Extraordinary Shopping Downtown & Bethlehem’s South Side: Bethlehem’s Main Street, Broad Street and emerging South Third street areas offer you more shopping than ever before!

Shops ranging from the Moravian Book Store, Cleo's Gifts, Wadsworth's Antiques, Donegal Square and Home Planet are just a few examples of why you should spend a day or two exploring our stores.

For your added pleasure allow me to clue you in on Bethlehem's exceptional designer and traditional furniture stores, including Geiser's Furniture, Glenn Anthony Designs and Accessories. Street.

*To enlighten your curosity and help in locating Bethlehem's shops see the listing and links at the end of "Bethlehem Info."

Christmas Activities: Lowly Bethlehem," Moravian forefathers sang the first Christmas eve in Bethlehem, and so the tradition begins.A Christmas experience unfolds, different because Christmas won't be forced upon you, rather you need to seek its spirit out. My favorite event is the Old Chapel Concerts, the chapels' quaintness and purity seem to place you back in colonial times and allows you to feel the warmth of the Christmas spirit, this is a weekday event only. Friday thru Sunday concerts take place at Christ Church. Be sure you take the bus tour to the Mountain Top, the view is breathtaking and the guides are helpful and very knowledgable of historical facts. Cap off your evening with a wonderful dinner at one of our fabulous restaurants. To end your evening, take a stroll along out tree lighted streets where you'll encounter guided walking tours, carollers and an atmosphere that will take you back to colonial times. Equally as important is shopping and dining. (be sure to check out our restaurant recommendations at the end of "Bethlehem Info.")

Christkindlmarkt: a replica of an outdoor German market, (although ours is tented and heated) is a must see. Hundreds of seasonal craft venders from around the world show their wares as well as complimentary food vendors and scheduled entertainment. See our bulletin board for dates www.christkindlmarkt.org.

The Historic Bethlehem Partnership: From museums to the Country’s first waterworks the original Moravian buildings and sites are preserved and maintained to help explain the changes that occurred in Bethlehem’s first 250 years. Sites are all within walking distance from the inn and lend themself to a lovely day of exploring the rich cultural heritage of this attractive city. 610-882-0452

Bach Choir of Bethlehem: Founded in1898, The Bach Choir of Bethlehem is the oldest Bach Choir in America. The acclaimed 110 volunteer choir performs its 94^th Bach Festival on May 9 -10and May 17-19. The New York Times in May of 1998, described it as "one of American Musical Life’s best kept secrets." The festival is entrenched in Bethlehem’s history. The Choir performs throughout the year. Please visit their Web site for more information. 888-743-3100 www.bach.org

Godfrey Daniels: for 25 years Godfrey Daniels has maintained its reputation as one of the finest folk music clubs in the country, attracting outstanding and famous folk musicians from around the world. Its intimate friendly atmosphere brings you up close and involves you with the performer. Godfrey Daniels is a true asset to the music world here in Bethlehem. 800-732-0999 www.godfreydaniels.org

Zoellner Arts Center: A multimillion doillar theatre as well as art galleries presents more than 100 events a year. Zoellner houses Lehigh's music, theatre, art, and architecture departments. It offers studios, a music library, practice rooms, and classrooms. The wide range of performances include such renowned artists as Smokey Robinson, Itzhak Perlman, and the Warsaw Philharmonic. Zoellner offers you an opportunity to enhance your visit to Historic Bethlehem by partaking in Bethlehem's rich cultural flavors.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary: This incredible refuge of 2400 acre along the Kittatinny Ridge in Kempton Pennsylvania is approximately 40 minutes from Bethlehem. Once a hunting ground it now provides breathtaking views where you can witness the migration of raptors soaring along the Appalachian Trail. It’s also a great place to hike its Indian trails or the Appalachian Trail. Let us pack you a lunch and make a day of it! 610-756-6961 www.hawkmountain.org

C.F. Martin & Co. (Martin Guitar): Since 1833 Martins have been widely recognize as an American classic. The company in Nazareth PA is just 20 minutes north of Bethlehem. Tours are offered every weekday at 1p.m.Visit the Martin Factory and enjoy the combination of the factory tour, guitar accessory gift shop, unique museum and luthier shop. 800-633-2060 www.martinguitar.com

