List of historic places in Allentown, Pennsylvania facts for kids

Trout Hall, built in 1770 by James Allen, son of Allentown's founder, is the city's oldest house.

Allentown, Pennsylvania, founded in 1762, is the third-largest city in Pennsylvania. It's the biggest city in the Lehigh Valley area of eastern Pennsylvania. Allentown is one of America's oldest major cities. It has a rich history! During the American Revolutionary War, the famous Liberty Bell was hidden here for nine months. The city's oldest cemetery holds graves of American patriots who fought in the Continental Army. Soldiers from the Union Army and later wars are also buried there.

Allentown has many cool places to visit and learn about. Here are some of the most important ones:

Historic Places in Allentown
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Historic Places in Allentown

Buildings and Bridges with History

Albertus L. Meyers Bridge (1913)

This huge concrete bridge opened in 1913. It was once the longest and highest concrete arch bridge in the world! People used to pay a toll to cross it until the 1950s. It's often called the 8th Street Bridge. Its current name honors Albertus ("Bert") L. Meyers, a famous band director.

Allentown Masonic Temple (1925)

This historic building was built between 1923 and 1925. It has a fancy Neoclassical style. Look for its detailed stone and terra cotta decorations. It also has four large, impressive columns at the main entrance.

Allentown National Bank (1905)

This historic bank building was built in 1905. It's a tall, eight-story building with a grand Beaux-Arts style. It was Allentown's very first bank, started in 1855. Today, this old bank building has been turned into apartments for senior citizens.

Americus Hotel (1926)

This classic 1920s hotel was built by Allentown business people. They wanted a top-notch hotel in the city center. It was known for its excellent service and modern features. The hotel's restaurant was famous for its world-class buffet.

Bogert Covered Bridge (1841)

This historic wooden covered bridge is south of Allentown. It was built in 1841 and is 145 feet long. It has wooden sides and a classic gable roof. The Allentown Parks Department has restored this beautiful bridge.

Dime Savings and Trust Company (1925)

This historic bank building was built in 1925. It's a five-story red brick building. The bottom part is covered in limestone. The top levels show an Art Deco style. The building is now part of the PPL Center project. It serves as the lobby for the Marriott Renaissance Hotel.

Dorneyville Crossroad Settlement (1756)

This site includes the King George Inn, built around 1756. It was a tavern and a community center. Travelers going to Easton, Reading, and Philadelphia would stay here. During the American Revolutionary War, George Washington's troops camped behind the building. Officers likely stayed inside the inn.

Gauff-Roth House (1880)

This historical Victorian architecture home was built in 1880. It features a wrap-around porch and a unique polygonal tower. The house has been fully updated in the 1990s.

Haines Mill (1760)

Haines Mill is an old grist mill from colonial times. It shows Allentown's farming past. The mill uses water power to grind grains into flour. The original mill was built around 1760. It was rebuilt in 1909 after a fire. Today, it's a museum run by the Lehigh County Historical Society.

High German Evangelical Reformed Church (1762)

This is Allentown's oldest church. In 1777, during the Revolutionary War, the Liberty Bell was hidden here! This kept the British from melting it down for weapons. The church was made bigger in 1838 and again from 1886 to 1888. It has a Gothic Revival style. The Liberty Bell Museum was located here, but its items have moved to the Lehigh County Historical Society.

Hotel Sterling (1890)

This Victorian era hotel was built in 1890. It has a Romanesque Revival style. It was near two train stations, serving travelers and factory workers. Today, the hotel is a nightclub with live music and a dance floor.

Lehigh Canal: Allentown to Hopeville section (1829)

The Lehigh Canal opened in 1829. It helped change Allentown from a farming area to an industrial one. It was used to bring coal from Jim Thorpe to Easton. From Easton, coal went south to Philadelphia. When railroads came in the 1850s, the canal became less important.

Lehigh County Prison (1869)

This prison was built in 1867. It had 40 cells, each for one person. The walls were 45 feet high. It was very modern for its time. Over the years, additions were built, but the prison became too crowded. A new prison opened in 1992.

Neuweiler Brewery (1911)

This historic brewery complex was built between 1911 and 1913. It includes many buildings like the brew house and bottling house. The brew house is six stories tall with a copper roof. The brewery closed in 1968. There are plans to fix up the property.

Old Lehigh County Courthouse (1819)

This historic county courthouse was first built between 1814 and 1819. It was a stone building with a sloped roof. It was updated and made larger in 1864 in the Italianate style. More additions were built in 1880 and 1914.

