Did you know that Allentown is home to one of the oldest civilian concert bands in the United States? The Allentown Band, established in 1828, has been performing continuously for nearly two centuries, making it a living piece of American musical heritage. This fascinating musical legacy is just one of the many cultural treasures awaiting visitors to Pennsylvania’s third-largest city. Whether you’re drawn to history, outdoor adventures, family fun, or culinary delights, Allentown offers a surprisingly diverse array of experiences in the heart of the Lehigh Valley.
Getting to Allentown
Allentown is conveniently located in eastern Pennsylvania, making it easily accessible by various transportation methods. The city sits approximately 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City.
By Air
The closest major airport is Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), located just 6 miles from downtown Allentown. This regional airport offers connections to major hubs through American Airlines, Delta, and United. For more flight options, book flights to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), both within 90 minutes by car.
By Car
Allentown is easily accessible via several major highways. Interstate 78 runs east-west through the city, while the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476) provides north-south access. If you’re planning to explore the Lehigh Valley region, renting a car is highly recommended for maximum flexibility.
By Bus
Greyhound and Trans-Bridge Lines offer regular bus service to Allentown from major cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Harrisburg. The Allentown Bus Terminal is centrally located downtown, making it convenient for visitors arriving without a car.
By Train
While Allentown doesn’t have direct Amtrak service, nearby Bethlehem is served by bus connections from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station. From there, local transportation can bring you into Allentown.
Planning Your Allentown Journey
Ready to Experience Allentown?
Start planning your perfect Lehigh Valley getaway with these essential travel services:
A successful trip to Allentown begins with thoughtful planning. The city offers different experiences depending on when you visit, so consider what activities interest you most. For outdoor adventures and amusement park fun, summer is ideal. Fall brings spectacular foliage and harvest festivals, while winter offers holiday events and indoor cultural experiences. Spring showcases beautiful gardens and mild weather perfect for exploring the city’s parks.
Most visitors find 2-3 days sufficient to experience Allentown’s highlights, though you could easily extend your stay to a week if you plan to explore the broader Lehigh Valley region. If you’re traveling with children, be sure to allocate time for family-friendly attractions like Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom and the Da Vinci Science Center.
When to Visit Allentown
Summer (June-August)
Peak Season: Warm temperatures (75-85°F) make this the busiest time for tourism, especially at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. The Great Allentown Fair takes place in late August/early September.
Pro Tip: Book accommodations well in advance and visit popular attractions on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Fall (September-November)
Shoulder Season: Comfortable temperatures (50-70°F) and stunning foliage make fall a beautiful time to visit. Enjoy harvest festivals, apple picking, and outdoor activities without summer crowds.
Pro Tip: Mid-October typically offers the most vibrant fall colors in Lehigh Parkway and Trexler Park.
Winter (December-February)
Off Season: Cold temperatures (20-40°F) with occasional snow. Enjoy indoor attractions like museums and the annual Lights in the Parkway holiday display.
Pro Tip: Winter offers the best hotel rates and fewer tourists at indoor attractions.
Festival Alert: If you’re visiting in late August/early September, don’t miss The Great Allentown Fair, a tradition since 1852 featuring agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, food vendors, and nationally known musical acts.
Getting Around Allentown
Public Transportation
The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) operates bus routes throughout Allentown and the Lehigh Valley. The base fare is $2 per ride, with day passes available for $4. Most major attractions are served by LANTA routes, though service frequency varies.
For route information and schedules, visit LANTA’s official website.
Driving & Parking
Having your own vehicle offers the most flexibility for exploring Allentown and the surrounding Lehigh Valley. Downtown Allentown has several parking garages and metered street parking. Most attractions outside the downtown area offer free parking.
If you need a rental car during your stay, check availability and rates for your travel dates.
Walking
Downtown Allentown is relatively compact and walkable, with attractions like the Allentown Art Museum, PPL Center, and numerous restaurants within easy walking distance of each other. The Arts Walk provides a pleasant pedestrian corridor through the downtown area.
Rideshare & Taxis
Uber and Lyft operate throughout Allentown, providing convenient transportation options. Traditional taxi services are also available, with cabs typically found at the airport, bus terminal, and major hotels.
