Exploring Allentown and the Lehigh Valley
Allentown has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. The Liberty Bell was hidden in the basement of Zion's Reformed Church during the Revolutionary War, an event commemorated at the Liberty Bell Museum. The surrounding Lehigh Valley is home to historic Bethlehem, covered bridges, caves, wineries, and the dramatic Lehigh Gorge. Guided tours offer an easy way to experience these highlights with expert context.
Whether you are a visitor, a new resident, or a lifelong local looking to discover something new, these ten tour operators and experience providers deliver outstanding experiences.
The Top 10 Tour Operators
1. Bieber Tourways
Bieber Tourways offers motorcoach day trips and multi-day tours departing from the Lehigh Valley. Itineraries include Broadway shows, holiday markets, historic sites, and regional festivals, making it easy to travel with comfort and convenience.
2. Fullington Tours
Fullington Tours provides escorted group travel to destinations throughout the eastern United States and Canada. Its experienced tour directors handle every detail, from lodging to attraction tickets.
3. Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites
Just minutes from Allentown, Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites offers guided walking tours of the Moravian historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tours explore eighteenth-century buildings, industrial history, and the Christmas City traditions.
4. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Departing from Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway takes passengers on vintage train rides through stunning river gorge scenery. Fall foliage excursions are especially popular with Allentown residents.
5. Jim Thorpe River Adventures
Jim Thorpe River Adventures offers whitewater rafting and guided river trips on the Lehigh River. Trips range from family-friendly floats to exciting dam-release whitewater runs.
6. Lost River Caverns
Located in nearby Hellertown, Lost River Caverns offers guided tours of a beautiful living cave, along with a gem and mineral museum. It is an excellent family outing that combines education and adventure.
7. Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave near Kutztown is one of Pennsylvania's oldest operating show caves. Guided tours reveal impressive formations, and the grounds include a nature trail and family activities.
8. Lehigh Valley Wine Trail Experiences
The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail connects wineries throughout the region. Group tour operators and limousine services organize tasting tours, allowing visitors to sample award-winning wines without worrying about driving.
9. Lehigh County Historical Society
The Lehigh County Historical Society operates museums and historic sites, including programs that interpret Allentown's industrial and cultural heritage. Guided experiences help visitors understand how the city evolved over three centuries.
10. Discover Lehigh Valley
Discover Lehigh Valley, the region's official tourism organization, curates itineraries and connects visitors with tour providers, covered bridge driving routes, food tours, and seasonal events. It is an essential resource for planning any visit.
Popular Tour Themes
History tours remain the most popular, covering colonial history, the Liberty Bell story, Moravian settlements, and the steel and silk industries that once powered the region. Outdoor tours focus on rafting, hiking, biking along the D&L Trail, and fall foliage excursions. Culinary experiences highlight Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, farmers markets, craft breweries, and wineries. Seasonal tours include holiday light displays, Christmas markets, and haunted history walks in autumn.
Benefits of Guided Tours
Professional guides bring stories to life with details you would miss on your own. Tours handle logistics like transportation, admission, and timing, making them ideal for groups, seniors, and first-time visitors. Many operators also offer private and customized tours for corporate groups, family reunions, and school field trips.
Tips for Choosing a Tour
Consider the physical demands of each tour, especially for caves and rafting trips. Book popular seasonal tours early, particularly fall foliage train rides and holiday events. Read reviews to gauge guide quality, and ask about group size limits for a more personal experience. Check cancellation policies, as outdoor tours may be affected by weather.
Planning Your Lehigh Valley Itinerary
A great weekend might begin with the Liberty Bell Museum and Allentown Art Museum, continue with a walking tour of historic Bethlehem, and end with a scenic train ride or rafting trip in Jim Thorpe. Add a winery visit and dinner downtown at one of Allentown's growing collection of restaurants for a well-rounded experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular tours near Allentown?
Historic walking tours in Bethlehem, Lehigh Gorge scenic train rides, whitewater rafting in Jim Thorpe, cave tours, and winery excursions consistently rank among the region's favorites. Seasonal holiday and fall foliage tours also draw large crowds.
Are there tours suitable for seniors?
Yes. Motorcoach operators such as Bieber Tourways and Fullington Tours specialize in comfortable, well-paced trips designed with seniors in mind, including theater outings, holiday markets, and multi-day tours with escorted guides.
Can groups book private tours?
Most operators offer private tours for families, schools, corporate teams, and community organizations. Private tours allow you to customize timing, stops, and themes, and they are a great option for reunions and team-building events.
When is the best season to tour the Lehigh Valley?
Fall is especially beautiful thanks to colorful foliage and harvest events, while late spring and summer are ideal for outdoor adventures. The holiday season brings festive markets and light displays, particularly in Bethlehem, known as the Christmas City.
Conclusion
Allentown is a gateway to some of Pennsylvania's most rewarding travel experiences. The tour operators listed here help visitors connect with the region's history, nature, and culture. Choose an experience that matches your interests and discover why the Lehigh Valley is becoming a favorite destination.