Trout Hall (1768)

This is the oldest home in Allentown, built between 1768 and 1770. It's a stone house in the Georgian architecture style. William Allen, who founded Allentown, built it as a summer home for his son, James Allen. Today, it holds the library and museum of the Lehigh County Historical Society.

Zollinger-Harned Company Building (1926)

This classic department store was built in 1925–1926. It has Classical Revival style details. It features decorative terra cotta panels. The store went out of business in 1978. The building is now used for offices.

Cool Landmarks and Places to Visit

Adams Island (1828)

This is an island on the Lehigh River. It was made when the Lehigh Canal was built in 1828. It used to be a summer resort. Today, it has small homes and boat docks. It is private property, owned by the Allentown Swimming and Boating Club.

Allen Infantry (First Defenders) Memorial (1925)

This American Civil War memorial is in West Park. It honors the Allen Infantry, a company from Allentown. They were called "First Defenders" because they were among the first to protect Washington, D.C., in 1861. The statue shows Ignatz Gresser, an Allentown hero who won the Medal of Honor.

Allentown Art Museum (1934)

This is a major art museum in the region. It was started in 1934 by painter Walter Emerson Baum. It has over 13,000 works of art. Its library also has many books and magazines about art.

Allentown Arts Park

This park is the start of the Allentown Arts Walk. It's across from the Allentown Art Museum. It has two huge bronze statues. They are called "Metallurgical Worker" and "Metallurgical Science." They celebrate steel workers and the steel industry.

Allentown City Hall (1962)

This building holds Allentown's government offices. You can find the Mayor's office, City Council, and other city departments here.

Allentown Cemetery Park (1765)

This cemetery was started by Allentown's founder, William Allen. The first person was buried here in 1765. Many Allentown men who fought in the American Revolution are buried here. There's a big memorial for them and veterans of the War of 1812.

Allentown Fairgrounds (1889)

This is home to the Great Allentown Fair, an annual fair and farm show. It's one of the oldest and largest fairs in Pennsylvania. It also has the Allentown Farmers Market.

Allentown Post Office (1934)

This post office was built in 1933-1934. It has an Art Deco design. Inside, there are murals from 1937-1938 by artist Gifford Beal. They show scenes from Allentown's history.

Allentown Public Library (1912)

This is the city's main library, open to everyone. It first opened in 1912. The current modern building opened in 1976. It has a large research room and computers for public use.

Allentown Rose Garden (1929)

This beautiful garden has many flowers and ponds. It's famous for its award-winning roses. The garden is very well-kept with trellises, statues, and a white gazebo. It's a popular spot for weddings.

Alliance Hall (1928)

This building was Allentown's first Jewish Community Center. It opened in 1928. It had a gym and swimming pool. Later, it became a community center for the African American community. Today, it's used by the Allentown Health Bureau and as a homeless shelter in winter.

America on Wheels (2008)

This is a museum about transportation. It has over 23,000 square feet of exhibits. You can see over 75 bicycles, motorcycles, cars, and trucks. They tell the story of how people and products have moved around.

Baum School of Art (1926)

This is a non-profit art school. It was started in 1926 by painter Walter Emerson Baum. Since 2002, it has a 12-foot tall replica of Leonardo's horse in its garden.

Philip and Muriel Berman Sculpture Park (1980)

This park features 35 permanent sculptures. It's located on 118 acres of scenic land at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest.

Earl F. Hunsicker Bicentennial Park (1976)

This park was built as a baseball field in 1976. It was home to the Allentown Patriots softball team. It also hosted the Allentown Ambassadors baseball team.

Breinig & Bachman Building (1894)

This building was once a men's clothing store. It has unique terra cotta animal heads on its fourth floor. The reason for these animal heads is a mystery! The building was rebuilt after a big fire in 1893.

Buchman House (1877)

This Victorian-era house was the home of Frank Buchman (1878–1961). He was the founder of the Moral Rearmament Movement. Today, it's a museum run by the Lehigh County Historical Society.

Butz-Groff House (1872)

This dark stone Victorian home was built by attorney Samuel A. Butz. It was once in Allentown's most fashionable neighborhood. Today, it houses a collection of antique car items. It is not open to the public.

Cathedral Church of Saint Catharine of Siena (1954)

This church is the main church for the Diocese of Allentown. It was built in a colonial style. It has a tall spire with a stainless steel cross. Inside, there are two large murals showing the life of St. Catherine of Sienna.

