Presented by Factory Hockey & Lehigh Valley Phantoms Youth
Bethlehem Steel Classic
January 2–3, 2027
Steel Ice Center – Bethlehem, PA
A Premier Showcase • AAA Teams | 2014–2017 Birth Years • Elite 2010 AA/AAA Teams
Welcome to the Bethlehem Steel Classic
The Bethlehem Steel Classic is a premier showcase built on legacy and designed for competitive impact. Hosted at Steel Ice Center on the historic grounds of Bethlehem Steel, this high-level weekend brings serious teams together for sharp competition in one of the most unique hockey settings in the region.
This is not just about the games. It is about where those games happen, who you play, and how the weekend is built to deliver on every level: competition, culture, convenience, and connection.
- Date: January 2–3, 2027
- Location: Steel Ice Center, Bethlehem, PA
- Eligibility: AAA Teams | 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017 Birth Years
- Additional Division: Elite 2010 AA/AAA Teams
- Format: Premier Showcase | 4-Game Guarantee
- Fee: $1,200/team
Strength in legacy. Excellence in play. A high-intensity weekend for serious elite competition on sharp ice, set against the iconic backdrop of Bethlehem Steel.
Competitive intensity at the Bethlehem Steel Classic — elite teams battle on historic ice at Steel Ice Center
Built for Competition. Designed with Purpose.
The Bethlehem Steel Classic is built for programs that want more than a generic tournament weekend. It is a curated showcase designed for serious teams seeking meaningful games, strong opponents, smart travel logistics, and a weekend atmosphere that reflects the level they play at.
- Expanded Showcase Field: AAA teams at the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 birth years
- Elite 2010 Division: AA/AAA teams competing in a high-level older birth-year showcase
- 4-Game Guarantee: Premier showcase format with competitive matchups
- Unmatched Setting: Historic South Side Bethlehem — hotels, dining, arts, history, and culture all nearby
- No Fluff, No Fillers: Focused hockey in a legacy-rich setting
At $1,200 per team, this showcase offers serious value for serious teams. If your program is ready to compete in a setting that feels different from the moment families arrive, this is where you belong.
2027 Showcase Divisions
The Bethlehem Steel Classic is expanding for 2027 with AAA divisions for 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 birth years, plus an Elite 2010 AA/AAA division. Each division is built for serious competition in a premier showcase format.
2010 Elite
Elite AA/AAA Teams
Excellence attracts excellence. Register early to secure your team’s place in the 2027 Bethlehem Steel Classic field.
Secure Your Spot in the 2027 Bethlehem Steel Classic
Registration is now open for the 2027 Bethlehem Steel Classic. This premier showcase brings elite competition to Steel Ice Center in Historic South Side Bethlehem, with expanded divisions for 2014–2017 AAA teams and an Elite 2010 AA/AAA division.
📋 4-Game Guarantee 💵 $1,200/team 🏒 January 2–3, 2027
Please select the correct division for your team. Questions about placement, eligibility, or registration can be directed to [email protected].
The Bethlehem Star shining above South Mountain — a landmark as timeless as the city below
USA TODAY 10Best Recognition: Bethlehem’s Main Street
Bethlehem is not simply a convenient host city. It is a destination in its own right. USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognized Bethlehem with the honor of Best Main Street, highlighting the same walkable charm, historic character, shops, dining, and community pride that visiting hockey families experience throughout the weekend.
For families attending the Bethlehem Steel Classic, that matters. Between games, visitors can stroll historic Downtown Bethlehem, explore local coffee shops and restaurants, visit independent stores, and experience a city that feels rooted in history while still full of energy.
- Historic Character: Brick buildings, centuries-old sites, and preserved architecture give the city a sense of place.
- Christmas City USA: Bethlehem’s holiday identity and winter atmosphere remain part of the early-January experience.
- College Town Energy: Lehigh University and Moravian University add depth, history, and a strong community feel.
- Built-In Family Experience: Shopping, dining, coffee, history, nightlife, and local attractions are all part of the trip.
This is not a rink-in-the-middle-of-nowhere weekend. It is elite hockey surrounded by one of the most celebrated Main Street districts in the country.
2027 Showcase Flyer
Download and share the official 2027 Bethlehem Steel Classic flyer with coaches, managers, and families. The flyer highlights the expanded birth-year offering, the Elite 2010 AA/AAA division, the 4-game guarantee, and the destination experience in Historic South Side Bethlehem.
