Must-Visit Attractions for Families in Lehigh Valley

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom —Allentown

Visit two parks for the price of one! If you've got a thrill-seeker check out all the water rides, rollercoasters, and thrills this amusement park has to offer. Dorney Park also offers plenty of kid rides, so even the smallest family members can have fun. You might even meet Snoopy while you're there.

Crayola Experience —Easton

Learn how crayons are made, make your own crayons and coloring pages, create "drip art," and check out the Adventure Lab where you can solve puzzles. Read our review before you go for more info about what to expect. 

Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs —Allentown

Root for the hometeam when you visit the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, the triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. This minor league team offers lots of giveaways and special events, so check the calendar before you go.

HangDog —Easton

HangDog Outdoor Adventure offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor climbing and zipline experience to the Lehigh Valley. HangDog boasts the largest high ropes adventure course on the East Coast plus a brewery!

Outdoor Adventures Kids Will Love

Lehigh Valley Zoo —Schnecksville

Feed the giraffes, meet the penguins, watch a wildlife show, and more at this awesome zoo. This zoo has tons of great events and interactive experiences that kids will love.
Bonus: Lehigh Valley Zoo is part of the AZA Reciprocal Zoos & Aquariums program so if you have zoo membership, you might be able to get 50% off admission.

Shankweiler's Drive-In —Orefield

See a movie at what's known as "America's oldest drive-in!" This movie theater has been in continuous operation since 1934, and it plays tons of great kids' features and includes a full-service snack bar with hot dogs, cheeseburgers, popcorn, and sweet treats.

Lost River Caverns —Hellertown

Take a trip underground to tour Lost River Caverns. This awesome limestone cave is always a cool 52 degrees, no matter the weather outside. And, yes, there is in fact a crystal clear river that runs right through it! Nobody knows where it leads...

Educational & Creative Stops for Curious Kids

Da Vinci Science Center —Allentown

This science museum features tons of fun and interactive exhibits. Learn about the human body, head to Curiosity Hall, or learn more about the Lehigh River Watershed.

America On Wheels Museum —Allentown

Perfect for the wheels-obsessed kid (or parent) in your family, this museum is full of vintage cars. While you're there, grab an old-fashioned milkshake or float at the 1950s Hubcap Cafe.

Allentown Art Museum —Allentown

This art museum includes a special interactive art gallery for families with three art tables where kids can create their own masterpieces. Admission is free EVERY Sunday and includes family programming and tours.

National Museum of Industrial History —Bethlehem

Located in a 100-year-old Bethlehem Steel facility, this museum offers exhibits dedicated to America's industrial heritage. There are over 200 industrial artifacts on display.

ArtsQuest —Bethlehem

ArtsQuest’s SteelStacks campus is a versatile venue featuring concerts, festivals, comedy shows, visual arts classes and campus, and a movie theater. Check the calendar for free concerts, programming and great events happening throughout the year.

National Canal Museum —Easton

Ride a canal boat, meet the mules, and discover the history and science behind canal boats in beautiful Hugh Moore Park. You'll even get a chance to harness a mule and steer a boat yourself! You can also rent a bike or a boat from the museum and enjoy the 520-acre park on your own.

Sigal Museum —Easton

This museum displays authentic artifacts dating as far back as 12,000 years. Discover authentic pre-European artifacts like a life-size diorama of a Lenni Lenape bark hut, or "wikewam." From agriculture to industry and everything in between, learn about local history in the Lehigh Valley throughout the years.

Family-Friendly Events and Festivals

Musikfest —Bethlehem

This music festival happens all throughout downtown Bethlehem every year in the beginning of August. Expect lots of free concerts and music as well as family programming from Crayola and kid-friendly performances like The Ostrich Rider, Alléz-Oops, and more. 

Peeps Fest —Bethlehem

Bid farewell to 2025 with all things PEEP® at Peeps Fest. This family-friendly event is entirely outdoors and features live music, crafts, scavenger hunts, and even a Leaning Tower of PEEPS®. The PEEPS® Chick Drop will take place each day at 5:30pm.

Illumination at Coca Cola Park —Allentown

Coca-Cola Park is transformed into Illumination, a breathtaking walk-through Holiday Lights experience. With over one million sparkling lights, you’ll step into a winter wonderland filled with captivating light displays, synchronized shows, and joyous holiday activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far is Lehigh Valley from NYC and Philadelphia?

A: It’s about 90 minutes from Philly and 1 hour 45 minutes from NYC, making it ideal for day trips or weekend escapes.

Q: Is Lehigh Valley good for toddlers and older kids?

A: Yes! There are activities suited for all ages, from toddler-friendly museums to thrill rides for teens at Dorney Park.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit with kids?

A: Spring through fall is ideal for outdoor adventures and festivals, while winter offers festive fun in Bethlehem (aka Christmas City).

Q: Are there any free things to do in Lehigh Valley with kids?

A: Yes! Jacobsburg and Trexler Nature Preserve, Easton Farmers' Market, and seasonal free events are all great no-cost options.