Overview
Allentown is Pennsylvania's third-largest city, situated in the Lehigh Valley roughly 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles southwest of New York City. Once a center of iron and steel manufacturing, the city has undergone sustained revitalization since the early 2010s, anchored by a downtown arena district and a growing arts and dining scene.
The city carries a layered history: during the Revolutionary War, the Liberty Bell was secretly transported here for safekeeping, and a replica now resides at Zion's United Church of Christ on Hamilton Street. That historical thread runs alongside a diverse, evolving population that today includes large Latino and immigrant communities, giving the food and cultural calendar a distinctly varied character.
For travelers, Allentown works well as both a standalone short break and as a regional hub. Day trips to Bethlehem, the Pocono Mountains, and Pennsylvania Dutch Country are all practical from here, and the city's own museums and parks can fill a full day without difficulty.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Allentown is in the United States. Entry requirements vary significantly by nationality. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section for general guidance and consult the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's official travel site for current requirements before booking.
Climate
Allentown has a humid continental climate. Summers (June–August) are warm and occasionally humid, with average highs in the mid-to-upper 80s °F (around 28–32 °C). Winters bring cold temperatures and moderate snowfall; January averages are typically in the low-to-mid 30s °F (1–3 °C). Spring and fall are generally pleasant with mild temperatures and colorful foliage in October.
Practical Prep
- Power: 120V / 60Hz, Type A/B outlets (standard US)
- Health: No vaccinations are required for domestic US travel; verify your own country's requirements before departure
- Cell coverage: Major US carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) provide reliable coverage throughout the city and Lehigh Valley
Getting There
By Air
The closest major airport is Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), located in Hanover Township just east of Allentown. It offers regional connections and limited direct routes; verify current carriers and routes on the airport's official site. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are larger alternatives roughly 60–90 miles away, with frequent bus and car options into the Lehigh Valley.
By Car
Allentown is easily accessible via Interstate 78 (running east–west, connecting to I-287 and the New York metro area) and US Route 22. Parking in the downtown area includes surface lots and garages; verify current rates locally.
By Bus and Train
Trans-Bridge Lines operates scheduled coach service between Allentown and New York City's Port Authority Bus Terminal — confirm current schedules and fares directly with the carrier. Greyhound and FlixBus also serve the region; verify stops and timetables before travel. Allentown does not have direct Amtrak service; the nearest Amtrak station is in Bethlehem or Philadelphia.
Getting Around
Public Transit
The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) operates bus routes throughout Allentown and the wider Lehigh Valley. Routes connect major neighborhoods, the downtown district, and suburban areas. Check LANTA's official website for current route maps, schedules, and fare information.
Driving and Parking
A car is the most practical way to reach attractions outside the immediate downtown core, including Dorney Park and nature preserves. Downtown parking garages and metered street parking are available; rates and hours should be verified locally.
On Foot and by Bike
The downtown Hamilton Street corridor and the Lehigh Parkway are walkable. The D&L Trail (Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Trail) passes through the region and is accessible to cyclists; verify trail access points locally.
Things to See & Do
History and Culture
- Allentown Art Museum — A respected regional museum with collections spanning European and American art, decorative arts, and traveling exhibitions. Verify current hours and admission on their official site.
- Liberty Bell Museum — Housed at Zion's United Church of Christ, this small museum tells the story of the Bell's wartime relocation to Allentown. Verify visiting arrangements locally.
- Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum — Covers the region's history from Indigenous peoples through industrial eras; located on Hamilton Street downtown.
Outdoors
- Lehigh Parkway — A scenic linear park along the Little Lehigh Creek with walking and jogging paths, picnic areas, and a fish hatchery.
- Cedar Creek Parkway — Connects to a network of trails popular with walkers and cyclists.
- Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom — A large regional amusement and water park; verify current operating season, hours, and admission on the park's official site.
Live Events
- PPL Center — A downtown arena that hosts the Lehigh Valley Phantoms (AHL hockey), concerts, and touring shows. Check the venue's official schedule for upcoming events.
Food & Drink
Allentown's dining scene reflects its demographic diversity. Hamilton Street and the surrounding downtown blocks have seen a notable increase in independent restaurants over the past decade, alongside long-standing neighborhood spots.
What to Expect
- Latino cuisine is well represented, particularly Puerto Rican and Dominican restaurants, given the city's large Hispanic community. Neighborhoods along 7th Street and nearby corridors have authentic options.
- Pennsylvania Dutch and regional fare — diners and farm-to-table spots in and around the Lehigh Valley draw on the surrounding agricultural region.
- Craft beer — the broader Lehigh Valley has an active craft brewing scene; several taprooms operate within or near Allentown.
As with any US city, restaurant hours, ownership, and menus change frequently — it is worth checking current reviews on a platform like Google Maps or Yelp before visiting a specific establishment.
Shopping
Downtown Allentown's Hamilton Street has independent boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops mixed among service businesses. The Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market is a longstanding indoor market featuring local produce, meats, baked goods, and prepared foods — verify current days and hours on their official site.
For larger retail needs, suburban commercial corridors and malls are accessible by car; the Lehigh Valley Mall in Whitehall Township is the largest enclosed mall in the region. Antique hunters may find worthwhile stops in the surrounding small towns of the Lehigh Valley.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
In the United States, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
Hospitals
Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest (in nearby Salisbury Township) is the region's largest hospital and Level I trauma center. Verify the address and directions before travel.
Money
Credit and debit cards are accepted almost universally. ATMs are widely available downtown and at commercial areas. Tipping is standard practice in restaurants (typically 18–20%) and for other service workers.
Connectivity
Free public Wi-Fi is available in some downtown areas and at the main branch of the Allentown Public Library. Most hotels and many cafés also offer Wi-Fi.
Safety
Allentown, like most mid-sized American cities, has neighborhoods that vary in character. The downtown district and the Lehigh Parkway area are generally active and well-traveled during daylight hours. As with any urban destination, standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables out of sight in parked cars, and use well-lit routes at night.
For context on specific neighborhoods or current conditions, check recent travel forums or local news sources before your visit. The Allentown Police Department's official site may publish public safety information.
