Allentown, PA
- About the City
- Transportation
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Climate and Weather
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Allentown is Pennsylvania's third-most populous city, a historic hub where the Liberty Bell was hidden during the Revolutionary War and now a vibrant center for sports, arts, and family fun in the Lehigh Valley.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Allentown, Pennsylvania
- Administrative Role: Allentown is the county seat of Lehigh County and the most populous city in the Lehigh Valley metropolitan area . It operates under a mayor-council government .
- Location: The city is located in the state of Pennsylvania (PA) in the United States . It is the third-most populous city in Pennsylvania, after Philadelphia and Pittsburgh . The Lehigh Valley region is known for its rich industrial history, picturesque landscapes, and as a growing hub for healthcare, finance, and distribution .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The city was originally laid out and named Northampton Towne in 1762 by its founder, William Allen . It was incorporated as the Borough of Northampton in 1811 and was officially renamed Allentown in 1833, a name that had already become popular with its residents .
- Nicknames: Allentown is known by several nicknames. It is called "The Queen City" . Its industrial past, particularly in silk production, earned it the nicknames "Silk City" and "Peanut City" . It has also been referred to as "Band City USA" due to its rich musical heritage, most notably the renowned Allentown Band .
Date of Founding and Age
- Founding and Founder: The area was first settled in 1735, but the town was officially laid out and named Northampton Towne in 1762 by William Allen, a wealthy shipping merchant and former mayor of Philadelphia . Allen hoped the location on the Lehigh River would become a major commercial center .
- Age: Founded in 1762, the city is 264 years old as of 2026 .
- Incorporation: Allentown was incorporated as a city on March 12, 1867 .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Coordinates: 40°36′06″N 75°28′38″W (approximately 40.5961° N, -75.4756° W as provided) .
- Positioning: Allentown is located in eastern Pennsylvania, approximately 48 miles (77 km) north of Philadelphia and 78 miles (126 km) west of New York City . It lies in the Lehigh Valley region, a geographic valley between two Appalachian mountain ridges: South Mountain to the south and Blue Mountain to the north .
- Waterways: The city is situated on the Lehigh River, a 109-mile-long (175 km) tributary of the Delaware River .
- Elevation: The center of Allentown is 338 feet (103 meters) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Historically a titan of heavy industry and manufacturing—often called the "Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution"—Allentown's economy today is primarily driven by the service industries, healthcare, and education . It serves as a major commercial and cultural hub for the Lehigh Valley. Tourism also plays a significant role, centered around its rich history, minor league sports, and attractions like Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, Allentown has a population of 125,845 residents within the city proper . The larger Lehigh Valley metropolitan area is home to 861,899 people, making it the 68th-most populous metropolitan area in the United States .
- Classification: It is the third-most populous city in Pennsylvania and the largest city in the Lehigh Valley .
City's "Calling Card"
Allentown is a city where American history and modern family fun intersect. It is famously known as the secret hiding place of the Liberty Bell during the Revolutionary War, a story preserved in its historic center . Today, it draws visitors with the thrilling roller coasters of Dorney Park, the energetic fanbase of its Triple-A baseball team, the IronPigs, and a vibrant downtown arts scene .
Transportation
Major Airports
- Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): Located just about 8 miles from downtown Allentown in Hanover Township, this is the primary and most convenient airport for the region . It offers non-stop flights to major hubs like Charlotte (CLT), Atlanta (ATL), Newark (EWR), and various leisure destinations, serviced by airlines including American, Delta, United, and Allegiant . The airport features free Wi-Fi, dining, and shopping . Transportation to the city includes LANTA public buses, taxis, ride-shares, and rental cars from onsite agencies like Alamo, Avis, and Hertz .
- Allentown Queen City Municipal Airport (XLL): This is a smaller, general aviation airport primarily used by private and corporate aircraft .
Major Highways
Allentown is a well-connected hub, easily accessible by several major highways :
- Interstate 78 (I-78): A major east-west highway running from central Pennsylvania to the Holland Tunnel in New York City, providing direct access to the city.
- U.S. Route 22 (US-22): Another key freeway that runs from Cincinnati, Ohio, through Allentown and into New Jersey.
- Pennsylvania Route 309 (PA-309): A major highway connecting Allentown to the Philadelphia region.
Public Transportation
The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) operates the region's public bus service, providing connections throughout Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton . A one-way fare is $2, with free rides for seniors (65+) and young children .
Intercity Bus Service
The main Allentown bus terminal is located at 325 Hamilton Street in center city . Several commercial bus companies serve the city, including Trans-Bridge Lines (offering daily service to/from New York City), Trailways, and OurBus (connecting Allentown to Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and upstate New York) .
