Allentown Travel Guide (Lehigh Valley/Philadelphia Region/Pennsylvania/Mid-Atlantic/United States of America/North America)

Introduction to Allentown
List of Places to Visit in Allentown
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Natural Attractions of Allentown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Allentown
Best Things to Do in Allentown: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Allentown
Must-Try Dishes
Local Beverages
Do:
Don’t:
Safety in Allentown
Health in Allentown
Airports Near Allentown
Bus Stations Near Allentown
Other Options

Allentown, Pennsylvania, located in Lehigh Valley in the Philadelphia region, is a must-see destination for travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Known for its rich history, natural beauty, and bustling food and drink scene, Allentown is an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll delve into the top things to see and do, where to stay, where to eat and drink, and more.

Introduction to Allentown

Allentown is a city in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, that offers plenty of exciting attractions for visitors. It is well-known for its rich history, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant food and drink scene. Visitors can explore a variety of museums, take leisurely strolls in beautifully maintained parks, shop at specialty boutiques, and enjoy a range of dining and entertainment options.

List of Places to Visit in Allentown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Allentown is steeped in history and culture that dates back several centuries. Visitors can explore some of the city’s most iconic and historically significant sites, including the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, which chronicles the history and heritage of the region. The museum contains more than 35,000 artifacts in 13 galleries, including the exhibition on the Lehigh Valley Dairies that will take you back in time.

Another must-see museum is the Allentown Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of more than 19,000 works of art. The museum features works by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and many more.

Natural Attractions of Allentown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Allentown has a wealth of natural beauty that makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Lehigh Gorge State Park, where visitors can explore the incredible trails that wind through forests, canyons, and waterfalls.

Another outdoor destination is the Cedar Beach Park, which is a great place to enjoy a picnic, swim in the pool, or simply relax in the shade of a tree. Visitors can also enjoy some light sports activities like basketball and tennis, or take a leisurely walk around the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Allentown

Allentown has plenty of biking and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Lehigh Valley Heritage Trail is a popular choice for cyclists and walkers alike. The trail covers a distance of 165-miles and passes through picturesque towns, farms, and forests.

Similarly, D&L Trail is another great option for exploring Allentown’s countryside. The trail spans over 140-miles, taking you past small towns like Jim Thorpe, White Haven, and Easton.

Best Things to Do in Allentown: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for something more out-of-the-box, Allentown has you covered. The city offers a range of activities and tours, including hot air balloon rides that offer stunning views of the countryside, and wine tours that take you through the vineyards and wineries of the region.

If you’re looking for more action, you can head to the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, which is a huge amusement park that offers dozens of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and entertainment shows.

Week-Long Itinerary for Allentown

Suppose you want to spend a week in Allentown, here is a sample itinerary for you:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Allentown Art Museum
Day 2	Explore the Cedar Beach Park
Day 3	Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the view
Day 4	Hike the Lehigh Gorge State Park
Day 5	Visit the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum
Day 6	Take the D&L Trail and have a picnic
Day 7	Enjoy a wine tour and tasting

Food and Drink Scene of Allentown

When it comes to food, Allentown offers a range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. For those looking for American cuisine, Billy’s Downtown Diner is a must-visit. This diner has an extensive menu that covers everything from All-American breakfasts to burgers, sandwiches, and a range of dinner entrees.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Grain is a great option. This restaurant specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, so all their dishes are made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

Allentown has its own food scene, and there are several must-try dishes and local specialties. One such specialty is the PA Dutch Country cuisine, which includes comfort food like homemade apple sauce, chicken pot pie, pork and kraut, and shoofly pie.

Another local dish is scrapple, a savory meat dish that is made from pork scraps and leftover spices.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, Allentown has plenty of local options to try. One famous local beverage is Yuengling, which is a beer that is brewed in nearby Pottsville, Pennsylvania, and is one of the oldest breweries in the US.

Another local favorite is Weyerbacher Brewing Company, which produces a range of craft beers that are distributed nationwide.

Where to Stay in Allentown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Allentown offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Hostelling International Lehigh Valley in Bethlehem is a great choice. It offers shared and private rooms and is conveniently located close to many local attractions.

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, the Renaissance Allentown Hotel is a great option. This hotel is located in downtown Allentown and features elegant rooms, a fitness center, and an onsite restaurant.

What to Buy in Allentown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Allentown has a great selection of souvenirs and locally made products to bring back home as a memory of your trip. One great option is the Allentown Farmers Market, which features a range of locally made products, including honey, jam, baked goods, and more.

Another option is the Christmas City Store, which has a range of Christmas-themed gifts and ornaments, including nutcrackers, Santas, and ornaments.

Local Culture and Customs of Allentown

Allentown’s rich history and culture have greatly influenced local customs and traditions. One notable event of the year is the Great Allentown Fair, which is an agricultural fair that features concerts, horse races, exhibit shows, and more.

Best Time to Visit Allentown

The best time to visit Allentown is during the fall and spring months, when the weather is mild, and nature is at its finest. During the fall, the foliage of the trees turns into stunning shades of orange, red, and yellow, while in the spring, the parks come to life with colorful blooms and blossoms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Allentown

Do:

Visit Allentown Farmers Market
Try local specialties
Take a walk around Cedar Beach Park

Don’t:

Litter
Be loud and disruptive in public places
Ignore local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Allentown

Allentown is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. You should avoid walking alone at night and stay in well-lit areas. It is also a good idea to keep your valuables in a secure place and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Allentown

Allentown has plenty of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers. Visitors should ensure they have adequate insurance coverage to cover any unforeseen medical emergencies.

Getting to Allentown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Allentown

The closest airport to Allentown is the Lehigh Valley International Airport, which is located about three miles from the city center. The airport offers several daily flights to major cities, including Chicago, Charlotte, and Atlanta.

Bus Stations Near Allentown

The Greyhound Bus Lines station is located in the city center and offers daily services to and from nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel by rail. The Amtrak station in Bethlehem offers daily services to major cities, including Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C.

How to Get Around in Allentown

Allentown is a relatively small city, so it is easy to get around on foot. Visitors can also explore the city using bicycles or public transportation, including bus and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Allentown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Allentown is located in Lehigh Valley, which offers plenty of nearby destinations and excursion opportunities for visitors. Bethlehem, just seven miles south of Allentown offers historic and cultural attractions, including the Bethlehem Steel Museum, the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts, and the National Museum of Industrial History. The city also has vibrant nightlife and dining options.

Conclusion

Allentown is a dynamic city that is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of history, natural beauty, and urban delights. With a range of cultural attractions, outdoor recreational activities, food and drink options, and accommodation choices, Allentown makes an ideal destination for a weekend retreat, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway. Don’t forget to try the local specialties and pick up some unique souvenirs to bring back home as memories of this wonderful trip.