📍 Beyond the Ice: Plan Your Weekend
Your team is preparing for elite competition — now it is time to shape the experience around the action. From hotel picks and walkable meals to team bonding, local history, and New Year atmosphere, this guide helps families, players, managers, and coaches make the most of their time in Bethlehem.
🧭 Quick Start Itineraries
Plan your weekend with confidence. Whether you’re traveling light, staying close to the rink, or exploring the best of Bethlehem, these sample itineraries are built for high-level teams and thoughtful families.
🏆 Best of Bethlehem (Itinerary)
- Stay: Historic Hotel Bethlehem – A landmark experience with Main Street charm and winter atmosphere
- Dine: McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub – Cozy Irish fare near iconic colonial sites
- Explore: SteelStacks & National Museum of Industrial History
- Photo Op: Walk the Hoover-Mason Trestle at night for skyline and steel-lit memories
💰 Budget-Conscious Weekend (Itinerary)
- Stay: Comfort Suites Bethlehem – Free breakfast, close to the rink, and practical for families
- Dine: Lehigh Pizza or Goosemen for no-frills eats
- Do: Explore ArtsQuest events or walk the lit South Side streets
- Breaks: Target & CVS nearby for last-minute needs
⛸️ Rink-Centric Convenience (Itinerary)
- Stay: Comfort Suites – Closest to Steel Ice Center
- Dine: Steel Pub onsite or walk to Lit Coffee Roastery
- Skate: Check for public skate opportunities between games
- Explore: ArtsQuest and SteelStacks — close to the rink
🤝 Team Builder Experience (Itinerary)
- Stay: Holiday Inn Express – Reliable team option with breakfast & space
- Group Activity: Captured LV Escape Room or B Social duckpin bowling & arcade
- Meal: Team-friendly reservations at McCarthy’s, Twisted Tees, or Bethlehem Brew Works
- Bond: Take team photos at SteelStacks with the blast furnaces
⭐ All-Star Weekend (Itinerary)
- Stay: Wind Creek Hotel – Full resort vibe with food, outlets, and entertainment
- Dine: Urban Table or one of Wind Creek’s other on-site dining options
- Activity: See a concert or family show at Wind Creek Event Center
- Bonus: Kids Quest playcare on-site means grown-ups get a real night out
🍽️ For the Foodies (Itinerary)
- Stay: Hyatt Place – Walkable downtown access and stylish comfort
- Eat: Start with brunch at Roasted, lunch at Hello Cactus, and dinner at April’s
- Drinks: Social Still or Seven Sirens for upscale sips and local brews
- Snack: Explore Seasons Taproom or Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
🎨 Sibling Fun (Itinerary)
- Stay: Holiday Inn Express – Family-friendly base with breakfast
- Adventure: Crayola Experience – Interactive creative play just a short drive away
- Jump: SkyZone or B Social for movement and fun
- Snack: Wind down with treats from The Cup or Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
✈️ Fly-In Friendly (Itinerary)
- Arrival: Fly into Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) — just minutes from Bethlehem
- Stay: Hyatt Place Bethlehem or Homewood Suites – Bethlehem Airport
- Dine: Lit Coffee Roastery for quick bites and breakfast, Twisted Tees for dinner with a vibe
- Unwind: Stroll to SteelStacks or catch a show at Wind Creek Event Center
🎇 Extended Stay in the Valley (Itinerary)
Arriving early? Start 2027 with a memory-making mix of celebration, hockey energy, and iconic local traditions before your first puck drop.
- 🎉 Celebrate New Year’s Eve at PEEPSFest – Crafts, live music, and the famous PEEPS Chick Drop
- 🍽️ Dine under the twinkle lights at Historic Hotel Bethlehem — holiday charm and warm atmosphere through early January
- 🛍️ Window shop along Main & Broad Streets — festive storefronts and historic charm still on full display
- 🎭 Catch a movie or event at ArtsQuest — walkable from the rink
- 🎶 Check for live events at Wind Creek Event Center — concerts and nightlife just minutes from the rink
- 🎆 Drive through Lights in the Parkway if the seasonal schedule allows
- 🏒 Then hit the ice — the showcase begins January 2
Historic Hotel Bethlehem — a centerpiece of the city’s charm and one of Bethlehem’s signature stays
Where to Stay
All hotels listed are showcase-tested, family-friendly, and within 5 miles of Steel Ice Center. Many offer free breakfast, kitchenettes, or pool access. Book early — January fills fast.
