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1926
Historic Americus Hotel
Allentown, Pennsylvania
555 Hamilton Street, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18101
Original Property Opened in 1926
Historic Hotels of America member since 2022
Built in 1926, Historic Americus Hotel boasts a rich history of hospitality in the heart of Lehigh Valley. This ornate Jazz-Age hotel has been meticulously restored to its glory days. Opulent period appointments transport guests back in time, while contemporary amenities ensure a comfortable stay for the modern traveler. Located within walking distance of many of Allentown’s biggest attractions, guests at Historic Americus Hotel are uniquely situated to take advantage of all this charming city offers.
Discover
- Discover the Italo-Iberian architecture of Historic Americus Hotel. Designed by the prominent Philadelphia-based architectural firm Ritter and Shay, the magnificent edifice showcases a brilliant blend of Spanish and Italian design motifs. The Italo-Iberian architecture was a nod to the European mariners who first sailed to the Americas during the Age of Discovery.
- Appreciate the original features of the Historic Americus Hotel. The Grand Ballroom boasts the original wall sconces and emerald-cut crystal chandeliers. The hotel’s original crank-run elevator is still in operation. Inside the elevator, guests can read historical newspaper stories about the hotel plastered on the walls. The original mail chutes, running along the length of the building, have also been preserved on every floor.
- Admire the beautiful murals and art pieces displayed throughout the hotel. The Grand Ballroom and dining area showcase murals painted by local artist J.W. Lerch. Guests can also peruse a rotating art gallery featuring local artists in the mezzanine area.
Explore
- Visit America on Wheels Museum. Allentown has a rich automotive history, including being home to one of the first gas-powered automobiles ever made. Drawing on this history, America on Wheels showcases the history of wheeled transportation from the earliest days of the automobile to modern-day designs. Highlights of this fantastic museum include the 1889 Nadig Gas-Powered Carriage, an extensive collection of Mack Trucks made in Allentown, and bicycles, motorcycles, and pedal cars.
- Explore the Allentown Arts Museum. The 13,000-item collection is filled with pieces of art dating back hundreds of years and representing styles and cultures from around the world. Visitors especially enjoy the museum’s great collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings and sculptures, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed library (which was rebuilt here after being removed from one of his homes), and the museum’s collection of Keith Haring paintings.
- Learn about the Delaware/Lenape Indians and other Northeastern Woodlands tribes at the Museum of Indian Culture. Pennsylvania’s most historic American Indian heritage museum, the Museum of Indian Culture is situated in the beautiful Little Lehigh Parkway along an old Lenape trail called the Oley Path. Exhibits include artifacts, cultural items, agricultural tools, trade goods, and interactive hands-on activities like fire-starting kits, pump drills, and atlatls (spear-throwing).
Experience
- Experience an orchestra performance at Miller Symphony Hall. One of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful concert halls, the building was converted to a theatre in 1899 by renowned architect J.B. McElfatrick and is one of only a dozen of McElfatrick’s prized “Beaux-Arts” theaters that has survived. Once the home of vaudeville, burlesque and Broadway-bound theatricals, this beautiful theater has showcased the comedy of Bob Hope, the magical voices of Tony Bennett, and the remarkable sound of the award-winning Allentown Symphony Orchestra.
- Stroll through beautiful displays of roses and other flowers among weeping willows at the Malcolm Gross Rose Garden. Established in 1928 by then-Mayor Malcolm Gross, the Allentown Rose Garden was renamed in his honor in 1948. All are welcome to enjoy the gardens, walking paths, reflective ponds, and gazebos.
- Enjoy a day of family fun at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom has been one of the most exciting and thrilling things to do in Allentown since opening in 1884. Considered one of the Northeast’s largest waterparks with over 60 world-class rides, as well as live entertainment, and thrills for the little ones at Planet Snoopy—this amusement park has something for everyone.
Taste
- Taste American fare and enjoy city views at Windows on 6th, the full-service restaurant at Historic Americus Hotel. Start the day with a continental or hot breakfast and then return for dishes like salads, pasta, and delectable entrées for lunch and dinner. Guests can also relax in their comfortable guestroom and order from the room service menu.
- Savor the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak, a long roll filled with thinly sliced rib eye beef and melted cheese. Originally created in Philadelphia during the early 20th century, this cherished sandwich is now served all over the commonwealth.
- Satisfy cravings at the Downtown Allentown Market. Eateries provide a range of delicious options. View artwork from internationally renowned muralists. Or sip on a craft beer and listen to local musicians. Located in the heart of the city, the Downtown Allentown Market brings authentic cuisine and art together in a unique atmosphere.
Featured Offers
Best Available Rate
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotels.org and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
AARP Member Rate
AARP members save year around. Must present valid proof of membership to qualify.