Golfing: Bethlehem provides a terrific atmosphere as a hub location to explore the many great golf courses in the surrounding area. One exceptional course just 15 minutes from the inn is The Center Valley Club. I highly recommend Center Valley and suggest you consider our many public and private clubs for a golf destination from May to October. www.centervalley.com

Stabler Arena: Located on Lehigh Universities' south mountain campus, Stables Arena opened its' doors in November 1979, Holiday on Ice was its' first event. Since that time, over 350,000 people have traveled through Stabler's doors. Stablers' exceptional aucustics have given it acclaim from the concert scene. Stabler is the preminent mid-size concert venue in the northeast. If you're looking for great entetainment while visiting Bethlehem or if taking in a concert is more your style, be sure to visit Stabler's web site and make plans to stay @ The Bethlehem Inn, we're only 3 miles from Stabler Arena. www.stablerarena.com

Lehigh University: The campus is a mile from our door spreading across South Mountain insight from the Historic District. Lehigh offers a host of athletic events and an extensive cultural calendar of theater and the arts. A mere walk through its campus can be architectural enlightenment.

Moravian College: Following the founding of Bethlehem on Christmas eve 1741 the Moravians established Moravian College. The Moravians' principles of education not only for the rich but for both women and men helped place this institution in high reguard during post colonial times. Moravian College's integrates a liberal arts education with preparation for life. The college offers degrees in the Arts, Sciences, Business, Education, and Music. Moravian is unique in that it includes the churches seminary and compliments the churches' love of music with an exceptional music school. The campus is set in two locations, the oldest section is located in Bethlehems' Historic District close to the Moravian Church. The campus' architecture is renound for its design during colonial times and still provides a beautiful educational setting. The campus interacts with Historic Bethlehem, Moravian quarters and offers visitors an atmosphere to explore and enjoy on long and short term visits to Bethlehem.

DeSales University: This picturesque four year liberal arts university affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, was founded in 1965. Enrollment is approximately 3,000 undergraduate an
graduate students. DeSales offers various degrees in the Arts, Sciences and education. It's notable aspect in the field of arts is its' theatre program and its' state of the are Tabuda Auditorium. DeSales is only a 10 minute drive soutn of Bethlehem and 60 miles north of Philadelphia. www.desales.edu

Celtic Classic Highland Games: This is likely the largest and most diversified highland games in the world. The highland games are outstanding and the music is exceptional. There is great food and a wonderful atmosphere to spend the day. The festival is free, the food and beverages are ticketed. (September. 26, 27, & 28, 2003) 610-868-9599

Musikfest: Each August downtown Bethlehem comes alive welcoming "America’s Music Festival." Over 1 million visitors come to Bethlehem yearly to enjoy 1000 free live musical performers in 15 outdoor and 6 indoor venues. This year Musikfest runs from August 2 - 10 2003. Visit their Web site for dates and performers. Call early for overnight accommodations. 610-861-0678

Renningers Market: This special event show is among the largest antique and collectible events held at one location. Over 1400 dealers from 42 states set up for this 3 day event which runs three times each year. See their Web site for more information. www.renningers.com.

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: Surprisingly there are nine wineries in the valley with several outstanding varieties of wine that make visiting worthwhile. The European and domestic grapes that are grown take on the flavor of their own that reflects our rich soil giving a unique quality to our wines. Six of the wineries are within 45 minutes, making them easy to explore in an afternoon. There are special events in March, July and after the harvest in November. Of course you can visit any time throughout the year. My recommendation is that you call Clover Hill Winery at 610-395-2468 for information

For a small town Bethlehem has a treasure chest of fine restaurants to satisfy your food cravings. From Indian to Japanese cuisine Bethlehem is sure to have something to offer the most difficult of palates to please. Since I do consider myself to be a fellow "foodie" like most of you who visit B& B’s, I’d like to offer some insight into two of my favorite eating establishments.

