2020-01-07 05:15:14
The Allegheny Mountains take center stage in this historic region. The summits — and the towns between them — offer a feast for your senses, from the baritone whistle of trains chugging along historic railroads to the crunch of autumn leaves as you hike a wooded trail. Glimpse the past as you stroll by gingerbread Victorians, relax in historic hotels, or uncover precious antiques. Whether you’re seeking an easy bike ride along old rail trails, a lazy float down the Juniata River, or a peek into American history, the Alleghenies are here to welcome you. HIGHLIGHTS RAYSTOWN LAKE, HUNTINGDON COUNTY As the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, this 8,300-acre reservoir offers an abundance of beaches and fishing spots, along with trails and picnic areas. DELGROSSO’S AMUSEMENT PARK & LAGUNA SPLASH, TIPTON From thrill rides to kiddie rides, familyfriendly fun abounds on more than 30 rides at this amusement park, and the Italian-themed waterpark is the perfect place to cool off. RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM, ALTOONA With three floors of exhibits — everything from a life-sized locomotive replica to model trains to displays about the lives of railroad workers — this comprehensive museum is a must for train enthusiasts. JOHNSTOWN FLOOD MUSEUM, JOHNSTOWN Chronicling the history of the tragic 1889 Johnstown Flood, this history museum offers a glimpse into the shocking disaster, as well as what life was like in the late 19th century. OLD BEDFORD VILLAGE, BEDFORD This open-air, living history museum features costumed interpreters demonstrating Colonial crafts amid a village comprised of log cabins, covered wagons, and wooded surroundings. ROCK RUN RECREATION AREA, PATTON Guide your dirt bike, ATV, or OHV along 140 miles of scenic trails across Cambria and Clearfield counties, and be sure to take a break to see sweeping views of the Allegheny Mountains. DISCOVERY SPACE OF CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA, STATE COLLEGE This kid-friendly museum brings science to life with more than 45 hands-on activities, such as digging for dinosaur bones and exploring the science of roller coasters. SEEK SMALL-TOWN TREASURES From outdoor attractions and gorgeous scenery to surprising cultural landmarks, the Alleghenies are full of hidden treasures awaiting your discovery. Ride the Johnstown Inclined Plane for awe-inspiring views aboard one of the world’s steepest funiculars. Residents rode the incline to safety during the city’s devastating 1936 and 1977 floods. Watch from a scenic overlook as trains navigate the giant U-shape of Altoona’s Horseshoe Curve, a 2,375-foot-long engineering marvel designed to help trains up the steep mountain grade. Time-travel at Boalsburg’s Boal Mansion, showcasing the home’s original 1809 furnishings and a collection of weapons spanning centuries. The Columbus Chapel includes Christopher Columbus’s desk along with fine European art dating back to the 14th century. Want to get moving? The Allegrippis Trails in Hesston offers 24 different trails spanning 36 miles of scenic terrain, with something for diehard snowshoeing enthusiasts, experienced bikers, and novice hikers alike. Housed in the former Tulip Bottling Company factory, Johnstown’s Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center celebrates residents’ heritage with rotating art exhibits by national and international artists and classes ranging from painting to belly dancing. Immerse yourself in nature at Trough Creek State Park in James Creek, a gorge carved through Terrace Mountain by the Trough Creek. Fish, camp, or hike through the Park’s 541 scenic acres to view splendors including Balanced Rock and Rainbow Falls. At the family-owned Juniata Valley Winery in Mifflin, taste a variety of wines made in the farmlands of central Pennsylvania, and then stay overnight at the onsite Wilson House Bed & Breakfast, a stately 19th-century home. At the Belleville Farmers’ Market and Livestock Auction in Belleville, you can see livestock bought and sold, pick up farm-fresh eggs and produce, and browse the sprawling flea market to hunt for unexpected treasures. > STROLL MORE THAN 36 PERIOD WORKSHOPS AND LOG CABINS.
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