Nearest Passenger Rail Service
Allentown does not have direct passenger rail service. The closest major Amtrak station is 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, approximately 61 miles south of the city . From there, travelers can rent a car or take a bus to reach Allentown.
Landmarks and Attractions
Liberty Bell Museum
Located in the basement of Zion's Reformed Church at 622 Hamilton Street, this museum marks the historic spot where the Liberty Bell (then known as the State House Bell) was successfully hidden from the British Army for nine months during the American Revolutionary War after the fall of Philadelphia in 1777 . The shrine in the church's basement commemorates this pivotal act of American patriotism.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
One of the most popular attractions in the northeastern U.S., this amusement and water park is known for its world-class roller coasters and thrilling water slides. It features some of the tallest and longest roller coasters on the East Coast, making it a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers .
PPL Center
This modern arena in the heart of downtown Allentown is a major entertainment and sports venue . It is the home of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers . The center also hosts major concerts, shows, and community events, acting as a catalyst for the city's revitalization.
Coca-Cola Park
Home to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Triple-A minor league baseball affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, this ballpark offers a classic family-friendly experience . The team's popular brand and the park's modern amenities make it one of the most enjoyable and highly-attended minor league destinations in the country.
West Park
Designed by renowned Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer and opened in 1908, this is Allentown's first park and a tranquil oasis in the West Park Historic District . It features a beautiful central fountain, ornamental trees and walks, and the historic Goldman Bandshell, which is the summer home of the renowned Allentown Band, which continues to perform for thousands of visitors .
Allentown Art Museum
Located at 31 N 5th Street, this museum holds a collection of thousands of works of art, ranging from Renaissance paintings to modern and contemporary pieces . It frequently hosts special exhibits and events, serving as a cornerstone of the city's cultural scene.
Da Vinci Science Center
An interactive science museum at 3145 Hamilton Blvd Bypass, it is a favorite for families . With hands-on exhibits, including the notable "View Space" gallery featuring NASA imagery, it makes science engaging and fun for all ages.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type
Allentown has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons . Summers are typically hot and muggy, while winters are cold. Spring and fall are mild and generally pleasant . Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
Temperatures are given in Fahrenheit (°F) . For reference, 0°F = -17.8°C, 32°F = 0°C, and 100°F = 37.8°C.
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 36 | 19 |
| February | 37 | 21 |
| March | 50 | 30 |
| April | 61 | 39 |
| May | 72 | 48 |
| June | 81 | 59 |
| July | 84 | 63 |
| August | 82 | 61 |
| September | 75 | 54 |
| October | 64 | 43 |
| November | 52 | 34 |
| December | 39 | 25 |
- Warmest Month: July, with an average high of 84°F .
- Coolest Month: January, with an average low of 19°F .
Precipitation and Sunshine
- Rainfall: Allentown receives consistent rainfall year-round, averaging between 3.0 and 4.3 inches per month . The wettest months tend to be May, July, and August .
- Snow: Winter precipitation often includes snow, particularly from December through February .
- Sunshine: The sunniest months are June through August, with an average of 8-9 hours of sunshine per day .
- UV Index: The UV index is highest during the summer months, reaching a "Very High" level of 9 in June and July, so sun protection is advised .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up nicely from the 50s to the 70s, and flowers begin to bloom. It's a great time for walking tours and enjoying the city's parks before the summer crowds and humidity arrive.
- Summer (June-August): This is peak season for family fun. The weather is hot and sometimes muggy, perfect for enjoying Dorney Park's water attractions, catching an IronPigs baseball game, or attending outdoor concerts at venues like the West Park Bandshell .
- Fall (September-November): Mild and crisp weather makes this another ideal time to visit. The fall foliage in the Lehigh Valley is spectacular, providing a scenic backdrop for exploring the area.
- Winter (December-February): Winters are cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. This is the best time to enjoy indoor attractions like the Allentown Art Museum, Da Vinci Science Center, or catch a Phantoms hockey game at the PPL Center .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
The Allentown Farmers Market
While Allentown may not have a single globally famous dish, its culinary heart beats strongly at the Allentown Farmers Market . This historic market is the go-to place to experience the region's diverse food scene all under one roof. It's a destination where locals and visitors alike can find a vast array of prepared foods and local specialties. You'll find stands selling classic Pennsylvania Dutch treats like whoopie pies, chow chow (a pickled vegetable relish), and apple butter, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage. Alongside these, the market is a vibrant hub for the city's diverse communities, offering authentic cuisine from around the world. It's not just a place to shop for ingredients; it's a lively food hall where you can grab a meal, making it a cornerstone of Allentown's everyday food culture.
