USA Today has announced that Bethlehem’s Main Street is the best in the country for the second consecutive year. USA Today Editor Maggie Tyner wrote, “These nominations were carefully curated by a panel of subject matter experts and USA TODAY 10 BEST editors before being voted on by the public, so you’ve earned some serious bragging rights!”

Historic Hotel Bethlehem’s General Manager Kelly Ronalds said, “Our local community already knows Bethlehem’s star shines brighter than any other but it’s great to see that message make its way across the country,” The hotel’s marketing team created a campaign to support this year’s Best Main Street competition. The “Our Star Shines All Year Round” initiative demonstrated that while Bethlehem is well-known as a Christmas destination, there are great reasons to visit all year long.

Senior Vice President for Bethlehem Initiatives at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce Tammy Wendling said, “Whether you visit in winter, spring, summer or fall, you’re going to have a great time exploring Bethlehem. While we’re incredibly proud of our Main Street being recognized as number one, now two years in a row, we know this honor reflects something even bigger. A win for Main Street is truly a win for our entire Historic District!” Ronalds added, “That’s what it’s all about, the community. Our remarkable community is the thing that makes Bethlehem shine the brightest,” said Ronalds.

“The combination of boutique shopping combined with over two dozen independent dining options in Historic Bethlehem coupled with our five-time number one Best Historic Hotel located adjacent to one of only 26 World Heritage Sites makes us a truly unique authentic destination for the complete historic experience for visitors from around the world,” added Ronalds.

2026 USA Today 10 BEST Main Street Rankings

1. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

2. Waynesville, North Carolina

3. Emporia, Kansas

4. Howell, Michigan

5. Paso Robles, California

6. Ogden, Utah

7. Ocean City, New Jersey

8. McMinnville, Oregon

9. Grapevine, Texas

10. Virginia City, Nevada

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