If you’re looking for riverside charm, family fun, and delicious food, Easton is the place to be! Nestled where the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers meet, Easton is full of history, vibrant markets, and quirky museums. Whether you’re savoring craft beer or letting your creativity flow at the Crayola Experience, Easton makes the perfect weekend escape in the Lehigh Valley.
Easton, PA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Paddle or bike the D&L Trail – If you love being active, paddle the Delaware River or bike along scenic canal towpaths that stretch for miles. It's a beautiful way to experience the area!
- For History Buffs: Discover the Sigal Museum – Dive into Easton’s Revolutionary War roots and Native American artifacts at this fascinating museum. Trust me, it’s a must-see for history lovers.
- For Shoppers: Stroll the Easton Public Market – Explore this lively market with local vendors, farm-fresh food, and gourmet treats. I love grabbing something delicious here, especially on a Saturday morning.
- For Couples: Take a sunset walk along Scott Park – Take a romantic stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the peaceful views. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
- For Families: Unleash creativity at the Crayola Experience – If you’re with kids, this is the place to be. You can make your own crayons, play fun games, and explore more than 20 colorful attractions.
Best Time to Visit Easton, PA
The best time to visit Easton is from late spring through fall (May to October). The weather is perfect for riverfront activities, outdoor markets, and local festivals. Fall is especially gorgeous with the changing foliage and a cozy vibe in the air.
How to Get to Easton, PA
- If you are traveling by car: Easton is easy to get to, just about 1.5 hours from New York City and 1 hour from Philadelphia via I-78 and Route 22.
- By Bus: Trans-Bridge Lines runs services from NYC straight to Easton’s downtown terminal. It’s a convenient and comfy ride!
- By Train: While there’s no direct train to Easton, you can catch one to nearby Bethlehem or Allentown, then take a bus or car to Easton.
Where to Stay in Easton, PA
- Grand Eastonian Hotel & Suites – This historic hotel offers modern comfort with views of the river and easy access to downtown. It’s a great spot to stay if you want to be close to everything!
- Hampton Inn Easton – If you’re looking for a family-friendly place with a clean, welcoming vibe, this is a solid choice. It’s also close to the highway, making it super convenient.
- Townley House Hotel – For a boutique experience, this luxury inn is a great pick. The interiors are stunning, and it’s just a short walk to the Crayola Experience and the public market.
Best Things to Do in Easton, PA
Karl Stirner Arts Trail - Walk along easy riverside paths and admire exciting outdoor sculptures.
State Theatre Center for the Arts - Enjoy exciting live shows or savor romantic nights in a historic venue.
National Canal Museum - Discover unusual canal history and enjoy affordable, hands-on family exhibits.
The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor - Explore exciting biking and hiking trails through scenic, historic landscapes.
Nurture Nature Center, Easton, PA - Learn about exciting environmental science or explore unusual interactive exhibits.
Bushkill Park - Visit this unusual vintage amusement park and enjoy affordable family-friendly fun.
Crayola Experience - Take kids to enjoy exciting creative play and explore unusual interactive stations.
Marblehead Chowder House - Savor affordable seafood favorites and enjoy quick service in a cozy setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- PA Bacon Fest (November) – One of the country’s top food festivals featuring bacon everything, live music, and chef demos.
- Easton Heritage Day (July) – Historical reenactments, fireworks, and fun honoring the city’s reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
- Easton Winter Village (Nov–Dec) – A holiday market on the square with vendors, music, and ice skating.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Easton, Pennsylvania:
- Bethlehem (20–25 min) – Explore historic Moravian buildings, SteelStacks arts campus, and Christmas markets.
- Allentown (30 min) – Visit the Da Vinci Science Center, art museum, or catch a minor league baseball game.
- Riegelsville (25 min) – Quaint river town with antique shops and the scenic Riegelsville Bridge over the Delaware.
- Delaware Water Gap (30 min) – Hike Appalachian trails or paddle the Delaware in a stunning natural setting.
- Lost River Caverns (25 min) – Explore underground crystal formations on a family-friendly cave tour in Hellertown.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Easton located?
- Easton’s unique location at the crux of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers sets it in the center of rich history and culture.
- When was Easton settled, and how large is it today?
- Settled in 1739 on 1,000 acres owned by Thomas Penn, this city is now home to over 27,000 people.
- How is Easton connected to the history of the United States?
- Only about 55 miles from Philadelphia, Easton was the third site in the newly formed United States to have the Declaration of Independence read aloud.
- What is Easton known for today?
- Today, Crayola crayons are still made in Easton, and visitors can check out plenty of dining and historical sites around the four districts.
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild weather, blossoming parks, and outdoor festivals. | Grand Eastonian Hotel & Suites – Historic accommodations centrally located downtown. | Explore Hugh Moore Park – Enjoy trails, scenic views, and historic canal tours. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures perfect for outdoor events and river activities. | The Lafayette Inn – Charming, historic accommodations near Lafayette College. | Visit Easton Farmers’ Market – Enjoy fresh produce, local crafts, and vibrant community atmosphere. |
| Fall (September-November) – Cool weather, colorful foliage, and local celebrations. | Grand Eastonian Hotel & Suites – Comfortable stay with convenient downtown access. | Explore Delaware Canal State Park – Scenic walks, biking trails, and stunning fall colors. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold weather, festive charm, and indoor attractions. | Holiday Inn Express & Suites Easton – Warm, convenient accommodations near area highlights. | Visit Crayola Experience – Family-friendly indoor attraction celebrating creativity. |
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In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)