Altoona Travel Guide

Planning your Altoona itinerary? Look no further than our comprehensive guide, which covers everything from natural attractions to transportation options.


Introduction to Altoona

Located in the Alleghenies and Susquehanna Valley region of Pennsylvania, Altoona is a historic and picturesque city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions or taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding area, Altoona is a great destination for travelers of all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Altoona

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Railroaders Memorial Museum – Dedicated to the history of the railroad industry in Pennsylvania, this museum features exhibits on locomotives, rail workers, and the importance of railways to the state’s economy.
  • Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark – A must-visit for train enthusiasts, this landmark features a picturesque curve on the Norfolk Southern Railway and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Penn State Altoona Downtown – This campus of Penn State University offers a range of cultural events, including art exhibitions, live music, and theater performances.

Natural Attractions of Altoona: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Allegrippis Trails – Located near Raystown Lake, these trails are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Canoe Creek State Park – With a sparkling lake, wooded trails, and an abundance of wildlife, this park is a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon.
  • Penn State Arboretum – This beautiful arboretum is home to a stunning display of trees, shrubs, and flowers, making it a peaceful place to take a stroll and enjoy nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Altoona

  • The Altoona Heritage Discovery Trail – This scenic trail runs for 2.3 miles and takes visitors on a journey through the city’s history, with stops at several historic sites and landmarks.
  • The Lower Trail – This 16-mile trail takes riders through the Allegheny Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Allegrippis Trails – As mentioned above, these trails are a must-visit for anyone interested in biking or hiking.

Best Things to Do in Altoona: Activities and Tours

  • Ghost Town Trail – This former railway line has been converted into a scenic trail that takes visitors through forests and past abandoned mining towns.
  • The Altoona Curve baseball game – Catch a game at this Minor League Baseball park, named after the famous Horseshoe Curve.
  • Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park Tour – Just a short drive from Altoona, this tour offers visitors the opportunity to see beautiful underground caves and a variety of wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Altoona

Day Activity
1 Tour the Railroaders Memorial Museum
2 Hike the Lower Trail
3 Visit the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
4 Take a leisurely stroll through the Penn State Arboretum
5 Visit Penn State Altoona Downtown for a cultural event
6 Explore Canoe Creek State Park
7 Catch an Altoona Curve baseball game

Food and Drink Scene of Altoona

Must-Try Dishes

  • Haluski – A hearty traditional dish made with cabbage, noodles, and bacon
  • Pierogies – Delicious Polish dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese
  • Kolaches – Sweet pastries filled with fruit or cream

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer – Established in 1829, this is America’s oldest brewery.
  • Mountain Lion Espresso – A local coffee shop that offers freshly brewed coffee and a variety of espresso drinks.

Where to Stay in Altoona: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Blairmont Bed and Breakfast – A charming bed and breakfast located in an historic mansion.
  • The Courtyard Altoona by Marriott – A modern hotel in downtown Altoona with a fitness center and pool.
  • The Altoona Grand Hotel – A classic hotel in downtown Altoona that has been recently renovated.

What to Buy in Altoona: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Peanut Butter Fudge – A delicious local treat that makes for a great souvenir.
  • Railroad Memorabilia – Items such as antique rail spikes and souvenir keychains can be found at the Railroaders Memorial Museum gift shop.
  • Penn State Merchandise – Show your support for the Nittany Lions with a t-shirt or cap from this iconic university.

Local Culture and Customs of Altoona

Altoona is a friendly and welcoming city, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions. When visiting cultural attractions or historic sites, be sure to read the provided information and follow any rules or restrictions.

Best Time to Visit Altoona

The best time to visit Altoona is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and pleasant, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, if you’re interested in seeing the fall foliage or taking advantage of winter sports, consider visiting in the fall or winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Altoona

Do:

  • Visit the Railroaders Memorial Museum and Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark.
  • Try the local cuisine, including haluski and pierogies.
  • Take a bike ride on the Lower Trail or Allegrippis Trails.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Leave without trying Penn State ice cream (made on campus!).
  • Leave litter in any of the parks or hiking trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Altoona

Altoona is a safe and secure city, but visitors should take basic precautions such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Altoona

Altoona has several hospitals and medical facilities to take care of any emergency health needs. Visitors are advised to have appropriate travel insurance in place before traveling to Altoona.

Getting to Altoona: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Altoona

  • Blair County Airport (AOO)
  • Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
  • Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Bus Stations Near Altoona

  • Greyhound Station
  • Megabus Station

Other Options

  • Driving – Altoona can be easily accessed by car via Interstate 99.
  • Train – Amtrak offers daily train service to nearby Johnstown.

How to Get Around in Altoona

Altoona is a small city that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. However, if you need to travel further afield, there are several taxi companies and car rental options available.

Where to Go Next from Altoona: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Johnstown – Located just 30 miles from Altoona, Johnstown is a great destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Raystown Lake – This beautiful lake is just a short drive from Altoona and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
  • Gettysburg National Military Park – History buffs will love this famous Civil War site, which is just a few hours’ drive from Altoona.

Conclusion

Altoona is a hidden gem in the heart of Pennsylvania, with plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. From its rich railroad history to its beautiful outdoor spaces, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip to Altoona and make the most of your time in this unique and fascinating destination.

Altoona Downtown from 5th Ward Altoona Downtown from 5th Ward