Founded by the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1849, Altoona is a picturesque city in the Alleghany Mountains. It was here that trains crossing the mountains would be switched with heavier duty locomotives, with the name “Altoona” thought to come from a Cherokee word meaning "high lands of great worth."
Things to do in Altoona
Occupying a Greek Revival-style building that dates back to the 1840s is the Baker Mansion History Museum, which was originally built for the ironmaster Elias Baker. It has undergone an extensive restoration to appear as it did in the mid-19th century, with antique furnishings and period homewares on display. In several of the rooms are exhibits about the people and industries that have shaped Blair County.
Travelling with kids? Head to Lakemont Park, which is home to the oldest surviving roller coaster in the world, the 1902-built “Leap-The-Dips”. This family-friendly destination originally opened in 1894 as a trolley park and now lies adjacent to a 7,210-seat baseball stadium where the Altoona Curve plays. In addition to its go-karts, paddle boats and miniature golf courses, Lakemont Park boasts a water park with a pirate-themed playground.
Train enthusiasts can visit the Railroaders Memorial Museum, which details the life of railroad communities in central Pennsylvania. It houses exhibits within the 1882-built Master Mechanics Building and operates a museum and observation area at the Horseshoe Curve. Now designated as a National Historic Landmark, this three-track railroad curve is considered a feat of engineering.
Getting around Altoona
Altoona is around two hours’ drive from Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Amtrak trains connect to the Altoona railway station and buses travel throughout the city, connecting most of its attractions.