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America on Wheels Museum Allentown

4.7
·834 reviews·Allentown, United States

Explore the fascinating history of wheeled transportation, from early automobiles to iconic trucks, with interactive exhibits for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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America on Wheels Museum - Image 1

America on Wheels Museum Allentown

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the fascinating history of wheeled transportation, from early automobiles to iconic trucks, with interactive exhibits for all ages.

4.7
(834 reviews)

"Absolutely amazing experience for car enthusiasts and just anyone who loves to learn! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Interactive Fun Awaits

Many exhibits are hands-on, perfect for kids and adults. Don't miss the chance to sit in a Mack Truck!

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You can easily spend several hours here. They even had to chase us out to close!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The First Horseless Carriage

The First Horseless Carriage

Main Exhibit Floor

See the actual, real first horseless carriage in the country. A true piece of automotive history!

Mack Truck Collection

Mack Truck Collection

Second Floor

Explore the evolution of Mack Trucks, made right here in Allentown. You can even sit in one!

LEGO Masterpieces

LEGO Masterpieces

Special Exhibit Area

Marvel at intricate LEGO displays, including a life-size LEGO Batmobile and a detailed transportation city.

Mustang Room

Mustang Room

Dedicated Gallery

A special space dedicated to the iconic Ford Mustang, showcasing its evolution and design.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Smooth Visit

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially mornings. Weekends can get busy, particularly with families. Check for special events or LEGO exhibits, as these can draw larger crowds but also offer unique experiences. Instagram

Interactive Fun for All Ages

This museum is designed for engagement! Many exhibits are interactive, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully explore the diverse collection of vehicles and historical displays. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (excluding weekends)
Why
Still manageable crowds, good for families
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Can be busy, but lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Make sure you catch the free Allentown Art Museum showcasing wonder Tiffany pieces! #art #thingstodo #free #lehighvalleypa #pa
@lehighvalleygirls
19.6K likes • 176.5K views

🚗 Interactive Fun Awaits

Many exhibits are hands-on, perfect for kids and adults. Don't miss the chance to sit in a Mack Truck! Instagram+1

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You can easily spend several hours here. They even had to chase us out to close! Reddit

Hey Kids! Enjoy the fun of America On Wheels Museum, Allentown PA
americaonwheelsmuseum
14 likes • 227 views
Join us on a family fun day as we travel on the PA Turnpike to the America on Wheels Museum in Allentown, PA. We love everything about taking the PA Turnpike on our day trips to Allentown. It is so easy to travel with our E-ZPass and the Turnpike has the most convenient rest stops since you don’t even need to get off an exit to use the restroom, fill your tank and grab a delicious snack! We are re...
scrantonmom
1K likes • 366K views

✨ Special Exhibits Shine

Check for temporary exhibits like the amazing LEGO displays; they're incredibly detailed. Reddit

🗺️ Restoration Tour Option

Consider the extra restoration tour across the street for an in-depth look at automotive history. Reddit

Revved up for an incredible day at the America on Wheels Museum in Allentown, PA! 🚗🎉 Little ones had a blast with interactive stations that fueled their excitement for everything wheels and engines! 🚦🔧 📍America on Wheels Museum 5 N Front St Allentown, PA 18102 . . . #FamilyFun #WheelsAndThrills #lehighvalley #abe #allentown #sightseeingwithalexiscruelrealtor
alexiscruelrealtor
15 likes • 449 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Interactive Fun Awaits

Many exhibits are hands-on, perfect for kids and adults. Don't miss the chance to sit in a Mack Truck! Instagram+1

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You can easily spend several hours here. They even had to chase us out to close! Reddit

✨ Special Exhibits Shine

Check for temporary exhibits like the amazing LEGO displays; they're incredibly detailed. Reddit

🗺️ Restoration Tour Option

Consider the extra restoration tour across the street for an in-depth look at automotive history. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of unique vehicles make for great photos, especially the vintage cars and trucks. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(834 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the America on Wheels Museum for its extensive and diverse collection of vehicles, from early horseless carriages to iconic trucks and cars. The interactive exhibits are a hit with families, and the special LEGO displays are a unique draw. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, with special commendation for volunteers offering in-depth tours. Some visitors noted that certain mannequins could be a bit unsettling.

