Central Pennsylvania
Altoona, Pennsylvania
City
A railroad city at the base of the Alleghenies
Altoona is a city in Blair County at the eastern base of the Allegheny Front, about 45 miles south of State College. Built by the Pennsylvania Railroad, it retains the nation's oldest continuously operating railroad shops at the Altoona Works and a dense grid of 19th-century neighborhoods.
History & Local Character
Founded in 1849 as a railroad town, Altoona grew rapidly as the Pennsylvania Railroad's main repair and construction center. The Horseshoe Curve, completed in 1854, remains a engineering landmark west of the city.
Housing & Real Estate
Altoona offers rowhouses, twins and older singles at some of the lowest prices in central Pennsylvania, with newer homes on the surrounding hills.
Restaurants & Shopping
Downtown and the Pleasant Valley corridor host diners, pizzerias and family restaurants, with several longstanding local businesses.
Schools & Education
Altoona Area School District serves the city, and Penn State Altoona and the Altoona campus of the AMED health system are nearby.
Parks & Recreation
Lakemont Park, the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site and the Horseshoe Curve provide recreation and history.
Transportation & Accessibility
I-99, Route 22 and Route 220 serve Altoona, and Amtrak's Pennsylvanian stops at the historic station.
Local Businesses
Rail and manufacturing suppliers, healthcare providers and downtown retailers make up the local economy.
Nearby Attractions
- Horseshoe Curve
- Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
- Lakemont Park
- Railroaders Memorial Museum
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Very affordable housing
- Amtrak service
- Rich railroad heritage
- Access to Allegheny outdoor recreation
Considerations
- Population decline and vacant properties
- Limited retail options
- Hilly terrain and winter weather
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Altoona known for?
Altoona is known for its Pennsylvania Railroad heritage, the Altoona Works shops and the nearby Horseshoe Curve.
Does Amtrak serve Altoona?
Yes. Amtrak's Pennsylvanian stops at Altoona station on its route between Pittsburgh and New York.