Local Spotlight: National Museum of Industrial History
The Rust Belt is a region of the United States that lives up to its namesake. A rich history of industrial corporations has long been the backbone of our cultural DNA—and that’s proudly put on display at the National Museum of Industrial History. This breathtaking museum offers numerous hands-on activities for all ages and offers presentations that tell stories from our past.
Let’s take a trip through time, shall we?
A Rich History With Name Recognition
Located in Bethlehem, PA, the National Museum of Industrial History is a relatively recent addition to our region. It first opened its doors in 2016 and sits on the site of the 100-year-old Bethlehem Steel facility. As a result, the sights and physicality of the museum stand out to present a fully immersive experience, even for those who may know little about the industrial revolution in Pennsylvania.
Not only is the museum physically captivating, but it has the name recognition, too. The National Museum of Industrial History is a Smithsonian Affiliate, meaning it carries an elusive collection of artifacts. This includes the esteemed 1876 Smithsonian industrial collection—a savvy addition for industrial enthusiasts.
Spending a Day at the National Museum of Industrial History
Explore decades of history from the moment you walk through the doors. Artifacts, informative information, interactive exhibits, programs, and much more await each guest in a way that’s enticing and welcoming. You’re given an all-access pass into our yesteryear, all while building a connection with the workers who once spent each of their days aiming to build a better tomorrow.
There are both permanent and temporary exhibits to check out. Some of the permanent exhibits include Machinery Hall, an introduction to the main themes of the museum. View artifacts as they evolved and transformed from basic foundations into complex machinery. The Propane and Energy exhibit is another worthwhile permanent display to check out as well!
Some examples of past temporary exhibits include fascinating topics, like ‘Don’t Touch That Dial: 100 Years of Radio’ and ‘Hot Off the Press: Printing and Papermaking.’ Take an in-depth look at the history of the modern world around us through the lenses of niche subjects and outside-the-box creativity!
Take Part in an Event at the Museum
Not only can you sift through the immersive collection of artifacts at the National Museum of Industrial History, but you can also take part in riveting events too. These events vary in subject and presentation—an enticing way to keep you coming back time after time.
One hands-on event you may be interested in is the Bethlehem Steel Locomotive Engineer Experience. This hands-on engineer experience takes advantage of a 1941 Whitecomb diesel-electric locomotive train once used at the Bethlehem Steel plant. As an educational event, participants can enter the cab, learn how it operates, and even take hold of the controls!
Regardless of the event you plan on attending, museum staff will always be around to make sure you’re safe, protected, and having a memorable time no matter what.
Plan Your Day for an Industrial Breakthrough
What do you think you’ll do first at the National Museum of Industrial History? Whether you’re attending by yourself, with friends, or with family makes no difference. You’ll have a blast, and you’ll take so much new information with you that you may find yourself with a new hobby! Be sure to check them out on Facebook today.
| Monday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday to Thursday after 6pm by appointment only | |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| All appointments after 3pm MON-FRI are Express oil changes only | |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.
