Top Places to See When Driving from Altoona, Pennsylvania to Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a state that is widely known for its breathtaking landscapes, interesting history, and amazing cities. A journey from Altoona to Kutztown is a perfect opportunity to explore and discover the hidden treasures of Pennsylvania. This drive is approximately 150 miles long and takes around 2.5 hours without any stops along the way. However, there are plenty of places to stop and explore. Here are some of the best places you can check out if you are driving from Altoona to Kutztown!

The Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

The Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is located just 20 miles north of Altoona. It offers a historic look back to the time when wagons were used to transport goods between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. This railroad is also significant as it was the first railroad in America that used a series of inclined planes to transport goods up and over the Allegheny Mountains. You can still see the remains of the historic railroad and learn about the unique engineering feats that made it possible.

Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark

Another must-see attraction that is located a few minutes away from Altoona is the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark. This is an incredible engineering achievement that dates back to the 19th century when the Pennsylvania Railroad used it to transport goods over the mountains. The name "Horseshoe Curve" was derived from the shape of the curve, which resembles that of a horseshoe. You can take a hiking trail to the top of the mountain to get a fantastic view of the valley below.

Historic Gettysburg

If you are interested in history, then you should not miss the chance to visit Historic Gettysburg. Located about 76 miles away from Altoona, this small town played a central role during the American Civil War. It was the site of one of the deadliest battles, the Battle of Gettysburg. Today, tourists can visit the town and see the Civil War-era buildings that have been preserved. There is also a Gettysburg National Cemetery, which is the final resting place for thousands of soldiers who fought in the Civil War.

Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens is known for its stunning horticultural displays and breathtaking landscapes. It is located about 100 miles southeast of Altoona, in the town of Kennett Square. The garden covers over 1,000 acres and has everything from formal gardens to lush meadows and treehouses. It also has a variety of fountains, reflecting pools, and waterfalls that provide a tranquil environment to relax and rejuvenate.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a non-profit nature reserve that is located about 35 miles northwest of Kutztown. It is a paradise for bird-watching enthusiasts as it attracts migrating birds of prey such as eagles, hawks, and falcons. The reserve has over 8 miles of hiking trails that offer fantastic views of the Appalachian Mountains and beautiful scenery. Visitors can also take a guided tour and learn more about the wildlife that lives in the reserve.

Crystal Cave

Crystal Cave is a breathtaking natural wonder that is located about 10 miles from Kutztown. This cave was formed over millions of years by water and minerals that created unique formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and learn about its geology and history. The tour lasts around 45 minutes, and there is also a visitor center nearby that provides more information about the cave.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania is a state that is full of hidden treasures and breathtaking scenery. The journey from Altoona to Kutztown is a perfect opportunity to explore and discover some of these hidden gems. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or simply want to relax and unwind, there is something for everyone along this route. So, if you have the chance to take this trip, don't miss it!