The venue was originally known as the Lyric Theatre and premiered as a Vaudeville house in 1899.
It underwent a major $15 million restoration in the 1990s to become the Miller Symphony Hall.
The hall is renowned for its acoustics, which were refined during its conversion from a cinema back to a concert space.
It serves as a permanent residency for the Allentown Symphony Orchestra, which was founded in 1951.
The architecture incorporates a blend of turn-of-the-century aesthetic elements with modern functional requirements for touring stage productions.
Miller Symphony Hall serves as the primary performing arts venue in Allentown, Pennsylvania, occupying a building that dates back to 1899. Originally constructed as the Lyric Theatre, it underwent significant renovations in the 1990s to restore its historic character and enhance acoustics. The venue is the home of the Allentown Symphony Orchestra and hosts a diverse calendar including ballet, opera, and popular music concerts. The interior features a proscenium stage and seating tiers designed to maintain an intimate connection between performers and the audience. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its significance in the architectural and cultural history of the Lehigh Valley.
The restored historic marquee and the grand entryway staircase inside the main lobby.
Arrive early to explore the restored lobby architecture and historic displays.
Check the venue website for specific prohibited item policies before attending, as bag sizes are often restricted.
Consider parking in the nearby municipal garages early, as street parking in downtown Allentown fills rapidly during performance nights.
Do not wait until the last minute to find parking, as street congestion is high near the 6th Street corridor during events.
Operates primarily during the concert season from autumn through spring; summer schedules are intermittent and often feature community events or private rentals.
Business casual to formal attire is standard for symphony performances; silence electronic devices during all shows.
