Allentown, Pennsylvania, boasts a rich architectural heritage that spans several centuries.
From historic homes and churches to modern skyscrapers, the city’s buildings reflect its diverse history and cultural evolution.
What are the most impressive architectural landmarks in Allentown that you must see?
In this article, we explore the 10 best architectural buildings in Allentown.
These structures showcase a range of styles and eras, each contributing to the city’s unique character and story.
1. PPL Center
The PPL Center is in the heart of Allentown, Pennsylvania.
This eight-story urban office building was designed and built in just 18 months on a suburban real-estate budget.
It is the first new downtown office development in over 25 years.
It represents a significant commitment to the city by its tenant, PPL Corporation, a regional energy company.
The building is known for its environmentally sustainable design and has achieved LEED™ Gold certification.
It stands as a symbol of the ongoing revitalization efforts in downtown Allentown.
2. Allentown Art Museum
The Allentown Art Museum of the Lehigh Valley is a key cultural spot in Allentown.
Founded in 1934, it features works by local Impressionists and other artists.
The museum is located at 31 N 5th St, Allentown, PA.
Admission is free, and parking is available at their Linden Street lot.
Renovated by a Philadelphia-based firm, the building now includes new classroom spaces and improved facilities.
3. Miller Symphony Hall
Miller Symphony Hall, located in downtown Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a key destination for arts and culture.
It hosts events such as symphony orchestra concerts, jazz performances, and theatre productions.
The hall was originally built as a theatre in 1899 and later became the home of the Allentown Symphony Orchestra in 1953.
The stone façade, added in 1920, gives the building a distinct architectural presence.
Miller Symphony Hall continues to be a vibrant part of Allentown’s cultural scene. For more information, visit Miller Symphony Hall’s official website.
4. Liberty Bell Museum
The Liberty Bell Museum in Allentown offers a glimpse into history with its display of a full-size replica of the Liberty Bell.
Visitors learn about the bell’s journey, including the time it was hidden under the floor of Zion’s Reformed Church to protect it from the British during the Revolutionary War.
The museum also features artifacts and letters from the Revolutionary War, providing a deeper understanding of that period.
For those interested in local history and patriotic heritage, this museum is a must-visit spot in Allentown.
Learn more about the Liberty Bell Museum here.
5. America On Wheels Museum
America On Wheels Museum is a unique destination in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
It is dedicated to over-the-road transportation and offers a captivating experience for visitors.
The museum occupies a 43,000 square feet space, featuring 23,000 square feet of exhibit area.
Exhibits are spread across three main galleries, with several smaller displays and rotating exhibits on the second floor.
The HubCap Cafe and vehicle art gallery are also located on the second floor. Explore more about the America On Wheels Museum.
6. Haines Mill Museum
Haines Mill Museum stands as a historic grist mill in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Built around 1840, this four-story stone building has a distinctive slate-covered gambrel roof.
Visitors can explore the mill and see a water turbine and rolling equipment that operate just as they did in the past.
The water power is supplied from a mill race, offering an authentic glimpse into history.
Located in South Whitehall Township, it is part of Lehigh County’s park system and offers an educational experience about milling and local history. Learn more about Haines Mill Museum here.
7. The Liberty Bell Shrine
The Liberty Bell Shrine, located in Zion’s Reformed Church, is an important historical site in Allentown.
It commemorates the hiding place of the Liberty Bell during the Revolutionary War.
The bell was hidden here to protect it from the British.
Visitors can explore exhibits about the Liberty Bell and the history of that period. These include artifacts, relics, and letters from soldiers.
The museum closed in 2023, but its story remains significant for Allentown’s heritage.
8. Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum
The Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum is a modern building located in Allentown, PA.
It houses vast collections of artifacts and archival materials.
It is situated in a public park, providing easy access for visitors.
The museum focuses on the history of the Lehigh Valley region. Trout Hall, an historic stone structure, is nearby.
9. Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas
Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas is a two-screen cinema located in the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks.
They show independent, foreign, and arthouse films.
The cinema is known for its unique offerings, including late-night horror flicks.
Prices are reasonable with discounts for seniors and young adults.
Learn more about Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas here.
10. Da Vinci Science Center
The Da Vinci Science Center is a notable architectural gem in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Founded in 1992, this science museum is known for its mission to bring science to life.
