PA Museums

Exploring the America on Wheels Museum in Allentown

A collage of four photos showcasing different exhibits at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The top left image displays a lineup of classic cars, including a gold Shelby GT500 Mustang, with their hoods open for viewing. The top right image features two vintage Mack trucks, with one in green and another in red, accompanied by a mannequin dressed in period attire. The bottom left image captures a dynamic display of a yellow Suzuki dirt bike, seemingly in mid-jump, with a rider in full gear. The bottom right image is an exterior view of the museum building, with its modern architectural design and the museum's name prominently displayed on the facade. The collage reflects the diverse range of exhibits at the museum, celebrating the history and impact of over-the-road transportation in the United States.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the America on Wheels museum in Allentown, you’re in the right place!

A view from the second floor of the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, showcasing a display of classic cars in the lobby area. The exhibit features a vintage green Ford Mustang GT with Goodyear tires prominently displayed in the foreground. Behind the Mustang is an elegant beige Packard, adding to the historical ambiance. The cars are set against a colorful mural that depicts racing cars, emphasizing the museum's focus on the history and impact of over-the-road transportation. The bright and open lobby space, with large glass doors, invites visitors into the museum's rich collection.

America on Wheels is a transportation museum spanning 2 floors and over 23,000 square feet, and is a haven for enthusiasts of all things on wheels.

A vintage Ford automobile is prominently displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The early 20th-century vehicle features a brass radiator and headlamps, wooden-spoked wheels, and a simple, open-top design with a windshield and a steering wheel mounted on a wooden dashboard. The car is part of an exhibit that showcases the evolution of American transportation, highlighting the historical, social, and cultural significance of over-the-road vehicles. The museum's mission includes educating visitors about the impact of these transportation systems on American society.

From vintage cars to modern alternative fuel vehicles, America on Wheels offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of transportation.

An exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, highlights the history of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The display features a large map of Pennsylvania with the Turnpike route marked, along with photographs and information about the construction and significance of the highway. The exhibit emphasizes the Turnpike's role in pioneering the network of interstate highways that now crisscross the United States, referring to it as the birthplace of modern American highway transportation. Additional artifacts and documents are showcased in a glass case beneath the map, providing further context to the development and impact of the Turnpike. Small American flags are placed within the display, underscoring the national importance of this infrastructure project. This exhibit supports the museum's mission to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of America's transportation systems.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

America on Wheel is located at 5 North Front Street, Allentown, PA 18102.

The museum is open Wed-Sunday most of the year, and Tuesday-Sunday in July and August.

A sign at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, provides information about admission fees and operating hours. General admission is $16.00, seniors (65+) are $13.00, students (ages 5-16) are $10.00, and children 4 and under are free. Children 12 and under are also free every weekend and during the museum's annual holiday train display. The operating hours vary by season, with January through June and September through November hours being Wednesday to Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm and Sunday from noon to 3 pm. During July and August, the hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday from noon to 4 pm. In December, when holiday trains are on display, the hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday from noon to 4 pm. The sign also notes that the museum is closed on major holidays and advises visitors to check local media for closures due to inclement weather.

Admission fees as of 2024 are: General admission – $16 | Seniors (65+) – $13 | Students (5-16) – $10 | Children (4-under) – FREE.

The exterior of the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is shown on a clear day with a few scattered clouds. The modern building features a sleek design with large windows and a prominent sign displaying the museum's name and its focus on over-the-road transportation. A small set of steps leads up to the entrance, and the building is surrounded by neatly maintained shrubs and greenery. The museum's mission is to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of transportation systems in America.

What You’ll See at America on Wheels

One of the highlights of the museum is dedicated to Mack Trucks, a company with deep roots in Allentown.

A vibrant exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, features two classic green Mack trucks. In the foreground, an older model Mack truck with a bright green and red color scheme is displayed, complete with a golden Mack bulldog hood ornament. A mannequin dressed in period work clothes, including a hat and gloves, stands next to the vehicle, adding a lifelike element to the scene. In the background, a slightly newer green Mack truck is showcased, with a large black-and-white mural of vintage Mack trucks lining up for a job, emphasizing the historical significance of Mack Trucks in America's industrial and construction history. This exhibit aligns with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of transportation vehicles and systems.

