Allentown, Pennsylvania Travel Guide
City City in Pennsylvania, United States
Allentown anchors the Lehigh Valley with ArtsQuest events and Musikfest, the Lehigh River’s towpaths, a growing craft-beer scene, and industrial-era architecture that frames guided tours of the region.
Why Visit Allentown, Pennsylvania? #
History, family attractions and a working-heritage feel define Allentown’s appeal. The city played a key role in Revolutionary War history when the Liberty Bell was hidden locally, an intriguing note for history buffs. Art lovers visit the Allentown Art Museum, while families head to Dorney Park for rides and seasonal events. A rich Pennsylvania Dutch culinary scene - think shoofly pie and hearty comfort dishes - rounds out the regional experience.
Who's Allentown, Pennsylvania For?
Allentown offers family attractions like the Da Vinci Science Center, PPL Center events and nearby Dorney Park for theme‑park days. Walkable neighborhoods and community programs make it easy to plan child-friendly outings without long drives.
As the Lehigh Valley’s largest city, Allentown serves regional logistics and manufacturing with good highway links to Philly and NYC. Meeting venues, modest conference hotels and Lehigh Valley Airport support business travel and regional commerce.
A growing craft-beer and gastropub scene mixes with classic Italian and Pennsylvania Dutch-influenced eateries in neighborhoods like the West End. Farmers’ markets and local bakeries add regional flavor to casual dining options.
The Lehigh River and nearby hiking in the Lehigh Gorge offer scenic outdoor options within comfortable driving distance. City parks and urban trails provide local green space for easy weekend escapes.
Top Things to Do in Allentown, Pennsylvania
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- Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom - Classic amusement park with roller coasters and water attractions, fun for all ages.
- Allentown Art Museum - Extensive collection of American and European art anchored by rotating exhibitions and programs.
- Liberty Bell Museum - Houses a cracked Liberty Bell replica and tells Allentown's Revolutionary-era story interactively.
- PPL Center - Downtown arena hosting hockey, concerts, professional shows, and lively community events throughout year.
- Allentown Farmers Market - Historic indoor market where local vendors sell produce, baked goods, and crafts.
- Trout Hall - One of Allentown's oldest homes, now an intimate museum with colonial furnishings.
- Trexler Nature Preserve - Large preserve with trails, wildlife habitats, and herds of bison to observe.
- Lock Ridge Park & Museum - Restored 19th-century ironworks with walking trails and impressive industrial-era machinery exhibits.
- West Park - Victorian park featuring a lily pond, band shell, and community concerts seasonally.
- Coca-Cola Park - Home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs; lively minor-league baseball atmosphere and local concessions.
- SteelStacks (Bethlehem) - Arts and entertainment campus built atop former Bethlehem Steel, offering concerts and festivals.
- Jim Thorpe - Picturesque mountain town with Victorian architecture, outdoor sports, and scenic Lehigh Gorge trails.
- Strasburg Rail Road - Historic steam railroad in Lancaster County providing nostalgic rides through Amish countryside.
- Camelback Mountain Resort - Year-round resort offering skiing, tubing, mountain coaster, and an expansive indoor water park.
- Independence National Historical Park (Philadelphia) - Cluster of Revolutionary-era sites including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell center.
Where to Go in Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Downtown / Center City
Allentown’s downtown has seen a steady revival: the PPL Center brings events, Hamilton Street hums with restaurants, and a handful of museums provide cultural stops. It’s an easy walkable center good for evenings and weekend markets. Expect urban energy and accessible parking.
Top Spots
- PPL Center - Arena hosting concerts, hockey and events.
- Allentown Farmers Market - Longstanding indoor market on Hamilton Street.
- Allentown Art Museum - Regional art collection and rotating exhibits.
West End
The West End feels residential and practical, with quiet streets, neighborhood diners, and green spaces along the Lehigh River. It’s not a nightlife hub but is useful for museum visits and relaxed walks. Good for families and anyone wanting a low-key base.
Top Spots
- Liberty Bell Museum - Small museum with a Revolutionary War-linked bell.
- Lehigh Parkway - Riverfront greenway for walking and biking.
- Local diners and sandwich shops - Classic American comfort food options.
South Side / Near Dorney
South Allentown and the areas bordering Dorney Park are travel-friendly for families chasing rides and water slides. You’ll find chain restaurants, plenty of parking and motels geared toward amusement-park visits. Expect busy summer traffic but straightforward logistics.
Top Spots
- Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom - Major amusement park a short drive from town.
- Cedar Beach & Local Parks - Family-friendly outdoor spaces.
- Shopping plazas along Lehigh Street - Car-friendly retail and chain restaurants.
Plan Your Visit to Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Best Time to Visit Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Late spring and early fall are the sweet spots in Allentown - mild temperatures, lower humidity, and great foliage. Summers bring outdoor events but can be hot and humid; winters are cold with regular snow.
