Lehigh University
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It’s no secret that the town of Bethlehem isn’t exactly New York City, but there have been changes over the last few years to help improve the economy—most notably on the south side, near campus. The north side, historic Bethlehem, is five minutes from campus by car and has always been charming. A stroll down Main Street can make you feel like you’re in a completely different era with the old-fashioned sidewalks and storefronts. Both south and north sides have their share of distinct eateries, and the north side actually has some surprisingly good restaurants. Aside from the food, most students will agree that there’s not a lot to do in Bethlehem, but this is more than made up for in the excellent social life on campus. Students with cars often drive to Allentown—a 10- to 15-minute ride—for most of their needs.

While most people are skeptical of Bethlehem upon first visiting, the former steel titan has a way of growing on students. The relationship between residents of Bethlehem and the students is amicable at best; townies don’t exactly love the students, but they tolerate them all the same. Dorney Park and the Crayola Factory are 20-minute drives, Moravian College is right across the river, and Muhlenberg College is a 15-minute drive away. The Promenade outdoor shopping center has opened up a ton of options for students. The center is filled with shops and restaurants, and it’s quite pleasant to walk around. While most Lehigh students are having too much fun to be bothered going anywhere, there are a few options when it feels necessary to go off campus.

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Local Atmosphere at Lehigh University

zaclis7

Engineering '14

2.3

C

Bethlehem PA

Most of what to do on or around campus is related to drinking.

Mar 20, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at Lehigh University

jrk213

Industrial Engineering '13

4.6

A

Bethlehem Fun

Bethlehem has it's charm if you know where to go, with its local events held yearly and monthly, there is always something fun to do.

May 09, 2011

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Local Atmosphere at Lehigh University

soc212

Anthropology and Archaeology '12

3.1

B-

The South Side of the Mountain

The surrounding neighborhood of Lehigh does not have the best reputation. The South Side of Bethlehem is home to large population of Latinos. Students often avoid going to far off-campus because it can get a little too dangerous. There are break-ins in students houses and robberies a block away from campus. The relationship between the "townies" and Lehigh students is pretty tense. Attractions include the Hershey's Park, the Iron Pigs Coca-Cola baseball park, the Lehigh Valley Mall is not too far from Lehigh, and there is a large variety of restaurants off campus that offer some variety to the on-campus dining locations.

Sep 08, 2010

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