About Altoona
Altoona, Pennsylvania, has a rich industrial history in the railroad industry. Once a central hub for the Pennsylvania Railroad, Altoona is nestled in the Allegheny Mountains and has grown into a vibrant community that blends its historical significance with modern development. Renowned for its hospitable ambiance and robust community spirit, the city presents a distinctive fusion of history, customs, and scenic beauty. Both tourists and locals will find it a welcoming location to call home.
Top 6 Unique Attractions to Explore in Altoona
Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Altoona
1. Peoples Natural Gas Field – Stadium
Peoples Natural Gas Field is a minor league baseball stadium in Altoona, Pennsylvania. It is home to the Altoona Curve, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Double-A affiliate. The stadium opened in 1999 and attracted many visitors and baseball enthusiasts because of its cozy, family-friendly ambiance.
Location:
Peoples Natural Gas Field is conveniently located at 1000 Park Avenue, Altoona, PA, near the base of the famous Horseshoe Curve and just off Interstate 99, providing easy access for both locals and tourists.
Key Attractions:
- Altoona Curve Games: The stadium hosts regular season games for the Altoona Curve, offering affordable and exciting Minor League Baseball experiences.
- Scenic Views: The backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains and Horseshoe Curve makes for a picturesque setting during games, especially at sunset.
- Fun Zone: A dedicated family-friendly area with games and activities for kids, ensuring entertainment beyond the baseball action.
Things to Do:
- Watch a Game: Enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of a live Altoona Curve baseball game, with seats offering close-up views of the action.
- Concessions & Local Eats: The stadium offers a variety of food options, including classic ballpark fare and locally inspired dishes like BBQ and soft pretzels.
- Theme Nights and Fireworks: Peoples Natural Gas Field regularly hosts theme nights, giveaways, and post-game fireworks, making each visit unique.
2. Baker Mansion – Historical Place Museum
Baker Mansion is a historic house museum located in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Built-in the 1840s, this grand Greek Revival-style mansion was once the home of the prominent Baker family, who were heavily involved in the region’s iron industry. Today, the mansion serves as a museum operated by the Blair County Historical Society, preserving local history and showcasing life in 19th-century Altoona.
Location:
The Baker Mansion is at 3419 Oak Lane, Altoona, PA, conveniently close to downtown.
Key Attractions:
- Historic Architecture: The mansion is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture, with imposing columns and intricate interior details that reflect the wealth and status of the Baker family.
- Period Furnishings: Many rooms are restored with original furnishings and decor from the 1800s, giving visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy industrial family.
- Exhibits on Local History: Various exhibits throughout the mansion focus on the history of Altoona, the Baker family, and the region’s iron and railroad industries.
Things to Do:
- Conducted Tours: Take a guided tour to learn more about the residence’s architectural style, the Baker family, and the impact of the iron industry on Altoona’s development.
- Special Exhibits: The museum frequently arranges events and special exhibits that delve into many facets of the area’s history and culture.
- Seasonal Events: Participate in historical reenactments, Christmas tours, and other community-focused programs.
3. SK814 Action Sports Park – Skate Park
SK814 Action Sports Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is a popular destination for action sports enthusiasts. It offers a well-designed space for skateboarding, BMX riding, scootering, and rollerblading. With various ramps, rails, and obstacles, this park caters to beginners and experienced riders, providing a safe and exciting environment for practicing and showing off tricks.
Location:
SK814 Action Sports Park is located at 2400 Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, Pennsylvania, close to the Lakemont Park area.
Key Attractions:
- Skateboard and BMX Park: This place is great for riders and skaters of all ability levels, with well-designed quarter pipes, ledges, rails, and ramps.
- Street Course: The street course includes stairs, handrails, and boxes, offering a more urban-style experience for skateboarders and BMX riders.
- Beginner’s Area: The park has a beginner-friendly area with fewer obstacles and smoother surfaces, specifically designed for individuals new to action sports.
Things to Do:
- BMX Riding: Test your BMX skills on the challenging courses featuring jumps and pipes for advanced riders.
- Scootering and Rollerblading: The park is open to scooters and rollerbladers, offering various features to accommodate different action sports.
- Take a Lesson: Beginners can sign up for skateboarding or BMX lessons to improve 4. their skills and learn new techniques.
4. Railroad City Brewing Company – Brewery
Railroad City Brewing Company is a famous craft brewery in Altoona, Pennsylvania. It is known for its locally brewed beers that pay homage to the city’s rich railroad history. The brewery offers a variety of handcrafted ales and lagers, making it a go-to spot for beer enthusiasts looking to enjoy unique, flavorful brews in a relaxed setting.
Location:
Railroad City Brewing Company is at 1415 11th Avenue, Altoona, Pennsylvania, in the heart of downtown Altoona.
