Allentown is an area which might surprise you with its rich heritage and fascinating stories from the past. If you’re spending time in the area, there are plenty of interesting historical places to visit.

Liberty Bell Museum

The Liberty Bell is one of the most iconic symbols of American independence, but not many people know that Allentown provided a safe haven for the bell in 1777. In an effort to hide the bell from the British, who would have melted it down to create canons, the bell was safely hidden in an Allentown church’s basement. Today, you can visit this site at the Liberty Bell Museum.

America On Wheels

If you are looking for something a bit more recent, America on Wheels offers you a glimpse into the country’s automotive past with a rotating exhibit list. Everything from hotrods to emergency vehicles to unique forms of transportation have been seen in this museum — keep an eye on their website for upcoming exhibits.

Allentown Art Museum

For those with a love of art, the Allentown Art Museum provides a terrific place to spend an afternoon admiring over 17,000 pieces of historical work. Collections include European Renaissance and Baroque paintings, and a library designed by famous American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

There is so much history in Allentown that it’s important to give yourself enough time to be able to take it all in.  We’ve only scratched the surface of the wealth of history Allentown has to share, so get out there and take in the sights and sounds of a jewel in Pennsylvania’s crown.

Image via Flickr by Luca Nebuloni

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