Bethlehem Steels the Show: A Day Trip to the SteelStacks, Wind Creek Casino, and the Historic Bethlehem District
Mark McNease
I had some awareness of Bethlehem, PA, mostly because of the casino, now called Wind Creek Bethlehem. But a friend recently told us about her visit to the SteelStacks, complete with a tour of the magnificent rusting behemoth of the Bethlehem Steel plant, and we decided to make a day trip of it. It’s only about a 50 minute drive from our home, so it was easy, and very well worth it. It was the perfect definition of a one-day getaway. We walked over 20,000 steps (each, not combined!), as we strolled along the walkway abutting the massive factory, headed to the casino, then back and over the river to the north side of Bethlehem. There is a south side and we’re saving that for next time!
Bethlehem SteelStacks is a unique entertainment and cultural district located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Built on the site of the former Bethlehem Steel Corporation, one of the largest producers of steel in the world during its peak in the 1900s, the complex opened to the public in 2010 and features a wide array of entertainment options, ranging from outdoor festivals to live music performances. In addition to the many events available, SteelStacks is home to an array of interactive exhibits that showcase Bethlehem’s industrial and cultural history.
The ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks features two theaters, a Blast Furnace Room with a 500-person capacity for music acts, a Musikfest Café for intimate music and comedy performances, and an LED-lit indoor stage in the Levitt Pavilion. Visitors can also explore the Bananas Comedy Club, where nationally known stand-up comedians perform regularly.
The onsite museum at SteelStacks offers educational exhibits highlighting Bethlehem’s industrial legacy, including interactive displays and an extensive collection of artifacts from the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. The museum also features a variety of other hands-on exhibits, workshops, and activities designed to teach visitors about the heritage of steelmaking in Pennsylvania.
In addition to its entertainment offerings, SteelStacks is home to a variety of local businesses and restaurants, including eateries like Burgers and More, Donegal Saloon, and The Bayou. It’s also home to the Freedom High School Music Academy, where students can learn about music production, audio engineering, video editing, and more.
Wind Creek Bethlehem is a great destination for gaming, entertainment and dining. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, this casino offers a variety of slots and table games as well as live entertainment venues. With two hotel towers featuring over 300 rooms and suites to choose from, Wind Creek Bethlehem provides guests with luxurious accommodations while they enjoy their time at the casino. From fine dining options to shopping outlets, there’s something for everyone at Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino!
At Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino you can find all your favorite slot machines including Wheel of Fortune®, 5 Treasures™, Monopoly® Hot Properties™ and many more. For those who prefer table games such as Blackjack or Roulette there are multiple tables available daily. Also available are high limit tables where bets up to $500 can be placed on select games. No matter what type of player you may be there’s something for everyone at Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino! In addition to gaming opportunities the casino also features several live entertainment venues perfect for date nights or special occasions. Enjoy classic cocktails like martinis or margaritas while listening to some great music from local bands or even nationally renowned acts that stop by every now and then!
Best Things to Do in Historic Bethlehem
There are two historic districts in Bethlehem, separated by the Lehigh River. We had lunch on the north side, where you can find incredible ice cream at the Hotel B Ice Cream Parlor, a terrific choice of restaurants, and books galore at the Moravian Bookshop.
1. Visit the Christmas City Village in Historic Bethlehem
2. Tour Moravian College and take in its unique historical buildings
3. Enjoy a play at the Pennsylvania Playhouse theater
4. Check out some of the local boutiques and shops on Main Street
5. Hike along Illick’s Mill Trail or visit the nearby Monocacy Creek Park
6. Explore Sun Inn Courtyard, where George Washington once stayed overnight during his 1776 march to Trenton
7. Walk through Colonial Industrial Quarter, a preserved industrial complex featuring 18th-century stone buildings
8. Attend one of many events hosted downtown such as Musikfest or Pig Out! Lehigh Valley BBQ Fest
And don’t forget all those steps! You can work off some of the fabulous food while you make a full day of your trip to Bethlehem.
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Contact: Mark @ MadeMark Publishing