Some cities experience a golden era, fade into the background, and never return to their former glory. However, other cities with rich histories make a remarkable comeback and thrive once again. Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a perfect example of the latter, and some of the best neighborhoods in Allentown include gated 55+ communities that offer vibrant, active lifestyles for retirees and active adults alike.
In the 1850s and 1860s, Allentown was one of the country’s largest iron producers. Then, the industry collapsed in the 1870s. The economy rebounded in the early 20th century, only to decline again after World War II. However, things turned around in 2009, when tax reforms and Neighborhood Improvement Zone legislation sparked a major revitalization. The city now boasts a new Riverfront district, the PPL Center arena, and over $1 billion in new development.
Allentown offers a wealth of indoor and outdoor attractions, including the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, Coca-Cola Park, and world-class dining at places like Grille 3501. The extensive park system, highlighted by Lehigh Canal Park and Cedar Creek Parkway, has seen significant upgrades. Also, health care is top-notch with networks like Lehigh Valley Health and St. Luke’s.
With its revitalization, Allentown has become a magnet for homebuyers, including active adults. Whether you’re looking within the city or its suburbs, Allentown real estate offers some fantastic options, including these top gated communities.
The Fields at Indian Creek – Emmaus, PA
Low $400ks – Mid $500ks
Located just five miles south of Allentown, The Fields at Indian Creek is a lovely retirement community set on 79 acres. Upon completion by Kay Builders, it has 218 single-family homes and a modern clubhouse with superb amenities. There are 11 floor plans ranging from 1,493 to 2,332 square feet. They offer one to three bedrooms, two baths, and attached two-car garages. These tasteful homes include elegant master bathrooms and gourmet kitchens.
The expansive grounds here include pickleball and bocce courts, walking and biking trails, and natural space, including ponds and a fishing lake. The community clubhouse has an outdoor pool and patio, a multipurpose room, and a modern fitness center.
The Fields is just minutes from Downtown Emmaus, which has a Weis Markets, restaurants, liquor stores, and convenience stores. There are also two outdoor recreation areas: Emmaus Community Park (great for the grandkids) and Rodale Cycling and Fitness Park.
Willow Green – Northampton, PA
Low $300ks – Mid $400ks
Willow Green is an established 55+ neighborhood of 188 attached and single-family homes built from 2004 to 2007. They have two or three bedrooms, two baths, and attached two-car garages. Upgrades may include screened porches, gourmet kitchens, and hardwood floors. The single-family homes offer two or three bedrooms and bathrooms, luxurious master suites, sunrooms or patios, and attached two-car garages.
An added benefit of living at Willow Green is its resort-style clubhouse. It features an indoor spa and fitness center, a computer center, a great room and bar, activity rooms, an outdoor pool, and shuffleboard and bocce courts. Willow Green is about six miles from Allentown, and it’s a neighbor to the historic Willow Green Golf Course. It’s also a stone’s throw away from the Lehigh River, which offers trails, wildlife, and boating.
Four Seasons at Farmington – Macungie Township, PA
Mid $400ks – Mid $600ks
Hovnanian excels at building upscale active adult neighborhoods, and Four Seasons at Farmington is no exception. Completed in 2009, this active adult community has 256 single-family homes with three floor plans. They feature two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. Upgrades may include hardwood floors, the granite countertops, and vaulted ceilings.
Four Seasons has its own 6-hole golf course as well as a beautiful clubhouse. Residents can enjoy the exercise room, outdoor pool, and patio; play tennis and bocce; or socialize in the multipurpose room. Pet lovers can head over to nearby Macungie Dog Park. Ancient Oak West Recreation Area is also just minutes away.
Regency at Creekside Meadows – Bath, PA
Low $500ks – High $600ks
This Toll Brothers-built 55+ community offers attached and single-family homes about five miles from Bethlehem and 10 miles from Allentown. There are three attached Carriages Collection models and six Villas Collection single-family models. These appealing homes range from 1,630 to 1,880 square feet. They offer two to five bedrooms, two to four baths, and attached two- or three-car garages. Features may include full basements, 10-foot ceilings, and spacious first-floor master bedrooms.
Regency has a private clubhouse, complete with an outdoor pool, pickleball, and bocce. Inside, you can find a modern fitness center, lounge areas, and activity rooms. There’s also a putting green for residents to practice. And speaking of golf, the Bethlehem Golf Club is only five miles away. Other nearby attractions include Lehigh Valley Mall and Amore Vineyards & Winery.
Running errands is easy for residents, given Bath’s well-poised location near several grocery stores, pharmacies, coffee shops, and restaurants. For a night out, it’s simple to drive over to Bethlehem to try your luck at the Wind Creek Casino Resort or see a show in Allentown at the Pines Dinner Theater.