Best Time to Visit Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Allentown, Pennsylvania's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -7°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1131 mm/year), wettest in May, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 3°C and lows of -7°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (113 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 1°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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How to Get to Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown is served primarily by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) for regional flights and by several intercity bus operators; there is no regular Amtrak service to downtown. For long-distance rail travel you would typically use nearby Amtrak stations (Lancaster or Philadelphia) and finish the trip by car or bus.
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): Located about 5-7 miles north of downtown Allentown, ABE is the closest airport and handles regional flights. Taxi or rideshare from ABE to downtown typically takes 15-25 minutes and costs around $18-30 one-way; car rental desks are on-site and driving is usually the fastest option when carrying luggage.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): PHL is the nearest major international airport (about 60-90 minutes by road to Allentown). From PHL you can rent a car or take a rideshare (drive time ~1-1.5 hours depending on traffic); some intercity bus operators and shuttles connect Philadelphia-area hubs to Allentown with journey times commonly in the 90-120 minute range and fares generally in the $15-35 range depending on operator and route.
Train: There is currently no regular Amtrak service directly to downtown Allentown. The nearest Amtrak stations on the Keystone Corridor are Lancaster (LAN) and Philadelphia 30th Street Station (PHL); travelers arriving by train normally continue to Allentown by rental car, rideshare or intercity bus. Amtrak Keystone fares vary by distance and advance purchase (typical one-way fares often fall in roughly the $20-60 range), and driving from those stations to Allentown usually takes about 50-90 minutes depending on origin and traffic.
Bus: Intercity buses (notably Trans-Bridge Lines) serve Allentown from New York City, Newark and Philadelphia, stopping at the Allentown bus terminal/transportation center. Typical one-way fares to NYC are commonly in the $12-25 range with trip times around 75-100 minutes depending on traffic; local service in the metro area is provided by LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority), with single-ride fares around $1.70-$2.00 and frequent routes through the city and suburbs.
How to Get Around Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown is easiest to navigate by car or rideshare for flexibility, especially if you plan day trips around the region. Use LANTA and intercity buses for budget travel, and rely on walking or biking for short downtown trips.
- Car & Rental ($40-$80/day) - Driving is the most convenient way to get around the Lehigh Valley-road connections to the interstate network are good and parking in most parts of Allentown is straightforward. Renting a car makes sense if you plan day trips to nearby parks, wineries or small towns; expect to pay typical U.S. rental rates and fuel/toll costs. Be aware of rush-hour congestion on Route 22 and the PA Turnpike corridors.
- Rideshare & Taxi ($8-$25) - Uber and Lyft both operate in Allentown, and local taxis are available for shorter trips or airport runs. Rideshares are usually the quickest door-to-door option when you don't want to drive-short downtown trips often cost under $15, while airport runs will be higher. Service is reliable in the daytime; waits can be longer late at night or during major events.
- LANTA local buses ($1.70-$2.00) - LANTA operates fixed-route buses across Allentown and the Lehigh Valley, connecting neighborhoods, shopping centers and major employers. Fares are low (single-ride cash fares around $1.70-$2.00) and passes are available for regular users; however, buses can be slower than driving because of frequent stops and transfer needs. Use LANTA for budget travel within the metro area, and check schedules for evening/weekend service levels.
- Intercity bus (Trans-Bridge / others) ($12-$30) - Trans-Bridge Lines is the primary intercity bus operator linking Allentown with New York City, Newark and Philadelphia; other carriers may run occasional services. Buses are a cost-effective way to reach NYC (fares commonly $12-25) and are competitive on travel time outside peak traffic. Book ahead for guaranteed seats and check arrival/departure points (downtown Allentown terminals vs. airport-area stops).
- Biking ($0-$15/day) - Allentown has an expanding network of bike lanes and nearby multi-use trails along the Lehigh River, making cycling a pleasant option for short trips and recreation. Bring or rent a bike for the river trails and downtown errands-helmet use is recommended and some streets can be busy with traffic. Bike parking is available in central areas but dedicated bike-share systems are limited compared with larger cities.
- Walking - Downtown Allentown is compact and very walkable: most attractions, restaurants and bars are clustered within easy walking distance. Walking is often the fastest way to cover short downtown trips and is pleasant along the riverfront paths and historic districts.
Where to Stay in Allentown, Pennsylvania #
- Budget chain options near airport (Allentown area) - Basic stays near transport links
- Local budget motels and inns - Affordable rooms close to I‑78
- Holiday Inn Allentown-Downtown - Central location, reliable amenities
- Courtyard by Marriott Allentown/Bethlehem - Good business facilities and breakfast
- Renaissance Allentown Hotel - Upscale downtown option with meeting space
- Upscale boutique stays (select) - Larger suites and boutique amenities
- Holiday Inn Allentown-Downtown - Central, easy to navigate location
- Courtyard by Marriott Allentown/Bethlehem - Good for airport access
- Holiday Inn Allentown-Downtown - Family rooms and easy access to attractions
- Courtyard by Marriott Allentown/Bethlehem - Suites and reliable services for families
- Holiday Inn Allentown-Downtown - Business centre and dependable Wi‑Fi
- Courtyard by Marriott Allentown/Bethlehem - Workspaces and meeting rooms available
Where to Eat in Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Allentown’s dining is a blend of Lehigh Valley comfort food and practical ethnic restaurants. Hamilton Street and the downtown area are where you’ll find longtime diners, classic steakhouses, and a steady stream of Mexican and Asian family-run places catering to neighborhood tastes.
