2018 Places to Go and People to Meet in Downtown Bethlehem
July 27th, 2018 | Blog
Looking for a date night out? You should check out Bethlehem – no, it’s not just the Christmas City or the place where Jesus was born. It’s a bustling town with over 65,000 residents, where you can find a lot of restaurants, shopping, night life and history all within walking distance of each other. So grab a date and get ready for a night out in Bethlehem you won’t forget!
Start by checking into the Historic Hotel Bethlehem, where you’ll be greeted by world class service and original marble floors in the lobby. The front desk staff will be more than welcoming, giving you tips and directions on all the hidden gems in Downtown Bethlehem. Ask for a Star View room when you arrive, so you can take in the breath-taking Moravian Bethlehem (a National Historic Landmark District), plus the iconic Bethlehem Star that guests travel from all over to view. Once you have checked in, start your night by heading up to Edge for Happy Hour, where their food and drink definitely doesn’t disappoint. Of all the restaurants on Main and Broad Streets, Edge has one of the best happy hours to indulge in. From their vegetable spring rolls to their tarragon gnocchi, every dish is delicious. Just across the street you’ll find a well-known dinner spot, Apollo Grill. Head inside and ask for Jansen, who will be sure to give you one of the best seats in the restaurant. Apollo is known for their extensive list of appetizers, and their martinis that will have everyone giggling by the end of dinner.
Once dinner is over, take a stroll down Main Street to see the quaint shops. Donegal Square, an Irish outlet, can keep you occupied for hours looking at anything from kilts to jewelry. If you run into Neville, you absolutely won’t be going anywhere, because you’ll be stuck listening to that bloody accent of his all night. And if you’re lucky, he’ll take you next door to his pub – McCarthy’s Red Stag – for a pint or two, and tell you all about the 200+ whiskeys he carries. But if Guinness or whiskey isn’t your style, just keep heading down Main Street because there’s plenty more to see!
Across from the Hotel Bethlehem is a lovely crystal shop, Hand Cut Crystal. Joanne is an absolute pleasure to speak with, and she’ll tell you about all her products. Just a couple doors down is Tom’s jewelry store – Mussleman Jewelers. If the night feels right, and you’re feelin’ those martinis from Apollo, Tom would be happy to help you pick out the perfect engagement ring. His one of a kind pieces (or any of his jewelry for that matter) can make any hand sparkle.
When you’re done shopping, head up to Tapas on Main for a night cap. Sit outside on their patio or inside at the bar and ask for Mary Pat – she’s one of their long term bartenders/servers. Between her service, smile and the sangria she supplies, you’ll feel like a local before you’re headed to your next stop on Main Street. If you have it in you, skip on down to Bethlehem Brew Works on the corner of Main and Broad, where you’ll find Kevin, working downstairs in Steel Garden. Learn about the local brews on Main Street and try the Valley Golden Ale, or be bold and try their Hop’solutely Triple India Pale Ale (just be careful staggering back to Hotel B!). Kevin will give you all the juicy details about the locals, recommend the best places for breakfast, and of course will tell you his life story.
You’ll be able to smell the bacon from your Star View room the next morning, so head on down to the Tap Room, where you’ll be greeted by a French accent coming from Francoise. She’ll talk to you about the hotel, the history, and your plans for the day. Enjoy ordering off the menu – the Eggs Benedict is a favorite, but you can’t go wrong with the “Hotel B Breakfast.” Before you check out, take a stroll through the Historic District to view Historic Bethlehem Museum & Sites’ offerings behind the hotel!
