Top Kid-Friendly Activities in Bethlehem, PA: SteelStacks & Rose Garden

Taking the kids on an adventure to Bethlehem, PA, was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. This charming town is packed with family-friendly activities that are both fun and educational. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Bethlehem has something to keep everyone entertained.

Visit the Crayola Experience

During our adventure through Bethlehem, PA, one of the most vibrant stops we made was at the Crayola Experience. It’s not just any attraction—it’s a colorful paradise for kids and, frankly, adults too.

The moment we stepped inside, we were engulfed in a world where every corner held a new way to spark creativity. My kids were immediately drawn to the Wrap It Up! station, where they got the chance to create their own Crayola crayon labels. Watching their eyes light up as they saw their names printed on Crayola wrappers was simply priceless.

Another hit was the Model Magic area. Here, we could all mold our visions into reality using Crayola’s soft, squishy modeling material. The kids crafted everything from dinosaurs to abstract art pieces, showcasing their imagination in vibrant colors.

Of course, a visit to the Crayola Experience wouldn’t be complete without a dive into digital art. The Digital Darkroom offered us an interactive platform to transform our digital selfies into coloring pages. It was fascinating to see technological creativity merge with traditional coloring fun.

The educational aspect of our visit came alive at the How It’s Made live show. We learned about the fascinating process of how Crayola crayons are manufactured, from raw wax to the iconic colorful sticks we’ve all grown to love. This live demonstration not only entertained us but also enriched our understanding of the manufacturing process.

Exhibit	Highlights
Wrap It Up!	Create custom crayon labels
Model Magic	Mold with Crayola’s modeling material
Digital Darkroom	Turn selfies into coloring pages
How It’s Made	Live show on crayon manufacturing

Throughout the day, we explored numerous hands-on activities, each with a unique twist that kept us engaged and eager to discover more. And while my children’s hands were busy creating art, mine were too—either joining in the fun or capturing these precious moments on camera.

The Crayola Experience isn’t just a stop on a trip; it’s a vivid memory in the making. It reminded me of the importance of letting creativity flow and how art can bring families together in the most beautiful way.

Explore the National Museum of Industrial History

After our colorful adventure at the Crayola Experience, we directed our footsteps towards another educational gem in Bethlehem, PA—the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH). Nestled in the heart of the SteelStacks, a sprawling 10-acre campus dedicated to arts, culture, and education, this museum provided a fascinating glimpse into the industrial past of not just Bethlehem but the entire nation.

Walking into the museum, I was immediately struck by the vast collection of industrial artifacts that lined the walls and filled the exhibition spaces. From the giant steam engines that powered the first factories to the delicate silk textiles produced in Pennsylvania mills, each exhibit told a story of innovation, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of the American dream.

Interactive Exhibits for Kids

What made the National Museum of Industrial History stand out was its commitment to making history accessible and engaging for children. The museum offered several interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination in young minds. My kids were particularly fascinated by:

• The Hot Metal Show, where they learned about the process of turning iron into steel—a pivotal industry in Bethlehem’s history.
• A hands-on display where they could try their hand at weaving, understanding the intricacies of how textiles are made.
• The Kids’ STEM Lab, offering science, technology, engineering, and math activities that connected the past with modern-day innovations.

Educational Yet Fun

One of the museum’s strengths, I found, was its ability to blend education with fun. It wasn’t just about viewing artifacts behind glass. The museum encouraged visitors to interact, ask questions, and truly engage with the exhibits. It was gratifying to see my children’s eyes light up as they connected the dots between the machinery in front of them and the technology they see in their daily lives.

A Glimpse into Bethlehem’s Industrial Legacy

Learning about Bethlehem’s industrial past gave us all a deeper appreciation for the city and its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s industrial landscape. The SteelStacks themselves, towering in the background, served as a constant reminder of the city’s rich history and resilience.

Enjoy a day at Dutch Springs Aqua Park

After immersing ourselves in the rich industrial history of Bethlehem, we were ready for something completely different. That’s when we decided to splash into the adventures at Dutch Springs Aqua Park. It’s a water-lover’s paradise, and given my kids’ affinity for anything splash-worthy, it was a no-brainer destination for us.

Dutch Springs, nestled on a 50-acre lake, is more than just a water park. It boasts a multitude of water-based activities that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax. Upon entering, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the place. The crystal-clear spring-fed lake surrounded by lush greenery offered a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

One of the first things we did was hit the Aqua Park section. The floating obstacle course was an absolute hit with the kids. Climbing walls, water trampolines, and the infamous Iceberg climb provided endless entertainment. Watching them navigate the challenges with such enthusiasm was a delight. I even joined in, proving that the park isn’t just for kids but for the young at heart too.

For those who treasure a bit of adventure, the Aerial Park within Dutch Springs offers zip-lining and high ropes courses. Surrounded by towering trees, I couldn’t resist the urge to take on the zip line. The rush of speeding through the air, with a panoramic view of the park below, was exhilarating. It’s an experience that’s both thrilling and serene, a combination that’s hard to come by.

