Places to visit in Altoona, PA.
Whether you are planning to visit Altoona, Pennsylvania, for a weekend getaway or looking for things to do while staying in Altoona, you will find many things to enjoy during your stay in the area. You can enjoy the world-famous Horseshoe Curve, Lakemont Park, DelGrosso’s Amusement Park, and Laguna Splash Water.
Lakemont Park
Located just off Interstate 99 at the Frankstown Road exit, Lakemont Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is an amusement park with over 30 rides and attractions. It also features an Island Waterpark. It is one of the oldest theme parks in the United States.
Lakemont Park first opened as a trolley park in 1894. The park added a wooden roller coaster in 1902. It also had a miniature golf course. A roller skating rink, a mini zoo, and various other attractions made it a popular spot for locals and visitors. The park closed in 1986 and opened again in 1999.
The park has two roller coasters: a side traction coaster and a junior coaster. There are also several other rides and attractions, including a waterpark and a miniature train.
World Famous Horseshoe Curve
Located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the World Famous Horseshoe Curve is one of the most famous railroad landmarks in the world. It was once one of the seven modern civil wonders of the world, but it is no longer on that list. However, it remains a popular tourist destination.
In the 1850s, a group of Irish immigrants built a rail line to carry freight from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. J. Edgar Thomson, the chief engineer for the Pennsylvania Railroad, designed the line. The line was built using horses and hand tools, and it took a team of over 450 workers three years to complete the project.
The main line expanded to three tracks in 1898 and four in 1900. As a result, Horseshoe Curve is the most significant curve globally.
DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash Water
Located near Altoona, DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash Water Park are family fun attractions worth visiting. The amusement park offers a wide range of rides for all ages. The park is open from noon until 8 pm. The water park is open on weekends only.
DelGrosso’s Amusement Park has more than 30 rides. These include roller coasters, family rides, and kiddie rides. The park offers free parking. In addition, the park has an all-day fun pass that allows visitors to go as many times as they want.
The water park features five slides on two towers. In addition, there is a wave pool and a lazy river. It also features a playground pool. You can also rent a cabana. A cabana has a refrigerator and seats up to six people.
Baker Mansion History Museum
Located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the Baker Mansion History Museum is the home of the Blair County Historical Society. The Society operates a historic mansion that dates back to the mid-nineteenth century. It is a three-story dressed stone building in the Greek Revival style.
The building’s building’s comprised of six fluted Ionic order columns. The capital of each column is cast iron, with the lower third of each column being brick parged with Johnstown cement.
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The interior of the building has been rehabilitated with help from local matching funds. The basement contains exhibits on Blair County history. In addition, there is a WWII room. The organization has also contributed historical pieces from Blair County, including the wedding dress of the rival family.
The Baker Mansion History Museum is open to the public, with tours available by appointment. Times are approximately one hour long. Tours depart from a small building near the rear of the property. Groups of 15 or more should schedule a time at least a week in advance.
Quaint Corner Children’s Museum & Discovery Center
Located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the Quaint Corner Children’s Museum & Discovery Center is an impressive three-story exhibit space that provides hands-on entertainment and learning opportunities. Several exhibits are on display, including the Artifact Dig, which focuses on local history. The Great Sand Room is also a fun learning experience. This room features a miniature theater, a building room, and toys to dig in.
The Quaint Corner Children’s Museum & Discovery Center is a must-visit for families looking for fun and learning. Their unique three-story exhibit space includes artifacts from the past, as well as exhibits promoting family values. The aforementioned small-town-meets-big-city ambiance is complemented by interactive play, entertainment, and a private party room accommodating up to 18 children.
Best Things to Do in Altoona Pennsylvania
Places to visit in Altoona, PA:
- Lakemont Park
- World Famous Horseshoe Curve
- DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash Water
- Baker Mansion History Museum
- Quaint Corner Children’s Museum Discovery Center