📖 About Allentown

Allentown is the largest city in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley and the state's third-largest city. Once a major industrial center known for steel and manufacturing, it has undergone a remarkable urban renaissance that has made it a national model for downtown revitalization.

The Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ) has spurred over one billion dollars in redevelopment activity, transforming downtown with entertainment, commercial, retail, residential, and hospitality projects. In 2025, the $6.5 million Center Square redesign began, creating a plaza-type space for public events.

New cultural attractions and the first-ever Fiesta on Hamilton—a celebration of Latin culture launched in March 2025—reflect Allentown's diverse community. The city offers a compelling blend of industrial heritage, architectural treasures, and modern urban renewal.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Allentown's economy has diversified from its industrial roots to include healthcare, education, finance, and technology sectors. The NIZ tax incentive program attracted major employers downtown. The city serves as a commercial hub for the Lehigh Valley region, home to over 850,000 people.

Culturally, Allentown celebrates its Pennsylvania Dutch heritage while embracing its growing Latino community. The Great Allentown Fair, dating to 1852, runs annually from late August to early September. The city hosts America's oldest civilian concert band and the annual Celtic Fest and Christkindlmarkt. This blend of traditions old and new defines Allentown's character.

📜 History

Allentown was founded in 1762 by William Allen, Chief Justice of Pennsylvania. During the American Revolution, the Liberty Bell was hidden in Allentown's Zion Reformed Church to protect it from British forces. The city grew as an iron and steel manufacturing center in the 19th century.

The 20th century brought industrial decline, famously captured in Billy Joel's 1982 song "Allentown." However, the 2009 creation of the Neighborhood Improvement Zone sparked dramatic revival. Today, Allentown is recognized as one of six national success stories by the Urban Land Institute, demonstrating how former Rust Belt cities can reinvent themselves for the 21st century.