Altoona, Pennsylvania: Where Railroad Heritage Meets Family Adventure

Set in the scenic heart of central Pennsylvania, Altoona is a city where industrial innovation, proud blue-collar tradition, and small-town hospitality converge. Once the epicenter of American railroad engineering, Altoona today is a vibrant destination, blending rich history with cultural attractions, outdoor fun, delicious regional cuisine, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re drawn by the famed Horseshoe Curve, a classic amusement park, or the lively restaurant scene, Altoona offers a uniquely Pennsylvanian experience.

A Brief History of Altoona

Altoona owes its rise to the ambitions of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, which founded the city in 1849. The area’s proximity to the Allegheny Mountains made it strategically ideal as a railroad base and maintenance hub. The city’s name likely comes from the Cherokee word for “high lands of great worth,” although its origins are still debated. Construction of the Horseshoe Curve in 1854 was a marvel of railroad ingenuity, enabling trains to traverse the steep Allegheny Ridge. The curve—now a National Historic Landmark—became the symbol of Altoona and a linchpin of U.S. transportation.

As the city expanded, Altoona attracted immigrants and skilled workers to power its booming rail yards, machine shops, and related industries. By the late 19th century, Altoona’s population soared, supported by the demand for rail cars during the Civil War and the construction of east-west rail connections. Today, even as rail’s dominance has faded, Altoona’s historic legacy, industrial spirit, and sense of community endure.

Top Attractions and Landmarks

Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
2400 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Altoona, PA 16601
(814) 946-0834
No visit to Altoona is complete without seeing the Horseshoe Curve. Opened in 1854, this engineering marvel features sweeping mountain views and is beloved by train enthusiasts and families. Enjoy the museum, informative exhibits, gift shop, and an observation deck to watch trains wind their way around the curve. Learn more at Horseshoe Curve.

Railroaders Memorial Museum
1200 9th Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
(814) 946-0834
Located downtown, this museum celebrates the men and women who built and maintained the nation’s railroads. With interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and extensive collections, it’s a testament to Altoona’s railroad legacy. Info at Railroaders Museum.

Baker Mansion
3419 Oak Ln, Altoona, PA 16602
(814) 942-3916
Operated by the Blair County Historical Society, this Greek Revival mansion was once the home of ironmaster Elias Baker. Today, it’s a museum with tours of period rooms, local history exhibits, and special events. Plan your visit at Baker Mansion.

Lakemont Park & Island Waterpark
700 Park Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
(814) 949-7275
This classic amusement park features rides, mini-golf, paddle boats, go-karts, a waterpark, and the Leap-The-Dips—the world’s oldest operating wooden roller coaster (built in 1902). Seasonal events make Lakemont a perfect spot for all ages. Details at Lakemont Park.

Peoples Natural Gas Field
1000 Park Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
(814) 943-5400
Home of the Altoona Curve, Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Enjoy Minor League Baseball games with family activities, affordable eats, and mountain vistas. More at Altoona Curve Baseball.

Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art – Altoona
1210 11th Ave, Altoona, PA 16601
(814) 946-4464
Rotating exhibits highlight American, regional, and contemporary art, plus workshops and family programming. See SAMA Altoona.

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament
One Cathedral Square, Altoona, PA 16601
(814) 944-4603
A stunning Roman Catholic cathedral featuring a soaring dome, intricate stonework, and breathtaking stained glass. Find information and visiting hours at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

Fort Roberdeau
383 Fort Roberdeau Rd, Altoona, PA 16601
(814) 946-0048
Also called The Lead Mine Fort, Fort Roberdeau dates to the American Revolution and offers living history demonstrations, interpretive programs, trails, and picnic spots. Learn more at Fort Roberdeau.