Legend:
⭐ Hotel quality 🐾 Pet-friendly 🥞 Breakfast 🍳 Kitchenette 🏊 Pool 🧺 Laundry
🧼 Housekeeping 🏋️ Fitness ✈️ Near ABE 🚌 Free shuttle 🎮 Arcade 🎰 Casino
🛍️ Outlets 🍽️ Dining 🎄 Holiday decor
Walkable & Closest Hotels
- Historic Hotel Bethlehem ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 0.8 miles | 🍽️ 🎄
Landmark luxury and charm. Walk to shopping and historic sites. - Comfort Suites Bethlehem ⭐⭐½ 🐾 — 0.4 miles | 🥞 🏊 🧺
Closest hotel to the rink. Walk to food, coffee, and South Side shops. - Hyatt Place Bethlehem ⭐⭐⭐ 🐾 — 0.7 miles | 🥞 🏋️ 🧼 🚌
Modern, near Main Street — ideal for teams exploring downtown.
Family Favorites with Extra Space
- Candlewood Suites ⭐⭐½ 🐾 — 1.3 miles | 🍳 🧺 🏋️
Kitchenettes and laundry — great for longer stays or large families. - Holiday Inn Express ⭐⭐½ — 2.3 miles | 🥞 🏊 🧼
Consistent value, close to downtown with breakfast and pool. - Hampton Inn & Suites ⭐⭐½ 🐾 — 3.6 miles | 🥞 🏊 🧺
Reliable chain favorite with solid family amenities.
Suites, Kitchens, & Space to Spread Out
- Homewood Suites – Bethlehem Airport ⭐⭐⭐ 🐾 — 4.2 miles | ✈️ 🚌 🍳 🥞 🏊 🧺
Spacious suites near ABE. Free airport shuttle, full kitchens, breakfast, and easy access to the rink. - Homewood Suites – Center Valley ⭐⭐⭐ 🐾 — 5.4 miles | 🍳 🥞 🏊
Ideal for teams wanting retail and dining nearby. Easy I-78 access.
Entertainment Option
- Wind Creek Hotel ⭐⭐⭐ — 0.9 miles | 🛍️ 🎮 🍽️ 🎰
Attached to the Wind Creek Casino & Outlets. Great for parents looking for a full-service resort experience.
🏨 A showcase this serious deserves a stay that matches. Don’t just book a room — build your team’s basecamp for the weekend.
Local Logistics: Essentials & Pet Support
Need to make a quick stop? These nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and dog-friendly facilities are convenient for families managing a full showcase weekend.
Grocery, Pharmacy & General Supplies
- Schell’s Supermarket – 1.2 miles
Family-run market with hot food, deli, and quick essentials. - Giant Food Store – 5-minute drive
Full-service grocery and pharmacy with bakery and prepared meals. - Target – 2.3 miles
Snacks, toiletries, team supplies — convenient from many hotels. - CVS Pharmacy – 1 mile
Closest pharmacy to the rink for quick medication or supply needs. - Walmart Supercenter – 10-minute drive
Open late with a wide selection of groceries and gear.
Dog-Friendly Support
- Monocacy Dog Park – 2.5 miles
Fenced off-leash park with agility equipment and water stations. - The Puppy Palace – Less than 10 minutes
Daycare and grooming for dogs — ideal for traveling families.
🗺️ Plan Your Weekend with One Click
From Steel Ice Center to hotels, dining, and attractions — everything is already mapped out for you. Use this interactive guide to streamline your stay and keep your team on track all weekend long.
📍 Showcase locations are pre-pinned — no extra searching required.
Main Street Bethlehem at night — a walkable mix of boutique shops, glowing lights, and centuries-old charm
🍽️ Where to Eat
Every meal matters during a showcase weekend. These picks prioritize location, convenience, and team-friendliness — not just hype. Scroll and expand each category to plan like a pro.
🏒 Fast & Inside the Rink
Icehouse Snack Stand – Located inside Steel Ice Center
- ☕ Fresh coffee
- 🥪 Hot breakfast sandwiches
- 🍫 Grab-and-go snacks
Perfect for early games, mid-day refuels, or staying warm between matchups.
