Allentown isn’t the biggest city in the state, but it’s growing faster than any other metropolitan area in Pennsylvania. This influx of new people, ideas, and businesses is coloring the city’s historic and creating an experience that is 100% unique. Keep reading for recommendations about Allentown’s hidden gems, affordable things to do, nightlife, and more.
As one of the oldest cities in the country, Allentown has plenty of historic buildings and museums. History buffs can view a full-size replica of the liberty bell, examine paintings from the renaissance, and more.
Some of the best things to do in Allentown include:
Yocco's Hot Dogs, a local favorite since it opened in 1922
The Allentown Art Museum, featuring more 13,000 works of art and 16,000 books
The 19th St Theater, the city’s best option for musicals and theatrical performances
Canal Park, a riverfront recreational area with spaces for boating and fishing
Lehigh Mountain Park, a massive green space with more than 50 miles of biking and hiking trails
Despite its relatively small population, Allentown has a surprisingly active nightlife. Unsurprisingly, most of the city’s nighttime activities are reserved to breweries, tap rooms, and pubs.
Some of Allentown’s best watering holes include:
Sands Casino and Resort, featuring theatrical shows, gambling, food, and drink
Gamechanger World PA, a hip, adult-oriented arcade with regular specials on beer
Volpe’s Sports Bar, offering happy hours and game-day specials on Sundays
Trapp Door Gastropub, serving more than 250 beers on tap
The Tavern on Liberty, a pub with the largest beer selection in the Lehigh Valley
When you need a break from the daily grind, consider visiting one of Allentown’s many yoga studios or spas. This city is also home to a wide variety of relaxing, cultural activities.
Some of Allentown’s best indoor activities include:
The West End Yoga Center, a highly rated yoga studio with classes for all skill levels
The Baum School of Art, a must-see destination for artists of all ages
Qi Spa, a locally owned day spa with massages, facials, waxing, and more
The Museum of Indian Culture, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of indigenous cultures
The Sleepy Cat Urban Winery, a quiet bar where patrons can curl up with a book and a glass of red wine
Sports and outdoor activities in AllentownView All
Are you ready to break a sweat? Allentown is home several parks, hiking trails, and bodies of water, so lace up your hiking boots, grab your fishing pole, and get ready to explore the great outdoors.
Some of the best outdoor activities in Allentown include:
Tubing down the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers
Teeing off at Iron Lakes Country Golf Course
Swimming, fishing, and camping at Moyer’s Lake
Taking picture of Bauer rock in South Mountain Big Rock Park
Exploring the limestone corridors of the Lost River Caverns