Introduction to Altoona, Pennsylvania
Altoona, Pennsylvania, in Blair county, is 84 miles E of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It's located in the Allegheny Mountains. Altoona developed around the railroad industry and was one of the nations most important rail facilities. Altoona's industries have experienced a severe decline and it's regarded as a rust belt city. A lot of the older districts include a mix of individual houses and row homes.
The Downtown is regarded as the commercial and cultural center. It has a large number of sites included in the National Registry of Historic Places. The municipality is a primary center for the Norfolk Southern Railroad's Pittsburgh Line. A vast number of trains travel through on a daily basis.
Altoona History
The city was established in 1849 by the Pennsylvania Railroad. The Railroad's Altoona Works complex had a vast number of buildings and became a major employer. The Pennsylvania Railroad constructed a large number of its own locomotives at the complex. The city experienced substantial growth due to the demand of locomotives during the Civil War. After World War II ended the railroad industry significantly declined.
Altoona Attractions
- Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament features baroque architecture.
- Altoona Symphony Orchestra.
- Gables Building.
- Horseshoe Curve is a well known curved portion of railroad track and is a popular tourist attraction.
- Leap the Dips, is one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world.
- Mishler Theatre.
- Jaffa Mosque.
- Penn Alto Building.
- City Hall.
- The Railroaders Memorial Museum is a popular destination.
- Hollidaysburg National Historic District.
- Baker Mansion Museum is a Greek Revival type mansion.
- Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Altoona.
- Altoona Community Theatre.
Altoona Activities
The Del Grosso's Amusement Park and the Lakemont Amusement Park are popular with families. The nearby Canoe Creek State Park includes a forest area, a lake filled with a variety of fish and it's popular with bird watchers. Trough Creek State Park offers natural and geologic beauty and features hiking trails.
Warriors Path State Park is filled with wildlife and is used for boating, fishing and hiking. The scenic southern Allegheny Mountains attract a large number of visitors. The Blue Knob Ski Resort is enjoyed by skiing enthusiasts. The nearby Chimney Rocks Park includes trails and picnic areas. The Oak Spring Winery is popular with tourists.
Altoona Transportation
The Altoona-Blair County Airport provides air travel.
Altoona Higher Education
The Pennsylvania State University, Ivyside Park campus is located in the city.