Allentown PA, United States
- 120,207 people
- 18 places to visit
- 40.6023, -75.4714
Places to Visit (18)
Allentown, Pennsylvania, located in Lehigh County, is the third-largest city in the state, with a population of approximately 125,000 residents as of the 2020 census. The city is part of the Lehigh Valley metropolitan area and is situated about 60 miles north of Philadelphia. Founded in the 1760s and incorporated in 1867, Allentown has a rich history that includes various transformations, from its colonial origins to its industrial boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This industrial growth was fueled by its strategic location along transportation routes, including the Lehigh River and the Pennsylvania Canal, making it a hub for manufacturing, particularly in textiles and steel, contributing significantly to the city’s economy and workforce.
Allentown is characterized by its diverse cultural landscape, offering a range of recreational parks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. The Allentown Art Museum and the Baum School of Art highlight the city’s commitment to arts and education. The Lehigh Valley Zoo and Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom are popular destinations for family fun and entertainment. Allentown also celebrates its rich culinary scene, influenced by its diverse population, with several restaurants reflecting German heritage and local flavors. The city hosts various annual events and festivals, including the Great Allentown Fair, which showcases local agriculture, crafts, and entertainment. Additionally, Allentown is home to several colleges and universities, including Cedar Crest College and Lehigh University, the latter being a prominent institution that adds to the educational resources available in the area.
Transportation in Allentown is facilitated by a network of highways, including Interstate 78 and US Route 22, making it accessible for commuters and visitors. The city also boasts the Lehigh Valley International Airport, offering regional air travel options. Recently, Allentown has seen revitalization efforts in its downtown area, with new businesses and residential developments helping to boost the local economy. The city’s commitment to growth while preserving its historical roots positions it as a dynamic place to live, work, and visit. Allentown continues to evolve as a vibrant community, balancing its rich heritage with modern adaptation and innovation.
Facts about Allentown
- Allentown is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania, after Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
- The city is home to the Allentown Fair, which has been held annually since 1852, making it one of the oldest fairs in the United States.
- Allentown was the birthplace of the famous composer and lyricist, Stephen Foster, known for songs like 'Oh! Susanna' and 'Camptown Races'.
- The city is known for the Liberty Bell Museum, which houses a replica of the Liberty Bell and tells the story of its connection to Allentown during the American Revolutionary War.
- Allentown has a rich industrial history and was once a significant center for the production of textiles, machinery, and furniture in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- The Lehigh Valley, where Allentown is located, is famous for its numerous covered bridges, with several historical examples within proximity of the city.
- Allentown serves as a central hub for the Lehigh Valley, providing access to popular attractions like Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, a leading amusement and water park.
- The city has a vibrant arts scene and is home to the Allentown Art Museum, which features American art spanning several centuries and has a notable collection of Pennsylvania German folk art.
- Allentown's Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ), established in 2009, is an innovative economic development initiative aimed at revitalizing the downtown area through tax incentives and redevelopment projects.
- The city was once the location of the Allentown Plan, implemented in the early 20th century, which was a pioneering model for city planning and urban development in the United States.