"Absolutely amazing experience for car enthusiasts and just anyone who loves to learn! This museum offers a huge array of different cars and technology to learn about in America on Wheels. I would definitely recommend doing the extra restoration tour through them at the RB Collection across the street. In the pictures I’ve added you can see they have the actual and REAL VERY FIRST horseless carriage (car) in the country on display. A wonderfully done, donated, 9/11 Memorial tribute Corvette, and so so much more to enjoy. Like a car to show the first electric car setup… you won’t believe how old it is. Staff was very friendly, however… Rich, a volunteer/drag racer since 19 years of age/fellow car enthusiast, was not only an amazing tour guide for the restoration tour, his knowledge and love for cars makes this tour and facility top notch. He can answer any and all questions you have. He’s filled with fun facts and so much more. I cannot wait to tell all my friends about it and visit again the next time I’m in town."

Sara Keefer

"This is a great museum to visit. So much to see. Excellent displays. Friendly staff. The Mack truck area very good. Easy to spend several hours here, intact they had to chase us out to close!"

Jackie Hurn McGahey

"America on Wheels is an outstanding transportation museum in Allentown, PA. Altogether there are two floors of automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles. Currently, there is an outstanding LEGO exhibit complete with a life size LEGO Batmobile and a LEGO transportation city.
The museum has a great collection of antique cars. Some of the best include their extensive collection of Ford Model T’s. They even have an early “horseless carriage” built by a native Henry Nadig who lived near Allentown. Some other gems in their car collection include early steam powered cars, early electric powered cars, cars with wooden doors, and even carriages that horses pulled. You really get the idea of the evolution of the automobile from these exhibits.
Another gem in the museum is the collection of Mack Trucks. Mack Trucks are made in Allentown so they feature a few of them. Again, like the automobiles they show early trucks and have more recent designs as well. You can even sit in one!
Finally, there is a nice collection of Harley Davidson and Indian motorcycles. The current LEGO displays are amazing. The variety featured in the displays is outstanding. There is a cafe on the second floor of the museum and there is a gift shop at the entrance. The staff here was helpful. If you’re in Allentown you will want to check this place out."

Ryan Mazierski

What People Like

Diverse vehicle collection
Interactive exhibits
Knowledgeable staff/volunteers

What People Dislike

Unsettling mannequins

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at 5 N Front St, Allentown, PA 18102. Many visitors arrive by car, and it's easily accessible via the PA Turnpike, with convenient rest stops. Instagram+1

Yes, there is parking available near the museum. Some visitors have noted cleaning up litter around the parking lot, so be mindful of the surroundings. Instagram

The PA Turnpike is a popular and convenient route for day trips to Allentown, offering easy access and amenities. Instagram

Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but driving is the most common method of arrival mentioned by visitors. It's advisable to check local transit schedules if this is your preferred method.

Yes, the museum is a great stop on a day trip to Allentown. Visitors often highlight it as part of a broader exploration of the Lehigh Valley area. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices are generally considered affordable for a day trip. Specific pricing details are best confirmed directly with the museum or their official website. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to check the museum's website or social media for any ongoing promotions or group rates. Instagram

Operating hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the museum's official website or call ahead to confirm their current hours of operation before your visit. Reddit

For general admission, advance booking is usually not required, but it's a good idea to check during peak seasons or for special events. Reddit

Yes, the restoration tour across the street is an additional offering and may require a separate ticket or booking. Reddit

🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience

The museum features a diverse collection including antique cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and even early electric and steam-powered vehicles. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is highly interactive, with many displays designed to engage younger visitors, including opportunities to sit in vehicles. Instagram+1

Most visitors find they can easily spend several hours exploring the two floors of exhibits. Reddit

The Mack Truck section is a highlight, showcasing early and recent designs, with opportunities to sit in a truck. InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum often hosts special exhibits, such as impressive LEGO displays featuring a life-size Batmobile and detailed transportation cities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located on the second floor of the museum where visitors can grab a bite to eat. Reddit

Food options at the cafe are generally standard museum fare. It's a convenient spot for a quick meal or snack during your visit. Reddit

Allentown offers various dining options in the surrounding area if you prefer to explore local restaurants outside the museum. Instagram

It's generally recommended to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before entering the exhibits. Check with the museum for their specific policy.

