![\"Overall](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/overall-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tOVERALL RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
Safety Index:<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t* Based on Research & Crime Data<\/p>\n
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania\u2019s Lehigh Valley, Bethlehem whispers tales of industrial might and Moravian grace.<\/p>\n
Founded in 1741 by a band of peace-loving Moravians, the city witnessed some of America\u2019s defining moments.<\/p>\n
Walk with ghosts of revolutionaries in the 18th-century Gemeinhaus, where the first colonists celebrated Christmas with twinkling lights.<\/p>\n
Feel the pulse of the industry at the SteelStacks, where Bethlehem\u2019s past as a steel giant lives on in vibrant concerts and art installations.<\/p>\n
Bethlehem hosts vibrant districts, each with its own charm.<\/p>\n
Wander through the cobblestone lanes of Historic Bethlehem, where colonial buildings tell stories of Moravian ingenuity.<\/p>\n
Marvel at the 1740 Gemeinhaus, America\u2019s oldest surviving community house, or peek into the apothecary\u2019s dusty shelves holding secrets of centuries-old remedies.<\/p>\n
Venture into South Bethlehem, where Bethlehem\u2019s steel heart has been transformed into a hip haven.<\/p>\n
Sip craft beers at gastropubs, browse eclectic shops, and catch world-class music at Musikfest, the largest free music festival in the nation.<\/p>\n
For serenity, explore the tree-lined streets of Monocacy Manor.<\/p>\n
Admire the stately mansions, remnants of Bethlehem\u2019s wealthy past, or stroll through the picturesque Moravian College campus, founded in 1742 as the first institution to educate women in America.<\/p>\n
Bethlehem is more than just a city; it\u2019s a journey through time.<\/p>\n
From colonial charm to industrial grit to modern flair, each district offers a taste of its multifaceted identity.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s also known as Christmas Town and exudes that idyllic holiday charm from early November through late December each year. <\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWarnings & Dangers in Bethlehem<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tOVERALL RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
There”s a low risk in Bethlehem coupled with some pretty incredible things to do in safe places. Holiday visitors should use a little extra caution just because of the crowds.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Transport](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/transport-taxis-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
It can be really hard to find the “how to get around XX city” information sometimes. I have at least two gray hairs from it. However, the Bethlehempa.org website offers a “Getting Here and There” website page that covers rental cars, highway routes, public transportation, taxis, and parking information. You’ll have plenty of ways to enjoy and explore the city, the Lehigh Valley, and get to the larger cities like NYC and Philadelphia.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Pickpockets](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/pickpockets-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
You’re more likely to have your car broken into than get pickpocketed, and 2023 saw no pickpockets or purse snatchings. While the risk is low, the theft rate is around the national average. Use the same precautions.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Natural](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/natural-disasters-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tNATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
The risk here is low, but any type of severe weather is possible. That includes severe thunderstorms, winter storms, flooding, extreme heat\/cold, and tropical storms that move inland. The low risk shouldn’t be taken as a reason to ignore the weather forecast. It just means there isn’t an ordinary natural disaster like you’d find in the Midwest’s tornado alley.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Mugging](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/mugging-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMUGGING RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
The robbery risk here is nearly half the national average, with about one-third of those being highway robberies. That’s a low risk but not low enough to let your guard down, especially at night.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Terrorism](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/terrorism-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTERRORISM RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
This is another low risk, especially with the major cities of New York and Philadelphia within an hour or two. You can still report any suspicious activity to the police to help keep the risk low.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Scams](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/scams-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSCAMS RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
The city sees the garden variety scams, but if you visit the county website or review local police social media, you’ll get more awareness about what those are and how to avoid them. The risk is low, but always use extra vigilance when booking and planning a Christmas trip. Any deal that seems too good to be true probably is.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Women](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/women-travelers-risk.svg\")