The Steel Pub – Rinkside dining with East Rink views
- 👀 View the game while eating
- 🎶 Live music Friday & Saturday nights
- 🍔 Full menu, drinks, family seating
This is the showcase’s unofficial HQ — no reservations needed, just walk over.
🥞 Showcase Mornings: Coffee & Brunch
- The People’s Kitchen – Scratch-made favorites with quick service. Get there early.
- Johnny’s Bagels – Grab a bagel and go. Perfect before early puck drop.
- Lit Roastery – Gourmet coffee and pastries near the rink.
- Roasted – Creative brunch, good for dietary needs. Busy but worth it.
- Billy’s Downtown Diner – Beloved for team breakfasts and big portions.
👨👩👧👦 Team-Friendly Meals & Group Dining
- Twisted Tees – Virtual golf, cornhole, food, and space to spread out.
- Steak and Steel Hibachi – High-energy hibachi that teams love. Book ahead for groups.
- The Bayou – Southern food and group-friendly tables.
- Bethlehem Brew Works – Menu for all ages, plus craft beer for parents.
💵 Budget-Conscious Favorites
- Goosemen – Comfort food and portions that work for teams.
- Lehigh Pizza – Open late. Great for feeding a team on a budget.
- Deja Brew – Low-key, cozy, and affordable breakfast/lunch.
- Flying V – Poutine and burgers with hockey vibes.
🥂 Upscale Options for Adults
- Tavern at the Sun Inn – Historic, charming, and refined.
- The Brick – Artisan plates and cozy, modern decor.
- Zest Bar+Grille – Rooftop dining. Sleek and stylish.
- Apollo Grill – Sophisticated bistro with upscale American fare. A downtown favorite for over 20 years.
- Bolete – Award-winning fine dining. Reservations recommended.
- McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub – Irish fare, whiskey, and live music downtown.
🌍 International Cravings
- Hi Pot – Hot pot & Korean BBQ. Fun and interactive.
- U & Tea – Authentic Chinese. Bubble tea & mochi too.
- Hocaa Boba – Quick treats players will love.
🍦 Sweets & Treats
🍴 Meals shape memories. From rinkside bites to rooftop dinners, these aren’t filler meals — they’re part of the showcase story.
🛍️ Where to Shop
Team downtime doesn’t have to be wasted time. These locally owned shops offer nostalgic sweets, parent-worthy indulgences, quirky boutiques, and quick wins between games — all just minutes from the rink.
📖 Historic Icons & Core Stops
- Moravian Book Shop – The oldest bookstore in the United States. Full of charm, Moravian stars, gifts, and souvenirs.
- Main Street and Broad Street are packed with independent shops, seasonal décor, and photo-worthy storefronts. A great loop for families in between games.
🍭 Kid Favorites & Quick Wins
- Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop – Retro treats and pure joy for kids between games.
- Clusters Popcorn – Fresh-popped flavors like cheddar, kettle, and caramel. Great for snacking or gifting.
🎁 Holiday Boutiques & Stylish Finds
- Dear Santa – A year-round Christmas boutique with ornaments, keepsakes, and festive family charm.
- The Paisley Sun – Bethlehem’s go-to boutique for cozy apparel, gifts, and locally made goods.
- The Foo Foo Shoppe – A quirky boutique with fun soaps, seasonal rubber ducks, and playful décor for all ages.
🍸 Local Sips & Adult Picks
- Franklin Hill Vineyards – Wine tastings and bottles to go. A relaxing break just off Main Street.
- Christmas City Spirits – Small-batch spirits made in the historic Sun Inn. Giftable and unique.
- Donegal Square – Celtic goods, Irish wool, Guinness gear, and a deep bench of global heritage gifts.
✨ Where else can a top-tier showcase be steps away from century-old shops and iconic photo ops? Only here.
Pro Tip: This is one of the most walkable showcase weekends you’ll attend — shopping, food, and history are all within a few blocks.
ArtsQuest after dark — comedy, concerts, and culture just steps from the rink
Things to Do Between Games
Explore Bethlehem like a showcase veteran. Whether you need a quick reset, a full team outing, or a parent escape, these curated picks deliver value and fun without wasting time.