Founded originally in Brooklyn in 1900, Mack Trucks moved its headquarters to Allentown, Pennsylvania, in 1905.

The company remained a significant presence in the city for over a century, from 1905 until 2009.

A bright red Mack dump truck is displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The truck, labeled with the company name "Irving F. Jensen, Inc. Contractors" from Sioux City, Iowa, is shown in a construction-themed exhibit. Surrounding the truck are life-sized mannequins of workers in hard hats and work clothes, one holding a surveying instrument, depicting a typical construction site. The exhibit is set against a backdrop of a rugged, mountainous landscape, emphasizing the role of heavy-duty trucks in building infrastructure across challenging terrains. This display aligns with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the vital role of transportation vehicles in the development of America’s roads and highways.

The exhibit features a variety of Mack vehicles, including vintage models that helped establish the brand’s reputation for durability and innovation.

Another fascinating exhibit is the collection of racing vehicles.

A vibrant exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, showcasing vintage race cars. The focal point is a pink open-wheel race car marked with the number 18, featuring a unique grille and exposed engine components, indicative of mid-20th-century racing design. Surrounding the pink car are several other race cars, including a red number 23 car and a blue and white car in the background, all displayed against a backdrop featuring images of high-speed racing. This exhibit highlights the evolution and history of race cars, aligning with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the cultural impact of transportation in America.

These sleek machines, designed for speed and performance, highlight the advancements in automotive technology over the decades.

The museum’s dedication to alternative fuel vehicles is evident in its diverse exhibits.

An exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, focuses on hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). The display includes a sleek, futuristic car model and a life-sized hydrogen fuel pump, emphasizing the advanced technology behind hydrogen-powered vehicles. Informational panels provide detailed explanations about how hydrogen fuel cells work, the benefits and challenges of using hydrogen as a fuel source, and the future potential of this technology in reducing environmental impact. This exhibit aligns with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the evolving landscape of transportation systems and their societal and environmental implications.

From electric cars to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, America on Wheels provides insight into the future of transportation.

A futuristic, low-slung electric vehicle is displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The car, with its sleek and angular design, is part of an exhibit focused on the history and future of electric vehicles. Informational panels in the background provide details about the evolution of electric vehicles, including the challenges faced by early models and the environmental considerations of modern battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The display highlights the museum's commitment to educating visitors about the technological advancements and the historical significance of electric vehicles within the broader context of over-the-road transportation systems.

These exhibits showcase the evolution of alternative-fuel vehicles, with some of these 50 year-old designs looking a lot like the current Tesla Cybertruck!

A brightly colored orange 1976 CitiCar SV-48 is displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The small, boxy electric vehicle, which resembles a compact golf cart with a plastic body and aluminum roll cage, is highlighted as an example of 1970s innovation in electric car design. A sign next to the car provides details about its specifications, including a top speed of 38 mph and an advertised range of 40 to 50 miles. The vehicle is part of an exhibit showcasing the evolution of transportation in America. The museum's mission focuses on educating visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of transportation systems.

Motorcycle enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in the museum’s collection.

An exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, showcases a collection of vintage motorcycles. The display includes several colorful and well-preserved bikes, such as a bright yellow Indian motorcycle and a red bike with custom flames. Behind the motorcycles, a large mural depicting a historic motorcycle scene adds context and ambiance to the exhibit. Each motorcycle is accompanied by an information plaque detailing its history and significance. This exhibit highlights the evolution of motorcycles and their role in American transportation history, aligning with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of over-the-road transportation systems.

With a range of bikes from different eras, the exhibit captures the spirit of freedom and adventure associated with motorcycle culture.

A dynamic exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, features a yellow Suzuki dirt bike with a rider mannequin in full racing gear, frozen in mid-jump. The dirt bike is adorned with sponsor decals, including Makita and Bridgestone, and is displayed against a backdrop that evokes the outdoor environment of motocross racing. The rider is positioned in a crouched stance, emphasizing speed and agility, key elements of this sport. This exhibit is part of the museum's broader mission to educate visitors about the diverse aspects of transportation, including the cultural and social impact of motorsports.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of bicycles as well, tracing their evolution from the early 19th century to the present day.

