Lehigh Valley Recreation & Lifestyle Guide
Golf courses, ski resorts, amusement parks, entertainment venues, colleges, top local restaurants, community parks, and public pools across the Lehigh Valley.
The Lehigh Valley is so much more than a great place to buy a home — it's a place to truly live. As a lifelong resident and 36-year real estate professional, I've watched communities from Allentown to Easton grow into one of Pennsylvania's most vibrant regions for outdoor recreation, family entertainment, dining, and active living.
Whether you're a golfer looking for championship courses, a family seeking weekend adventures at amusement parks and zoos, a foodie exploring the Lehigh Valley's growing restaurant scene, or someone who simply wants to know where the best public parks and swimming pools are — this guide covers it all. I've compiled the region's top recreational destinations and dining favorites so you can enjoy everything the Lehigh Valley has to offer.
Country Clubs & Golf Courses
From prestigious private country clubs to accessible public courses, the Lehigh Valley offers world-class golf for every level and budget.
Saucon Valley Country Club
Bethlehem, PAOne of the premier private clubs in the nation with 60 holes across three championship courses — the Old Course, the Grace Course, and the Weyhill Course. The club has hosted numerous PGA and LPGA events.
Visit WebsiteGreen Pond Country Club
Bethlehem, PAAn 18-hole championship course with panoramic views of the Pocono foothills. Features a clubhouse, pro shop, and event facilities. Open to members and the public for golf outings.
Visit WebsiteLehigh Country Club
Allentown, PAEstablished in 1923, this prestigious private club features an 18-hole course designed by A.W. Tillinghast, along with tennis courts, swimming pool, and fine dining.
Visit WebsiteBethlehem Golf Club
Bethlehem, PAA popular 27-hole public facility with three distinct 9-hole courses — the Monocacy, Lehigh, and Colonial — suitable for all skill levels. Affordable rates and a well-maintained course.
Visit WebsiteAllentown Municipal Golf Course
Allentown, PAA well-maintained 18-hole public course in the heart of Allentown. Known for affordable green fees, a driving range, and a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all levels.
Visit WebsiteWillow Brook Golf Course
Catasauqua, PAA scenic 18-hole public course in Catasauqua featuring rolling terrain, tree-lined fairways, and a relaxed atmosphere. Popular with local residents for its convenient location and value.
Visit WebsiteRiverview Country Club
Easton, PAA distinguished private country club in Easton featuring an 18-hole championship course, swimming pool, tennis courts, and fine dining facilities. A cornerstone of the Easton community.
Visit WebsiteIron Lakes Country Club
Allentown, PAA classic 18-hole private course set among mature trees and rolling terrain in western Allentown. Known for its challenging layout and well-groomed greens.
Visit WebsiteLocust Valley Golf Club
Coopersburg, PAA 27-hole public facility in Coopersburg with three courses offering variety and challenge. Features a pro shop, practice facilities, and a clubhouse restaurant.
Visit WebsiteOlde Homestead Golf Club
New Tripoli, PAAn 18-hole championship course set in the rolling countryside of western Lehigh County. Known for its scenic views, challenging holes, and well-maintained conditions.
Visit WebsiteTumblebrook Golf Course
Coopersburg, PAA challenging 18-hole public course with elevation changes, water hazards, and well-maintained fairways in the Southern Lehigh area. Owned by Upper Saucon Township.
Visit WebsiteThe Steel Club
Hellertown, PAA historic private club in Hellertown featuring an 18-hole course, swimming pool, tennis courts, and dining. Originally associated with the Bethlehem Steel community.
Visit WebsiteWoodstone Country Club & Lodge
Bethlehem, PAA scenic 18-hole championship course in Bethlehem with a full-service lodge, event facilities, and dining. Features rolling terrain, mature trees, and well-maintained greens in a peaceful country setting.
Visit WebsiteSki Resorts Near the Lehigh Valley
From local slopes just minutes away to major Pocono Mountain resorts, the Lehigh Valley is a winter sports paradise within easy reach.