The city has a nice mix of fast-casual and sit-down options - good for sampling regional American plates during the day and exploring international flavors in the evening. Expect solid breakfasts, filling sandwiches, and a friendly, local pub scene.
- The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar - Regional American comfort dishes and steaks.
- Steak House on Lehigh Street - Hearty steaks and classic sides, local favorite.
- South-side diners on Hamilton Street - All-day breakfasts and sandwiches, neighborhood staples.
- Little Bangkok - Thai curries and noodle soups with heat.
- Taste of India - Punjabi and South Indian favorites, family-run kitchen.
- La Tapatia - Authentic Mexican tacos and regional specialties.
- The Greenhouse Café - Vegetarian sandwiches and seasonal salads, local spot.
- Veganette Lunch - Plant-based sandwiches and bowls for quick lunches.
- Whole Foods prepared foods - Salads, hot foods, and vegan packaged options.
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Allentown, Pennsylvania's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Allentown’s evening life has improved a lot - downtown has a dense strip of bars and restaurants along Hamilton Street, plus the PPL Center for concerts and sports. Expect craft breweries, gastropubs and late-night eateries, with events and festivals pushing nights later into the weekend. Practical tips: downtown is walkable and generally safe; rideshares are plentiful after hours; check PPL Center schedules for big nights.
Best Bets
- PPL Center - Arena for big concerts, sports and lively event nights.
- Hamilton Street corridor - Main downtown stretch with bars, pubs and late-night restaurants.
- Local breweries and taprooms - Craft beer scene with tasting rooms and weekend crowds.
- West End and Midtown areas - Neighborhood bars and gastropubs away from the busiest strip.
- Downtown arts venues and music nights - Smaller venues host local bands and occasional late shows.
- Seasonal festivals and night markets - Street fairs and night markets make for lively evening outings.
Shopping in Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Allentown’s shopping sits at the intersection of a compact downtown and larger suburban malls. Hamilton Street downtown is where you’ll find independent boutiques, coffee shops and a handful of vintage stores; the Lehigh Valley Mall and big-box clusters handle mainstream retail and brands. The city’s long-standing farmers’ market is a good source of local food and crafts. If you want bargains, explore outlet-style centers in the Lehigh Valley suburbs.
Best Bets
- Lehigh Valley Mall - Regional mall with major chains and a busy food court.
- Hamilton Street (Downtown Allentown) - Historic downtown strip with boutiques, cafes and small shops.
- Allentown Farmers Market - Long-running market selling local produce, cheese and prepared foods.
- The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley - Upscale outlet-style shopping just outside Allentown.
- Local outlet and discount stores - Clustered outlets and discount retailers across the valley.
- Vintage and thrift shops (Allentown) - Scattered thrift and vintage stores worth a relaxed browse.
Digital Nomads in Allentown, Pennsylvania #
Allentown is practical for remote workers who want proximity to the Philadelphia and New York corridors without the big‑city price tag. The U.S. offers no digital nomad visa; travelers come on ESTA for 90 days or a B‑2 tourist visa for longer stays when approved.
Budget roughly $1,400-2,500 USD/month depending on commuting and housing choices (one‑bedroom $900-1,500). Internet via Comcast Xfinity and Verizon/Frontier provides fast home speeds-100-500+ Mbps are common in served areas. The scene connects into the Lehigh Valley’s universities and businesses, so meetups and college events are the main ways to meet other remote workers.
- Allentown Public Library - downtown study rooms, free Wi‑Fi access
- Muhlenberg College library - weekday quiet hours, academic resources available
- Regus Allentown - professional offices, meeting rooms, flexible plans
- Local cafés (The Bean) - friendly to laptops, solid internet, local crowd
- Xfinity (Comcast) - major provider, wide coverage, speeds to 1 Gbps
- Verizon Fios/Frontier - fiber available in parts, high reliability
- Mobile LTE/5G (Verizon, AT&T) - strong suburban coverage, handy backup
- Public library Wi‑Fi - consistent, good for daytime work sessions
- Allentown Chamber of Commerce - meetups, business introductions, local events
- Lehigh Valley tech meetups - developer and entrepreneur gatherings, periodic events
- College events (Lehigh, Muhlenberg nearby) - guest lectures, networking, talent pools
- Local coworking meetups - informal socials, founder check‑ins
Demographics
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