Unique Local Ingredient: Pennsylvania Dutch Influences
The cuisine of the Lehigh Valley, including Allentown, is heavily influenced by Pennsylvania Dutch (German) culinary traditions . This heritage introduces unique ingredients and dishes that people seek out in the region. Key examples are scrapple (a savory breakfast meat made from pork scraps and cornmeal) and chow chow (a sweet and sour pickled vegetable relish). These aren't just menu items; they're a link to the area's history. Scrapple, for instance, is a practical, farmstead creation born from the tradition of using every part of the animal, and it remains a beloved local breakfast staple. You can find these items in local diners, farmers markets, and specialty shops throughout the city.
Museums
Allentown Art Museum
The Allentown Art Museum is the premier fine arts institution in the Lehigh Valley . Its collection spans centuries and cultures, offering a diverse range of artworks. A highlight of the museum is the Kress Collection of Renaissance Art, which features significant Italian paintings and sculptures from the 13th to the 16th centuries, including works by masters like Bernardo Daddi and Luca Signorelli. This collection alone makes it a destination for art lovers. The museum also boasts a strong collection of American art, including paintings and decorative arts, as well as a notable textile and costume collection. It serves as a cultural anchor in the city's downtown, regularly hosting traveling exhibitions and educational programs.
Liberty Bell Museum
Housed in the historic Zion's Reformed Church, the Liberty Bell Museum (also known as the Liberty Bell Shrine) is a unique historical site . Its central artifact is a full-scale, high-quality replica of the Liberty Bell. The museum's significance, however, lies in its authentic history: during the winter of 1777, the real Liberty Bell and ten other bells from Philadelphia's Christ Church were hidden in the church's basement to prevent them from being melted down by the British for munitions. This act of preservation connects Allentown directly to the American Revolution. The museum tells this story and displays a replica bell, with a diorama depicting the bells being hidden, making it a place of patriotic interest.
Da Vinci Science Center
A must-visit for families and science enthusiasts, the Da Vinci Science Center is a hands-on museum dedicated to bringing science to life . Its mission is to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The museum is famous for its interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to touch, play, and experiment. Popular permanent exhibits include a large KEVA plank building area, a physics playground, and live animal encounters. It's a dynamic and engaging space where the famous "exhibits" are not static objects but the experiments and discoveries visitors make themselves.
America on Wheels Museum
For those interested in transportation history, the America on Wheels Museum in nearby Allentown (often considered part of the greater Lehigh Valley attraction network) is a specialized gem . This museum is dedicated to the history of over-the-road transportation. Its collection features a wide array of vehicles, from classic cars and antique motorcycles to massive Mack Trucks (a company with deep roots in the region) and even bicycles. The museum's famous exhibits often highlight the evolution of trucking and the automotive industry, showcasing beautifully restored vehicles and telling the story of how transportation shaped America. The museum is located on the banks of the Lehigh River, adding to its historic industrial setting.
Sport and Sports Legends
Coca-Cola Park
Coca-Cola Park is a premier minor league baseball stadium and a cornerstone of Allentown's sports scene . Opened in 2008, it has a seating capacity of approximately 10,000 people. It is the home field for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The stadium is consistently rated as one of the best facilities in minor league baseball, famous for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent sightlines, and unique culinary offerings. The team's name, a playful nod to the region's industrial past (pig iron), has become a beloved brand. Coca-Cola Park is not just for baseball; it also hosts concerts and community events throughout the year.
PPL Center
The PPL Center is a multi-purpose arena in the heart of downtown Allentown, which opened in 2014 . With a seating capacity of around 8,500 for hockey games, it is the home of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the primary development team (AHL affiliate) for the Philadelphia Flyers. The arena is known for its state-of-the-art design and has been a catalyst for downtown revitalization. Beyond hockey, the PPL Center hosts major concerts featuring top national acts, family shows like Disney on Ice, and other sporting events, making it the region's go-to venue for live entertainment.
Lehigh Valley IronPigs
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs are more than just a baseball team; they are a cultural phenomenon in Allentown . As the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, they offer high-quality baseball just a step below the majors. The team, which plays at Coca-Cola Park, has built a massive following thanks to its humorous and self-deprecating brand identity (the name "IronPigs" refers to the pig iron produced by the region's historic steel industry). They have won multiple awards for their promotional nights and fan experience. While their greatest achievement is their connection to the community, they have also won division titles and regularly develop future Phillies stars, making them a team with a direct pipeline to the major leagues.