Bear Creek Mountain Resort
Macungie, PA (~25 miles from Bethlehem)Located right in the Lehigh Valley region, Bear Creek offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ski lessons. Features 21 trails across 165 acres with a 1,100-foot vertical drop. The resort also operates Bear Creek Festival Center for weddings and events.
Visit WebsiteBlue Mountain Resort
Palmerton, PA (~20 miles from Bethlehem)The highest vertical drop in Pennsylvania at 1,082 feet with 48 trails across 164 acres. Offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, terrain parks, and the Blue Mountain Academy. Night skiing available on most trails.
Visit WebsiteCamelback Mountain Resort
Tannersville, PA (~45 miles from Bethlehem)One of the largest ski resorts in the Poconos with 39 trails, 16 lifts, and terrain parks for all abilities. Features Camelbeach Waterpark in summer, an indoor waterpark, ziplines, and an adventure course.
Visit WebsiteJack Frost Mountain
Blakeslee, PA (~40 miles from Bethlehem)Offers 21 trails with a 600-foot vertical drop, including terrain parks and a dedicated learning area. Part of Vail Resorts' Epic Pass network. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Visit WebsiteBig Boulder
Blakeslee, PA (~40 miles from Bethlehem)The sister resort to Jack Frost Mountain, Big Boulder specializes in terrain parks and freestyle skiing and snowboarding. Features 15 trails and is known for its lively, park-focused culture.
Visit WebsiteShawnee Mountain Resort
East Stroudsburg, PA (~50 miles from Bethlehem)A family-friendly resort with 23 trails, 10 lifts, and a 700-foot vertical drop. Features ski and snowboard school, terrain parks, and snow tubing. Conveniently located off Route 80.
Visit WebsiteAmusement Parks & Family Entertainment
Thrilling rides, water parks, hands-on museums, and family adventures — the Lehigh Valley is packed with entertainment for all ages.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Allentown, PAThe Lehigh Valley's premier amusement destination featuring over 60 rides, 8 roller coasters, a full water park (Wildwater Kingdom), and the Planet Snoopy kids' area. A Cedar Fair park and one of the region's most visited attractions.
Visit WebsiteCamelbeach Outdoor Waterpark
Tannersville, PAPennsylvania's largest outdoor waterpark with over 37 rides and attractions, including wave pools, lazy rivers, tube slides, and body slides. Adjacent to Camelback Mountain Resort.
Visit WebsiteCrayola Experience
Easton, PAAn interactive family attraction in downtown Easton with 26+ hands-on activities including creating your own crayons, naming colors, and art-based experiences. One of the most popular family destinations in the Lehigh Valley.
Visit WebsiteLehigh Valley Zoo
Schnecksville, PAA community zoo featuring more than 200 animals, a walk-through aviary, interactive exhibits, seasonal events, and educational programs for children and families.
Visit WebsiteDa Vinci Science Center
Allentown, PAA hands-on science museum featuring interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, a planetarium, and science programs for all ages. A destination for STEM education and family fun.
Visit WebsiteLehigh Valley Grand Prix
Allentown, PAAn indoor go-kart racing facility with multi-level tracks, arrive-and-drive racing, and group events. A popular destination for birthday parties, corporate events, and competitive fun.
Visit WebsiteFree Community Parks & Playgrounds
Miles of trails, sprawling green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities — all free and open to the public across the Lehigh Valley.
Trexler Memorial Park
AllentownOne of Allentown's most beloved parks featuring walking trails, memorial gardens, open green spaces, playgrounds, and the Trexler Memorial Park Lehigh Parkway connection. A peaceful retreat for families and nature lovers.
Visit WebsiteCedar Beach Park
AllentownA 114-acre park with basketball courts, sand volleyball, playgrounds, athletic fields, walking paths, and swimming pools. One of the most active community parks in the region.
Visit WebsiteLehigh Parkway
AllentownA scenic linear park along Little Lehigh Creek with miles of paved and unpaved trails, picnic areas, the Fish Hatchery, and a dog park. A centerpiece of Allentown's outdoor recreation system.
Visit WebsiteMonocacy Park
BethlehemA 16-acre park with playgrounds, picnic shelters, walking trails, sports fields, and access to Monocacy Creek. Located in the center of Bethlehem's residential community.
