The Ironton Rail Trail stretches for more than nine miles, with a wide, level, paved surface. Activities available there include cycling, inline skating, walking, and jogging. You can choose between several ways to get moving along the same route and tailor your outing to your interests.
Nature and Wildlife
Trexler Nature Preserve is a 1,108-acre public park in Lehigh County that protects endangered bison and elk. Lehigh Valley Zoo covers 29 acres and is a wildlife sanctuary with approximately 340 animals from 130 species. The two nature destinations differ primarily in their focus: the preserve centers on protecting endangered species, while the zoo is defined by the variety of its animal species.
At Lehigh Valley Zoo, seasonal opportunities may be available to feed goats, sheep, swans, lorikeets, or giraffes; offerings may change. Free parking is located near the entrance. As operational details can change, check current parking information before your visit.
Rides and Science
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom covers 200 acres and offers more than 100 rides, games, restaurants, and attractions. Within this wide range of offerings, The Whip is a specific historical landmark: the ride was added to the park in 1920 and is now the park’s oldest ride.
At the Da Vinci Science Center, permanent experiences sit alongside changing traveling exhibitions. The Science Theater hosts interactive live science shows, demonstrations, and special events; one exhibition gallery is titled “Lehigh River Watershed: Explore Nature Nearby.” The different formats bring together permanent and changing exhibition themes with live offerings. If you are interested in a particular traveling exhibition, check in advance to see which theme is currently on display.
Culture and Industrial History
The Museum of Indian Culture was founded in 1980 as an educational and resource center for learning about the cultures of Native Americans. America On Wheels has a different focus: as a transportation museum, it displays rare vehicles and interactive exhibitions for all ages. You’ll encounter distinct subject areas: cultural learning on one hand, and transportation history with interactive exhibitions on the other.
Lock Ridge Furnace adds an industrial-history perspective. The Lock Ridge Iron Company built it in 1868; it served as an iron furnace from 1868 to 1921. The year it was built also marks the start of its operating period, while 1921 marks its end.
Visiting the Mack Trucks Historical Museum
A tour at the Mack Trucks Historical Museum is led by a Museum Ambassador and lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Ask about reservation availability before your visit. Self-guided tours are only possible on open-house days. As open-house policies may change, check them before visiting on such a day.
Discover more destinations: Allentown, Breinigsville, Coopersburg, Laurys Station, Whitehall, Upper Saucon Township, Schuylkill County, Huntingdon County
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