Safety, I noticed, is paramount at Dutch Springs. Life jackets are mandatory for all water activities, and vigilant lifeguards are stationed throughout the park. This peace of mind allowed us to fully enjoy our day without worry.

Dutch Springs also prides itself on its Scuba Diving facilities. While the kids were too young for diving, we enjoyed watching divers prep and disappear into the depths of the lake. It’s fascinating to think that beneath the surface lies an underwater adventure playground that includes submerged vehicles, aircraft, and even a shipwreck.

As the day wore on, we found solace in the designated picnic areas. They were the perfect spot to regroup, enjoy some snacks, and plan our next adventure within the park. I was particularly impressed by the cleanliness and the availability of amenities, making our stay comfortable and hassle-free.

Discover the fun at SteelStacks

Exploring Bethlehem, PA with kids is an adventure at every turn, especially when we stumbled upon SteelStacks. This iconic arts and culture campus, built on the historic grounds of the former Bethlehem Steel plant, is nothing short of extraordinary.

Walking into SteelStacks, the towering blast furnaces serve as a backdrop for what’s become a vibrant hub for music, art, and entertainment. It’s hard not to feel the energy buzzing in the air, and the kids were just as captivated by the sight as I was.

First up, we checked out the free concerts happening at the Levitt Pavilion. It’s incredible that SteelStacks hosts over 50 free shows throughout the summer! The kids danced under the stars to a variety of bands, a perfect way for them to burn off some energy in the most joyful way possible. The diverse lineup ensured there was something for everyone, from jazz to indie rock to children’s performers.

Next, we wandered into the ArtsQuest Center, a modern facility that houses cinemas, comedy shows, and family-friendly programming. We caught a matinee at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas, which often features kid-approved movies. The cozy, intimate setting made it feel like a special outing, and the popcorn was a hit, of course.

One of the highlights of our visit had to be the hands-on arts and crafts workshops designed specifically for families. My kids unleashed their inner artists, creating everything from pottery to superhero masks. It was heartwarming to see their imaginations take flight, and they proudly carried their creations around for the remainder of the day.

For families visiting Bethlehem, I can’t recommend SteelStacks highly enough. The site beautifully intertwines the city’s industrial past with its vibrant cultural present, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to introduce their kids to the arts in an unforgettable setting.

As we walked away from SteelStacks, with the blast furnaces glowing against the evening sky, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memories we’d just made. SteelStacks isn’t just a place; it’s an experience – one that educates, entertains, and inspires.

Take a stroll through the Bethlehem Rose Garden

After our energetic time at SteelStacks, I figured we’d slow things down a bit with a more tranquil experience. That’s how we found ourselves heading to the Bethlehem Rose Garden. The contrast between the industrial vibes of our previous stop and the serene beauty of this garden was striking. Nestled in a quiet part of town, it felt like stepping into an entirely different world—a world where time slowed and the only agenda was to enjoy the beauty around us.

The Bethlehem Rose Garden isn’t just any ordinary park. It’s a meticulously maintained area that showcases an impressive variety of roses. Over 100 different species of roses bloom here, and they paint a vibrant palette of colors that can catch anyone’s eye. Walking through the garden, it was lovely to see the kids marvel at the spectrum of hues—from deep reds to sunny yellows, each turn of the path presented a new color theme.

Not only is the garden a feast for the eyes, but the fragrances that fill the air are absolutely intoxicating. Each variety of rose seems to have its own unique scent, and I found myself taking deep breaths just to savor the aromatic air. It’s a sensory experience that photos simply can’t capture—you have to be there to understand the full impact.

The Rose Garden also has a series of paved paths which are perfect for strollers or for little ones taking tentative steps. Alongside the floral attractions, there are several benches strategically placed for those moments when you just want to sit and soak in the surroundings. It was especially touching to see families having impromptu picnics, children playing on the grass, and couples strolling hand in hand. The atmosphere is so welcoming and peaceful; it’s easy to see why locals and visitors alike cherish this spot.

Besides the roses, the park is home to other plant species, adding to the diversity of the garden’s landscape. Signs posted around provide interesting facts about the flora, making our walk both enlightening and enjoyable. It’s clear that the city takes great pride in this garden, and it serves as a testament to Bethlehem’s commitment to preserving natural beauty and offering spaces for community.

Surprisingly, the Rose Garden also features a small but captivating pond area where we spotted ducks and other birds. This unexpected encounter added a hint of adventure to our visit, as the kids were thrilled to watch the ducks glide across the water.

Conclusion

Exploring Bethlehem, PA with kids has been an adventure that’s both enriching and entertaining. From the industrial majesty of SteelStacks to the natural beauty of the Bethlehem Rose Garden, there’s a blend of experiences that cater to all ages. I’ve loved watching the kids marvel at the roses and chase the ducks around the pond. It’s these simple moments, set against the backdrop of Bethlehem’s unique attractions, that have made our visit truly memorable. Whether you’re looking for educational outings or just a peaceful day out in nature, Bethlehem has something special to offer. And I can’t wait to discover more hidden gems in this charming city on our next visit.