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| Location | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) |
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| Downtown Allentown |
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| Suburban Locations (Whitehall, Bethlehem) |
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On average, car rentals in Allentown cost around $90 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $34 per day.
Skip the airport fees: ABE rentals tack on roughly 10% in extra charges. Compare downtown Allentown or suburban desks (Whitehall, Bethlehem) where base prices are often lower, then rideshare the 6-10 minutes from the terminal.
Time it to the season: Prices spike 10-20% in summer and ski season. Booking just 1-2 weeks ahead locks in a better rate before inventory gets tight, while off-peak months can reward last-minute shoppers.
Play with rental length: A 7-day booking can run 15-20% cheaper than five separate daily rates. Even if you only need the car five or six days, the "weekly" tag can save cash.
Go small and save big: Economy cars cost about $10-20/day less than full-size, and Allentown's wide suburban roads make compact parking painless.
| Parking Type | Availability | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Street Parking | Moderate | Metered Monday-Saturday 8 AM-6 PM; use ParkMobile app |
| Downtown Garages | Good | Multiple options including Transportation Center and Spiral Deck |
| Shopping Centers | Abundant | Free at all major malls and retail centers |
| PPL Center Area | Limited during events | Consider pre-paid event parking or Transportation Center |
| Suburban Areas | Plentiful | Free at most locations outside downtown |
Local Driving Rules:
Book a rental to see:
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom – amusement park
Pocono Mountains – resorts, trails
Historic Bethlehem – museums, eateries
Lehigh River Gorge – bike paths, rafting

Is it necessary to have a car in Allentown?
Yes, the Lehigh Valley has limited public transportation. You will need a rental car to properly explore Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and surrounding areas.
How far is Allentown from major airports?
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is about 6 miles (10 km) from downtown. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about 70 miles (113 km) south and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is about 80 miles (129 km) east.
Are there toll roads around Allentown?
Yes, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (I-476) is a toll road. Most rental companies will let you rent a toll transponder. It costs about $3–$5 a day, plus the cost of the tolls.
What's the best way to navigate downtown Allentown?
Downtown Allentown has several one-way streets. Hamilton Street is the main east-west street and 7th Street is a major north-south route. If you're not familiar with the area, we recommend using a GPS.
When is the best time to visit Dorney Park?
Weekdays usually have smaller crowds than weekends. The park is open from May to October, and its busiest months are July and August. You should buy your parking ticket ahead of time during the busy season.