The facility features modern design and state-of-the-art exhibit galleries.
Located in downtown Allentown, it has new photorealistic renderings that showcase its bold vision for the future.
Its unique exterior and captivating interior spaces make it a standout destination for visitors of all ages. To learn more, visit Da Vinci Science Center on Tripadvisor.
Historical Significance
Allentown’s architectural history reflects its development from a colonial settlement to an industrial powerhouse. Notable styles and architects have shaped its skyline over centuries.
Early Architectural Styles
Allentown’s buildings reflect a variety of architectural styles.
Early homes and public buildings from the 18th century showcased Georgian and Federal styles.
These structures often featured symmetrical facades, brick exteriors, and gabled roofs.
As the city grew in the 19th century, Greek Revival became popular. This style is visible in many public buildings with their grand columns and pediments.
The Victorian era brought Gothic Revival and Queen Anne styles, characterized by intricate woodwork, turrets, and steep gables.
In the early 20th century, the city saw the rise of Beaux-Arts and Art Deco designs.
Beaux-Arts buildings, such as the Pennsylvania Power and Light Building, exhibit grandeur with their ornate stonework and large columns.
Art Deco introduced sleek lines and geometric patterns, leaving a modernist imprint on Allentown’s cityscape.
Influential Architects
Several architects played critical roles in shaping Allentown’s architectural identity.
One notable figure is William H. Dechant, who designed the Pennsylvania Power and Light Building. His work is emblematic of the Art Deco style prevalent in the 1920s.
Philadelphia-based architect A.W. Leh also contributed with designs for multiple commercial and residential buildings.
His penchant for blending classical and modern styles set him apart during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Another key contributor was J. H. Leh, who focused on educational and municipal buildings. His designs helped define the public architectural aesthetic of Allentown.
Their collective efforts have left a lasting imprint on the city’s architectural landscape.
Architectural Diversity
Allentown’s architecture reflects a mix of styles, from historic residential buildings to modern commercial structures.
The following sections explore these aspects in detail.
Residential Architecture
Allentown’s residential architecture features a range of styles, particularly in its historic districts.
The Old Allentown, Old Fairgrounds, and West Park neighborhoods showcase Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival homes.
These areas often hold house tours, emphasizing community efforts to preserve and highlight their architectural heritage.
Old Allentown and the Old Fairgrounds are central city neighborhoods.
The Old Allentown Preservation Association organizes annual tours in September, focusing on Victorian homes with detailed woodwork and stained glass windows.
In West Park, larger homes exemplify more expansive architectural designs and are also a part of neighborhood tours.
Commercial Architecture
Allentown’s commercial architecture has evolved significantly, blending historical buildings with contemporary designs.
The city’s downtown area displays early 20th-century commercial buildings that have been repurposed for modern use.
For example, historic structures host offices, retail spaces, and restaurants, seamlessly integrating past and present functionalities.
Architectural firms like MKSD Architects focus on diverse sectors, including educational, municipal, and healthcare buildings.
These designs reflect modern architectural practices while maintaining the city’s historical essence.
Notable projects often incorporate materials that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring functionality and longevity.
Preservation and Conservation
Preservation efforts in Allentown focus on restoring historic buildings and offering architectural tours to educate the public about the city’s rich architectural heritage. These initiatives are crucial to maintaining Allentown’s unique character.
Restoration Efforts
Restoring historic buildings is a key aspect of preservation in Allentown.
The city has three historic districts: Old Allentown, the Old Fairgrounds, and West Park.
Efforts in these areas seek to maintain the original architectural features and charm.
The Allentown Preservation League plays a significant role in these projects.
They aim to promote equitable and accessible preservation, focusing on the city’s architectural assets and ensuring sustainable development.
Their work includes guidelines for property owners and contractors to follow best practices in preservation.
Architectural Tours
Architectural tours in Allentown help increase public awareness and appreciation of its historic buildings. These tours are especially prominent in the Old Allentown and Old Fairgrounds neighborhoods.
Organized by the Old Allentown Preservation Association, these tours offer a chance to see beautifully restored homes and learn about their history.
The West Park neighborhood also offers its own tours, showcasing larger homes and different architectural styles. These tours highlight the importance of conservation and the city’s efforts to keep its historic districts vibrant and well-maintained for future generations.