Secrets revealed
Elizabeth Licata
It doesn’t take more than a stroll through Allentown to see why it’s Buffalo’s most cherished (and most photographed) neighborhood: from wonderful restaurants, bars, and shops to stunning historical properties and individual homes bursting with character, all amid trees and gardens in every direction, Allentown is the perfect blend of Buffalo old and new. Yet even the area’s regulars and residents may occasionally take their lovely setting for granted. Secrets of Allentown is the perfect opportunity to glimpse several rarely toured buildings and private homes, and learn the history behind the neighborhood’s finest architectural and cultural treasures.
This popular tour gives guests the chance to view the interior of at least ten historical structures, five of which are new to the list this year. It all begins at the Twentieth Century Club (595 Delaware), where guests can pick up a tour booklet and purchase tickets if they have not already done so. Guests can also sign up for a guided tour of the Twentieth Century Club itself and experience one of the highlight “secrets”; the E.B. Green-designed space has just received National Landmark status. It’s rarely open to the public, so be sure to add it to your Allentown experience.
The tour visits properties on Park, Franklin, North Pearl, and St. John’s; for the first time in Secrets history, a West Village residence in Johnson Park will be included. Tour booklets will include essays by Christopher Brown on each property for guests’ enjoyment. After the tour, a free wine tasting will be offered at the Hamlin House on Franklin. I highly recommend topping off the evening with a dinner at one of the neighborhood’s several excellent spots: many participating restaurants are offering discounts to Secrets attendees.
For those with family or friends visiting for the weekend; those with an interest in local history and architecture; and anyone who enjoys a beautiful space and a great story, this renowned tour is not to be missed.
Tickets for Secrets can be purchased through Tickets.com, at the Quaker Bonnet at 175 Allen, and through the Allentown.org website. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event.
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