About Allentown
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant city in the Lehigh Valley region. It boasts a glorious history dating back to earlier times. Still, it also has a vast cultural heritage that houses the unique energy of an urban center combined with elements of charming suburbs. The city boasts its well-developed arts scene, bustling local markets, and strong community feelings. With numerous events and festivals around the year, Allentown celebrates its diverse populations while inviting all visitors to experience its welcoming atmosphere and engaging spirit.
6 Family-Friendly Attractions in Allentown for an Amazing Day Out
Here are some of the best places to visit in the Allentown
1. PPL Center – Arena
PPL Center is a state-of-the-art multi-purpose arena located in downtown Allentown, Pennsylvania. Opened in 2014, it serves as a premier venue for sports, concerts, and entertainment events. In addition to being home to the American Hockey League team Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the arena frequently welcomes a wide range of events that draw crowds from all over the surrounding area.
Location:
PPL Center is at 701 Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA 18101. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a focal point for local and regional events.
Key Attractions:
- Sports Events: Home to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the arena hosts thrilling hockey games throughout the season.
- Home to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms: The Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the Philadelphia Flyers’ American Hockey League club, call the arena their official home.
- Family Shows: The venue hosts family-friendly events such as ice shows, circuses, and theatrical productions.
Things to Do:
- Attend a Game or Concert: Experience the excitement of live sports or enjoy performances from famous artists.
- Explore Downtown Allentown: Stroll through the nearby streets to discover local shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Participate in Arena Events: Check the schedule for special events, including community gatherings, holiday celebrations, and more.
2. Coca-Cola Park – Stadium
Coca-Cola Park is a modern stadium in Allentown, Pennsylvania, known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly environment. Opened in 2008, it serves as the home field for the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The stadium offers fans an exciting baseball experience with various amenities, making it a popular destination for sports enthusiasts and families.
Location:
Coca-Cola Park is at 1050 Iron Pigs Way, Allentown, PA 18109. It is conveniently located near major highways and easily accessible for residents and visitors traveling from nearby areas.
Key Attractions:
- Iron Pigs Games: Enjoy thrilling baseball games featuring the Iron Pigs during the Minor League Baseball season, typically from April to September.
- Family-Friendly Features: The stadium includes play areas for children, providing a fun environment for families attending games.
- Unique Concessions: Coca-Cola Park is known for its diverse food options, from classic ballpark fare to local specialties.
Things to Do:
- Attend a Baseball Game: Experience the excitement of live baseball, cheering for the Iron Pigs while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
- Explore Special Events: Coca-Cola Park hosts various events throughout the season, including theme nights, fireworks displays, and promotional giveaways.
- Enjoy the Views: The stadium offers excellent sightlines and seating, making it a great place to watch the game from various viewpoints.
3. Da Vinci Science Center – Science Museum
In Allentown, Pennsylvania, there is an interactive scientific museum called the Da Vinci Scientific Center that fosters curiosity and a passion for STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and math. Visitors to the center enjoy an enjoyable and instructive experience through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that encourage creativity and inquiry.
Location:
The Da Vinci Science Center is at 3145 Hamilton Boulevard Bypass, Allentown, PA 18103. It is easily accessible by major roadways and convenient for residents and tourists.
Key Attractions:
- Interactive Exhibits: This facility offers various hands-on activities for visitors to investigate robotics, physics, and environmental science.
- STEM Programs: Educational programs and workshops are offered for children and families, emphasizing the importance of STEM education in a fun and engaging way.
- Live Demonstrations: Enjoy exciting science demonstrations by knowledgeable staff, showcasing fascinating experiments and scientific principles.
Things to Do:
- Attend Workshops: Participate in scheduled workshops and programs that dive deeper into specific scientific concepts and hands-on learning.
- Visit the Gift Shop: Browse the gift shop for unique science-themed toys, books, and educational materials to take home.
- Plan a Group Visit: The Da Vinci Science Center offers unique programs for schools and groups, making it an excellent destination for field trips and educational outings.
4. Allentown Art Museum – Art Museum
The Allentown Art Museum is a cultural living center in Allentown, Pennsylvania, enriching the community with visual arts for betterment and enrichment. Collecting American and European art for more than 80 years since its establishment in 1934, the Allentown Art Museum has collected a considerable amount of American and European art from various periods and in distinct styles. Its goal is to use programs, exhibitions, and community outreach to engage, inspire, and educate visitors.
Location:
The Allentown Art Museum is at 31 N. 5th Street, Allentown, PA 18101. Due to its convenient downtown location, both locals and visitors may easily access it.
Key Attractions:
- Diverse Collections: The museum features various artworks, including American art from the 18th to 21st centuries, European paintings, decorative arts, and contemporary pieces.
- Special Exhibitions: Regularly rotating exhibitions highlight various artists and themes, providing fresh experiences for repeat visitors.
- Educational Programs: To improve comprehension and appreciation of the arts, the museum hosts talks, workshops, and tours.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Galleries: Wander through the museum’s galleries to admire the diverse artworks and learn about their historical and cultural significance.
- Participate in Workshops: Art seminars and classes appropriate for artists of all expertise levels.
- Attend Special Events: Take part in special events such as gallery talks, art openings, and community festivals hosted by the museum.
