Introducing Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Founded in 1741 by Moravian settlers and nicknamed the “Christmas City”, Bethlehem Pa., once held a world-wide reputation for its steel manufacturing. Today the town is well into a cultural and economic leadership position in the Lehigh Valley. Home to Lehigh University and Moravian College, the city also has seen a growth in restaurants, art galleries and shopping in its historic district, South Side and in the Wind Creek Casino complex. Wind Creek is a casino with slot machines and table games, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs. The facility has expanded as more buildings that formerly belonged to Bethlehem Steel are either converted to new use or torn down to make way for new construction. The Wind Creek Event Center draws top-name musical acts throughout the year. The residential neighborhoods closest to this new complex are Historic Bethlehem and Saucon Valley, as well as Fountain Hill. Redevelopment along E. Fourth Street from the casino complex through to the border with Hellertown has changed the corridor from one of empty buildings to new business park campuses and even a greenway that runs from the start of the South Side all the way to Hellertown.

Bethlehem is also home to Musikfest, an annual celebration of music with free performances taking place throughout the historic district and at other nearby venues. Each year’s event draws about 1,000,000 visitors.

The Christmas season is celebrated in style in Bethlehem’s charming historic district, where a vibrant Main Street is anchored by 18th-century Moravian settler buildings and historic Hotel Bethlehem and lined with independently-owned shops and restaurants. The surrounding residential area presents streetscapes with 18th- and 19th-century homes tastefully restored. Special events take place throughout December, including Christkindlmarkt, a German-inspired holiday shopping area that now sets up at the casino complex. Ring in the New Year as a giant Peep drops (Just Born candy, maker of Peeps and other sweets, is headquartered in Bethlehem).

Major employers in Bethlehem include St. Luke's Hospital, Lehigh University, B. Braun Medical, Just Born, Dun & Bradstreet, Moravian College, Cigars International and others.

For assistance exploring Bethlehem real-estate options, contact our agents with expertise in the area: Michael Strickland, Katie Werner and Melissa Sullivan.