Cedar Crest College (1867)

This is a private women's college. It offers liberal arts education. It also allows male students in evening classes. The college has ties to the United Church of Christ.

Center Square (1762)

This is the main point of Allentown, planned by its founder, William Allen. It's the center of the city's business district. It has the Soldier's and Sailors monument, built in 1899. This monument honors American Civil War veterans.

Civic Theatre of Allentown (1928)

This is Allentown's oldest movie theater. It opened in 1928 for silent films. Today, it's a historic community center. It hosts theater, arts education, and films. It's a big part of the 19th Street Theater District.

Coca-Cola Park (2008)

This is an 8,200-seat baseball park. It's the home field for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. They are the Triple-A minor league team for the Philadelphia Phillies. The park can hold over 10,000 fans.

Da Vinci Science Center (1992)

This is a science museum that makes science fun! It opened its current location in 2005. In its lobby, you can see a three-foot replica of Leonardo's horse.

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (1884)

This is a large amusement and water park. It has eight roller coasters and many other rides. Wildwater Kingdom is its waterpark. It features famous roller coasters like Steel Force, one of the longest steel roller coasters in the world.

Farr Building (1906)

This is a large office and retail building. The Farr company used to make and sell shoes here. A historical plaque on the side says it was once a hospital for Continental Army soldiers.

Fairview Cemetery (1870)

This historic cemetery was designed in 1870. Many important Allentown families are buried here. This includes Harry Clay Trexler and the Mack family (of Mack Trucks). Volunteers now help maintain the property.

Hamilton Street Bridge (1959)

This bridge crosses the Lehigh River. The first bridge here was built in 1814. Floods destroyed earlier bridges. The current concrete bridge was built in 1959. It was updated in the 1980s.

Hotel Penn (1866)

The first hotel at this spot opened around 1810. It was popular with farmers and later factory workers. The city renovated the building in the 1980s. Today, it provides homes for senior citizens.

Hopps at The Paddock (1948)

This local restaurant is known for being the first and oldest pizza place in the area. It moved to its current spot in 1957. The restaurant was renamed Hopps after the Hoppy family bought it in 2011.

J. Birney Crum Stadium (1948)

This is a huge stadium with 15,000 seats. It's the largest high school football stadium in the Mid-Atlantic United States. Allentown's three high schools use it. It also hosts drum corps championships and a big July Fourth fireworks show.

Jewish Community Center (1958)

This center is a main gathering place for Allentown's Jewish community. It opened in 1958. It offers sports, daycare, social events, and other activities. Many non-Jewish people also use the facility.

John T. Gross Towers (1967)

This is a public housing building for senior citizens. It's named after a former Allentown mayor. It has 147 apartments and support services. It was badly damaged in a gas explosion in 1994 but was fully renovated.

Kline's Bridge (1902)

This steel bridge crosses Little Lehigh Creek. It was rebuilt in 1963. It was closed to cars in 2000 but reopened in 2008 for walkers and bikers.

Lehigh County Court House (1962)

This building is the main office for Lehigh County's government. It holds various courts and other county offices.

Lehigh County Historical Society (1904)

This group collects and shares the history of Lehigh County. Their library has 70,000 old photos and millions of historical documents.

Lehigh Parkway (1931)

This is a large public park along the Little Lehigh River. It's the city's most famous park. It has scenic trails for walking and riding horses. You can also find a shooting range and fishing spots.

Lehigh Parkway Fish Hatchery (1883)

This is the oldest trout nursery in the country that's still running. You can see different sized trout in pools. You can even buy food to feed them! The fish get excited when people are nearby.

Lehigh Portland Cement Company (Portland Place) (1902)

This was the headquarters of the Lehigh Portland Cement Company. It was remodeled in 1939–1940. Above the front door is a glass sculpture. It shows the strength and lasting power of cement.

Lehigh Valley Trust Company (1911)

This early 20th-century bank building has fancy columns. It closed in the 1990s. There are plans to use it again.

Livingston Apartments (1928)

This apartment building was built in 1928. It was called "the largest apartment structure in Eastern Pennsylvania outside of Philadelphia." It had beautiful marble and stained glass. It has been fully renovated and is now used as modern apartments.

Linden Street Bridge (1884)

This stone arch bridge crosses Jordan Creek. It was rebuilt in the 1950s. In 2005, it was reduced to one lane.