Visit WebsiteSand Island Park
BethlehemA riverfront park on the Lehigh River with access to the D&L National Heritage Corridor trail system, fishing areas, picnic facilities, and a boat launch. Connects to the South Bethlehem Greenway.
Visit WebsiteBurns Park
BethlehemA neighborhood park featuring playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and open green space. A popular gathering spot for families in south Bethlehem.
Visit WebsiteSouth Mountain Park
AllentownA large park featuring hiking and walking trails, sports facilities, open fields, and scenic overlooks. Located on the south side of Allentown with access to the D&L Trail.
Visit WebsiteRiverside Park
EastonA scenic riverfront park along the Lehigh River with walking paths, fishing access, playgrounds, and open green space. Adjacent to the Karl Stirner Arts Trail.
Visit WebsiteScott Park
EastonA community park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas near the confluence of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers.
Visit WebsiteTrexler Memorial Park & Lehigh Parkway
AllentownA combined 500+ acre park system with miles of multi-use trails along the Little Lehigh Creek, the Allentown Fish Hatchery, scenic bridges, and connections to the D&L National Heritage Corridor.
Visit WebsiteWhitehall Parkway
Whitehall TownshipA 250-acre park with hiking and biking trails, a dog park, athletic fields, and picnic facilities. The township's central outdoor recreation hub.
Visit WebsiteWayne A. Grube Memorial Park
NorthamptonA community park with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic pavilions, and access to the Nor-Bath Trail system. A popular spot for families in the Northampton area.
Visit WebsiteIronton Rail Trail
Whitehall Township / CoplayA multi-use recreational trail spanning several miles through Whitehall and Coplay, built along the former Ironton Railroad corridor. Ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Visit WebsiteLouise Moore Park
Bethlehem / Lower Nazareth TownshipA 185-acre park with open fields, multi-use trails, sports facilities, and a large playground. One of the area's largest parks for passive recreation and sports leagues.
Visit WebsiteD&L National Heritage Corridor
Throughout the Lehigh ValleyA 165-mile trail system following the historic Lehigh Canal and Lehigh River corridor. Offers paved and unpaved trails for walking, biking, and jogging through multiple communities.
Visit WebsiteTamanend Park
NorthamptonA community park with walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and open green space in the Lehigh River corridor.
Visit WebsiteForks Township Recreation Trail
Forks Township, EastonA growing trail system connecting neighborhoods, schools, and parks throughout Forks Township with paved multi-use paths.
Visit WebsitePublic Swimming Pools
Cool off at community pools throughout the Lehigh Valley — most open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day with daily swim hours.
Cedar Beach Pool
AllentownPart of Cedar Beach Park, this outdoor pool complex is a major summer destination with lap lanes, a wading pool, and snack bar. Seasonal: Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Visit WebsiteIrving Pool
AllentownA community outdoor pool in west Allentown serving the surrounding neighborhood. Seasonal operation with daily swim hours.
Visit WebsiteMack Pool
AllentownAn outdoor pool in Allentown's east side, popular with families for its shallow areas and playground nearby. Seasonal: Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Visit WebsiteMemorial Pool
BethlehemA public outdoor pool in central Bethlehem with lap lanes and recreational swim areas. Part of the Bethlehem Parks system.
Visit WebsiteClearview Pool
BethlehemA neighborhood outdoor pool in south Bethlehem serving the local community. Seasonal operation with swim lessons available.
Visit WebsiteStark Pool
BethlehemA public pool in the west side of Bethlehem, popular with families for its kid-friendly features and affordable rates.
Visit WebsiteWestside Pool
BethlehemA community pool serving Bethlehem's west side with recreational swimming and diving areas.
Visit WebsiteYosko Pool
BethlehemAn outdoor community pool in the northeast area of Bethlehem with open swim, lap lanes, and seasonal programs.
Visit WebsiteParkview (Hokey) Pool
Whitehall TownshipWhitehall Township's community pool at Hokendauqua Park, featuring lap lanes, a diving area, and a kiddie pool. Seasonal: Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Visit WebsitePalmer Township Community Pool
Palmer Township, EastonA popular community pool in Palmer Township with lap lanes, a recreational area, and a kiddie pool. Seasonal operation with resident and non-resident rates.
