Allentown, Pennsylvania, is in the Lehigh Valley region. It’s a lively city with lots to see and do for all ages. You can find amusement parks, cultural spots, tasty food, and outdoor fun here. This place is a gem for anyone looking for adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant city in the Lehigh Valley region, offering a diverse range of attractions and activities.
- Visitors can enjoy thrilling amusement parks, captivating cultural institutions, delectable local cuisine, and exhilarating outdoor adventures.
- The city is home to top picks for the best things to do, including hidden gems that make Allentown a must-visit destination.
- Allentown’s Lehigh Valley location provides easy access to nearby towns and cities, expanding the range of opportunities for travelers.
- The article explores the best of what Allentown has to offer, from family-friendly experiences to cultural and entertainment options.
Amusement Parks of Allentown
Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom
Allentown is home to Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, a top amusement park complex. It offers fun for all ages. Dorney Park has many roller coasters and attractions for thrill-seekers and families.
Visitors can enjoy the Steel Force coaster and the calm Tidal Wave Bay. Next to it, Wildwater Kingdom waterpark adds fun in the water. It’s a hit in the summer for Lehigh Valley theme parks and family-friendly attractions.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown has Hydra, Pennsylvania’s only floorless coaster. The park has over 60 rides, shows, and attractions. It also has Planet Snoopy, a Peanuts-themed area for kids, making it great for Allentown amusement parks and family-friendly adventures.
| Amusement Park | Location | Notable Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom | Allentown, PA | Steel Force, Tidal Wave Bay, Hydra (floorless coaster), Planet Snoopy |
| Knoebels | Elysburg, PA | #1 wooden roller coaster in the world |
| Land of Make Believe | Hope, NJ | Classic amusement park with affordable family-friendly rides |
Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom are top spots for fun. They offer thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and a cool waterpark. They are a must-see for anyone visiting Allentown amusement parks and Lehigh Valley theme parks.
Cultural Attractions in Allentown
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is known for its rich culture. It has many museums and art galleries that show the city’s history and art. The Allentown Art Museum is free to visit and has almost 17,000 pieces of art from 2,000 years.
The Museum of Indian Culture lets you see how America’s first people lived. It has ancient tools, pottery, jewelry, and more. The Allentown Symphony Orchestra plays at Miller Symphony Hall. They perform classical music, pops, and holiday tunes.
| Allentown Cultural Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Allentown Art Museum | Free daily admission, collection of 17,000 works spanning 2,000 years |
| Museum of Indian Culture | Displays prehistoric tools, pottery, jewelry, and artifacts |
| Miller Symphony Hall | Home to the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, hosts classical, pops, and holiday performances |
Exploring Allentown’s cultural attractions is a great way to learn and enjoy. You can see art, learn about history, or listen to music. It’s fun for everyone, whether you live here or are just visiting.
Farmers Market and Local Delicacies
Allentown Farmers Market
The Allentown Farmers Market is a gem in the historic Allentown Fairgrounds. It’s a paradise for food lovers. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and more. It’s a taste of the Allentown and Lehigh Valley’s rich food culture.
At the market, you can try Eastern European pierogies and Korean bibimbap. It’s a chance to meet the people who grow and make the food. The market is a place where community and culture come together, offering a unique taste of the local scene.
The market has over 60 vendors. It’s open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. You can find everything from seasonal produce to handcrafted baked goods. Every visit is a journey through the region’s diverse flavors.
Entertainment Venues in Allentown
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a lively city with many entertainment venues. It has something for everyone, whether you love music, sports, or theater. This vibrant Lehigh Valley community offers exciting places to explore.
The PPL Center is a top spot in Allentown. It’s a modern arena that hosts many events. You can catch Lehigh Valley Phantoms hockey, concerts, and live shows here. Sports fans will enjoy Coca-Cola Park, where the Lehigh Valley IronPigs play baseball.
Classical music and performing arts fans should visit Miller Symphony Hall. It’s a historic venue and home to the Allentown Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra performs pops concerts, holiday shows, and classical music.
“Allentown’s entertainment venues offer something for everyone, from high-energy sports to the elegance of the symphony. It’s a remarkable cultural tapestry that truly showcases the city’s vibrant spirit.”
Allentown’s venues have something for everyone. You can laugh at a comedy show, enjoy a concert, or experience a symphony. Dive into the city’s culture and make unforgettable memories at these amazing places.
Outdoor Adventures near Allentown
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is more than a bustling city. It’s a gateway to outdoor adventures and natural wonders. Just a short distance away, visitors can enjoy thrilling and serene activities for all interests.
Lehigh Valley Grand Prix
The Lehigh Valley Grand Prix is a top spot for excitement. This indoor go-kart racing track lets you race friends and family at speeds up to 45 miles per hour. It’s perfect for both seasoned racers and beginners, offering an unforgettable experience.
Crystal Cave
Crystal Cave is a peaceful contrast to the Lehigh Valley Grand Prix. Located just a short drive from Allentown, it invites visitors to explore stunning underground formations. You’ll marvel at the light and shadow that create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Looking for thrills or tranquility? Outdoor adventures near Allentown have it all. From the fast-paced races at Lehigh Valley Grand Prix to the calm exploration of Crystal Cave, there’s something for every enthusiast. Allentown’s areas offer a wide range of Allentown outdoor activities and Lehigh Valley adventure parks for all.