Mack Trucks Historical Museum (2010)

This museum keeps historical items from Mack Trucks. It has many old vehicles on display. It also has over 80,000 photos and records for almost every truck built since 1905.

Martin Art Gallery (2010)

This art museum is on the Muhlenberg College Campus.

Merchants Square Model Train Exhibit (2013)

This exhibit has over 1,000 model buildings. Some are handmade. More than 40 model trains run continuously on 18,000 feet of track!

Miller Symphony Hall (1896)

This is Allentown's main performing arts center. It's home to the Allentown Symphony Orchestra. It was built around 1896 as a market hall. It became a theater in 1899. It was once a famous burlesque hall. It has been fully renovated with millions of dollars in improvements.

Muhlenberg College (1848)

This is a private college founded in 1848. It's named after Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, an important figure in the Lutheran Church in America.

Museum of Indian Culture (1980)

This non-profit center teaches about the history of the Lenape and other Native American cultures.

Nostos Greek Restaurant (1948–2005, 2011–2013, 2014–present)

This restaurant has a long history. It started as Hooks Diner in 1947. It later became Saylor's Restaurant, known for Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. After several changes, it reopened as Nostos Greek Restaurant in 2016.

Overhill Road Bridge (1931)

This is a scenic concrete arch bridge over Little Lehigh Creek. It was rebuilt in 1984.

Parkettes National Gymnastics Training Center (1960)

This is a famous gymnastics school. It trains future Olympians! Over 100 members have joined U.S. national and Olympic teams. It offers many classes for all ages.

PPL Building (1928)

This is Allentown's tallest building, with 23 stories. It's the headquarters for PPL Corporation. This classic Art-Deco skyscraper was built between 1926 and 1928. In 2008, PPL made a nesting platform for peregrine falcons on its 23rd floor.

PPL Center (2014)

This is an indoor arena and civic center. It's home to the American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms hockey team. It also hosts concerts and other events. It can hold 10,000 people.

Pines Dinner Theater (2011)

This theater offers a full-course American meal along with live plays. It's located at the Allentown Fairgrounds.

Queen City Airport (1943)

This airport was built during World War II. It was used for testing planes. It was given to the city in 1947. Today, it's mainly used for general aviation.

Reading Road Bridge (1824)

This is a stone arch bridge over Cedar Creek. It connects Walnut Street and Reading Road. It was built in 1828 and restored in 1980.

Ritz Barbecue (1929)

This is a famous Allentown restaurant. It started as a small ice cream stand at the Allentown Fairgrounds in 1929. It became known for its barbecue sandwiches and homemade ice cream. A fire destroyed it in 1998, but it was rebuilt exactly the same way.

Saint Paul's Lutheran Church (1903)

This church's congregation started in 1794. The land was given by Margaret Allen Tilghman, daughter of Allentown's founder. Her remains are in a crypt under the church. The current church was built in 1903.

Salisbury Church Bridge (1870)

This is a scenic stone arch bridge over Little Lehigh River. It was rebuilt in 1963.

Samuel Adams Brewing Company (1971)

This brewery produces almost two-thirds of all Samuel Adams beer. It opened in 1972. The Boston Beer Company bought it in 2008.

Schreibers Bridge (1828)

This is a historic stone arch bridge over Little Lehigh Creek. It was rebuilt in 1920. It was repaired in 2011 after a truck hit it.

Shankweiler's Drive-In Theater (1934)

This drive-in theater is still open today! It's the oldest continuously operating drive-in in the United States. It opened in 1932, showing silent films. Sound was added in 1934.

Spanish–American War/Boxer Rebellion/Philippine–American War statue (1937)

This statue honors American soldiers who fought in the Spanish–American War, the Boxer Rebellion, and the Philippine–American War. Leonard Sefing Jr., an Allentown veteran, was the model for the statue.

Tilghman Street Viaduct (1929)

This bridge was built in 1928–1929 for US 22. It's the second bridge in Allentown to cross the Lehigh River. It connects the eastern and western parts of the city. It's a classic concrete arch bridge, almost 1,400 feet long.

Traylor Hotel (1917)

This historic hotel was built in 1917. Famous guests like ex-President William Howard Taft, Babe Ruth, and Joan Crawford stayed here. The hotel was renovated in the early 2000s.

Union and West End Cemetery (1854)

This cemetery was started in 1854. It's the final resting place for over 22,000 people. More than 700 American Civil War veterans are buried here. It also holds soldiers from the American Revolutionary War and other wars.

