When you have tickets for an event at PPL Center in Downtown Allentown, you may be wondering about the best restaurants to visit beforehand. Or maybe you’re bringing the kids along and looking for activities they can enjoy before the show. And of course, finding the best parking is essential. Make the most of your next visit to Downtown Allentown and check out some of the top things to experience before an event at the PPL Center.
Grab a Fast-casual Dinner
at the Downtown Allentown Market
When you have picky eaters or didn’t make a reservation in time, the Downtown Allentown Market, on the ArtsWalk across from the PPL Center on 7th Street, is the perfect spot to cater to everyone’s cravings. You can get Pizza or Chicken Fingers from Pasta & Pies, Pad Thai from La Kang Thai Eatery, Empanadas from Casa Criolla, Shawarma Nachos from Zahra, Chicken Parm Sub from Chez’s Delicatessen, or a Cheeseburger from Johnny’s ArtsWalk Diner (just to name a few delicious menu items). If you want to save time, you can even order online!
Pre-game at Sports & Social Allentown
Before a Hockey Game
If you’re heading to PPL Center to catch a Phantoms Game, Sports & Social Allentown is the perfect pre-game destination right across the street on 7th & Hamilton. Enjoy Happy Hour specials Monday through Friday from 4 to 6:30 p.m. and live music Thursday through Saturday. You can also play their fun arcade games!
Enjoy an Intimate Dining Experience
at Pennsylvania Rye Co.
Looking for something a little more intimate? Pennsylvania Rye Company has become a popular dining spot to visit before an event at PPL Center. Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy one of their signature cocktails and an appetizer or make a reservation in advance for a cozy sit-down dinner.
Explore the Allentown Art Museum
Make it a day trip with the kids next time you have tickets for an event at PPL Center! The Allentown Art Museum is a great attraction for children to explore and learn, and admission is always FREE Thursday through Sunday. Make sure to check out their Youth Programs before you visit to see what’s available that day!
Book an Axe Throwing Session
with Split Pine Axe Throwing
Have some fun with your friends before you head to your event! Split Pine Axe Throwing lets you book sessions in advance so you don’t have to worry about running late to your show. Plus, it’s only a 3-minute walk from PPL Center! Split Pine is BYOB, so you’re welcome to bring your drink of choice (excluding hard liquor).
Helpful Hint: Discover Stress-Free Parking
One of the biggest misconceptions about going to an event in Downtown Allentown is that it’s impossible to find parking. Parking downtown is easier than you think! Choose one of these parking decks within walking distance of PPL Center: PPL Arena Deck, Allentown Transportation Deck, Community Deck, Spiral Deck, 8th & Walnut Deck, or the ArtsWalk Deck. Each deck has an elevator and accepts credit card payments. You can even reserve parking in advance and view rates for each garage with ParkMobile. Be aware that the cost of parking varies on event days.
