10 Fun Things To Do Near Altoona, Pennsylvania (Blair County Travel Guide)
If you’re looking for a laid-back getaway in central Pennsylvania,
Altoona in Blair County is a great place to start. This historic railroad town sits in the Allegheny Mountains and offers a mix of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and family-friendly attractions.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Pennsylvania, visiting Penn State country, or planning a long weekend from Pittsburgh, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Altoona, PA.
1. Stand Above the Tracks at the Famous Horseshoe Curve
The
Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark is the big one. If you only do one thing in Altoona, make it this.
Built in the 1850s, this massive curve in the railroad line helped trains cross the Allegheny Mountains. Today, it’s still active, so you can watch long freight and Amtrak trains grind their way around the bend.
- Ride the funicular or walk up about three stories of steps to the viewing area.
- Pack a simple picnic and sit on the lawn while trains pass below.
- Check out the small museum to learn how they carved this route into the mountain by hand.
If you love trains, you’ll be in heaven. If you don’t love trains yet, you might change your mind after standing just a few yards above a roaring locomotive.
Travel tip: Trains don’t follow a strict schedule here, so plan to stay at least an hour to catch one.
2. Ride Coasters and Cool Off at Lakemont Park
Right in Altoona,
Lakemont Park is a classic local amusement park that feels a bit like stepping back in time.
The star is the
Leap-The-Dips, the world’s oldest operating wooden roller coaster, first built in 1902. It’s not the biggest coaster you’ll ever ride, but the history makes it special.
The park also offers:
- Family and kiddie rides
- Mini golf and go-karts (in some seasons)
- A small water area to cool off in summer
It’s a relaxed, budget-friendly spot, perfect for families with younger kids or anyone who likes old-school amusement park vibes rather than huge crowds and long lines.
Travel tip: Hours can vary by season, so double-check before you go, especially in spring and fall.
3. Explore Railroading History at the Railroaders Memorial Museum
Altoona was once one of the most important railroad towns in America, and the
Railroaders Memorial Museum tells that story in a very down-to-earth way.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Full-size locomotives and train cars
- Hands-on exhibits about railroad jobs and equipment
- Displays about the everyday life of workers and their families
What makes this museum special is that it’s not just about machines. It’s about people. You’ll see how railroading shaped Altoona, from its neighborhoods to its sports teams.
If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll enjoy climbing around some of the equipment and seeing just how massive a locomotive really is.
4. Hike, Bike, or Paddle at Canoe Creek State Park
About 15 minutes southeast of Altoona,
Canoe Creek State Park is a peaceful escape when you want some fresh air and quiet.
The park features:
- A 155-acre lake where you can rent boats, fish, or just sit and enjoy the view
- Miles of easy-to-moderate hiking trails through woods and fields
- A shallow swimming area with a nearby sand beach (in season)
One nice surprise here is the wildlife. On a calm day, you might spot turtles sunning themselves on logs, great blue herons in the shallows, or a few deer passing through.
Travel tip: Bring water shoes or old sneakers if you plan to wade near the shore, as the bottom can be a little rocky in places.
5. Step Inside the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament
Even if you’re not usually into church architecture, the
Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in downtown Altoona is worth a quick visit.
This large stone cathedral has:
- A beautiful dome you can spot from around the city
- Colorful stained-glass windows and detailed interior artwork
- A peaceful, quiet atmosphere that offers a break from the day
If you like photography, you’ll appreciate the light streaming through the windows in the late afternoon. It’s also a nice stop if you’re walking around downtown checking out local shops and cafes.
6. Watch a Game at Peoples Natural Gas Field
Love baseball? Head to
Peoples Natural Gas Field, home of the Altoona Curve, a Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Minor league games here are:
- Affordable — tickets, snacks, and drinks won’t break the bank.
- Family-friendly with lots of fun between-inning activities.
- Set against a pretty backdrop, with the hills rising behind the outfield.
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, a summer evening at the ballpark is a classic American experience. Grab a hot dog, cheer with the locals, and enjoy the sunset over the mountains.
Travel tip: Check the promo schedule — there are often fireworks nights, bobblehead giveaways, and theme nights that add a little extra fun.
7. Drive the Scenic Route Through the Allegheny Mountains
One of the most underrated things to do near Altoona is simply
go for a drive. Blair County and the surrounding area are packed with winding mountain roads, sweeping views, and little roadside surprises.
A few ideas:
- Take Route 36 south toward Hollidaysburg and Roaring Spring for rolling farmland and small-town charm.
- Head up into the Allegheny Mountains for scenic overlooks and pull-offs.
- Visit in October for peak fall colors — the hills light up with reds, oranges, and golds.
If you’re used to flat highways, these mountain curves will be a fun change of pace. Just give yourself extra time, especially if you tend to pull over for every photo opportunity.
8. Wander Through Historic Hollidaysburg
Just a short drive from Altoona,
Hollidaysburg is the Blair County seat and has a cozy, historic downtown that feels a bit like a movie set.
Here you can:
- Stroll tree-lined streets with 1800s architecture.
- Pop into local boutiques, antique shops, and small cafes.
- Walk along the canal-era sites and learn about the town’s transportation history.
If you enjoy slow mornings, Hollidaysburg is perfect for a relaxed breakfast, a cup of coffee, and a gentle walk. It pairs nicely with an afternoon at Canoe Creek State Park.
9. Visit Fort Roberdeau for a Glimpse of Colonial History
History buffs should add
Fort Roberdeau to their Altoona itinerary. Located in rural Blair County, it’s a reconstructed Revolutionary War fort set in wide-open countryside.
What you’ll find:
- Timber fort walls and blockhouses you can walk through.
- Guided or self-guided tours explaining how colonists defended local lead mines.
- Special events and reenactments on select weekends.
It’s not a huge site, but it’s very hands-on and personal. Kids can easily imagine what life was like on the frontier, and adults will appreciate how this quiet valley once played a bigger role in the war effort.
Travel tip: Combine a visit here with a drive through the backroads of Blair County for a full “country day” away from the city.
10. Taste Local Flavor at Altoona’s Diners, Breweries, and Coffee Shops
Sometimes the best “things to do” in Altoona, PA aren’t attractions at all — they’re the places you sit, eat, and soak up the local flavor.
Around Altoona and Blair County, you’ll find:
- Classic diners serving big breakfasts, scrapple, and strong coffee.
- Local breweries pouring craft beers with creative names tied to railroads and mountains.
- Independent coffee shops where students, workers, and travelers all share the same tables.
If you enjoy discovering small-town food scenes, take time to ask locals where they like to eat. In towns like Altoona, those casual conversations usually lead to the best hidden gems.
Planning Your Trip to Altoona, Pennsylvania
To make the most of your visit to Altoona and Blair County:
- How long to stay: A weekend works, but 3–4 days lets you see more parks and small towns.
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall. Summer is great for ballgames and lakes. Fall is amazing for foliage drives.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Attractions are spread out across the county.
Altoona isn’t a flashy destination, and that’s part of its charm. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, learn some history, watch a game, and enjoy the mountains without big crowds or big-city prices.
What Would You Do First in Altoona?
Would you start with the
Horseshoe Curve, catch an Altoona Curve game, or head straight for
Canoe Creek State Park?
If you’ve been to Altoona or anywhere in Blair County,
share your favorite spots in the comments. Your tips can help other travelers plan their own trip.
And if you found this Altoona travel guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who loves discovering underrated Pennsylvania towns. The more we talk about places like Altoona, the more they get the appreciation they deserve.
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