🏛️ ArtsQuest & South Side Culture
- Award-Winning Main Street Bethlehem – Recognized through USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice honors, Bethlehem’s Main Street gives families a nationally celebrated downtown experience with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, coffee, and local charm.
- ArtsQuest at SteelStacks – Just steps from the rink. Movies, music, and local flavor. Catch a Friday night show or a matinee between games.
- Frank Banko Cinemas – Indie & family films inside ArtsQuest. Cozy, quiet, and less than a 5-minute walk.
- National Museum of Industrial History – Steel-era stories and hands-on exhibits. Great for siblings and history lovers alike.
- Touchstone Theatre – A short walk from the rink. Creative, community-based shows in a small venue setting.
🎯 Team Outings & Energy Burners
- Captured LV Escape Room – Brainy, high-energy challenge perfect for team bonding or siblings with time to spare.
- SkyZone – Dodgeball, trampolines, and climbing. Great for younger players and siblings with excess energy.
- B Social – Duckpin bowling, arcade games, pinball, and casual food. Fun for everyone, close to the rink.
- Steel City Bowl & Brews – Bowling, laser tag, and arcade games. Roomy venue just 15 minutes away, with food and drink options for all ages.
🎟️ Wind Creek: Entertainment Central
- Wind Creek Event Center – Concerts, comedy, and family shows all weekend. Just 1.1 miles from the rink.
- Kids Quest – Drop-in childcare center inside Wind Creek with climbing mazes, video games, and toddler play. Great for families juggling age ranges.
- Wind Creek Casino & Resort – Adults can explore table games, outlet shopping, the spa, or a cocktail between games. Dining and coffee on site.
🍷 Parent Recharge Spots
- Healing Hands Massage – Voted “Best in the Valley.” Spa and wellness services just 0.8 miles from the rink.
- Black River Farms Winery – Quiet, cozy vineyard just 10 minutes away. Perfect for a breather after a full rink day.
🌿 Outdoor Walks & Scenic Spots
- Hoover-Mason Trestle – A stunning elevated walkway with views of the blast furnaces. Lit at night, unforgettable for photos.
- Monocacy & Illick’s Mill Parks – Wooded trails, stone bridges, and a creekside walking path. Ideal for quiet moments or stretching your legs between games.
⛸️ On-Ice Fun for Non-Players
- Public Skate at Steel Ice Center – Rentals available. Let siblings or friends join the action on the same ice used for showcase games.
🔎 Every moment off the ice adds to the story. This is a showcase your families will remember for more than the score.
Bethlehem’s South Side — where historic grit meets walkable convenience, just steps from Steel Ice Center
Nightlife & Social Spots
When the skates come off, the stories begin. Whether you’re decompressing with coaches, catching live music, or treating yourself to a cocktail, these spots deliver post-game atmosphere with showcase families in mind.
🎶 Live Music & Laid-Back Vibes
- The Steel Pub – Rinkside views and live bands every Friday & Saturday. Families, coaches, and players all gather here — it’s the unofficial showcase HQ.
- ArtsQuest at Night – Live music, comedy, and events steps from the rink. Check the schedule for weekend shows.
- Seven Sirens Brewing Co. – Craft beer, food vendors, and a big social space perfect for parents or older teams to unwind.
🍻 Bars, Breweries & Distilleries
- Twisted Tees – Virtual golf, darts, and pub food. Laid-back and fun — great for groups looking to hang out after games.
- Social Still – Craft cocktails in a repurposed bank vault. Stylish setting for adults looking to level up the weekend vibe.
🕶️ Sophisticated Lounges & Hidden Gems
- Santiago Cigar Lounge – Plush chairs, premium cigars, and a curated humidor. A relaxed South Side haven for parents looking to decompress in style.
🎰 Upscale Escapes
- Wind Creek Casino & Resort – Table games, slots, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options all under one roof. Just 1.2 miles from the rink — ideal for parents seeking a break in style.
💡 Pro Tip: Most venues are walkable or quick to reach via Uber/Lyft from Steel Ice Center and nearby hotels.
The heart of Bethlehem — the iconic blast furnaces at SteelStacks
Signature Bethlehem Experiences
What sets this city apart? From its steelmaking roots to its artistic revival, these are the places and stories you won’t find on any other hockey trip.
🛠️ Legacy of Steel
SteelStacks is built on the site of Bethlehem Steel — once a powerhouse of American industry. Visit at night to see the blast furnaces glowing red-orange.
