Best Backpacking Destinations in Allentown, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Coca-Cola Park
Enjoy a game of baseball at the home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. The park offers camping options and is a unique blend of sports and nature.
- Baseball & Camping: Experience baseball games and overnight camping at the same location.
- Nature Surroundings: The park is situated amidst beautiful natural landscapes, providing a tranquil setting for backpackers.
- Unique Amenities: Coca-Cola Park offers amenities like concession stands and restrooms for convenience during your stay.
2. Hike Bake Trail
A 3.7-mile trail offering scenic views, perfect for a day hike and picnicking. The trail also passes by a bakery, where you can grab fresh bread and pastries.
- Scenic Hiking Trail: Hike Bake Trail offers picturesque views of the surrounding nature.
- Picnic Opportunities: The trail has designated areas for picnicking, making it an ideal spot for lunch breaks.
- Fresh Bakery Stop: Enjoy a delicious snack or meal from the nearby bakery while taking a break during your hike.
3. Da Vinci Science Center
Interactive science museum featuring exhibits on human anatomy, space exploration, and more. Camping is available nearby for overnight backpacking trips.
- Interactive Learning: Learn about various scientific topics through hands-on exhibits.
- Camping Nearby: The science center is located near campgrounds for backpackers seeking a comfortable overnight stay.
- Evening Programming: The Da Vinci Science Center hosts evening programs and events, providing additional learning opportunities for backpackers.
4. Lehigh Gorge State Park
Extensive park featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and canoeing opportunities along the Lehigh River.
- Hiking Trails: The park offers various trails suitable for backpackers of different skill levels.
- Waterfalls & Canoeing: Explore the park's waterfalls and enjoy canoeing or kayaking on the Lehigh River.
- Camping Opportunities: Lehigh Gorge State Park offers campgrounds for backpackers to set up camp and spend the night.
5. Bear Creek Reservoir
Lake with fishing opportunities, picnic areas, and boat rentals. Ideal for a peaceful day out or overnight camping.
- Fishing & Boating: Enjoy fishing or boating on the picturesque Bear Creek Reservoir.
- Picnic Areas: The reservoir offers picnic areas for backpackers to enjoy a meal during their visit.
- Camping Availability: Bear Creek Reservoir has campgrounds available for backpackers seeking an overnight stay.
6. Jordan Park
Urban park featuring a variety of sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Ideal for backpackers looking for recreational activities.
- Sports & Recreation: Jordan Park offers basketball courts, soccer fields, and other sports facilities for active backpackers.
- Playgrounds & Picnic Areas: The park has playgrounds for kids and picnic areas for families to enjoy during their visit.
- Convenient Location: Jordan Park is centrally located, making it easily accessible for backpackers in Allentown.
7. Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas
Movie theater with a rooftop beer garden and dine-in options. Offers overnight parking for backpackers on the go.
- Movies & Beer Garden: Enjoy a movie or relax in the rooftop beer garden at Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas.
- Dine-In Options: The cinema has a variety of food options, including pizza and sandwiches.
- Overnight Parking: Backpackers can park their vehicles overnight at the movie theater.
8. America On Wheels Museum
Museum dedicated to the history of transportation in America. Offers nearby camping for backpackers.
- Transportation History: Learn about the evolution of transportation in America at this unique museum.
- Camping Nearby: The museum is located near campgrounds for backpackers to set up camp and spend the night.
- Educational Programming: The museum hosts educational programs, providing additional learning opportunities for backpackers.
9. Allentown Art Park
Outdoor art gallery showcasing local and international artwork. Perfect for an artistic backpacking experience.
- Local & International Art: The park displays a mix of local and international artwork, providing a diverse artistic experience.
- Nature Surroundings: Allentown Art Park is nestled in a beautiful natural setting, making it an ideal destination for backpackers.
- Educational Tours: The park offers guided tours to help visitors understand and appreciate the artwork on display.
10. Allentown Rose Garden
Beautiful rose garden featuring over 500 varieties of roses. Perfect for a peaceful and picturesque backpacking destination.
- Variety of Roses: The garden showcases more than 500 types of roses, making it an exceptional rose-lover's paradise.
- Nature Surroundings: The Allentown Rose Garden is situated amidst a tranquil and natural setting, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the beautiful roses and garden surroundings.
11. Allentown Farmers Market
Weekly market featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music. Perfect for backpackers looking to sample local flavors.
- Fresh Produce & Artisanal Goods: The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods, supporting local farmers and businesses.
- Live Music: Enjoy live music performances while browsing the market's offerings.
- Convenient Location: The market is centrally located, making it easily accessible for backpackers in Allentown.
12. Baum School of Art
Art school offering classes and workshops for artists of all skill levels. Perfect for artistic backpackers seeking creative opportunities.
- Art Classes & Workshops: The school offers a variety of art classes and workshops, catering to different skill levels.
- Artistic Community: Join a vibrant community of artists and learn from experienced instructors.
- Art Exhibitions: The school hosts art exhibitions showcasing the work of students, faculty, and local artists.
13. Mauck Church Covered Bridge
Historic covered bridge dating back to 1852, perfect for a picturesque stroll or bike ride.
- Historical Significance: The bridge is one of the oldest covered bridges in Pennsylvania.
- Scenic Location: The bridge offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
- Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly: The bridge is easily accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, making it an ideal destination for backpackers.
14. Lehigh Valley Zoo
Small but diverse zoo featuring over 200 species of animals. Perfect for backpackers looking to connect with wildlife.
- Diverse Animal Populations: The zoo is home to over 200 species of animals, representing various habitats and ecosystems.
- Interactive Exhibits: The zoo offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the animals on display.
- Conservation Efforts: The Lehigh Valley Zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts, helping to protect endangered species and habitats.
15. Dorney Lake
Lake offering water sports, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. Perfect for an active backpacking experience.
- Water Sports & Fishing: Dorney Lake offers activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing for visitors.
- Picnic Areas: The lake has designated picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for backpackers to enjoy a meal during their visit.
- Camping Availability: Dorney Lake has campgrounds available for backpackers seeking an overnight stay.