5-day guide to Allentown for a budget traveler

5-day guide to Allentown for a budget traveler, including recommendations for where to stay, restaurants to try, and activities to enjoy:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Accommodation

Check into a budget-friendly hotel like the Red Roof Inn Allentown Airport or the Days Hotel by Wyndham Allentown Airport/Lehigh Valley.

Lunch

Grab a quick and affordable bite at Queen City BBQ known for their tasty barbecue sandwiches.

Afternoon

Explore downtown Allentown. Visit the Allentown Art Museum (free admission on Sundays) to appreciate a diverse collection of artworks.

Dinner

Enjoy a casual meal at Yocco's Hot Dogs, a local institution known for its classic hot dogs.

Evening

Take a stroll through Cedar Beach Park and relax by the water.

Day 2: Historic and Cultural Experience

Breakfast

Start your day with a budget-friendly breakfast at Billy's Downtown Diner.

Morning

Visit the Liberty Bell Museum to learn about the role Allentown played in hiding the Liberty Bell during the Revolutionary War.

Lunch

Head to Allentown Farmers Market for a variety of affordable food options.

Afternoon

Explore the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, offering insights into the region's history.

Dinner

Grab a slice or two at Russo's Fruit & Vegetable Farm, where you can find delicious and affordable pizzas.

Evening

Attend a local event or performance at Miller Symphony Hall, often featuring free or low-cost shows.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure

Breakfast

Enjoy a budget-friendly breakfast at Pineville Tavern.

Morning

Spend the day at Lehigh Parkway, a beautiful park with walking trails, picnic spots, and the Lil-Le-Hi Trout Nursery.

Lunch

Pack a picnic from a local grocery store or bakery.

Afternoon

Visit Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Look for discounts on tickets or special offers to make the visit more budget-friendly.

Dinner

Head to Tacos Y Tequila for affordable Mexican cuisine.

Evening

Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife options.

Day 4: Exploring Nature and Arts

Breakfast

Grab a quick and affordable breakfast at Wally's Deli.

Morning

Visit South Mountain Park for hiking and scenic views of the city.

Lunch

Try Café Vida for soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Allentown Rose Gardens and enjoy the beauty of the blooming roses.

Dinner

Have a budget-friendly dinner at Bravo Pizza, offering a variety of Italian dishes.

Evening

Attend a performance or movie screening at Civic Theatre of Allentown.

Day 5: Local Flavors and Departure

Breakfast

Enjoy a final budget-friendly breakfast at Tony's Top Cat Bar & Grill.

Morning

Visit the America on Wheels Museum to explore the history of transportation in the United States.

Lunch

Try Jimmy's Hot Dogs for a variety of hot dog options.

Afternoon

Explore Jordan Creek Greenway, a peaceful place for a leisurely walk.

Dinner

Indulge in affordable comfort food at Hometown Diner.

Evening

Pack your bags and depart, or if time allows, take a final stroll around downtown to soak in the atmosphere.

Remember to check the opening hours and any potential admission fees for the attractions you plan to visit. Also, keep an eye out for special deals, discounts, or free events happening during your visit to make the most of your budget-friendly trip to Allentown.

Pop Culture Connections

Allentown is not only a city in Pennsylvania but also the title of a famous song by Billy Joel released in 1982. The song reflects on the decline of the steel industry in the United States and its impact on the working-class people of Allentown. The song became a significant hit and is closely associated with both the city and the broader theme of industrial and economic change in America.

Apart from the song Allentown by Billy Joel, there are a few other connections between Allentown and pop culture:

Movies and TV Shows

Allentown has been mentioned or featured in various movies and TV shows over the years. For example, scenes from the 2008 movie "The Wrestler," starring Mickey Rourke, were filmed in and around Allentown.

The Office

The American version of the TV show The Office features references to Allentown. The character Pam Beesly, played by Jenna Fischer, reveals that she attended the Pratt Institute in New York and that her favorite artist is Roy Lichtenstein, who was born in Allentown.

Literature

Allentown has been mentioned in various works of literature, often as a representation of a typical American city. It's not uncommon for authors to use real places like Allentown as settings in their stories.

Local Music Scene

Allentown has a local music scene that has contributed to pop culture in its own way. Local bands and musicians have occasionally gained recognition outside the city, contributing to the broader musical landscape.

Art and Literature Festivals

Allentown hosts various art and literature festivals that showcase local talent and creativity. These events contribute to the cultural fabric of the city and attract visitors interested in arts and culture.

Overall, while Allentown might not be as prominently featured in pop culture as some larger cities, it has still made its mark through various references in music, film, television, and other artistic endeavors.