Waidlich Building (1926)

This building opened in 1926. The first floor was a pharmacy, then a dress store. Today, it's a retail store called The Archive. The upper floors were once a hotel, now low-income apartments for seniors.

Ward Street (15th Street) Bridge (1957)

This bridge is often called the 15th Street Bridge. It was the second city bridge across Little Lehigh River. It connects west-side Allentown to southwest Allentown. The original bridges were rebuilt between 2010 and 2013.

West End Hotel (1900)

This hotel was built in the early 1900s. It has 48 rooms, a bar, and a restaurant. The bar and restaurant are now called Jaber Jaws Bar and Grille.

West Park (1908)

This park was created in the early 1900s. General Harry Clay Trexler, a local businessman, helped fund it. It has a community bandshell where the Allentown Band performs. The park has beautiful trees, walks, and a large fountain.

William F. Curtis Arboretum (1915)

This arboretum is on the campus of Cedar Crest College. It has over 140 types of trees, shrubs, and flowering bushes.

YMCA & YWCA of Allentown (1963)

The Allentown YMCA started in 1856, and the YWCA in 1886. They joined together in this building in 1963. They offer many activities for kids and adults, like summer camps and after-school programs.

Yocco's Hot Dogs (1922)

This is a local restaurant chain famous for its hot dogs. It was founded by Theodore Iacocca, uncle of the famous Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca. They also serve hamburgers and cheesesteaks.

Zandy's Steak Shop (1936)

This is a family restaurant known for its cheese steaks, burgers, and malts. It opened in 1940 in a former movie theater. You can still see parts of the old theater inside!

Places That Are No Longer Here (Legacy Sites)

A-Treat Bottling Company (1918–2015)

This company made and bottled A-Treat soft drinks. It was a local favorite. The company closed in 2015. However, A-Treat products are now made by another company.

Acorn Hotel (1910–1995)

This early 20th-century hotel opened in 1910. It served farmers and auctioneers. Later, it served factory workers. It was renovated in the 1980s but closed around 1995. The building is still there, but its future is unknown.

Adelaide Silk Mill (1881–1964)

This mill became one of the biggest producers of silk in the U.S. By 1900, Allentown had many silk factories. After World War II, new man-made fibers like nylon replaced silk. The plant then made clothes for big stores. It closed in 1964 due to foreign competition. There are plans to turn the empty mill into apartments.

Aineyville Viaduct (1893–1953)

This was a bridge for the Lehigh Valley Transit's Liberty Bell trolley. It crossed Trout Creek. The bridge was taken down in 1954.

Allen Theater (1915–1992)

This was a classic local movie theater. It showed second-run films at lower prices. It operated for over 70 years. It was torn down in 2000 for a parking lot.

- Astor Theater (1931–49)

This theater was in East Allentown. It closed when television became popular. It's now the Astor Bingo Hall.

- Hamilton Theater (1915–1945)

This theater opened in 1915 for silent films. It was updated for sound in 1930. It closed in 1945 and is now a parking lot.

- Madison Theater (1919–1931)

This silent film theater closed when "talkies" (movies with sound) came out. The building is still standing.

Allentown Boiler Works (1883–1931)

This was a large factory that made sheet-iron and steel products. They produced boilers and other items used across the U.S. and other countries. They even provided equipment for the White House. The business closed during the Great Depression.

Allentown and Reading Traction Company (1902–1929)

This was an interurban trolley line. It ran 40 miles between Allentown and Reading. It started in 1902. The trip took 2 hours and 40 minutes. The service ended in Allentown in 1929.

Allentown Female College (1867–1964)

This was one of the first women's colleges in the U.S. It started in 1867. It later moved and changed its name to Cedar Crest College. The original building was torn down in 1964 and is now a parking lot.

Allentown Horse Exchange and Bazaar (1870–1925)

This was a large stable for horses and carriages. It was the biggest in Allentown. It closed in 1925. The site is now a parking lot.

Allentown Paint Company (1855–1995)

This company made paints since 1855. It moved to its last location in 1931. It closed in 1995. The building is still there and holds several companies.

Allentown Railroad Station (1890–1972)

This was a passenger train station for Allentown. Passenger service ended in the 1960s. The station became run-down. The Lehigh Valley station was torn down in 1972. The other station was restored into a restaurant, but it's now closed.

Allentown State Hospital (1912–2010)

This was a hospital for mental health. It served several counties. It closed in 2010 because fewer people needed psychiatric hospitals.

