Allentown, Pennsylvania
3-Day Itinerary for Allentown, Pennsylvania
Day 1: Explore the Allentown Art Scene
Morning – Allentown Art Museum
Start your day with a visit to Allentown Art Museum. This museum boasts a collection of over 19,000 works of art, including European and American paintings, prints, photographs, and textiles. Be sure to explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Library, the American textile collection, and the Renaissance and Baroque paintings.
Lunch – The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar
Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar, a chic, rustic-industrial eatery offering an inventive American menu, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. Try their signature Hamilton Burger or a refreshing Caesar salad.
Afternoon – Banana Factory Arts Center
After lunch, head to the Banana Factory Arts Center. This dynamic cultural center offers six galleries, 30 studio artists, three classrooms, and a rotating exhibition schedule. Here, you’ll find everything from photography and ceramic art to jewelry and glassworks. Interactive workshops are also available if you want to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece.
Dinner – Billy’s Downtown Diner
End your day with comfort food at Billy’s Downtown Diner. This family-owned restaurant is known for its extensive menu and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss out on their famous “Crazy Shakes” or the award-winning gourmet burgers.
Day 2: Embrace Your Inner Child
Morning – The Crayola Experience
Start your day with a burst of color at The Crayola Experience. This isn’t just for kids—it’s a place where everyone can unleash their creativity. There are more than 25 hands-on activities, including molding your own Crayola crayon, creating digital art, and even starring in your own coloring page.
Lunch – Sagra Bistro
Take a lunch break at Sagra Bistro. This charming restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with comfort food classics. Try their homemade meatloaf or the lobster mac ‘n cheese.
Afternoon – Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Spend your afternoon at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. This amusement park boasts roller coasters, a variety of children’s rides, and one of the largest water parks in the region. The park also hosts live entertainment and various seasonal events.
Dinner – Grille 3501
End your day at Grille 3501, an upscale New American restaurant with an innovative menu and a sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere. Make sure to try their pan-seared scallops or the short rib ravioli.
Day 3: Learn About Allentown’s History
Morning – Liberty Bell Museum
Start your day at the Liberty Bell Museum where you can learn about Allentown’s role in the Revolutionary War. You can see a replica of the Liberty Bell and hear about its history, including its secret stay in Allentown during the British occupation of Philadelphia.
Lunch – Bay Leaf Restaurant
For lunch, visit the Bay Leaf Restaurant, a long-standing Allentown institution known for its New American and Asian cuisine. Try their signature duck or the sesame crusted salmon.
Afternoon – America On Wheels Museum
Spend your afternoon exploring the America On Wheels Museum. This museum showcases the history of transportation, from classic cars and trucks to bicycles and motorcycles. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits and the museum’s collection of rare and antique vehicles.
Dinner – Union and Finch
End your adventurous weekend with a memorable meal at Union and Finch, a modern American style bistro that serves up comfort food with an updated twist. Be sure to try their chicken and waffles or the hanger steak.
That’s a wrap for your three-day weekend in Allentown, Pennsylvania. With its rich history, burgeoning art scene, and family-friendly attractions, Allentown truly has something for everyone. Happy traveling!