In my job as a travel writer, you never really know what kind of places you are going to visit. If you are lucky, they send an invite via email and ask if you would like to come to their destination. Other times I am heading out to a press trip and want to stop on my way. When we travel South for instance I find breaking up the long trip helps us all from getting cabin fever. The past few years we have been stopping in Altoona, PA on our way to and from both Florida or Hershy, PA. Because of this we have developed a great relationship with the area, one I look forward to growing each year we visit. If you are looking for a great getaway, family vacation spot or just a place to pass through, I would recommend this area highly!
Hope you enjoy our favorite things to do when in Altoona, PA this Summer:
1. My first suggestion is bring your family to the Delgrossos Amusement Park! I think I have mentioned it a zillions times BUT trust me it’s worth a TRIP!!They have one of the best water parks and it is affordably priced including FREE parking. We literally have made this a yearly Summer MUST DO. The park opens at 11 am but I would recommend getting there a few minutes early to get a locker. If you want my FULL review head over here.
2. Lakemont Park. They also have free parking and a less crowded atmosphere. Some of our favorite things to do were the Go-carts (smiles all around), riding on the “Lake Monsters” via their pond and miniature golf courses.
3. We were introduced to Tilt Studios this year and I have to say, WOW! This is one of the best mall arcades (located in Logan Valley Mall) we have had the pleasure of visiting. They have a bowling alley, laser tag, black light mini golf, arcade games and claw machines. The rates are so affordable and it doesn’t take much to win prizes!
4. Lincoln Caverns and Whispering Rocks. I have driven past the billboard signs for this place since I was a kid. Each time wondering what magnificent formations lay under the ground there. It’s not just a bunch of formations, although they are pretty spectacular, it’s also a great learning adventure. We learned all about flow stone crystals, stalagmites and stalactites!
5. Take a hike at Chiminey Rocks in Holidaysburg. I recommend the easier route, if you bring along kids, to reach the over town view.
They also have a nice little play area and picnic tables.
6. Canal Basin Park has several replicas of canal lock mechanisms. Perfect for those of you that home school and want to learn more about the history of the area!
7. Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum. The museum is not extremely large but it does have three floors to explore. They also have a gift shop and garage where you can see them working on these fascinating engines. During Summer hours they also have festivals and events outdoors!
8. The HorseShoe Curve located in Altoona PA has been in operation since around 1854. It was built with the idea that trains could get over the Allegheny Mountains at a gliding incline.
Enjoy my FULL review here.
9. The play area in the Canal Basin Park is great for little kids. Our home town lacks these wooden structures so it’s nice to visit fun themed one’s while on vacation.
This area might seem so small in comparison to it’s larger surrounding territories but offers so much. Whether you are just passing through or need a good place to relax and recharge there is something here for everyone!
Have you ever been to Altoona, PA??
What places would you recommend while visiting??
Don't forget Quaint Corner Children's Museum!