The Hoover-Mason Trestle is a breathtaking elevated walkway through the remains of the steel mill — perfect for a post-dinner walk with your team or family.
💡 Pro Tip: It’s just a short walk from the rink. Go after sunset for unforgettable photos and lit-up history.
📜 Colonial Charm & Founding Figures
The Sun Inn Museum once hosted George Washington, Ben Franklin, and John Adams. This historic inn now offers short tours and houses the Tavern at the Sun Inn — a dining option also featured in our food section.
🎓 Historic Campuses Worth a Visit
- Moravian University – Among the oldest colleges in the U.S., with cobblestone charm and colonial architecture right in the historic district.
- Lehigh University – A Gothic-style hillside campus with sweeping views from South Mountain. A beautiful stop if you’re exploring between games.
🛍️ Bethlehem’s Maker Culture
- Seasons Olive Oil & Vinegar Taproom – Taste-testing meets gift shopping. A favorite for parents and food lovers.
- Bethlehem House Gallery – A curated local art gallery tucked right into Main Street’s walkable stretch.
- Antique Shops & Pop-Up Markets – Found along Broad and Main Streets. Especially active on weekends — keep your eyes open!
🔔 No other city delivers legacy quite like this. The backdrop matters — and here, it elevates every shift.
Bethlehem comes alive at night — festive lights, cozy storefronts, and open-air charm in Christmas City USA
Holiday Magic: The Christmas City Lives Up to Its Name
Even in early January, the holiday spirit lingers. Lights, wreaths, decorated storefronts, and old-world charm create a magical setting for your hockey weekend.
🎄 Holiday Decor & Historic Atmosphere
- Main Street & Broad Street: Wreaths, garland, and white lights often remain part of the early-January atmosphere — perfect for team photos or family strolls between games.
- Historic Hotel Bethlehem: A Bethlehem landmark and centerpiece of the city’s holiday charm. Worth a stop even if you’re not staying there.
🎁 Dear Santa – Holiday Magic for Your Littlest Teammates
Just across from Historic Hotel Bethlehem, Dear Santa is a holiday boutique that delivers pure wonder for younger players and siblings. From personalized ornaments to old-world decorations, it’s the kind of stop that turns a hockey trip into a memory they’ll talk about long after the final whistle.
- 📍 Main Street location — walkable from most hotels
- 🎅 Seasonal photo ops and letters to Santa
- 🧸 Great for younger siblings or a calming parent-kid stroll
- 🛍️ Thoughtful gifts, keepsakes, and Bethlehem-exclusive finds
🚶♂️ Christmas City Stroll – Guided Holiday Walking Tour
Led by guides in period dress, this walking tour shares stories of Bethlehem’s founding, Moravian traditions, and how it became “Christmas City, USA.” Check seasonal availability as the event approaches.
🚗 Lights in the Parkway – Drive-Through Light Show
This Lehigh Parkway display typically features tunnels of lights, animated characters, and classic music synced to your car radio. If operating into early January, it is a strong evening add-on just a short drive from Bethlehem.
🏛️ Colonial Holiday Tours
Offered by Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, these tours explore the region’s 275+ years of candlelight traditions and Moravian culture. Several options may continue into January after Christmas has passed.
🎁 This is more than a trip. It’s a chance to give your families a weekend that feels like a holiday postcard — without missing a single game.
💡 Bonus: Even without a tour, just walking around Bethlehem in early January feels like a holiday postcard. Let your team soak it in.
Ring in the New Year with local traditions, winter energy, and a hockey weekend that starts the year with purpose
🎉 Extend Your Stay: Start the Year with Something Meaningful
Teams are encouraged to arrive early and take full advantage of a once-a-year atmosphere. With New Year’s Eve falling just before the Bethlehem Steel Classic, the Lehigh Valley offers unforgettable ways to celebrate before your team ever hits the ice.
🎆 Family-Friendly Celebrations
- PEEPSFest at SteelStacks – A family festival featuring crafts, activities, live music, and the famous PEEPS Chick Drop. A signature Bethlehem tradition just steps from the rink.
- Historic Hotel Bethlehem – A Bethlehem landmark known for seasonal atmosphere. Perfect for a pre-showcase dinner or an evening stroll through its grand lobby and Main Street storefronts.