5. Cedar Beach Park – Park and Garden
Cedar Beach Park is a beautiful urban oasis in Allentown, Pennsylvania, offering a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. This broad park will provide lush greenery, vivid gardens, and various amenities, making families, outdoor lovers, and enthusiasts of nature throng this park. Its picture-perfect landscape and multiple activities are at hand, and Cedar Beach Park is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location:
Cedar Beach Park is at 2600 N. 5th Street, Allentown, PA 18104. It is convenient for locals and visitors because it is easily reachable by automobile and public transportation.
Key Attractions:
- Lakes and Ponds: The park features scenic lakes and ponds, providing a tranquil setting for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Playgrounds: Several playgrounds throughout the park cater to children of all ages and offer safe spaces for outdoor play.
- Tennis Courts: Cedar Beach Park includes well-maintained tennis courts, perfect for friendly matches and practicing your game.
Things to Do:
- Savor a Picnic: Bring a picnic basket and unwind on the verdant lawns or designated picnic spots while taking in the scenery.
- Enjoy a Walk or Bike Ride: Wander along the park’s bike and walking pathways, which meander through lovely gardens and landscapes.
- Participate in Sports: Play sports like basketball, tennis, or frisbee on the park’s open fields.
6. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom – Amusement Park
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a world-class amusement and water park in Allentown, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1884 but grew into a family-friendly venue with entertainment worth visiting. It provides some of the most thrilling rides, water attractions, and varied forms of entertainment. Whether a visit is for the adrenaline rush of one of the roller coasters or to relax through water slides, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom offers enjoyment and thrills for visitors of all ages.
Location:
Dorney Park is at 3830 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, PA 18104. It is easily accessible by major highways and close to other local attractions.
Key Attractions:
- Thrilling Roller Coasters: Feel the adrenaline rush on iconic roller coasters like Steel Force, the East Coast’s tallest, and the uniquely thrilling Hydra: The Revenge.
- Wildwater Kingdom: The water park area offers many opportunities for splashing around with its water slides, wave pool, and lazy river.
- Family-Friendly Rides: Dorney Park offers a variety of attractions suitable for younger guests, including carousel rides, kiddie coasters, and interactive play areas.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy Live Entertainment: Throughout the season, Dorney Park hosts live shows and performances, ranging from musical acts to character meet-and-greets.
- Taste Delicious Treats: Indulge in classic amusement park food, including funnel cakes, cotton candy, and various dining options scattered throughout the park.
- Plan a Fun Day: Explore the park’s many attractions, from heart-pounding rides to relaxing water activities.
Culinary Delights
Allentown boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. Here are some culinary delights you can explore in the city:
- Lebanon Bologna Sandwich: A local favorite, this sandwich features slices of Lebanon bologna, a type of semi-dry, smoked sausage, often paired with mustard and served on a fresh roll. It’s a must-try for those looking to experience regional flavors.
- Cheese Steaks: Allentown boasts delicious cheese steaks made with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese, typically served on a hoagie roll. Local spots often put their unique twist on this classic, adding toppings like grilled onions and peppers.
- Schnitzel: Experience German cuisine with schnitzel, a breaded and fried cutlet, typically made from pork or veal. It’s often served with sides like sauerkraut or potato salad and is a hearty meal that reflects the area’s German heritage.
- Pretzels: Soft pretzels are a beloved snack in Allentown, often enjoyed with mustard or cheese dip. Look for local bakeries or stands offering freshly baked pretzels for an authentic taste.
- Potato Knishes: A popular snack or side dish in the area, potato knishes are pastry pockets filled with seasoned mashed potatoes. These savory treats are available in delis and bakeries throughout the city.
- Diner Breakfasts: Allentown’s diners are known for their hearty breakfast options, including pancakes, omelets, and home fries. A classic American diner experience, these breakfasts are perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring.
- Craft Beer: While not a dish, the craft beer scene in Allentown is thriving, with local breweries offering unique brews that pair perfectly with the region’s cuisine. Enjoy sampling a variety of styles, from IPAs to stouts, at one of the many craft breweries in the city.
Events and Festivals
Allentown hosts various events and festivals annually, celebrating its culture, arts, and community spirit. Here are some notable events and festivals in Allentown:
- Allentown Fair: This annual fair, held in late summer, features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and delicious food vendors. It’s a beloved tradition that draws locals and visitors alike.
- Lights in the Parkway: A holiday event transforming Lehigh Parkway into a winter wonderland with spectacular light displays. Families can drive through the park to enjoy the festive decorations, making it a perfect holiday outing.
- Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival: This event celebrates Celtic culture with live music, dance performances, traditional foods, and athletic competitions, including caber tossing and stone-throwing. It takes place in September and is a highlight of the fall season.
- Allentown ArtsFest: This festival celebrates the arts, featuring local artists, live performances, and interactive art activities. It typically includes a marketplace for artists to showcase and sell their work, making it an excellent event for art lovers.
- Dancing on the Plaza: A summer concert series at the Allentown Arts Park featuring local bands and musicians. The event encourages community engagement through music and dance, creating a lively atmosphere.
- Puerto Rican Day Parade: Celebrating the rich Puerto Rican culture in the Lehigh Valley, this parade showcases traditional music, dance, and cuisine, along with colorful floats and community participation.
- Allentown’s Restaurant Week: A culinary celebration where local restaurants offer special menus and discounted meals, allowing food lovers to explore the diverse dining options in the city.
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