Dining: Popular Restaurants & Eateries

From classic pubs to family-owned Italian gems, Altoona’s dining scene covers every craving:

• Al’s Tavern
  2831 8th Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 944-9633
  “Not Just Another Corner Bar”—lively local spot for award-winning wings, homemade pizza, steak sandwiches, and craft beers. Al’s Tavern.
• The Allegro Restaurant
  3926 Broad Ave, Altoona, PA 16601
  (814) 946-5216
  Beloved for its Italian fine dining, Allegro offers steak, seafood, pasta, and wine in an elegant yet casual setting. The Allegro.
• Finelli’s Italian Villa
  1808 4th Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 943-8510
  Definitely a local favorite for Italian classics and seafood in a villa-style backdrop.
• Aoy Thai Restaurant
  3303 6th Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 201-2240
  Outstanding Thai flavors with a cozy ambiance that keeps locals coming back.
• The Athenian Cafe
  217 Union Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 943-1171
  Greek specialties—gyros, spanakopita, and more—in a cheerful, family-friendly space.
• Tim’s American Cafe
  1600 Crawford Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 949-5843
  Hearty breakfasts, classic American sandwiches, and daily specials, perfect for families.
• Altoona Gourmet Buffet
  520 W Plank Rd, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 941-1888
  Large buffet with a range of Chinese, Asian, and American dishes.

Explore additional restaurants on Tripadvisor: Altoona Restaurants.

Shopping: Malls & Local Retail

• Logan Valley Mall
  5580 Goods Lane, Altoona, PA 16602
  (814) 944-8200
  The region’s largest shopping destination, Logan Valley Mall features 50+ stores like JCPenney, Old Navy, H&M, Bath & Body Works, and several dining options. Logan Valley Mall.
• Historic Downtown Altoona
  9th Ave & 12th St, Altoona, PA 16601
  Boutique shops, cafes, antique stores, and bakeries dot the revitalized historic core—perfect for a stroll.
• Antique Marketplaces & Local Shops
  Explore Altoona’s mom-and-pop stores, bookshops, and antiques throughout the city and neighboring Hollidaysburg.

Relaxation & Family-Friendly Places

• Lakemont Park & Island Waterpark (see above)
  Amusement rides, water park features, putt-putt, and the historic Leap-The-Dips roller coaster.
• Juniata Memorial Park and Pool
  8th St & 15th Ave, Altoona, PA 16601
  Favorite community space with pool, sports fields, and picnic areas.
• Valley View Park
  3900 5th Ave, Altoona, PA 16602
  Walking trails, summer concerts at the amphitheater, playgrounds, and wide-open green space.
• Prospect Pool Altoona
  Park Ave and 17th St, Altoona, PA 16601
  (814) 946-3717
  Family-friendly swimming pool open seasonally, swim lessons, and community events. Prospect Pool.
• DelGrosso’s Park
  4352 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Tipton, PA 16684 (15 min from Altoona)
  (814) 684-3538
  Amusement park and waterpark—pay-per-ride or day passes, Italian food, and summer events. DelGrosso’s Park.
• Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
  110 Federal Park Rd, Gallitzin, PA 16641
  (814) 886-6150
  Take a short drive to this National Park Service site, which recounts the history of crossing the Alleghenies by rail in the 19th century. Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS.
• Boyer Candy Factory Outlet
  821 17th St, Altoona, PA 16601
  (814) 684-5800
  Sample famous Mallo Cups and buy local candy for a sweet end to any visit.

Altoona is a city where the past and present blend—old rail lines now border vibrant parks, historic mansions host new exhibits, and laughter fills the seats of classic ballparks and roller coasters. Savor Italian flavors at a decades-old eatery, take in sweeping mountain views at Horseshoe Curve, or bring the whole family to Lakemont Park and Island Waterpark for timeless fun. Altoona’s genuine hospitality, resilient spirit, and proud traditions will capture every visitor’s heart.

In every season, Altoona offers adventure—hiking trails cut through the Allegheny foothills, winter brings cozy cafés, and springtime revives historic town squares with festivals and community events. For travelers, families, rail buffs, or regional explorers planning their path through Pennsylvania, myphillyconnection.com is an essential resource with tips, guides, and curated local recommendations.

No matter how many times you visit, Altoona’s story—from its railroad roots to its vibrant present—delivers something new to discover and a fresh reason to return.