Allentown Trust Company (1905–1932)

This bank failed during the Great Depression. It closed in 1932. The building was later torn down in 2005. Today, it's part of the Three City Center office building.

American Steel and Wire Company (1885–1943)

This company made barbed wire. During World War I, it ran 24 hours a day to make wire for the war. It closed in 1943. Most of the buildings were torn down.

Apple Hill Ski Area (1962–1978)

This was a local ski area. It offered slopes for beginners and moderate skiers. It closed in 1978. The area is now abandoned and overgrown.

Arbogast & Bastian (1887–1985)

This company started as a smokehouse. It grew into a meat packing plant. It was once a national leader in processing hogs. It closed in 1985. The main plant was torn down. The old office is now part of the America On Wheels museum.

Boyd Theater (1928–1972)

This grand 1920s movie theater was once the "New Pergola." It had a stage for live shows and two balconies. It showed first-run films for decades. It was torn down in 1972 to expand the PPL headquarters.

Camp Crane (1917–1919)

This was a training camp during World War I. It was used by the United States Army Ambulance Service. They trained ambulance drivers to help wounded soldiers in France and Italy. It returned to fairgrounds use in 1919.

Capri Theater (1927–1981)

This theater had many names over the years, like Peoples Theater and Transit Theater. It showed first-run films. It closed in 1981. The building was renovated into an office building. The Capri Marquee sign is still there.

Center Square Comfort Stations (1919–1972)

These were public restrooms located underground in Center Square. They also had showers and a small store. They closed for good in 1972 as part of a downtown renovation. They might still exist below the street!

Central Park (1893–1951)

This was an amusement park in East Allentown. It opened in 1892. It had picnic areas, walking paths, and rides like a carousel. It closed in 1951 after several fires. The land was later redeveloped.

A. Jack Coffield Stadium (1929–1947)

This was the former high school football stadium for Allentown High School. It had 15,000 seats. It was replaced by the larger J. Birney Crum Stadium in 1948. The seats were moved to the new stadium.

Colonial Barbershop (1932–1998)

This was a classic American barber shop. It had Art Deco lights and a white tin ceiling. It was the barber shop of choice for Allentown politicians. It closed when the owner retired. The building is now being redeveloped.

Colonial Theater (1920–1988)

This was a grand theater in downtown Allentown. It had over 1,814 seats and two balconies. It hosted jazz shows and was the site of a national radio broadcast. It closed in 1988 and was torn down in 2005.

Drive-In Theaters

These were classic outdoor movie theaters. They usually showed two films a night.

- Airport Drive-In Theater (1955–1962)

This drive-in held about 800 cars. It closed in 1962. The land is now part of a highway interchange and shopping center.

- Boulevard Drive-In Theater (1949–1985)

This drive-in opened in 1949. It had a sloped parking lot for good views. It closed in 1985. The movie screen is still standing, but the property is abandoned.

- Super Skyway Drive-In (1954–1980)

This drive-in could hold 1,000 cars. It had stereo sound and showed widescreen films. It closed in 1980. The property was torn down in 2005 and is now an empty field.

- West End Drive-in Theater (1954–1976)

This drive-in opened in 1954 and could hold 1,200 cars. It had a huge screen. It closed in 1976. The property is now a car dealership.

Dorney Furniture Company (1885–1973)

This furniture company started in 1870. It moved into a new six-story building in 1910. The company closed in 1973. The building is now used by a technology company.

Dubbs Memorial United Church of Christ (1902–2015)

This church was formed in 1902. Its first building was dedicated in 1912. A fire damaged it in 1959. The church closed in 2015 due to fewer people attending.

Duck Farm and Hotel (1883–1925)

This was a popular resort and stop on the Reading Traction Company's trolley line. People came here for duck dinners. It closed around 1925. The hotel building is still standing and is now an apartment house.

Earle Theater (1927–1961)

This was the first movie theater in Allentown with sound films. It opened in 1927. It closed in 1961. The theater was torn down and is now a parking lot.

Fenstermacher & Rems Company (1922–1963)

This was an early car and truck dealership in Allentown. They sold Studebakers and Packards. The business closed in 1963.

Food Fair (1953–1970)

These were Allentown's first modern self-service supermarkets after World War II. They had tall brick towers with neon signs. They later became Pantry Pride stores. The buildings are still there and used by other businesses.