Visit WebsiteEmmaus Borough Pool
EmmausA seasonal community pool serving the Emmaus area with open swim, swim lessons, and special events throughout the summer.
Visit WebsiteWilson Borough Pool
Wilson Borough, EastonA public pool serving Wilson Borough with family-friendly swim areas and seasonal programs.
Visit WebsiteLehighton Community Pool
LehightonA public pool in the Carbon County portion of the Lehigh Valley area with open swim and recreational areas.
Visit WebsitePool Season Tips
Most community pools in the Lehigh Valley operate from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with daily hours typically from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Some pools offer restricted morning hours for season pass holders. Check your local municipality's website or social media for exact opening dates, daily rates, and proof-of-residency requirements.
Entertainment & Venues
From professional sports and amusement parks to performing arts and cultural events, the Lehigh Valley offers a rich entertainment landscape.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Allentown, PAThe Lehigh Valley's premier amusement destination featuring over 60 rides, 8 roller coasters, a full water park (Wildwater Kingdom), and the Planet Snoopy kids' area. A Cedar Fair park and one of the region's most visited attractions.
Visit WebsitePPL Center
Allentown, PAA 10,000-seat multipurpose arena in downtown Allentown, home to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms (AHL) and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (minor league baseball nearby). Hosts concerts, sporting events, and entertainment year-round.
Visit WebsiteLehigh Valley IronPigs
Allentown, PAThe Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies playing at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown. One of the most popular minor league baseball experiences in the country, with family-friendly entertainment, fireworks nights, and promotions throughout the season.
Visit WebsiteState Theatre Center for the Arts
Easton, PAA beautifully restored 1,500-seat performing arts venue in downtown Easton presenting Broadway touring shows, concerts, comedy, film screenings, and community events. A cultural anchor of the Lehigh Valley.
Visit WebsiteAllentown Civic Theatre
Allentown, PAOne of the oldest community theatres in the country, producing a full season of plays, musicals, and youth programming year-round. Known for high-quality local productions including popular titles like The Phantom of the Opera.
Visit WebsiteArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks
Bethlehem, PAA cultural campus built on the former Bethlehem Steel site, featuring concerts at the Levitt Pavilion and Air Products Town Square, film screenings at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas, art exhibits, comedy shows, and year-round community events including Musikfest.
Visit WebsiteColleges & Universities
The Lehigh Valley is home to some of Pennsylvania's most respected colleges and universities, offering world-class education from research institutions to community colleges.
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PAA prestigious private research university founded in 1865, consistently ranked among the top national universities. Offers undergraduate and graduate programs through its P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science, College of Business, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Education.
Visit WebsiteLafayette College
Easton, PAA highly selective liberal arts and engineering college founded in 1826, located on a scenic 340-acre campus in Easton. Offers 51 majors across engineering, the sciences, humanities, and social sciences with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research.
Visit WebsiteMoravian University
Bethlehem, PAOne of the oldest colleges in America, founded in 1742 in Bethlehem. Offers more than 50 undergraduate programs and graduate programs in business, education, nursing, and the sciences on a historic 85-acre campus.
Visit WebsiteDeSales University
Center Valley, PAA private Catholic university in Center Valley offering more than 50 undergraduate programs and graduate degrees in business, education, nursing, and the health sciences. Known for its performing arts programs and beautiful campus setting.
Visit WebsiteLehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC)
Schnecksville, PAA public community college serving Northampton and Lehigh Counties, offering associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year institutions. Also provides workforce development and continuing education programs.
Visit WebsiteNorthampton Community College
Bethlehem, PAA public community college serving the eastern Lehigh Valley, offering more than 100 programs of study including associate degrees and certificates. Features a main campus in Bethlehem and additional locations in the Poconos.
Visit WebsiteMuhlenberg College
Allentown, PAA selective liberal arts college founded in 1848 on a 75-acre campus in Allentown. Known for its strong programs in theater, dance, music, and the sciences, with more than 40 majors and a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Visit WebsiteCedar Crest College
Allentown, PAA private women's college founded in 1867 in Allentown, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, biological sciences, psychology, and business. Features a beautiful 82-acre campus with a botanical garden.
