Buffalo Neighborhoods

Allentown Buffalo

Historic Architecture, Arts, and Nightlife in the Queen City

Allentown

Allentown is one of Buffalo’s most historic and visually distinctive neighborhoods. Known for its colorful Victorian homes, creative energy, and vibrant nightlife, the neighborhood has long served as one of the city’s cultural centers.

Located just north of downtown Buffalo, Allentown blends historic architecture with art galleries, music venues, restaurants, and cafés. The neighborhood’s walkable streets and lively atmosphere make it a destination not only for residents but for people across the city looking to experience Buffalo’s creative side.

For many Buffalonians, Allentown represents a neighborhood where the city’s history, arts, culture, and nightlife intersect.

A Neighborhood Built on History

Allentown’s roots stretch back to the early 19th century, when Lewis Allen, a prominent Buffalo businessman and civic leader, developed the area that would later bear his name.

Over time, the neighborhood became home to a mix of merchants, artists, and professionals, leaving behind one of the city’s largest collections of historic residential architecture. Today, many of the homes in Allentown date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Colorful Victorian houses, ornate woodwork, and historic brick buildings give the neighborhood a character that stands apart from other parts of Buffalo.

Buffalo’s Arts and Cultural District

Allentown has long been associated with Buffalo’s arts community.

The neighborhood is home to galleries, small theaters, music venues, and creative spaces that continue to support local artists and performers. Throughout the year, art shows, exhibitions, and cultural events bring residents and visitors into the neighborhood.

Perhaps the most well-known event is the Allentown Art Festival, one of Buffalo’s largest annual cultural gatherings. Held each summer, the festival draws thousands of visitors to the neighborhood’s streets to celebrate art, music, and local culture.

Restaurants, Music, and Nightlife

Allentown is also one of Buffalo’s most active nightlife districts.

Restaurants, pubs, cocktail bars, and live music venues line streets like Allen Street and Delaware Avenue, giving the neighborhood an energy that carries well into the evening. On weekends, the area becomes a destination for people across the region looking to enjoy Buffalo’s dining and entertainment scene.

Despite its nightlife reputation, the neighborhood still maintains a strong residential core, with many longtime residents calling the area home.

Neighborhoods by Lifestyle

While each Buffalo neighborhood has its own personality, certain areas stand out for particular lifestyles.

Walkable Neighborhoods

Elmwood Village
Allentown
Downtown Buffalo

Family-Oriented Areas

North Buffalo
Parkside
West Hertel

Historic Architecture

Allentown
Hamlin Park
Parkside

Living in Allentown

Living in Allentown means being close to the center of Buffalo’s cultural life.

Residents often find themselves within walking distance of restaurants, music venues, galleries, and local cafés. Downtown Buffalo is only minutes away, making the neighborhood appealing for professionals who want easy access to the city’s business district while still living in a neighborhood with personality.

The area’s historic homes, walkability, and artistic identity continue to attract a mix of longtime residents, young professionals, and creative entrepreneurs.

For many people moving to Buffalo, Allentown offers something unique—a neighborhood where history, culture, and community all meet on the same block.

Explore More Buffalo Neighborhoods

Continue discovering the communities that shape the Queen City.

Elmwood Village
North Buffalo
Hertel Avenue
Downtown Buffalo

Or return to the full guide to Buffalo Neighborhoods.

Abbott McKinley
Broadway-Fillmore
Downtown Buffalo
First Ward
Grider
Kenfield
Fillmore-Leroy
West Hertel
North Park
Cold Springs
West Side
Hamlin Park Historic District

Kensington-Bailey
Lovejoy
MLK Park
Schiller Park
Seneca Babcock
Cazenovia Park
Columbus
Genesee Moselle
Kaisertown
Lakeview
Masten Park
North Delaware