Lehigh Valley Phantoms
The Lehigh Valley Phantoms are Allentown's professional ice hockey team, playing in the American Hockey League (AHL) at the PPL Center . As the top affiliate of the NHL's Philadelphia Flyers, the Phantoms bring fast-paced, physical hockey to the city. The team moved to Allentown in 2014, and their arrival, alongside the new arena, was a major milestone for the city's resurgence. They have a strong fan base and compete for the AHL's coveted Calder Cup, serving as a key development ground for future Flyers players and providing high-level professional sports entertainment.
Famous Athletes from Allentown
Allentown has produced several notable athletes who have achieved success at the professional level:
- Andre Reed: Perhaps the most famous athlete to come from Allentown, Reed was a star wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills and is enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame . He was a key member of the Bills' four consecutive Super Bowl teams in the early 1990s and is widely considered one of the greatest receivers of his era. He attended nearby Kutztown University and his ties to the Lehigh Valley are strong.
- Larry Miller: A standout basketball player at the University of North Carolina, Miller had a successful career in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and later in the NBA . He was a two-time ABA All-Star.
- Eddie Sachs: A famous racecar driver from the mid-20th century, Sachs was known for his personality and skill, competing in the Indianapolis 500 eight times and earning the nickname "The Clown Prince of Auto Racing" .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Muhlenberg College
Muhlenberg College is a highly regarded private liberal arts college founded in 1848 . It is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the country, known for its strong programs in theatre, dance, and the health professions, as well as its rigorous academics in the humanities and sciences . Its campus, featuring a mix of historic and modern architecture, is a landmark in Allentown's West End. The college has produced notable alumni, including actor Dana Snyder , and is a cultural hub, hosting performances and lectures open to the public.
Cedar Crest College
Cedar Crest College is a private liberal arts college for women, founded in 1867 . It is known for its strong focus on educating women for leadership in a global society. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs for women, as well as co-educational graduate and adult education programs. It has particular strengths in nursing, forensic science, and genetic engineering . The campus, with its beautiful arboretum, provides a distinctive educational environment in Allentown.
Penn State Lehigh Valley
Penn State Lehigh Valley is one of the more than 20 campus locations of the prestigious Pennsylvania State University system . It offers the first two years of over 160 Penn State baccalaureate degrees, as well as the opportunity to complete several four-year degrees entirely at the Lehigh Valley campus. It serves as an accessible and vital educational resource for the region, providing a Penn State education with a close-knit, community-focused campus experience.
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN)
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in Pennsylvania and a dominant force in Allentown's healthcare landscape . Its flagship hospital, the Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest, is a major tertiary care center located in Allentown. LVHN is renowned for its specialized services, including:
- Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery: The network is a regional leader in heart care, performing complex surgeries and interventions.
- Cancer Care: With its cancer institute, LVHN offers advanced oncology treatments, including clinical trials and radiation oncology.
- Neurosciences: It provides comprehensive care for stroke, brain tumors, and other neurological disorders.
- Level I Trauma Center: Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest is home to a Level I Trauma Center, the highest designation available, indicating its capability to handle the most severe and life-threatening injuries. This makes it a critical resource for the entire region.
LVHN is a major employer in the city and is closely affiliated with the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, serving as a clinical campus for medical students and residents, which underscores its commitment to teaching and research.
St. Luke's University Health Network
St. Luke's University Health Network is the other major health system serving Allentown and the Lehigh Valley . Founded in 1872, it has a long and storied history in the region. St. Luke's has a significant presence in Allentown, offering a full range of medical services. It is particularly well-known for:
- Cardiology: St. Luke's has a nationally recognized heart program.
- Orthopedics: The network is a regional leader in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine.
- Maternity and Women's Health: It provides comprehensive care for women and children.
- Temple/St. Luke's School of Medicine: St. Luke's is home to a regional campus of the Temple University School of Medicine, a unique partnership that makes it a major center for medical education.
Like LVHN, St. Luke's is a major employer and provides a significant portion of the healthcare in the area. It also operates the region's only dedicated children's hospital, further expanding its specialized care.
Air Products and Chemicals (Connection)
While not a medical institution, the presence of Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. , a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Allentown, has a notable indirect connection to healthcare . Air Products is a world leader in the production of industrial gases, including medical-grade oxygen and other specialty gases essential for hospitals, home healthcare, and medical research. This corporate giant ties Allentown to the global medical supply chain, providing critical materials used in respiratory care, anesthesia, and various medical technologies.