Ales & Tales: Revolutionary Pub Walking Tour
As featured in Travel + Leisure. This adults-only walking tour explores some of Bethlehem's most iconic inns and pubs, uncovering the real Revolutionary War stories that unfolded just beyond their doors.
Ales & Tales is over for 2026, but the good news is the spirited (and spooky) tales continue on the Spirited Tales Pub Walking Tour in September and October. Discover 285 years of history – odd events, unexplained sightings, and paranormal activity – as you visit some of Bethlehem’s iconic pubs and inns.
Ales & Tales: Revolutionary Pub Walking Tour
Raise a glass in the town that tried to avoid the Revolution but couldn’t escape it.
This adults-only walking tour for ages 21 and older explores some of Bethlehem’s most iconic inns and pubs, uncovering the real Revolutionary War stories that unfolded just beyond their doors.
Guests begin at the historic Sun Inn, where they’ll enjoy a complimentary tasting of the award-winning Christmas City Spirits while learning about the inn’s rich past and the Founding Fathers who stayed there. Established in 1758, the iconic inn welcomed a true who’s who of Colonial America, including Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, George Washington and many others.
Additional stops include the Red Stag Pub and Lost Tavern located in the Moravian Book Shop, established in 1745 and recognized as the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the nation.
Along the way, attendees will learn how Bethlehem became entangled in the war it hoped to avoid, hear tales of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit and his rumored romantic connection to Elizabeth Boeckel, discover the dramatic story of Casimir Pulaski’s banner and explore Bethlehem’s role as a Revolutionary War field hospital for the Continental Army.
The tour culminates at Historic Hotel Bethlehem, once the location of the very first structure built in Bethlehem by the Moravians in 1741. Here, guests will explore the site’s deep historic roots and raise a pint of Declaration Lager – the official beer of America250PA – to toast the people, perseverance and spirits that shaped the city!
Please note: This tour is focused on Bethlehem’s Revolutionary War era history. While there are opportunities to purchase beverages on this tour, it is not a pub crawl.
This tour takes place both outside and indoors. Participants should come prepared for walking outdoors, including navigating slight inclines and occasionally uneven pavements. Please allow for up to 2 hours for this tour.
The July 31 and August 1, 7 and 8 tours start at the 1810 Goundie Welcome Center and then head to Historic Hotel Bethlehem for the first stop and toast.
Participants must be at least 21 years of age and show valid ID.
What People are Saying about Ales & Tales
If you’re considering the Ales & Tales tour, don’t just take our word for it! Travel + Leisure highlights Bethlehem, including Ales & Tales, as a top destination for America’s 250th birthday for those who’d rather skip the crowds that come with big-city celebrations.
Philadelphia Magazine includes it in its guide to Philly’s Biggest Summer ever, while Axios Philadelphia says, “If you’re looking for a hip, history-soaked escape from Philly crowds this summer, Bethlehem is worth a day trip.”
Walking Tour Accessiblity
Historic Bethlehem’s guided walking tours take you through the heart of Bethlehem’s National Historic Landmark District – the same grounds where history actually happened. Tours typically runs about 90 minutes at a comfortable walking pace, moving along brick and paved sidewalks, a few gentle hills, and some sloped or possibly grassy stretches between stops. It’s part of what makes the experience feel real rather than staged.
If you have questions about a specific tour, or want help planning your visit, call the Historic Bethlehem Heritage Concierge Service at 1-800-360-TOUR (8687). We’re happy to walk through the details with you and find the right fit.
What is the typical pace of the tours?
Tours are typically around 90 minutes. This is around 90 minutes of walking and standing, with stops along the way to take in the sights and stories. Seating is available at only a few points along the route.
What is the terrain?
The terrain is a mix of brick and paved sidewalks, with some uneven, sloped, or grassy sections. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
Are there inclines or slopes on these tours?
Most routes are gently sloped. The Bethlehem and the Revolution, Birthplace of Industry, and Mystery & History Tours include a steeper paved incline between the Historic District and the Colonial Industrial Quarter. It’s a great chance to see the landscape that shaped the city’s industry.
Are there stairs on the tours?
The Grist Miller’s House, 1741 Gemeinhaus, and the Single Sisters’ House are original 18th-century buildings without elevators, so there is a flight or two of steeper historic stairs. Guests on the Branching Out Tour, which includes the Gemeinhaus and the Single Sisters’ House, and the Birthplace of Industry Tour, which includes the Grist Miller’s House, are welcome to remain on the main floor. Our guides are happy to describe what is on the other floors, and Branching Out Tour attendees can watch a video at the Gemeinhaus showing what they would see on the second floor of the building.
Are the tours wheelchair and mobility device friendly?
Many outdoor sections of our tour routes are navigable with a manual or power wheelchair. Some brick and sloped areas may be more challenging for certain devices, and we’re glad to help you find the route that works best.
