Lehigh University
- Local Atmosphere

Quick Stats

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

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.

Lehigh Student ReviewsWhat's This?

Sort by:

Most RecentMost PopularHighest Grades

Local Atmosphere at Lehigh University

jrk213

'13

Industrial Engineering

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

Comment actions: Rate

12345

Report as inappropriate/inaccurate

Local Atmosphere at Lehigh University

soc212

'12

Anthropology and Archaeology

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

Comment actions: Rate

12345

Report as inappropriate/inaccurate

Local Atmosphere at Lehigh University

drg213

'13

Engineering

4.6

A

Life on Your Own

Lehigh University is located in a very small city of Bethlehem. However, everything you need is not that far away. Such a the mall or movies at a 15 minute drive or buses to the city which is about 2 hours away (a lot more convenient than it sounds). Philadelphia and New Jersey are also only about a hour and a half away as well. The campus itself hold of lot of activities for the students which make it almost unnecessary to leave. Our rival school is about 30 minutes away as well making it easy to attend the rival games which everyone goes to.

Jun 29, 2010

Comment actions: Rate

12345

Report as inappropriate/inaccurate

What do you think of your school? Register to submit reviews to let others know what it's really like »

First

Previous

Page 1 of 5

Next

Last

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

Rate the local atmosphere on the following topics

What is the local atmosphere like at your school?

What is the proximity to other universities? Is there much interaction?

Can you see yourself living here after graduation?

Facts