2021-12-09 13:37:08
Why You’ll Love It 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 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. GET IDEAS » Ways to Explore 1 Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, Centre Hall Glide along an underground river on a guided boat tour to marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and water-sculpted rock formations. Then, tour the wildlife preserve above ground to see foxes, wolves, mountain lion, and deer. 2 Raystown Lake Recreation Area, Hesston As the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania, this 8,300-acre reservoir offers an abundance of beaches, boating, and fishing spots, as well as hiking and biking trails. 3 Rockhill Trolley Museum, Rockhill Furnace Take a peek at historic trolley cars dating back to the turn of the 20th century at this museum, and then hop aboard a restored electric trolley for a ride through the scenic countryside. 4 Penn State Berkey Creamery, State College This dairy research and outreach program at Penn State dates back to 1865 and has deliciousness down to a science—literally. The result? Perfectly crafted ice cream and frozen treats in more than 70 flavors. 5 Johnstown Flood Museum, Johnstown In 1889, a catastrophic flood swept through the city of Johnstown. Explore exhibits and artifacts to learn about this tragic moment in the area’s history, as well as the town’s recovery and evolution. 6 DelGrosso’s Park & Laguna Splash, Tipton From thrill rides to kiddie rides, family friendly fun abounds at this amusement park and Italian-themed water park. After a day of play, fill up on authentic Italian specialties made from family recipes. 7 The Railroaders Memorial Museum & Horseshoe Curve, Altoona Explore three floors of comprehensive railroading exhibits, and then ride the funicular for panoramic views of Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark, an engineering railroad marvel featuring a 220-degree curve. 8 Lincoln Caverns & Whisper Rocks, Huntingdon See massive flowstones, glittering crystals, delicate stalactites, and soaring cave ceilings. On select nights, book a special blacklight tour to experience these natural wonders in all their phosphorescent glory. 9 Central Pennsylvania Tasting Trail, Various Locations Experience selections from 12 unique craft beverage makers throughout Happy Valley. From craft breweries and wineries to distilleries and cideries, discover some of Pennsylvania’s best local beverages. 10 Allegrippis Trails, Hesston Pedal one of the best mountain biking trail systems in the nation. With 36 miles of single-track trails among a 24-trail system, riders will have endless combinations for new routes of varying difficulty. 11 old Bedford Village, Bedford Explore 36 period workshops and cabins in this historical reenactment to learn about Bedford’s history. From horse-and-buggy rides to snacks at the Village Tavern, experience the everyday life of 18th- and 19th-century Bedford at this living history museum. 12 Rock Run Recreation Area, Patton With 140 miles of trails, this is the perfect spot for ATVs, dirt biking, and off-highway vehicle adventures. Make a weekend out of your visit at one of 350 primitive campsites and explore the Allegheny Mountains. 13 Boal Mansion Museum & Columbus Chapel, Boalsburg Home to the Boal family for more than 200 years, the mansion features original furnishings, tools, and portraits. The centuries-old chapel, which was inherited through a family connection to Christopher Columbus and imported from Spain in 1909, features European art, Columbus’s Admiral’s Desk, and two pieces of the True Cross of Jesus.
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