🏒 Hockey-Themed New Year Energy
- Lehigh Valley Phantoms – Check the Phantoms schedule as the event approaches for possible AHL hockey at the PPL Center in Allentown.
🥂 Elevated Evenings for Adults
- Social Still – Signature cocktails and elevated dining in a restored historic bank.
- Wind Creek Event Center – Live music, nightlife, and entertainment minutes from Bethlehem.
- Zest – Rooftop dining with city views. A celebratory setting before the puck drops on your weekend.
🎇 The new year begins here — with Bethlehem traditions, a steel-town backdrop, and a showcase weekend that sets the tone for 2027.
AHL action at the PPL Center – home of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms
Greater Lehigh Valley Adventures
Have extra time between games? These family-friendly destinations are all within a reasonable drive of Steel Ice Center — perfect for a Saturday outing or a post-showcase detour.
🏒 PPL Center – AHL Action in Downtown Allentown
PPL Center is home to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the AHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers. Just a short drive from the rink, this state-of-the-art arena offers top-tier hockey and big-time energy. Group rates and experiences may be available.
💡 Pro Tip: If the Phantoms are playing that weekend, it’s a great way to end the day as a team.
🧪 Da Vinci Science Center – Hands-On Discovery
Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown offers interactive exhibits, STEAM playgrounds, and immersive learning for all ages. It’s a great downtime option, especially for families with siblings not on the ice.
🛍️ Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley – Upscale Break Between Games
The Promenade Shops in Center Valley offer outdoor shopping, family dining, and a modern movie theater — all in a relaxing, walkable layout.
- 🛍️ Retailers: L.L. Bean, Athleta, Barnes & Noble
- 🥗 Dining: Playa Bowls, Torre, Top Cut
- 🎬 AMC Center Valley 16 – Recliner seating and current releases
🖍️ Crayola Experience – Big Color for Little Siblings
Located in Easton, Crayola Experience is a four-story explosion of creative fun. From making your own crayon to starring in your own coloring page, it’s a younger sibling favorite.
🦓 Lehigh Valley Zoo – Winter Wildlife & Outdoor Fun
Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville is open during winter and features cold-weather animals, open paths, and fewer crowds. It’s a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path option for families looking to unwind outdoors.
🌄 Build your weekend beyond the rink — one memory, one meal, one adventure at a time.
Getting Here & Travel Tips
Steel Ice Center is easily accessible by road or air, making team travel simple and stress-free. Whether you’re coming from across the Lehigh Valley or out of state, here’s what you need to know:
🚗 Driving & Parking
- Highways: Rt. 22, Rt. 33, I-78 — convenient from all directions
- Regional Access: A practical drive from Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York, and surrounding hockey markets
- Parking: Free on-site parking at Steel Ice Center
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft available throughout Bethlehem
✈️ Flying In
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is just minutes from Steel Ice Center and offers convenient access for traveling teams.
Distance to Rink: ABE Airport is approximately 7.5 miles / 15 minutes from Steel Ice Center.
Transportation: Uber and Lyft are readily available in Bethlehem. Convenient rental car service is also available:
Airport Shuttle Note: Shuttle availability can change. Teams flying into ABE should confirm current shuttle options directly with their hotel before booking.
🌄 Whether you’re crossing state lines or flying in for the weekend, this showcase is worth the trip. Big matchups, historic setting, and a city that rewards the effort.
⚙️ Showcase-Driven. Experience-Focused.
From the steel mills to the snack stands, every part of this page serves one goal — to elevate your team’s weekend. If you’re bringing serious players, give them a serious setting.
Make It a Weekend That Matters
The Bethlehem Steel Classic is more than another weekend on the calendar. It is elite competition, a historic setting, a walkable destination, and a showcase experience built for serious teams.
Register your team for the correct division below and be part of the 2027 Bethlehem Steel Classic field.
Questions about placement, eligibility, or registration can be directed to [email protected].
📬 Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re confirming division fit, asking about team placement, finalizing travel details, or simply wondering if this showcase is the right fit — we’re just an email away.
📧 Email: [email protected]
📍 Location: Steel Ice Center – 320 E. 1st St, Bethlehem, PA
Please include your team name, birth year, and competitive level in your message for faster assistance.
🏒 You bring the team. We’ll bring the competition, the city, and a weekend that reminds everyone why they love this game.

