Allentown | USA New York

General Overview
Allentown is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania, located in the eastern part of the state in Lehigh County. It's part of the Lehigh Valley region, which also includes Bethlehem and Easton. With a population of around 125,000, Allentown has transformed from a 19th-century industrial hub into a modern city known for its cultural institutions, parks, and revitalized downtown.

Historical Background
Founded in 1762 by William Allen, a wealthy merchant and former mayor of Philadelphia, Allentown holds an important place in American history. During the Revolutionary War, the Liberty Bell was secretly transported and hidden in Allentown’s Zion Reformed Church to protect it from British forces occupying Philadelphia. The city thrived in the 19th and early 20th centuries due to its strong manufacturing base, particularly in iron, steel, silk, and later, automobile parts. Like many industrial cities, it faced economic decline in the late 20th century, but recent decades have brought significant investment and redevelopment.

Cultural Institutions and Museums

Allentown Art Museum
This museum was founded in 1934 and houses over 20,000 pieces of art, including European Renaissance and Baroque works, American paintings, and decorative arts. It also features traveling exhibits and community programming. Admission is free, making it accessible to all visitors.

Miller Symphony Hall
Located in a historic 19th-century building, it is home to the Allentown Symphony Orchestra. The venue hosts a variety of musical performances, from classical to jazz, and community events throughout the year.

America On Wheels Museum
A transportation-focused museum with vintage cars, bicycles, trucks, and exhibits that explore America’s relationship with wheels and motion. It's highly interactive and popular with both children and automotive enthusiasts.

Museum of Indian Culture
A small but informative museum that showcases artifacts, tools, clothing, and cultural items related to Native American history, particularly from the Lenape tribe and other Woodland cultures.

Family Attractions

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
One of the oldest amusement parks in the country, originally opened in 1884. It features over 60 rides, including world-class roller coasters like Steel Force, and a large water park with wave pools and slides. It's a major summer destination for families.

Da Vinci Science Center
This hands-on science museum offers interactive exhibits in physics, engineering, biology, and technology. Popular features include a hurricane simulator, water play areas, and rotating science exhibits.

Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Lehigh Parkway
A greenbelt that runs along the Little Lehigh River, popular for jogging, cycling, fishing, and picnics. The Parkway is home to historic covered bridges and beautiful natural scenery.

Cedar Creek Parkway
A scenic park with open fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and a fish hatchery. It’s known for hosting festivals and public events.

West Park
Located in downtown Allentown, West Park is known for its band shell and concerts in the summer. The park is beautifully landscaped and is a favorite for relaxing walks and community gatherings.

Culinary Scene

Allentown’s culinary offerings reflect its Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and its growing diversity. Local favorites include:

Scrapple: A traditional breakfast dish made from pork and cornmeal.

Shoofly pie: A sweet molasses pie rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch cooking.

Soft pretzels: Common throughout the Lehigh Valley, often served warm with mustard.

Yocco’s Hot Dogs: An Allentown institution since 1922, famous for its chili dogs and cheesesteaks.

The city also has an emerging international food scene with Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Asian restaurants opening in and around downtown.

Festivals and Events

The Great Allentown Fair: One of the oldest fairs in the country, held annually since 1852. It features concerts, agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and a wide variety of food.

Blues, Brews & Barbecue Festival: A downtown celebration of live music, craft beer, and barbecue cuisine held in the summer.

Mayfair Festival of the Arts: Held in late spring, this arts festival features visual art displays, live music, crafts, and local food vendors.

Sports and Entertainment

PPL Center
A modern indoor arena in downtown Allentown. It’s home to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms (AHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers) and also hosts concerts, wrestling events, and other entertainment.

Coca-Cola Park
A minor league baseball stadium that is home to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The stadium is well-known for its fan-friendly atmosphere and local food options.

Education and Economy

Allentown is part of the Allentown School District and is served by several higher education institutions nearby, including Muhlenberg College, Cedar Crest College, and Lehigh University (in Bethlehem). The city has been a focus of redevelopment efforts, including state-funded initiatives under the Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ), which has helped attract businesses, retail, and new residential developments to the urban core.

Transportation

Allentown is served by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), which offers regional flights. The city is connected by several major highways (I-78, Route 22, and Route 309) and is about 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City. Public transit within the city and to neighboring communities is provided by LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority).

Summary

Allentown offers a mix of historical charm, family attractions, green spaces, and urban renewal. It's a growing city that balances its industrial past with a vibrant present, making it a dynamic destination in eastern Pennsylvania for history lovers, families, and cultural travelers.