. Lehigh Valley is home to 48 of the 165-miles of multi-use trail. Comprising the central region of the system, the trail travels through Lehigh and Northampton Counties. It traverses the Lehigh River and passes through urban areas including Bethlehem, Allentown and Easton. Take in the stunning scenery and enjoy glimpses of the region’s industrial past as you set your own pace.
Car Ride
Take a leisurely drive. There’s no better time than fall to enjoy the Lehigh Valley Covered Bridge Tour. The structures look especially iconic set on a backdrop of fall foliage. The self-guided tour features seven of Pennsylvania’s 200 remaining covered bridges and five remain open to vehicle traffic. Go at your own pace and take advantage of the many photo opportunities on the 50-mile tour.
Walking Tour
Join Historic Bethlehem Museum and Sites for an immersive tour of Bethlehem’s historic district. The Colonial Industrial Quarter takes on a golden glow surrounded by the changing leaves while the Moravian Historic District’s stately brick and stone structures provide Instagram-worthy scenes in autumn. For a tour that really delves into the spirit of the season, try the Cemetery Tour: Death and Dying. A guide in period attire leads the journey through Bethlehem’s oldest cemetery and recounts tales of those buried there.
Train Ride
Climb aboard the Coalbrookdale Railroad for an unforgettable experience. The Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage excursion takes riders on a two-hour round trip through Lehigh Valley’s unspoiled landscapes. For panoramic 360-degree views choose the Secret Valley Explorer Open Car.
Stay Golden
Make The Sayre Mansion the cornerstone of your fall getaway. Following a day out and about to view fall foliage in Lehigh Valley return to accommodations that surround you in warmth and style. Embrace the heritage of a region in a local landmark where you’re the guest of honor. Autumn is fleeting, so make sure to check availability and book your stay today.