Altoona

Altoona, PA
Region: The Alleghenies

To rail fans, Altoona is paradise. The Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark is an engineering marvel; a three-track railroad curve designed to lessen the grade of the summit to the Allegheny Mountains. The Railroaders National Museum, with three floors of exhibits and interactive displays, includes a rail yard with actual rolling stock and special exhibits for kids. A gallery of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art features train and nature photography. The area features plenty of lodging, shopping, and outdoor fun for tourists.