Fountain Brewery Hotel (1869–1948)

This was a brewery and hotel in downtown Allentown. It was a popular spot. Small amounts of beer were brewed here until 1948. The building was torn down in 1990 and is now a city parking lot.

Franklin Theater (1913–2008)

This neighborhood theater opened in 1913. It was renamed the Jennette Theater for a while. It reopened as the Franklin, showing movies for $1. It closed in 2008 and is now a church.

Freeman's Dairy (1927–1986)

This was one of Allentown's dairies. It delivered milk and dairy products to homes and stores. At its peak, it received milk from 300 farms. It was the last dairy to deliver milk to homes in Allentown. The plant closed in 1986.

Hess's (1897–1994)

This was Allentown's largest and most famous Department Store. It was known for its fashion, fancy window displays, and Christmas decorations. Kids loved "Pip the Mouse" puppet show. The store closed in 1994. The building was torn down in 2000 and is now The Plaza at PPL Center.

Horlacher Brewery (1866–1978)

This Pennsylvania-German brewery was famous for its "Perfection Beer." It was started in 1866. The brewery closed in 1978. Today, it's a light industrial complex.

Homeopathic Healing Art Plaque (1835–1845)

This plaque marks where the world's first medical college for homeopathy was located. It opened in 1835. The college later moved to Philadelphia.

Hotel Allen (1882–1954)

This large hotel on Center Square opened in the Gilded Age. It hosted important guests, including three former U.S. Presidents. It closed in 1954 and was torn down in 1956. The site is now being redeveloped.

Kramer's Music House (1891–1960)

This was a piano and music store. The owner, Fredrick F. Kramer Sr., was friends with famous pianists. He brought many of them to perform in Allentown. The store closed in 1960 due to changing music trends. The building is now a men's clothing store.

Lehigh Structural Steel Company (1919–1992)

This company made heavy steel structures. It was the only major steel manufacturer in Allentown. The steel plant closed in 1992. There are plans to turn the site into a mixed office and residential complex called The Waterfront.

Lafayette Hotel (1809–1926)

This was the oldest hotel in the city. A fire in 1926 caused 13 deaths and many injuries. This tragedy led to Allentown updating its fire code. The building was torn down and is now a parking lot.

Leh's (1850–1996)

This was Allentown's first department store. It started as a shoe and boot shop in 1850. It grew into a large department store in 1912. It was famous for its Christmas season and Santa Claus visits. It closed in 1996. The building is now the Lehigh County Government Center.

Lehigh Port (1829–1880)

This area along the Lehigh River became important after the Lehigh Canal was built. It had warehouses and wharves for trade. Many industries were located here. The area is now called "Lehigh Landing."

Lehigh & New England Railroad Office (1895–1961)

This railroad mainly carried coal and cement. It ran from Allentown to New York. The railroad stopped operating in Allentown in 1961. The building is now a community center.

Lieberman Brewery (1845–1915)

This was Allentown's first commercial brewery. It started making English-style ales and later lager beers. It closed in 1910 due to competition. It reopened briefly in the 1930s but closed for good in 1935. The site is now a light industrial complex.

Little Palestra (1930–1973)

This was the home basketball arena for Allentown High School. It was known for its unique design that gave the home team an advantage. It was torn down in 1973 and replaced by a library and science building for the high school.

Livingston Club (1890–1999)

This was a social club for powerful businessmen and politicians. Important decisions about Allentown were made here. It was the unofficial office of Harry Trexler, a famous local businessman. The club closed in the late 1990s. The building was torn down in 1999 and is now a parking lot.

Mack Trucks (1905–2009)

Mack Trucks makes heavy industrial trucks and buses. The company headquarters moved to Allentown in 1905. Mack trucks are sold in 45 countries. The headquarters moved to North Carolina in 2009. However, the manufacturing plant is still in Macungie, nearby. The last Mack production plant in Allentown closed in 1987.

Mealey Auditorium (1910–1961)

This large auditorium was used for dances and concerts. In the 1920s, big bands performed here. It became a roller skating rink in the 1940s. It was torn down in 1961 and is now the location of Allentown City Hall.

Midway Theater (1936–1955)

This building was once a hardware store and restaurant. It became a movie theater in 1935. It was one of the first air-conditioned theaters in Allentown. A fire closed it in 1955. It's now a jewelry store.

Moll Gunsmith Factory (1764–1884)

This factory was started by American Patriot Johannes (John) Moll. He made Pennsylvania Flintlock Rifles for settlers. During the American Revolutionary War, he made and repaired weapons for the Continental Army. His family continued the business for generations. The factory was likely torn down in the 1920s.

