Things To Do
in Altoona
Altoona is a city located in the state of Pennsylvania in the United States. It is known for its rich history, particularly in the railroad industry. The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking trails and parks.
Altoona has a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum to learn about the city's rich rail history. Explore the exhibits and take in the stunning artifacts showcasing the railroads' impact on the region.
Head over to Lakemont Park for rides and attractions. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local diners before trying out the amusement rides.
Wind down with a stroll through downtown Altoona. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and experience some live music or community events if available.
Drive to the nearby Canoe Creek State Park for a morning hike. Enjoy the serene lake views and the beautiful natural surroundings.
Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon relaxing by the water or exploring more trails. Make sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife.
Return to Altoona and savor a casual dinner at a local pizzeria. Unwind by watching the sunset at a nearby overlook.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents
- Access to outdoor recreational activities, including parks and trails
- Rich history and cultural sites, including museums and historical landmarks
- Growing job opportunities in healthcare and education sectors
- Limited access to big city amenities and entertainment options
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures
- Some areas may experience economic decline or lack of investment
- Public transportation options are limited
- Youth outmigration due to lack of job opportunities for younger generations
Best Activities in Altoona
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and stunning views at Chimney Rock, a popular hiking destination in Altoona.
Spend a relaxing day fishing at Lake Altoona, known for its variety of fish and serene surroundings.
Take a cycling trip along the historic Horseshoe Curve, offering picturesque views and a unique biking experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Altoona with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Altoona
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
Features scenic overlooks and hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Allegheny Mountains.
Boasts picturesque lakes and woodlands, making it a great location for capturing natural beauty.
Food in Altoona
Altoona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These Polish dumplings, stuffed with savory fillings like cheese, potatoes, and onions, are a local favorite. Don't miss trying them at Mike's Court in downtown Altoona.
Must-Try!
This traditional dish features seasoned mashed potatoes or bread stuffing, often served as a flavorful side. Sample this dish at Allegheny Creamery & Crepes for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Altoona better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This annual event is a smorgasbord of flavors, featuring a wide variety of food trucks offering everything from BBQ and tacos to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Check the city's event calendar for dates.
For fresh produce and artisanal food products, head to Altoona's Farmers Market, where you can find locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Altoona, it is important to maintain a respectful distance from others, especially when first meeting someone or engaging in casual conversation.
When dining in Altoona, it is customary to use good table manners, such as placing napkins on laps, chewing with mouths closed, and using utensils appropriately.
It is expected to greet others with a friendly smile and handshake, and to engage in polite conversation while respecting differing opinions and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Altoona with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Altoona
Ensure a smooth experience
In Altoona, tipping is common in the service industry, including restaurants, bars, hotels, and taxis. The standard tip for good service at a restaurant is around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also customary for services such as hairdressing, valet parking, and tour guides.
Payments in Altoona are primarily made using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and transactions, especially in areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Altoona.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Altoona, with temperatures warming up and nature coming to life. The city is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and blooming flowers during this season.
Summer in Altoona brings warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy events and festivals, as well as explore the city's parks and outdoor recreational areas.
Fall is a popular time to visit Altoona, with the stunning foliage creating a picturesque landscape. The city also celebrates the season with various fall festivals and events.
Winter in Altoona can be cold, but the city offers winter sports and activities, as well as holiday events and celebrations. Visitors can also enjoy the festive atmosphere and decorations.
Altoona at Night
Hiking in Altoona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature with moderate difficulty, perfect for families and casual hikers.
A challenging trail that climbs steeply up Brush Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Altoona area. Ideal for experienced hikers.
Features several trails with varying difficulty levels, including picturesque waterfalls, rock formations, and picnic areas.
Offers a network of trails around a stunning lake, great for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying various water activities.
A family-friendly trail that connects to an amusement park, offering a blend of hiking and recreational fun.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Altoona through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Altoona by plane.
Located approximately 90 miles west of Altoona, it serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 130 miles southeast of Altoona, BWI is a large international airport serving the Baltimore and Washington D.C. metropolitan areas.
Located around 200 miles east of Altoona, PHL is one of the main airports serving the Philadelphia area, offering numerous international flights.
Approximately 160 miles south of Altoona, Dulles International Airport is a major gateway to the U.S. capital and offers extensive international service.
Located about 120 miles northwest of Altoona, this airport serves the Cleveland area and offers various international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white individuals representing the largest demographic group in Altoona.
A significant minority group in Altoona, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Includes individuals of various backgrounds, with a growing population in the region.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
Individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting increasing diversity.
A minor demographic group in Altoona, representing Native American heritage and communities.
Includes individuals who identify outside of the conventional categories, contributing to the demographic mix.
The Soul of Altoona
Discover the essence of Altoona through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Altoona, with a strong local high school tradition and support from the community.
Baseball has a rich history and is played at various levels, including youth leagues and high school competitions.
Basketball is widely played in Altoona, with many schools having competitive teams and leagues for all ages.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, especially among youth, with numerous leagues and club teams in the area.
Ice hockey is popular in Altoona, with several local teams and ice rinks available for practice and games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altoona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Altoona offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including fresh salads, plant-based burgers, and innovative vegetable-based entrees. Check out Voodoo Brewery for their vegan-friendly options and creative brews.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore gluten-free offerings at restaurants like Tazza D'Oro, which provides a dedicated gluten-free menu featuring pasta, pizzas, and desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Altoona with these cultural adventures.
