Directly across the street from Church of the Ascension is the northern boundary of the Allentown Historic Preservation District. This district was established in 1978 and in 1980 was added to the National Registry of Historic Places. Allentown is one of the first and largest residential historic districts in the United States. The neighborhood traces its roots to the late 1820′s. Currently, the Allentown area is home to both commercial and residential areas and is considered an urban neighborhood that mixes high society with the bohemian. It is home to many restaurants and bars, antique shops, clothing shops, businesses and residential areas. Allentown is also home to the Allentown Art Festival, one of the largest outdoor art festivals in the country. To find out more about Allentown visit the website of the Allentown Association.