Allentown, PA Highlights and Guide to LGBTQ+ Resources

Nestled in Pennsylvania's picturesque Lehigh Valley, Allentown is a city that combines rich history, cultural attractions, and modern charm. Known for its revitalized downtown and scenic parks, it offers a mix of outdoor adventure, arts, and entertainment that attracts residents and visitors alike. Here are some of the top highlights to explore in Allentown.

Historic Downtown and ArtsWalk

Allentown's downtown has undergone a significant transformation over recent years, turning into a bustling hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. At the center of it all is the ArtsWalk, a cultural corridor connecting art galleries, performance venues, and public installations. The Allentown Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of American and European art, is a must-visit for art lovers. The Baum School of Art, located nearby, provides workshops and exhibitions that promote local artists.

The PPL Center

Sports enthusiasts and concert-goers will find plenty to love at the PPL Center, an arena located in the heart of downtown Allentown. This multi-purpose venue hosts a variety of events, including hockey games for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, a minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers, as well as big-name concerts and family shows. The PPL Center's central location also means plenty of dining options are just a short walk away.

Allentown's Parks and Outdoor Spaces

The city is known for its extensive park system, which offers scenic spots to relax and enjoy nature. One of the crown jewels is the 459-acre Lehigh Parkway, featuring trails for walking, jogging, and biking along the Little Lehigh Creek. Its iconic stone bridges and covered picnic areas provide a perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. Meanwhile, Trexler Memorial Park offers a serene environment with a large pond, open fields, and wooded areas for bird watching and quiet contemplation.

For history buffs, Cedar Creek Park is home to the Liberty Bell Museum, which showcases the story of how the iconic bell was hidden in Allentown during the American Revolution.

The Liberty Bell Museum

Located inside Zion's United Church of Christ, the Liberty Bell Museum celebrates a fascinating piece of American history: the hiding of the Liberty Bell during the Revolutionary War. When the British threatened to capture Philadelphia in 1777, the bell was secretly transported and hidden in Allentown to keep it safe from being melted down for ammunition. The museum not only tells this story but also features a replica of the bell, historical exhibits, and a collection of colonial-era artifacts.

Da Vinci Science Center

Ideal for families and curious minds, the Da Vinci Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that make science fun for all ages. With a focus on engaging young minds, the center explores themes like physics, biology, and robotics through engaging experiences. It’s a fantastic destination for a day of educational exploration, and the center frequently updates its exhibits to reflect new scientific discoveries and innovations.

Muhlenberg College and Local Theaters

Allentown is also home to Muhlenberg College, known for its strong theater program and cultural events. The college’s theater department hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including musicals, plays, and dance shows. Additionally, community theaters such as the Civic Theatre of Allentown offer local productions, independent films, and classic movie screenings, making the city a vibrant hub for the performing arts.

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom

For thrill-seekers, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is an adventure-filled amusement park located just outside the city. The park features roller coasters, water slides, and attractions suitable for all ages, making it a popular destination for families. The Steel Force roller coaster, one of the longest steel coasters on the East Coast, and the White Water Landing water ride are standout experiences for visitors seeking an adrenaline rush.

The Allentown Farmers Market

Located in the historic Allentown Fairgrounds, the Allentown Farmers Market has been a city staple since 1955. It offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and artisan products. The market provides a taste of local culture, featuring Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, international foods, and handcrafted items from local vendors. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy a casual lunch or stock up on ingredients for a home-cooked meal.

The Great Allentown Fair

Held annually at the Allentown Fairgrounds, the Great Allentown Fair is one of the oldest fairs in the United States, with a history dating back to 1852. This multi-day event offers a blend of traditional agricultural displays, live music, thrilling carnival rides, and food vendors. It’s an opportunity to experience the region’s agricultural heritage, while also enjoying modern entertainment, such as performances by well-known musical acts.

Lehigh Valley's Breweries and Wineries

The craft beverage scene in and around Allentown is thriving, with several breweries and wineries offering locally produced drinks. Places like HiJinx Brewing Company and Fegley's Brew Works are popular spots for craft beer lovers, offering a range of styles from IPAs to stouts. For wine enthusiasts, nearby Vynecrest Vineyards & Winery and Franklin Hill Vineyards present delightful tasting experiences, featuring regional wines made from Pennsylvania-grown grapes.