Key Attractions:
- Craft Beer assortment: The brewery brews its craft beers on-site using premium ingredients, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal specialties.
- Railroad-Themed Brews: Many beers have names and themes inspired by Altoona’s railroad heritage, adding a local touch to the tasting experience.
- Taproom Experience: The cozy taproom provides a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy a pint or try a flight of various brews.
Things to Do:
- Beer Tasting: Sample the brewery’s diverse range of beers by ordering a flight or enjoying a pint of your favorite brew.
- Brewery Tours: Take a guided tour of Railroad City Brewing to learn about the brewing process and the brewery’s history.
- Food Trucks and Pop-ups: Enjoy delicious bites from local food trucks and pop-up vendors that regularly serve at the brewery, pairing perfectly with the craft beers on tap.
5. Reighard’s Gold Star Service Station – Petrol Pump
Reighard’s Gold Star Service Station in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is a historic gem known as the oldest continuously operating gas station in the United States. This iconic petrol pump has been a staple in the community, showcasing the charm of early American automotive culture. Visitors can experience its vintage allure while filling up their tanks at this beloved local landmark.
Location:
Reighard’s Gold Star Service Station is at 3205 6th Avenue, Altoona, Pennsylvania, along with a busy thoroughfare.
Key Attractions:
- Historic Gas Pumps: The station features vintage gas pumps that hark back to the early days of the automobile, offering a glimpse into how fueling stations operated in the past.
- Authentic Service Station Feel: With its classic architecture and signage, Reighard retains the charm of a traditional service station, providing an authentic experience of old-school American roadside culture.
- Interactive Tours: Guests can learn about the station’s history and significance in developing gas stations nationwide through guided tours.
Things to Do:
- Fuel Up at a Historic Station: Experience the novelty of filling up your tank at the oldest operating gas station in the U.S., blending history with everyday life.
- Photograph the Vintage Setting: Capture the nostalgic charm of the station’s retro look, complete with vintage pumps and classic signage, perfect for history buffs and photography enthusiasts.
- Shop for Souvenirs: Pick up memorabilia and merchandise, such as branded hats, shirts, or historical photos, as a keepsake of your visit to this iconic site.
6. Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art – Art Museum
Displaying local and national art is the mission of the dynamic Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA) in Altoona, Pennsylvania. The museum promotes a strong appreciation for the visual arts in the community by providing a platform for established and up-and-coming artists through its varied collection, which encompasses a wide range of artistic mediums and genres.
Location:
The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is at 1210 11th Avenue, Altoona, Pennsylvania, accessible from the city’s main thoroughfares.
Key Attractions:
- Art Collections: SAMA features a wide array of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, with a focus on both contemporary and historical pieces. The museum’s collection highlights local artists and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Southern Alleghenies region.
- Changing Exhibitions: The museum hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight specific artists, themes, or historical periods, ensuring that visitors can enjoy new and exciting displays with each visit.
- Educational Programs: SAMA provides academic programs and seminars to individuals of all ages to engage the community and encourage a greater understanding of art.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Galleries: Wander through the museum’s galleries to admire the diverse range of artworks and discover the stories behind each piece.
- Attend Special Events: Participate in museum events such as gallery talks, artist receptions, and cultural celebrations that bring art to life and encourage community engagement.
- Participate in Workshops and seminars: Learn new techniques and produce artwork by enrolling in art workshops and seminars appropriate for all ability levels.
Culinary Delights
Here are some culinary delights to savor in Altoona, Pennsylvania:
- Cheesesteaks: Altoona is home to some of the best cheesesteaks anywhere. Local shops typically prepare them with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a fresh hoagie bun, often offering a unique take on this classic dish.
- Pierogies: With a significant Eastern European influence, pierogies filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat are a beloved dish in Altoona. Local diners and restaurants serve them, often pairing them with sour cream and onions.
- Scrapple: A regional specialty, scrapple combines pork scraps and cornmeal, which are seasoned and formed into a loaf. Cooks typically slice it and fry it until crispy, making it a hearty breakfast item or a unique addition to a sandwich.
- Pizza: Altoona offers a variety of pizzerias, serving everything from traditional Italian-style pizza to unique local creations. Be sure to try the famous Altoona-style pizza with its distinctive thick crust and generous toppings.
- Hoagies and Subs: Local delis and sandwich shops serve up fresh hoagies and subs filled with an assortment of meats, cheeses, and toppings, making for a satisfying meal on the go.
- Burgers: Altoona is home to several eateries that serve gourmet burgers featuring a variety of toppings and styles. Whether you prefer classic cheeseburgers or more adventurous combinations, there’s something for everyone.
- Local Breweries: Enjoy a pint of craft beer from one of Altoona’s local breweries. Pair your drink with delicious pub fare like wings, nachos, and artisanal pizzas.
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