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Allentown is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania, located in the Lehigh Valley region. Known as “The City of Trees,” Allentown offers a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. The city serves as the county seat of Lehigh County and has a rich industrial heritage dating back to the iron and steel industries of the 19th century. Today, Allentown is a vibrant urban center with a growing arts scene, diverse dining options, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding Lehigh Valley.
Allentown’s history is deeply tied to its strategic location along the Lehigh River. The city was founded in 1762 by William Allen, a prominent colonial figure and chief justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. During the American Revolution, Allentown played a important role as a supply center for the Continental Army.
The city grew rapidly during the industrial revolution thanks to its proximity to iron ore deposits and coal from the nearby Coal Region. The Bethlehem Steel Corporation established major operations in the Lehigh Valley, bringing jobs and growth to Allentown. Today, remnants of this industrial heritage can be seen in the city’s historic architecture and museums.
Allentown is also home to a growing arts scene. The Allentown Art Museum houses over 18,000 works of art, including a notable collection of European paintings and American decorative arts. The Miller Symphony Hall hosts concerts and performances throughout the year, while the city’s downtown district features galleries and public art installations.
Allentown offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors:
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is one of the largest amusement parks in the Northeast, featuring roller coasters, water rides, and family entertainment. The park draws millions of visitors each year from across the region.
The Allentown Fairgrounds hosts the annual Allentown Fair, one of the oldest fairs in the country, featuring agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment.
For history enthusiasts, the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum showcases the region’s history from colonial times through the industrial era. The America On Wheels museum features historic vehicles and transportation exhibits.
The best time to visit Allentown is during the spring from April through June or in fall from September through November, when the weather is pleasant and the city hosts various festivals and events.
| Season | Temperature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 45-70°F | Flower blooms, mild weather | Can be rainy |
| Summer | 70-85°F | Dorney Park open, festivals | Hot & humid |
| Fall | 50-75°F | Fall foliage, comfortable weather | Short season |
| Winter | 25-40°F | Indoor attractions, lower rates | Cold, snow |
Summer is peak season for families visiting Dorney Park, but hotel rates are higher. Fall offers beautiful foliage in the surrounding Lehigh Valley and the annual Allentown Fair in late August through early September.
Winter brings lower hotel rates and fewer crowds, making it a good time to explore Allentown’s museums and indoor attractions. The city’s restaurants and entertainment venues provide warm retreats from the cold.
Here are some of our recommended things to do while visiting Allentown. Pick your favorite!
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is an amusement and water park located in Dorneyville, Pennsylvania , just outside Allentown. The park is owned and operated by Six Flags and spans 200 acres , making it one of the largest entertainment destinations i…