The cafe is typically family-friendly, offering a casual environment for meals. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture the impressive collection of vehicles. Instagram

While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always be mindful of signage. Instagram

The vintage cars, the Mack Trucks, and the detailed LEGO exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Mustang room is also a popular spot. InstagramReddit

Yes, the intricate LEGO displays are a major draw for photographers, so be sure to capture their detail. Reddit

It's always best to look for specific signage indicating areas where photography is not allowed, especially for sensitive or temporary exhibits. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The America on Wheels Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Its interactive exhibits are a major draw, allowing kids to touch, explore, and even sit in vehicles like Mack Trucks. Instagram+1 The museum's layout is easy to navigate, and the information provided is digestible for younger audiences. Don't miss the special LEGO exhibits, which are always a hit with children and adults alike for their incredible detail. Reddit

Plan for at least a couple of hours to let the kids fully engage with the displays. The variety of vehicles, from classic cars to motorcycles, ensures there's something to capture every child's interest. It's a fun and educational outing that sparks curiosity about transportation history. Instagram

🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Collectors

For those passionate about automobiles, the America on Wheels Museum offers a rich and diverse collection. You'll find everything from the very first horseless carriage in the country to iconic Ford Mustangs and early electric and steam-powered vehicles. Reddit+1 The Mack Truck collection is particularly noteworthy, given the brand's local heritage. InstagramReddit

Consider booking the restoration tour for an unparalleled deep dive into automotive preservation and history, guided by knowledgeable experts. Reddit This experience provides unique insights and access to vehicles undergoing meticulous restoration, making it a highlight for serious collectors and enthusiasts. The museum's dedication to showcasing the evolution of wheeled transportation is evident in every exhibit. Reddit

💡 Budget-Conscious Travelers

The America on Wheels Museum offers a great value for its admission price, making it an affordable option for a day trip. Instagram While specific pricing isn't detailed here, reviews suggest it's a worthwhile experience for the cost. The museum provides hours of entertainment and learning without breaking the bank. Reddit Many visitors find it's a perfect stop for a few hours, making it easy to fit into a larger itinerary without a significant expense. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Transportation History

The America on Wheels Museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a captivating destination for anyone interested in the evolution of transportation. Spanning two floors, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles, offering a comprehensive look at how wheeled vehicles have shaped American life. From the earliest 'horseless carriages' to iconic muscle cars and powerful trucks, each exhibit tells a story of innovation and design. InstagramReddit

Visitors can marvel at early steam and electric-powered cars, unique vehicles with wooden doors, and even horse-drawn carriages, providing a vivid sense of the progression of automotive technology. The museum also proudly features a significant collection of Mack Trucks, a brand with deep roots in Allentown, allowing guests to appreciate their historical impact and even sit in one of these giants. InstagramReddit

Beyond the permanent collections, the museum frequently hosts engaging temporary exhibits, such as the highly praised LEGO displays. These often include impressive creations like a life-size LEGO Batmobile and intricate transportation-themed cities, adding an extra layer of wonder for visitors of all ages. Reddit The museum's commitment to interactive learning makes it more than just a viewing experience; it's an invitation to explore, learn, and connect with the history of motion. Instagram

Interactive Exhibits and Family Fun

The America on Wheels Museum excels at providing an engaging experience for families. Many of its exhibits are designed to be interactive, encouraging visitors, especially children, to touch, explore, and learn firsthand. This hands-on approach makes the history of transportation come alive, transforming a museum visit into an adventure. Instagram+1

Children can delight in the opportunity to sit inside a Mack Truck, get up close with vintage cars, and engage with displays that explain the mechanics and history behind different vehicles. The museum's layout and the informative yet concise descriptions on exhibit placards are perfectly suited for younger attention spans, making it easy for families to discuss and learn together. InstagramReddit

Special exhibits, like the detailed LEGO creations, further enhance the family appeal. These visually stunning displays captivate both kids and adults, offering a unique blend of art and engineering. The museum's focus on making history accessible and fun ensures that a visit here is a memorable outing for the entire family. Reddit

The Restoration Tour Experience

For the truly dedicated automotive enthusiast, the America on Wheels Museum offers an exceptional restoration tour at the RB Collection across the street. This exclusive experience provides an in-depth look at vehicles undergoing restoration, offering a behind-the-scenes perspective on the meticulous work involved in preserving automotive history. Reddit

Visitors on this tour often rave about the knowledge and passion of the guides, particularly volunteers like Rich, who have decades of experience in drag racing and car restoration. Their ability to share fascinating anecdotes, historical context, and answer complex questions elevates the tour from informative to truly exceptional. Reddit This is where you can learn about the intricate details of bringing classic vehicles back to their former glory, making it a must-do for serious car lovers. Reddit

The tour also provides opportunities to see rare and significant vehicles, such as the first electric car setup or a 9/11 Memorial tribute Corvette, offering a deeper appreciation for the breadth of automotive history. It’s an experience that complements the main museum exhibits by offering a more focused and detailed exploration of automotive craftsmanship and heritage. Reddit

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