Where to Stay in Allentown
Downtown
Best for: Urban experience, walkable access to restaurants, museums, and PPL Center
Top Pick: Renaissance Allentown Hotel – Connected to the PPL Center with modern rooms and amenities
Budget Option: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Allentown-Dorney Park Area
Cedar Crest Boulevard Area
Best for: Families, access to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Top Pick: Staybridge Suites Allentown West – Spacious suites with kitchenettes, ideal for families
Budget Option: Comfort Suites Allentown
Airport Area
Best for: Convenience, business travelers
Top Pick: Homewood Suites by Hilton Allentown-Bethlehem Airport – All-suite accommodations with free breakfast
Budget Option: Red Roof Inn Allentown Airport
Accommodation Tip: Hotel rates in Allentown tend to be higher on weekends and during summer months. For the best deals, consider a midweek stay during spring or fall shoulder seasons. Many hotels offer packages that include tickets to nearby attractions like Dorney Park.
Practical Tips for Visiting Allentown
Weather
Allentown experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters:
- Summer (June-August): 75-85°F, occasional thunderstorms
- Fall (September-November): 45-70°F, crisp and colorful
- Winter (December-February): 20-40°F, snowfall likely
- Spring (March-May): 45-65°F, variable with occasional rain
Pack layers regardless of season, as weather can change quickly.
Local Etiquette
Allentown residents are generally friendly and helpful to visitors. Some tips:
- Tipping 15-20% is expected at restaurants
- Casual dress is acceptable at most attractions and restaurants
- Smoking is prohibited in public buildings and many outdoor spaces
- Locals appreciate visitors who respect the city’s history and culture
Safety Information
Allentown is generally safe for visitors, especially in tourist areas:
- Downtown and major attractions are well-patrolled
- Use standard urban precautions, especially at night
- Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- Emergency services: Dial 911
- Allentown Police non-emergency: (610) 437-7751
COVID-19 Notice: Check current health guidelines and attraction policies before your visit, as requirements may change. Many venues recommend advance ticket purchases to guarantee entry.
Top Attractions in Allentown Pennsylvania
Allentown Art Museum
Home to over 19,000 works of art, the Allentown Art Museum offers an impressive collection spanning European Renaissance to contemporary American pieces. Don’t miss the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed room and the museum’s renowned Rembrandt painting. Best of all, admission is free every day!
Address: 31 N 5th St, Allentown, PA 18101
Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 11am-4pm
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
This beloved amusement park features over 60 rides and attractions, including seven roller coasters and a full water park. Thrill-seekers will love Steel Force (one of the longest steel coasters in the East) while families can enjoy Planet Snoopy and the water attractions at Wildwater Kingdom.
Address: 3830 Dorney Park Rd, Allentown, PA 18104
Hours: Seasonal (typically May-October)
Da Vinci Science Center
This interactive science museum makes learning fun with hands-on exhibits covering physics, biology, and technology. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, the center offers engaging demonstrations and educational programs that bring science to life.
Address: 815 W Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm
Liberty Bell Museum
Discover how Allentown played a crucial role in American history by hiding the Liberty Bell from British forces during the Revolutionary War. This small but fascinating museum features a full-scale replica of the Liberty Bell that visitors can ring.
Address: 622 W Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101
Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 12pm-4pm
America On Wheels Museum
Car enthusiasts will love this museum dedicated to over-the-road transportation history. Featuring vintage automobiles, trucks, and bicycles, the museum offers a fascinating journey through America’s love affair with wheels.
Address: 5 N Front St, Allentown, PA 18102
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, 12pm-4pm
Lehigh Valley IronPigs Baseball
Catch a game at Coca-Cola Park, home to the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Known for their fun promotions, bacon-themed concessions (the team name is a reference to pig iron), and family-friendly atmosphere, an IronPigs game is a quintessential Allentown experience.
Address: 1050 IronPigs Way, Allentown, PA 18109
Season: April through September
Outdoor Activities and Parks
Lehigh Parkway
This scenic park follows the Lehigh River with 6 miles of trails perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. The historic covered bridge and fishing spots make it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the annual Lights in the Parkway transforms the area into a magical holiday display.
Malcolm Gross Rose Garden
Located within Cedar Creek Parkway, this beautiful garden features over 30 varieties of roses in a picturesque setting with gazebos and reflective ponds. It’s especially stunning from late May through September when the roses are in full bloom.
Trexler Memorial Park
This peaceful 134-acre park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a pond with waterfowl. It’s less crowded than some other parks, making it perfect for those seeking a quiet nature escape within the city limits.
“Allentown’s park system is one of the city’s greatest treasures, with more parkland per capita than any other city its size in the United States.”
Museums and Cultural Experiences
Museum of Indian Culture
Dedicated to preserving the history of the Lenape and other Northeastern Woodland Indian cultures, this intimate museum offers authentic artifacts and educational programs. The knowledgeable staff provides insights into Native American traditions through demonstrations and storytelling.
