Learn About Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown Overview
City History:
Allentown is a city located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1762 by William Allen, a wealthy shipping merchant and former mayor of Philadelphia. The city's early economy was based on iron production and agriculture, but it later became known for its manufacturing industry, particularly in the production of silk and textiles. Allentown played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution and was once known as the "Silk City" due to its large number of silk mills.
Interesting Facts:
- Allentown is the third largest city in Pennsylvania, after Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
- The city is home to the Lehigh Valley Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the state.
- Allentown has a strong German heritage, which is reflected in the city's annual Oktoberfest celebration.
- The city was featured in the Billy Joel song "Allentown," which tells the story of the decline of the city's manufacturing industry.
Interesting People:
- Amanda Seyfried, the actress known for her roles in "Mean Girls" and "Mamma Mia," was born in Allentown.
- Christine Taylor, the actress and wife of Ben Stiller, is also a native of Allentown.
- Dorney Park, a popular amusement park in Allentown, was founded by Solomon Dorney, a businessman and philanthropist.
Top Attractions in Allentown:
- Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom: A popular amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.
- Allentown Art Museum: A museum featuring a collection of American art, European paintings, and decorative arts.
- America on Wheels Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of transportation in America, with exhibits on cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
Top Attractions Nearby:
- Lehigh Valley Zoo: A zoo located just outside of Allentown, featuring a variety of animals from around the world.
- Lehigh Valley Wine Trail: A collection of nine wineries in the Lehigh Valley region, offering tastings and tours.
- Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum: A museum in nearby Allentown that showcases the history of the Lehigh Valley region.
Population History:
- In 2020, the population of Allentown was estimated to be around 121,433 people.
- The city has a diverse population, with a mix of Caucasian, Hispanic, African American, and Asian residents.
Geography:
- Allentown is located in the Lehigh Valley region of eastern Pennsylvania, along the Lehigh River.
- The city is surrounded by mountains, including South Mountain and Blue Mountain, which offer scenic hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Economy:
- Allentown's economy is diverse, with industries including healthcare, manufacturing, education, and tourism.
- The city is home to several major companies, including Air Products & Chemicals, PPL Corporation, and Olympus Corporation.
Culture:
- Allentown has a rich cultural scene, with theaters, art galleries, and music venues throughout the city.
- The city hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Great Allentown Fair and Mayfair Festival of the Arts.
Notable Landmarks:
- PPL Center: A multi-purpose arena in downtown Allentown, home to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms hockey team.
- Allentown Symphony Hall: A historic concert hall that hosts performances by the Allentown Symphony Orchestra and other musical acts.
- The Liberty Bell Museum: A museum located in Allentown that houses a replica of the Liberty Bell and tells the story of its journey during the American Revolution.