Orpheum Theater (1906–1924)

This was Allentown's first major vaudeville theater. It hosted live variety shows with jugglers, singers, and comedians. Famous performers like Eddie Cantor and Jack Benny played here. In 1924, it became The State movie theater. It closed in 1953 and was torn down for a parking lot.

Palace (later Good's) Pharmacy (1900–1947)

This was a classic early 20th-century pharmacy and soda fountain. It served sodas, ice cream, and medicines. It closed in 1948. The space has been several restaurants and is now Pastaficio, an Italian lunch spot.

Pat's (later Sal's) Spaghetti House (1954–1988)

This was a famous Italian restaurant. It served pasta, beef stew, and desserts. It closed in 1988. The building was torn down in 2008 and rebuilt as the Cosmopolitan Restaurant and nightclub.

Pergola Theater (1907–1926)

This theater started as an arcade and bowling alley. It became a silent film theater around 1910. It was one of the first theaters to show color films. It was torn down in 1926 to build the PPL Building.

Rialto Theater (1921–1980)

This was Allentown's first cinema. It opened in 1921 and was the second-largest theater. It had a stage for live shows and an orchestra. It was converted to sound films in 1929. A fire damaged the lobby in 1946. The cinema closed in 1980. The auditorium was torn down for a parking garage.

Peter Rhodes House (1762)

This is the second oldest building in Allentown. It was built by American Patriot Peter Rhodes. He was a tailor and storekeeper. He later became a judge and Allentown's first mayor. The house was rebuilt in 1890. Part of it still stands today.

Sears, Roebuck & Company Building (1948–1966)

This was the first major department store outside the downtown shopping area. Sears moved here in 1948. It later moved to a new mall in 1966. The building is now a Latin Supermarket.

Strand Theater (1917–1953)

This large silent movie theater opened in 1917. It had a big organ and full-time organist. It showed cartoons and westerns for kids. It closed in 1953 due to the popularity of Television. The lobby is now retail space.

Towne Theater (1918–1982)

This was a classic neighborhood theater. It showed Hollywood films after their first run. It also showed serials and cartoons for kids. It closed in 1957 as a movie theater. It's now an apartment complex.

Traylor Engineering (1905–2011)

This industrial plant made large mining equipment. During World War I and II, it made artillery shells and ship parts. It closed in 2011. The vacant site was visited by U.S. presidential candidates. The buildings are over 100 years old.

Trexler Lumber Yard (1903–1973)

This was a huge lumber yard, one of the largest in the eastern U.S. It was owned by General Harry C Trexler. A massive fire destroyed it in 1973. The site is now the B'nai B'rith Apartments.

The Upper Story (1967–1980)

This was Allentown's first "Head Shop" in the 1960s. It sold counter-culture items like incense and peace signs. It also sold famous magazines and albums. It closed in the late 1970s. The building is now an office building.

J.B. Van Sciver Furniture Co. (1937–1983)

This furniture company opened an Allentown store in 1937. It closed down in 1983. The building is now used by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Venerable Shoe and Boot Factory (1882–1900)

This factory is famous for bringing electricity to Allentown. In 1882, the owner bought a machine to power his factory. Other businesses bought power from him, and it grew into the Allentown Electric Light and Power Company. This company later became part of PPL Corporation.

Victor Theater (1910–1928)

This was an early movie theater. It was known for having a cat to control rats! The building was later combined with others to become the headquarters of Lehigh Portland Cement.

Village Inn Restaurant (1936–1998)
Walps Restaurant (1940–1998)

These were famous Pennsylvania Dutch restaurants. Both were family-owned and popular for celebrations. Many local and famous people ate there. Both restaurants closed in 1998 and were torn down around 2002.

Western Electric (1948–1995)

This plant was chosen for a new factory after World War II. It became a leader in electronics. In 1951, the world's first transistors were made here! The plant was involved in projects like the Telstar satellite. It closed in 1995 and is now vacant.

Wetherhold & Metzger (1908–1987)

This was a local shoe store. It opened its first store in 1908. It moved to a more prominent location in 1918. The store closed in 1987. The building was torn down in 2012 as part of a construction project.

Wright Montessori School (1915–1957)

This private school was founded by Ada V. Wright. It was based on the education ideas of Maria Montessori. It educated many wealthy Allentown students. The school closed in 1957 after Wright retired. The building is now a private home.