You may recognize Allentown as the subject of Billy Joel’s eponymous song, an ode to the working class. While Allentown has changed considerably since Joel released the song in 1982, it still has strong links to the blue-collar industries that helped carve its identity.
For a historic perspective on the city, take a walking tour through Old Allentown to view restored Victorian-style homes. Visit Zion’s Reformed Church of Christ to see where American rebels hid the Liberty Bell from the British Army during the Revolutionary War.
Allentown has museums ranging in focus from art to science and many things in between. From hunter-gatherers to the Pennsylvania Dutch, trace the settlers of the area at the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum. The Allentown Art Museum displays thousands of pieces of art and frequently hosts events and special exhibits.
Bring the family to the interactive Da Vinci Science Center. One of the most notable exhibits is View Space, which displays NASA’s breathtaking space images. As its name suggests, the new America on Wheels museum provides information about the history of wheeled transportation, from bicycles to race cars.
Enjoy Allentown’s thriving arts scene with a Broadway-style show or independent film at the Civic Theatre. The historic Symphony Hall stages concert series such as Jazz Cabaret and Symphony Hall Pops as well as dance performances and plays.
Find some excitement at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom with some of the tallest and longest roller coasters on the East coast. Afterward, cool off in the attached water park with dozens of slides and pools. For even more thrills, go to Lehigh Valley Grand Prix for go-kart racing that looks and feels like you are driving grand prix race cars.
As Pennsylvania’s third-largest city, Allentown has plenty of attractions to entertain any visitor. It is centrally located just 60 miles (97 kilometers) north of Philadelphia and 90 miles (145 kilometers) west of New York City. Visit during the snowy winter season or the heat of summer for a variety of delightful experiences.