Visit WebsitePenn State Lehigh Valley
Center Valley, PAA Commonwealth Campus of Penn State University located in Center Valley, offering associate and baccalaureate degrees as well as the first two years of most Penn State programs. Features modern facilities and small class sizes.
Visit WebsiteKutztown University
Kutztown, PA (Berks County)A public university in nearby Berks County, part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs on a 320-acre campus known for its arts, sciences, and education programs.
Visit WebsiteEast Stroudsburg University
East Stroudsburg, PA (Monroe County)A public university in the nearby Pocono region, part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Offers more than 50 undergraduate programs and is known for its health sciences, exercise science, and recreation management programs.
Visit WebsiteTop Local Restaurants
A curated selection of the Lehigh Valley's best dining — from fine dining and Italian classics to family-friendly favorites and craft breweries.
The Grille at Bear Creek
Macungie, PAAn elegant dining experience at Bear Creek Mountain Resort, featuring seasonal American cuisine, craft cocktails, and scenic mountain views.
Visit WebsiteJumbars
Bethlehem, PAA beloved Bethlehem café and bakery known for creative breakfast and lunch dishes, fresh-baked goods, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Visit WebsiteBolete
Bethlehem, PAAn acclaimed fine dining restaurant featuring a seasonal tasting menu with locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list on Bethlehem's South Side.
Visit WebsiteEdge Restaurant
Bethlehem, PAA contemporary American restaurant on Bethlehem's South Side offering seasonal menus, craft cocktails, and a refined yet approachable dining atmosphere.
Visit WebsiteThe Wooden Match
Bethlehem, PAA popular Bethlehem bar and grill known for its craft beer selection, comfort food, and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Visit WebsiteAllentown Brew Works
Allentown, PAA craft brewpub in downtown Allentown serving house-brewed beers, elevated pub fare, and a lively atmosphere in a converted historic building.
Visit WebsiteDaVinci's Pizzeria
Whitehall, PAA local favorite for authentic pizza, pasta, and classic Italian dishes in Whitehall, known for generous portions and consistent quality.
Visit WebsiteAntonio's Pizza
Allentown, PAA well-known Allentown pizzeria serving authentic Italian-style pizza, hoagies, and classic Italian dishes for decades.
Visit WebsiteThe Dime
Allentown, PAA popular Allentown restaurant and bar in the downtown arts district, known for creative dishes, craft cocktails, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Visit WebsiteTwo Rivers Brewing
Easton, PAA brewery and restaurant in Easton's Centre Square, serving house-brewed craft beers and American cuisine in a family-friendly setting with a historic charm.
Visit WebsiteDiner 248
Tatamy, PAA classic American diner in Tatamy serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with generous portions, friendly service, and affordable prices.
Visit WebsiteFunk Brewing
Allentown, PAA craft brewery and taproom in Allentown offering rotating beer selections, a relaxed atmosphere, and a commitment to quality small-brew production.
Visit WebsiteYergey Brewing
Allentown, PAA small-batch craft brewery in the Lehigh Valley known for unique, innovative beer styles and a welcoming taproom experience.
Visit WebsiteFegley's Brew Works
Bethlehem & Allentown, PATwo Lehigh Valley brewpub locations serving a wide selection of house-brewed craft beers alongside hearty pub food in a lively setting.
Visit WebsiteJohnny's Bagels & Deli
Bethlehem, PAA popular Bethlehem spot on the South Side known for fresh-baked bagels, deli sandwiches, and breakfast favorites served all day.
Visit WebsiteDining Tips
The Lehigh Valley's restaurant scene continues to grow, with new openings and evolving menus throughout the year. Many popular restaurants on Bethlehem's South Side, in downtown Allentown, and along Easton's Centre Square offer weekend specials and seasonal menus. Reservations are recommended for fine dining venues, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Ready to Call the Lehigh Valley Home?
The Lehigh Valley's recreation scene is just one reason families love living here. Let Tim Tepes help you find the perfect community with easy access to golf, skiing, parks, pools, and more.