Owned by Bethlehem Pati and Toy the Café is just a 10-minute walk from the inn. Occupying an early 1900 property the Café offers intimate dining in 5 tastefully decorated dining rooms. My favorite however is the "piano room," as we’ve come to call it, housing a baby grand piano and located on the first floor. Patti, a member of Bethlehem’s Bach choir often entertains diners with her beautiful singing while you enjoy a fabulous meal. The Café is known for it’s Thai cuisine. I can honestly say having sampled Thai food in cities like New York, Philadelphia and Boston; no one can beat the Cafe’s offerings. My favorites include their fabulous Spring rolls, Hot & sour soup with shrimp and lemongrass and Seafood curry with coconut milk, of course prepared to your preference of heat. If your not a fan of Thai cuisine, do not rule out this restaurant, the Café offers equally fabulous entrees such as medallions of pork with crushed hazelnuts and rosemary cream, fresh trout stuffed with artichokes and crabmeat and to further interest you a special list du jour offers seasonal favorites such as venison or soft shell crabs. Be sure to save room for dessert, the Café’s selection of pastries has won them much acclaim. From beautifully created tarts, to a large assortment of gateaus, desserts are a much fun to look at, as they are to eat! Be sure to walk so you may justify indulging

The elegant Starfish Brasserie is located in the center of the downtown-shopping district. The bar has an industrial feel to it with stained concrete floor, copper countertop and overhead lighting, the dining room a French bistro theme prevails with paper coverings on the tablecloths rephrasing the informal nature of the restaurant. Owners Dick and Susan Barrows are no stranger to the restaurant business. Former owners of the Forager Restaurant in Bucks County, they decided to bring their talents to the Bethlehem area. Their decision has been well-received from day one! Don’t be fooled by the name however, the Starfish while specializing in seafood also offers a number of "land ­ based " entrees. Some of my favorites include the fried calamari served with a lemon caper mayonnaise; lobster ravioli with sun dried tomato pesto, Spinach and roasted beet salad with walnuts and goat cheese in raspberry vinaigrette. Entrée favorites include grilled tuna with wasabi potato cake, baby bok choy and Asian vinaigrette, and Roasted duck with wild rice, butternut squash risotto and raspberry sauce. Be sure to save room for dessert, all prepared by co owner Susan Barrows. Selections include a large variety of ice cream and sorbets. $$$- Entree prices ranging from $16-21.00

Apollo Grill:

85 West Broad Street, 610-865-9600

One of Bethlehem's most popular eating establishments requires reservations in advance, especially on weekends. People love the New York style atmosphere that is open, closely seated, and conducive to conversation. The Apollo provides an energy that temps you to explore their menu. Entrees average about $18. with half portions on some selections. There is a large standing bar and the Apollo is a great place to take your family or meet with friends. The menu ranges from Apollo Waldorf salad, pastas, to Moroccan Chicken and Australian Lamb.

Bethlehem Brew Works:

569 Main Street, 610-882-1300

This microbrewery and restaurant provides a comfortable atmosphere with an industrial motif. There is a large pub with an extended dining room and a billiard lounge. Reservations are accepted for parties of ten o rmore people. Voted Best Beer Selection and Best Bar Food by Lehigh Valley Magazine.

*Shopping
Bethlehem's Historic District Shops

Accessories etc -Furnishings & design
American Hairlines - Salon and full-service spa
American Hairlines Wigs - Custom fitted wig salon
Adrian's Boutique - Fine wonem's clothing and accessories
Cigars International - Cigars from around with world
Chocolates on Broadway - Homemade chocolates since 1978
Dancing Designs Jewelry - Handcrafted jewelry
Donegal Square - Irish import shop
Geisers Furniture - Traditional furnishings
LuLu Boutique - Women's clothing
Mary Beth Baran Gallery - Art work and framing
Moravian Book Shop - Books, gifts and sooo much more
Old Lehigh Outfitters - Outdoor gear
Technicolor - Salon & spa
White Swan Florist - Flowers, gifts and much more

South Bethlehem's Shops

Catherine's Gallery - Eclectic Creations
Cleo's Gifts - Silversmith & gallery
Fox Optical - Very unique eyeware
Glenn Anthony - Designer furntiure and accessories
Home & Planet - Earth friendly furnishings
Marla Duran - Original clothing for women
Strictly Mission - Unique collection of mission style furninhings and accessories
Wadsworth & Co.- Antiques