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
Nothing in the crime data suggests women are at a greater risk than anyone else. The great thing about Bethlehem is that so many of the attractions are in museums or historic districts, where crime is less likely to happen.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Tap](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/tap-water-risk.svg\")
\n \t\t\t\t\t\tTAP WATER RISK: LOW<\/p>\n
The 2022 Water Quality Report shows full compliance and no violations of state or federal requirements. Since the water quality requirements are so strict in America, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place where the water isn’t safe to drink.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSafest Places to Visit in Bethlehem<\/p>\n
You have two great websites to use to review things to do in and around Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n
First, \u201cVisit Historic Bethlehem\u201d covers the city, downtown, events, and activities.<\/p>\n
Then, \u201cDiscover Lehigh Valley\u201d broadens the views to other cities nearby, like Allentown.<\/p>\n
We also have a collection of things to do there on this website.<\/p>\n
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, nicknamed \u201cChristmas City,\u201d boasts a rich history, charming neighborhoods, and unique attractions waiting to be explored.<\/p>\n
Immerse yourself in Bethlehem\u2019s 18th-century roots in the living\u00a0history museum called the Colonial\u00a0Industrial Quarter.<\/p>\n
Explore restored buildings like the Gemeinhaus, a communal living quarters, and the Single Brethren\u2019s House, once home to unmarried men.<\/p>\n
The Moravian Museum of Bethlehem is where you can delve deeper into the Moravian community\u2019s heritage.<\/p>\n
It showcases faith, art, and everyday life with artifacts like needlework, handcrafted furniture, and historical photographs.<\/p>\n
If historic buildings or architecture are your thing, I strongly recommend you stop by the\u00a0Historic Bethlehem Visitor Center & 1810 Goundie House.<\/p>\n
The list of places to visit is extensive, and I\u2019m even having a hard time whittling them down to the \u201cbest of the best\u201d because they all have such amazing views.<\/p>\n
You know a museum is going to be good when it\u2019s associated with the Smithsonian.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s what you\u2019ll get at the\u00a0National Museum of Industrial History.<\/p>\n
Journey through America\u2019s industrial past at this fascinating museum.<\/p>\n
Explore exhibits on steelmaking, transportation, and technology, and even climb aboard a real locomotive.<\/p>\n
SteelStacks is another impressive exterior with a vibrant arts and entertainment complex inside.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s housed in the remnants of Bethlehem Steel and offers something for everyone.<\/p>\n
Catch a concert at Musikfest, browse the art galleries, or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants.<\/p>\n
Downtown Bethlehem is as charming as it is historic while still offering modern amenities and unique shops \u2013 including the country\u2019s oldest bookstore.<\/p>\n
For those booking a Christmas trip to Bethlehem (Pennsylvania), the tourism website keeps the activity and event list up throughout the year.<\/p>\n
One of the merriest places to visit is the Christmas Village.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPlaces to Avoid in Bethlehem<\/p>\n
You won\u2019t find any places in Bethlehem too dangerous to visit, but there\u2019s a stark contrast between the southside of the city (south of the river).<\/p>\n
That\u2019s also where Lehigh University is, so if being around college students during meals and night outings isn\u2019t your thing, pick downtown, north, or west Bethlehem.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll find a handful of hotels downtown and another group just south of the river near some of the major attractions.<\/p>\n
The largest collection is closer to Allentown, right along the highway near the airport.<\/p>\n
Again, there isn\u2019t a \u201cbad\u201d place to stay, but it very much matters what type of experience you want.<\/p>\n
Using standard caution will help keep you safe anywhere you choose in the Bethlehem region.<\/p>\n
Also, there is a Bethlehem City and Bethlehem Township.<\/p>\n
This article focuses mainly on the city.<\/p>\n
The township borders the city on the east with lower crime rates but a much more suburban area.<\/p>\n
Then you\u2019ll have Bethel and Bethel Park, which have nothing to do with these locations.<\/p>\n
Just be sure you\u2019re always in the right Bethlehem.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSafety Tips for Traveling to Bethlehem<\/p>\n
Bethlehem has its own police department. If you have specific safety questions, call (610)865-7187 or email bethlehempolice@bethlehem-pa.gov. You can also follow them on Facebook @BethlehemPolice.
\nSign up for CodeRED notifications about severe weather or public safety emergencies. Look for the Ready Lehigh County registration online. This will cover the whole county. When you sign up, be sure to use the address of your hotel since the alert comes based on the location provided during registration.
