Just Outside Allentown Is A Charming East Coast Borough With River Views, Local Eats, And Nature Escapes

Travelers in search of their next East Coast adventure should set their sights on Pennsylvania. Whether it's seeing the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia or hiking up into the Pocono Mountains, the Quaker State is full of excitement. For a destination a little more off the beaten path, take a trip over to Northampton, a riverfront borough amidst the sprawling green meadows of the Lehigh Valley. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hikes and calming river views topped off with tasty local bites. Only a 20-minute drive north of Allentown, Northampton is an underrated Pennsylvania getaway.

Take a walk through Northampton's compact Main Street, which reveals the town's almost 300-year-long settler history. With origins dating back to the 18th century, the main thoroughfare has accumulated a charming jumble of Colonial-style homes squeezed between weathered brick storefronts. Particularly photo-worthy is the Roxy Theater, a red-brick edifice sporting a flashy, Art Deco marquee covered in lightbulbs. Sightseers can spend the day strolling Main Street to admire the architecture, browse the local boutiques, and learn about Northampton's industrial past at the Atlas Cement Company Memorial Museum.

The bends of the Lehigh River anchoring the western boundary of town means scenic views aren't hard to find. Stroll across the Historic Woodward Iron Bridge to view the trees framing the riverfront, or bring a picnic to Canal Street Park to relax by the edge of the water, where wildlife can be spotted roaming between the trees. Anglers can find a spot to fish along the river, while hikers and cyclists can take the D&L Trail to venture into the scenic Pennsylvania woodlands. Head back to Northampton's main thoroughfare at the end of the day, where quaint local restaurants beckon weary explorers seeking a hearty meal.

Travelers wanting to bask in views of the Lehigh River should spend the day at Canal Street Park just a short way south of Main Street. Narrow dirt trails lead right down to the pebbly riverbank, where wizened trees offer shade as you gaze out across the calm water. Dense foliage frames both sides of the river, while the shallow banks are strewn with rocks, creating a picturesque backdrop. Despite the bustling Main Street being just a few minutes away, the quiet riverfront scenery transports you into the rural wilderness.

To explore even more of the surrounding woodlands, head onto the D&L Trail, which traces the path of the region's old railroads and canals. Whether by foot or by bicycle, nature fiends can make their way along the gravely riverfront track, which is easily accessed from Canal Street Park. Leafy foliage framing the trail creates a tranquil setting for exploring the countryside, and bridges crossing the river make a great spot for trekkers to pause and soak up the scenery. Visitors can even bring their four-legged friends to walk the trail together.

Take the D&L Tail westwards to stay along the banks of the Lehigh River, or head back towards town to hit the Northampton & Bath Railroad Bike Path, which cuts through a blend of dense forests and wide parkland dotted with shady trees. "Excellent [trail] to walk along, very scenic," says a previous visitor. Benches and picnic tables are dotted along the length of the path, inviting hikers and cyclers to sit and refuel. For more outdoor adventures, just an hour's drive north is Big Pocono State Park, a scenic spot for trails, biking, and mountain views.

When all that hiking works up your appetite, Northampton's eateries await. A popular spot with locals is Main Street Family Restaurant, sporting a painted brick facade and striped awning that welcomes diners into the rustic interior. "They really bring that 'hometown' vibe," says a previous customer on Google. The breakfast menu includes what's known as the "Northampton Feast", a hearty dish which gives diners a choice of pancakes or French toast topped with either sausage or bacon, plus two eggs and home fries. The lunch menu will also fill you up with its selection of sandwiches, burgers, and cheesesteak.

For classic pasta dishes and a glass of wine, try Assante Ristorante Italiano right across the street. Highly-rated on Google, diners can tuck into lunch or dinner options like crab cakes, fettuccine alfredo, and shrimp scampi. "The food made me feel like I was back in Italy," a previous customer writes. The interiors are simple yet elegant, and diners can also grab a seat up at the bar to enjoy sips of house wine, draft beers, and cocktails.

A little farther down Main Street is The Gin Mill and Grille, a rustic tavern featuring a charming false-front facade and a large outdoor seating area. Head inside to order a steak sandwich or crispy chicken wings drizzled in buffalo sauce, or simply stop by for drinks during one of the venue's regular concert nights. Previous reviews have also mentioned the great vibes and friendly employees. Continue your Pennsylvania adventures over in nearby Easton, a trendy city with family-friendly fun and a fabulous farmer's market. Outdoor fiends could also make their way to Beltzville State Park, a pretty lake escape in the foothills of the Poconos.