Best hotels in Allentown
Springhill Suites by Marriott Allentown
3800 West Drive, Center Valley, PA, 18034
To the south of Allentown, just off I-78 and Route 309, Marriott’s Springhill Suites are conveniently located both for the city and Bethlehem, and close to Lehigh University. Rooms are spacious, with dedicated workstations, modern bathrooms and kitchenettes. There’s an indoor pool and a fitness center open around the clock.
Renaissance Allentown Hotel
12 North 7th Street, Allentown, PA, 18101
In the heart of downtown, the Renaissance occupies a charming, historic building and is only moments from Allentown Art Museum, Miller Symphony Hall and numerous great places to eat. Cozy rooms have smart TVs and 24-hour room service, while the hotel is brilliantly equipped for business travelers with huge amounts of event space.
Historic Hotel Bethlehem
437 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA, 18018
Only a few minutes from Allentown, the Historic Hotel Bethlehem is a nationally famous retreat open since the 18th century. It’s comfortable and well appointed, but also has plenty of stories to tell, including those of its friendly ghosts. Book well in advance to reserve room 932, also known as the ‘Room with a Boo’ for the many reputed paranormal events that have taken place within its walls.
Where to eat in Allentown
Grille 3501
3501 Broadway, Allentown, PA, 18104
Atmospheric and friendly, Grille 3501 is known for its happy hours, but also its inventive fusion food. Start with crab and mango spring rolls accompanied by coconut curry remoulade, then indulge in the boneless beef short ribs with parmesan risotto and pomegranate jus.
Henry’s Salt of the Sea
1926 Allen Street, Allentown, PA, 18104
Gallic-inspired seafood is the theme at Henry’s, which bills itself as ‘where the owner wears an apron, not a tie’. Signature dishes include broiled sea scallops with a light lemon butter, as well as rich veal and crabmeat princess. The early evening special served 4.30-5.30 Monday to Thursday is a bit of a steal.
The Bookstore Speakeasy
336 Adams Street, Bethlehem, PA, 18015
This great spot in neighboring Bethlehem perfectly catches the Prohibition vibe. The authentic 1920’s atmosphere is ideal for the menu of live jazz music you can catch several nights a week. Tempting small plates such as black truffle fries and steak tips with gorgonzola are a perfect light bite.
What to do in Allentown
Allentown Art Museum
31 N 5th Street, Allentown, PA, 18101
Opened in 1934 by local impressionist painter Walter Emerson Baum, the Allentown Art Museum has grown from housing an initial 70 paintings to over 19,000 works of art today. Browse an eclectic collection that takes in textiles, pop art from Keith Haring and a Rembrandt from 1632.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
4000 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, PA, 18104
There’s fun for all ages here, with thrilling white-knuckle coasters and a huge splash park perfect for summer fun. While there are plenty of modern rides to be enjoyed, one of the park’s big draws is Thunderhawk, a classic wooden coaster that opened in 1923.
America on Wheels
5 N Front Street, Allentown, PA, 18102
Built as part of a project to revitalize a former industrial era, this fascinating museum charts the love affair with automobiles dating back to the 19th century. The key exhibit is an 1889 gas-powered carriage, but there are plenty of unusual vehicles, in addition to a child-friendly educational center all about restoration.