\nYou can also sign up for city alerts through the Bethlehem City website. Choose Public Safety, Public Works, and Weather & Other Emergencies as the main categories that most likely affect a tourist.
\nUse the ParkMobile app to find parking and pay for it in downtown Bethlehem.\u00a0Several parking garages are available downtown,\u00a0such as the New Street Deck and the Walnut Street Deck.\u00a0Consider using garages for overnight parking or in bad weather.
\nThe police department offers a Gang Guide on its website that shows the common signage and colors of certain gangs in the community. If you are unfamiliar with gang activity, you should review this before visiting.
\nThe state police department offers crime mapping for each community, which is a great tool to use for more recent crime trends. For example, you can search for car break-ins or assaults within a mile of your hotel over the past three months. Make sure you\u2019re looking at the right location. Use the code\u00a0PA0480300 \u2013 Bethlehem City.
\nIf you\u2019re renting a car, avoid Kia models. Those have been targeted for break-ins across America. The police department does offer free anti-theft devices, but it\u2019s easier to avoid the make of the car from the start.
\nDepending on what time of year you\u2019re visiting, check the snow emergency routes, snow plow priority maps, and street sweeping maps. Those could all impact where you can park on a given day.
\nDownload the Bethlehem Service Center app from the online store of your choice. Through that app, you\u2019ll have direct access to numerous city departments and be able to report issues like potholes.
\nIf you plan on fishing while you\u2019re here, you\u2019ll need a license from the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Licenses can be purchased online or at local outfitters.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSo… How Safe Is Bethlehem Really?<\/p>\n
Bethlehem might have some rough edges, but compared to nearby Allentown, it\u2019s definitely a safer choice.<\/p>\n
Also, Bethlehem\u2019s crime is trending down, which is a feat considering most cities in America have dealt with crime surges since the pandemic.<\/p>\n
In addition, many people don\u2019t realize that Pennsylvania has a violent crime rate that is 40% lower than the national average.<\/p>\n
It gives a great context of how the most dangerous parts of Philadelphia don\u2019t define the whole state.<\/p>\n
In Bethlehem (city), crime rates are another 41% lower.<\/p>\n
Your biggest concern here is going to be property crime in the form of a car break-in or a car accessory theft, like those pricey catalytic converters.<\/p>\n
About eight cars are stolen each month, which is on the low end for an eastern Pennsylvania city.<\/p>\n
Bethlehem Townships is significantly lower in all crime categories than the city of Bethlehem.<\/p>\n
Even the more sketchy parts of town shouldn\u2019t concern you too much, especially if you\u2019re used to living in an area with property crime.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t How Does Bethlehem Compare?<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUseful Information<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Visas\"](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/visa-big.svg\")
Visas<\/p>\n
International visitors need a visa or visa waiver to get into the country by Customs or Border Patrol. Make sure your passport is also valid for at least six months from the day you leave the U.S.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Currency\"](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/currency-big.svg\")
Currency<\/p>\n
The U.S. Dollar is the only currency accepted here. Your bank might charge a foreign transaction currency when using a credit card. The major international airports will have currency exchange options on location. You really don’t want to carry a lot of cash with you in this region.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Weather\"](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/weather-big.svg\")
Weather<\/p>\n
Nothing stands out as a “must-have” when visiting Bethlehem other than preparing for the seasonal weather. The area doesn’t get a lot of snow, but a big winter snowstorm shouldn’t be ruled out. Summers will be hot and humid. You’ll want bug spray for outdoor activities.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Airports\"](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/airport-big.svg\")
Airports<\/p>\n
Lehigh International Airport is just five miles away. For the larger airports near NYC and Philadelphia, plan for about 90 minutes to an hour on the road.<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"Travel](\"https:\/\/www.travelsafe-abroad.com\/wp-content\/themes\/travelsafeabroad-2\/images\/travel-insurance-big.svg\")
Travel Insurance<\/p>\n
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers your flight, health emergencies, rental car issues, and any other unforeseen circumstances is best when traveling internationally.<\/p>\n