Attractions and Places To See in Northampton County - Top 20

Northampton County is rich in history. You can explore the significant Moravian heritage at the Historic Moravian Bethlehem Historic District, which includes the Gemeinhaus and the Old Waterworks. The Bethlehem Steel Plant, now known as SteelStacks, offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past. Additionally, the Colonial Industrial Quarter in Bethlehem and the Easton Historic District feature numerous historical buildings. The 9/11 National Memorial Trail also passes through the area, serving as a tribute.

For nature lovers, Jacobsburg State Park and the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center offer scenic trails through forests and along Bushkill Creek. The Graver Arboretum provides serene trails through diverse plant collections. You can also visit Delaware Canal State Park for waterfront views where the Delaware and Lehigh rivers meet, or explore the Minsi Lake Corridor Greenway for hiking and fishing.

Yes, many attractions in Northampton County are suitable for families. Parks like Jacobsburg State Park, Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, Louise W. Moore Park, and Graver Arboretum offer trails and natural spaces for all ages. The Saucon Rail Trail and Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer are also great for family walks or bike rides.

For stunning views, head to Saint Anthony's Nose, which offers lush vistas overlooking the Delaware River. Other notable spots include Frost Hollow Overlook and various points along the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.

Northampton County offers several excellent cycling trails. The Saucon Rail Trail is a 7.5-mile paved path, and the Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer is a flat, mostly paved rail trail. The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor also provides scenic routes along the Lehigh River. For more cycling options, you can explore routes like the D&L Trail: Bethlehem-Easton Loop or the Paulinskill Valley and Delaware Water Gap Loop, detailed in the Cycling in Northampton County guide.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center has well-maintained trails through woodlands and meadows. The Saucon Rail Trail and Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer are also great for easy walks. For more specific routes, check out the Easy hikes in Northampton County guide, which includes trails like the Tekening Red, Orange, Blue Trail Loop and sections of the D&L Trail.

Bethlehem's Moravian heritage is a cornerstone of its history, evident in the Historic Moravian Bethlehem Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. This district showcases early American Moravian life and industry, including the Gemeinhaus and the 1762 waterworks in the Colonial Industrial Quarter. The Moravian Church and the Moravian Book Shop, established in 1745 as the oldest bookstore in North America, are also key parts of this rich cultural legacy.

Yes, the Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer is noted for being wheelchair accessible, offering a flat and mostly paved surface for enjoyment. Many parks and cultural sites may also offer accessible paths; it's advisable to check specific venue details for full accessibility information.

Runners can enjoy trails like the Two Rivers Trailway in Palmer, known for its flat and paved surface. The Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center also offers a great running experience with its well-maintained trails. For more options, the Running Trails in Northampton County guide features routes such as the Monocacy Way Trail and the D&L Trail and Historic Bethlehem Loop.

The National Canal Museum, located in Easton, offers an interactive experience focused on the history of canals in the region. It's a great place to learn about the engineering and cultural impact of these waterways, particularly their role in the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.

The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor is a significant historical and recreational pathway that stretches through Northampton County. It offers scenic trails for walking, biking, and exploring the area's history along the Lehigh River, connecting various historical sites and natural features.