Allentown, Pennsylvania: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a lively city filled with attractions for all. You can find thrilling amusement parks, cultural spots, and tasty local food. It’s a great place to visit, with many activities to enjoy.
Amusement Park Thrills
Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom is perfect for those who love excitement. It has fast roller coasters, water slides, and rides for families. You can ride Steel Force and Talon for a thrill or splash around in the water park.
Immerse Yourself in Culture
Allentown has a rich arts and culture scene. Visit the Allentown Art Museum and Baum School of Art. Learn about the area’s history at the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum or catch a show at Miller Symphony Hall.
Farm Fresh Delights
Don’t miss the Allentown Farmers Market. It’s full of fresh food, local meats, and handmade items. Try the local specialties to taste the Lehigh Valley’s flavors.
Outdoor Adventures
See the Lehigh Valley’s beauty at Lehigh Valley Grand Prix or Crystal Cave. Watch raptors migrate at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary or take a ride on the Colebrookdale Railroad.
Allentown, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. From fun rides to cultural spots and outdoor fun, it’s a great place to explore.
| Allentown Attractions | Details |
|---|---|
| Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom | Thrilling amusement park with roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly rides |
| Allentown Art Museum | Art museum showcasing a diverse collection of American and European art |
| Allentown Farmers Market | Vibrant local market offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal goods |
| Lehigh Valley Grand Prix | Exciting indoor go-karting experience for all ages |
| Crystal Cave | Captivating underground cave system with unique geological formations |
Allentown, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. Whether you’re into adventure, culture, or food, it’s a great place to visit.
Historic Sites and Trails
Allentown and the Lehigh Valley are full of Allentown historic sites and Allentown trails. They give visitors a special look at the area’s Allentown heritage tourism. The National Canal Museum in Easton is a top spot. It shows the history of canals in the region.
At the museum, you can take boat rides or rent watercraft. This lets you see the waterways up close.
The Lehigh Valley has many trails, like the Ironton Rail Trail, Nor-Bath Trail, and D&L Trail. These trails let you enjoy nature and learn about history. They’re great for hiking, biking, and more.
National Canal Museum and Trails
The National Canal Museum in Easton, Pennsylvania, is a key place for history lovers. It shows the past of canal transport. You can see exhibits and take boat rides.
The area around the museum has many trails. The D&L Trail is 165 miles long. It goes from the Poconos to Trenton. It’s perfect for hiking and biking.
“The D&L Trail consists of 165 miles from the Poconos to Trenton, divided into sections for short hikes and bike rides.”
If you love history, the outdoors, or just want to learn more, the Lehigh Valley is the place to be. It’s full of Allentown historic sites and Allentown heritage tourism experiences.
Family-Friendly Activities
Allentown, in the Lehigh Valley, is full of fun for families. It has amusement parks, cultural spots, and more. There’s something for every age.
At the Da Vinci Science Center, kids can explore and learn by doing. The Museum of Indian Culture teaches about America’s first people. It’s a great place to learn.
The Crayola Experience in Easton is all about art. Kids can paint, make pottery, and more. It’s a colorful spot for families in the Lehigh Valley.
Outside Allentown, there’s fun in the snow. Places like Camelback Resort and Blue Mountain Resort have skiing and snow tubing. Trampoline parks like Urban Air and Sky Zone are fun all year.
For indoor fun, check out arcades like Chuck E. Cheese and Dave & Buster’s. There’s also roller skating, ice skating, and bowling. It’s a great way to spend time together.
Looking for a brain challenge? Try escape rooms. Places like Captured LV Escape Rooms and Escape.Exe Escape Rooms are fun for all ages.
Allentown and the Lehigh Valley have lots of family-friendly activities. There’s something for everyone. From parks to museums, it’s all here.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Allentown and the Lehigh Valley are filled with life all year round. They host a wide range of Allentown seasonal events and Lehigh Valley festivals. In the summer, you can see the beautiful sunflower fields at St. Luke’s Anderson and St. Luke’s Carbon. These fields are perfect for family photos and outdoor fun.
The city also offers many Allentown summer activities and Allentown fall events. This means there’s always something fun to do in Allentown.
Sunflower Fields and Events
The Lehigh Valley is known for its stunning sunflower fields. Every year, people visit places like St. Luke’s Anderson and St. Luke’s Carbon to see the golden blooms. These fields are not just beautiful; they also host events and festivals to celebrate the season.
- St. Luke’s Anderson Sunflower Fields – Enjoy a picturesque display of sunflowers and participate in activities like photography sessions, food trucks, and live music.
- St. Luke’s Carbon Sunflower Fields – Explore the vibrant sunflower fields and indulge in seasonal treats and family-friendly entertainment.
These sunflower events are just a few of the many Allentown seasonal events and Lehigh Valley festivals in the area. From summer music festivals to fall foliage celebrations, there’s always something fun to do in Allentown and the Lehigh Valley.
Conclusion
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a place full of fun for everyone. You can find exciting amusement parks, cultural spots, tasty food, and outdoor fun. It’s perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and those who love history and art.
There’s something for everyone in Allentown. You can learn at the Da Vinci Science Center or get creative at the Crayola Experience. Nature lovers can enjoy Treehouse World or Longwood Gardens. History fans will love the National Canal Museum.
When you visit Allentown, don’t miss out on its hidden treasures. It’s a city that offers fun, culture, and nature. Explore Allentown and find the unique experiences that make it special.