An exhibit at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, showcases a replica of the famous bicycle from the movie "Pee-wee's Big Adventure." The bike is suspended from the ceiling and features a retro, whimsical design with bright red and white colors, reflecting the iconic look from the film. The display is set against a backdrop of Route 66-themed decor, including a large map and vintage travel memorabilia. A life-sized cutout of Pee-wee Herman stands beside the exhibit, along with a poster of the movie, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. This exhibit highlights the cultural impact of bicycles in American pop culture, aligning with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural influence of various modes of transportation.

Currently, the museum is hosting a special temporary exhibit celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Ford Mustang.

A vibrant display at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, features a large retro-style sign for the "Starlite Drive-In Theatre." The sign, adorned with colorful lights and an arrow pointing to the right, promotes the exhibit "Mustang at 60: An American Icon Stampedes into the Future." The exhibit showcases classic Ford Mustangs in the background, celebrating the 60th anniversary of this iconic American vehicle. This display combines nostalgic elements with a tribute to automotive history, aligning with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of over-the-road transportation systems in the United States.

Running from April 25 through mid-October 2024, this exhibit showcases a stunning collection of Mustangs, ranging from the earliest models in 1964 to the latest 2024 editions.

A display at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania, showcases a lineup of classic and modern Ford Mustangs, part of an exhibit celebrating the 60th anniversary of the iconic vehicle. The cars include a gold 1967 Shelby GT500, a teal 1990s-era Mustang GT with its hood open to reveal the engine, and a red convertible Mustang from the early 2000s. The exhibit is set against a backdrop featuring vintage signage and imagery, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of the Mustang in American automotive history. This display aligns with the museum's mission to educate visitors about the impact of over-the-road transportation systems and the role of iconic vehicles in shaping American culture.

With a wide range of memorabilia, books, and toys, the museum’s gift shop is a treasure trove for transportation enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead or simply curious about the evolution of transportation, visiting America on Wheels is a highly rewarding experience.

A close-up view of a vintage green Mack truck displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The truck, featuring the iconic Mack bulldog hood ornament, is showcased in pristine condition, with its glossy paint and chrome details. The backdrop includes black-and-white images of other trucks, enhancing the historical context of the exhibit. This display exemplifies the museum's mission to highlight the impact of over-the-road transportation in American history.

The museum’s extensive collection and engaging exhibits provide a comprehensive look at the history and future of transportation.

A display of vintage cars in the lobby of the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The centerpiece is a bright blue 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible with its hood open, showcasing its pristine interior and engine. The exhibit includes informative panels that detail the history and significance of the vehicle. Surrounding the Bel Air are other classic cars, including a green muscle car and a beige Packard, all set against a backdrop of large windows and a colorful mural depicting racing cars. The museum's open, light-filled lobby space emphasizes its mission to educate visitors about the historical and cultural impact of over-the-road transportation in America.

If you’re a car enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, America on Wheels provides an educational and entertaining experience for all.

A vibrant, vintage fire truck is displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The red fire truck, labeled "Fire Department No. 2," is equipped with brass fittings, hoses, and four black firefighter helmets mounted on top. The vehicle is showcased against a large black-and-white mural depicting a historic firefighting scene with ladders set up against buildings. The exhibit emphasizes the evolution of fire-fighting vehicles and their crucial role in public safety. This display is part of the museum's mission to educate visitors about the historical, social, and cultural impact of transportation systems, including emergency response vehicles.

For more information, please visit America on Wheels’ OFFICIAL WEBSITE.

A streamlined motorcycle designed for speed records is displayed at the America on Wheels transportation museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The vehicle features a sleek, aerodynamic design with a red and white color scheme, enclosed in a canopy with the driver’s cockpit visible through the clear cover. Informational signage in front of the motorcycle provides details about its creation by Joachim Grenestedt, an engineering professor at Lehigh University. The sign highlights the bike's performance at the Bonneville Salt Flats, where it set a record speed of 133.165 mph in 2009. The exhibit includes photos of the motorcycle in action and descriptions of its engineering and safety features. This display exemplifies the museum's mission to educate visitors about the technological advancements and cultural significance of innovative transportation systems.

PA’s Best Car Museums | A Visitors Guide is your ticket to discovering PA’s premier automotive museums that cater to the interests of modern day “car culture” enthusiasts.

Photos from some of the best car museums in Pennsylvania.

Find even more great destinations to explore all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

Did you enjoy this article?

If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to learn more about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!

Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.