Mack Trucks Historical Museum
Explore Allentown’s industrial heritage at this museum showcasing the history of iconic Mack Trucks. The collection includes antique trucks, memorabilia, and exhibits detailing the company’s impact on American transportation.
Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum
This comprehensive museum brings Allentown’s rich history to life through interactive displays and artifacts. Exhibits cover everything from Native American heritage to the region’s industrial boom and cultural development.
Family-Friendly Activities
Da Vinci Science Center
Beyond the interactive exhibits, the Da Vinci Science Center offers special programs for children including science camps, birthday parties, and educational workshops. The center’s design encourages hands-on learning that makes science accessible and fun for all ages.
Cedar Creek Park
This community hub features a destination playground, splash pads, and sports fields perfect for family outings. The adjacent Cedar Beach Pool is a popular summer attraction for cooling off on hot days.
Merchants Square Model Train Exhibit
Though currently closed, this beloved attraction featured one of the largest model train displays in the country. Check local listings for similar attractions that might have opened to replace this Allentown favorite.
Planning a Family Trip to Allentown?
Find family-friendly accommodations with amenities like pools, free breakfast, and spacious rooms:
Dining and Nightlife
Downtown Dining
Allentown’s revitalized downtown offers diverse dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries. Try The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar for American cuisine and craft cocktails, or visit The Dime at the Renaissance Hotel for elevated dining with city views.
Downtown Allentown Market
This food hall features multiple vendors offering everything from artisanal pizza to Asian fusion cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to sample a variety of local flavors under one roof, with communal seating and a lively atmosphere.
Craft Breweries
Beer enthusiasts should visit Fegley’s Brew Works, a local institution serving house-brewed beers alongside pub fare. The city’s growing craft beer scene includes several other breweries worth exploring for unique local flavors.
International Cuisine
Allentown’s diverse population is reflected in its restaurant scene. The 7th Street corridor offers authentic Mexican, Dominican, and Syrian restaurants, while the East Side features excellent Middle Eastern options like Damascus Restaurant and Aladdin.
Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market
Operating since 1953, this indoor market houses over 60 vendors selling fresh produce, prepared foods, and specialty items. It’s a great place to sample Pennsylvania Dutch treats and local delicacies.
Evening Entertainment
Catch a concert or sporting event at the PPL Center, enjoy live performances at Miller Symphony Hall, or take in a show at the Civic Theatre of Allentown for a night of culture and entertainment.
Annual Events and Festivals
The Great Allentown Fair
This beloved tradition since 1852 takes place annually in late August/early September. The week-long fair features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, food vendors, and nationally known musical acts performing at the grandstand. It’s one of the region’s most anticipated events, drawing visitors from across the Lehigh Valley and beyond.
Blues, Brews & Barbecue
Held each June in downtown Allentown, this free festival combines live blues music, craft beer tastings, and delicious barbecue from local vendors. Multiple stages feature regional and national blues artists throughout the day, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for food and music lovers.
Lights in the Parkway
During the holiday season (late November through December), the Lehigh Parkway transforms into a magical drive-through light display. This Allentown tradition features animated displays, tunnels of lights, and festive scenes that delight visitors of all ages.
Mayfair Festival of the Arts
This celebration of arts and culture typically takes place over Memorial Day weekend, featuring visual arts, live performances, crafts, and food. The festival showcases local and regional artists while providing family-friendly entertainment and activities.
Shopping Experiences
Downtown Boutiques
Allentown’s revitalized downtown features unique shops like assembly88 for men’s clothing and Re:Find for home décor and gifts. These independent retailers offer products you won’t find in typical mall stores.
Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market
Beyond fresh produce, this market is a shopping destination for specialty foods, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Don’t miss the Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods, local honey, and artisanal cheeses.
Lehigh Valley Mall
Located just outside Allentown in nearby Whitehall, this regional shopping center features over 150 stores including major department stores and specialty retailers. The mall’s Lifestyle Center section offers an outdoor shopping experience with additional dining options.
Experience the Best of Allentown
From its rich industrial heritage to its vibrant cultural scene, Allentown offers visitors a surprising array of experiences in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley. Whether you’re riding roller coasters at Dorney Park, admiring masterpieces at the Allentown Art Museum, or sampling local flavors at the Farmers Market, this dynamic city delivers memorable experiences for every type of traveler.
As you plan your Allentown adventure, remember that the city’s compact size makes it easy to experience a diverse range of attractions in a single visit. The friendly locals, affordable accommodations, and wealth of activities make it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. So pack your bags and prepare to discover why Allentown is one of Pennsylvania’s most rewarding hidden gems!
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Start planning your perfect Lehigh Valley getaway today:
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