Cultural Diversity and Community Events

Allentown's cultural diversity is reflected in its variety of community events and festivals. The city's Hispanic population is celebrated during events like Hispanic Heritage Month and the Puerto Rican Day Parade. These celebrations showcase traditional music, dance, and food, allowing residents and visitors to experience the city’s multicultural spirit. Additionally, events like Mayfair Festival of the Arts and Blues, Brews & Barbecue add to the vibrant calendar of cultural festivities.

Allentown, PA, and the surrounding Lehigh Valley area offer a variety of resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community, including organizations, events, and safe spaces.

Here are some key resources for LGBTQ+ individuals in Allentown:

Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center

• Located in downtown Allentown, the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center is the hub of LGBTQ+ resources in the region. It provides a range of services, including:Health programs, such as HIV testing and mental health support.Social and support groups for different identities, including youth, trans, and older adult groups.Cultural events like art exhibits, film screenings, and LGBTQ+ book clubs.Legal and advocacy support for LGBTQ+ rights.
• Address: 522 W Maple St, Allentown, PA 18101
• Website

Lehigh Valley LGBTQ+ Community Archive

• Housed at the Bradbury-Sullivan Center, this archive preserves and shares the history of the LGBTQ+ community in the Lehigh Valley. It includes oral histories, photographs, and other historical documents to honor the local LGBTQ+ movement and its impact.

Valley Youth House – Project Silk Lehigh Valley

• Project Silk is a youth-focused program that provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth of color and allies, ages 14-29. It offers social events, counseling, health services, and support for navigating housing and employment.
• Address: 1101 Hamilton St Suite 201, Allentown, PA 18101
• Website

Eastern Pennsylvania Trans Equity Project

• This organization serves transgender and non-binary individuals by providing assistance with name changes, legal documents, and access to trans-affirming healthcare. They also offer peer support and education for the wider community.
• Website

Pride Festivals and Events

• Lehigh Valley Pride, held annually in August, is the largest LGBTQ+ pride festival in the area. It includes live performances, vendors, food, and activities celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and rights.
• The Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center also organizes events throughout the year, including film screenings, educational workshops, and commemorations of significant dates like Transgender Day of Remembrance and National Coming Out Day.

Healthcare Services

• Allentown Comprehensive Treatment Center and other local providers offer LGBTQ+-inclusive healthcare services, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and mental health services.
• St. Luke's University Health Network has several locations in the Lehigh Valley and provides LGBTQ+-affirming medical services, including primary care, behavioral health, and gender-affirming care.

PFLAG Lehigh Valley

• PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) is a national organization with a chapter in the Lehigh Valley. It offers support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.
• Meetings are held monthly and provide a safe space for discussing LGBTQ+ issues and experiences.
• Website

The Attic Youth Center (Philadelphia-based, with programs in the region)

• While based in Philadelphia, The Attic Youth Center has outreach programs in Allentown and offers resources for LGBTQ+ youth. Services include educational programs, support groups, and connections to local resources.

Social and Recreational Groups

• Various social groups meet throughout the year, providing opportunities to connect with the LGBTQ+ community in Allentown. These include LGBTQ+ sports leagues, book clubs, and meetup groups for specific identities (e.g., trans men, queer women).
• Look for local meetups through platforms like Meetup.com or Facebook groups to find events and activities.

Support for LGBTQ+ Students

• Many local high schools and colleges, including Muhlenberg College and Lehigh University, have active LGBTQ+ student organizations that provide peer support, advocacy, and events. These groups work to ensure that campuses are safe and inclusive for all students.

Allentown’s LGBTQ+ community has access to a range of supportive resources and welcoming spaces that foster a sense of belonging and advocacy. Whether you’re seeking healthcare, social connections, or cultural activities, these resources provide essential support to the LGBTQ+ community in the city.

Allentown, PA, is a city where history meets modernity, and nature blends seamlessly with culture. With an array of outdoor spaces, cultural attractions, and community events, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the day or considering a longer stay, the city’s charm and variety of activities are sure to leave a lasting impression.