World Famous Horseshoe Curve
World Famous Horseshoe Curve things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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The World Famous Horseshoe Curve, located near Altoona, Pennsylvania, is a marvel of railroad engineering and a popular tourist attraction. Here's a review covering its history, significance, and visitor experience: ### Historical Significance - **Engineering Feat:** Completed in 1854 by the Pennsylvania Railroad, the Horseshoe Curve was a significant engineering achievement designed to conquer the steep terrain of the Allegheny Mountains. - **Strategic Importance:** During World War II, the Curve was so vital to the transportation of troops and materials that it was heavily guarded against potential sabotage. ### Visitor Experience - **Scenic Views:** The Curve offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for photography and nature appreciation. - **Visitor Center:** The onsite museum and visitor center provide informative exhibits about the history and construction of the Curve, as well as the broader history of railroading in the region. - **Observation Deck:** An observation area allows visitors to watch trains navigate the Curve, offering a close-up look at the power and engineering of modern rail transport. ### Accessibility - **Inclined Plane:** A funicular (inclined plane) takes visitors from the parking area to the observation deck, making the site accessible for people of all ages and abilities. - **Amenities:** The visitor center is equipped with restrooms, a gift shop, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable visit. ### Educational Value - **Exhibits:** Detailed exhibits explain the construction and operation of the Curve, the evolution of railroading technology, and the site's historical context. - **Guided Tours:** Occasionally, guided tours are available, providing deeper insights into the history and engineering of the Curve. ### Overall Impression The Horseshoe Curve is not just a railroad landmark but a piece of American history. It's a must-visit for train enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in engineering. The combination of scenic beauty, educational resources, and historical significance makes it a unique and memorable destination.
Rafael ZRafael Z
00
Hopefully is soon as you arrive at The Visitor Center you will hear the cry of train horns coming down to the mountain. If you're lucky enough to catch this from the ground level it will only be but a taste of what's ahead. There is a small visitor center with bathrooms and then a larger attached Museum which is also your entry point for the inclined plane to ride up to the top of the horseshoe curve. You can also take the staircase but it is a fairly good walk up the side of the mountain. The museum does an excellent job of educating on the history of the curve and of the area. the ride in the inclined plane was smooth and only took about 2 minutes to get up to the top. Once on top of the hill you have access to tracks as well as a sweeping Vista of the surrounding area including the entry and exit points of the horseshoe curve. Plan on spending a few hours here if you are a real train fan. Seeing trains wrap themselves from one side of the mountain around you to the other side non-stop is simply amazing and a site that you can't find pretty much anywhere else in the world. On top of the hill there is also a diesel engine on display. Bring your cameras, bring some refreshments, and have a blast.
Drew KingDrew King
00
Arrived here in the middle of the day. The place was closed. After missing the Amtrak and a few freights a lady came to open the gate late. She charged us money to access the top and said we need to pay but are not guaranteed to see a train…..? Ok, Amtrak runs 42 and 43 daily, why are you not open for them to pass only for freight then you charge visitors and don’t give a guarantee to see anything? That’s theft of money in my opinion. There is an incline here and apprarantly isn’t not working (for years) now. Rude lady tells us we just have to make due with what we have. Responding to the owners reply; the website specifies that the admission is discounted for the inoperable funicular and that is all. It also specified that due to that other railfan locations are available nearby for those unable to climb the stairs. Nowhere does it specify that you pay admission to access the park without guarantee of seeing a train pass. Verbally informing guests is not the proper way to run a business. A disclaimer needs to be written on the website and posted by admission desk.
Queens OrionQueens Orion
00
This was on the "bucket list" of things to do and we finally made it. It lives up to it's hype. We were on the way home so we couldn't stay long and visit the museums. You need to park in the lot that is along the road and go through the ticket/gift shop to reach the site. After paying our $5.00 each, we used the bathrooms and then climbed the many, many steps. (There is no bathroom at the top, so use the one at the base of the steps.) We didn't count but certainly over a 100. The little inclined railroad was not in operation so at the moment, this site is not ADA friendly. After reaching the top, you are in a rather large area that offers views of the valley and the railroad. It is a grand view. A train had been passing when we climbed up so we waited for a bit for the next. There is no announcements about upcoming trains, so you sit until one shows up, and as this is the main line, you don't wait long. We got lucky to see trains passing. Fun place, and be sure to wave at the Virtual Railfan camera!
Michael RileyMichael Riley
00
Interesting museum and viewing place, but don’t expect to SEE the complete horseshoe curve. A bit of a disappointment. Forest growth obstructs the train/track view by some 60%. In the museum a display addresses the liberties taken throughout history on portraying the curve, mostly by postcard artists. Many, many steps to climb to get to viewing area on a hill. No water fountain or bathrooms at viewing area. Some shade and benches at the top. Bathrooms at lower level museum. Snack area type cafe here. Gift shop. The viewing area hill incline motorized cart device was not running during my July 2023 visit. They broadcast live train radio traffic at the viewing area, much of it scratchy. Fee under $10 to enter. Limited hours, check website. Parking is free. Place could use a facelift. I was more amazed by the water reservoirs going up the side of the mountain that I saw driving up, one pouring into the other. 💦
Craigster GriffinCraigster Griffin
00
We decided to stop on a whim while out for a drive on a beautiful Saturday. I hadn't been here since I was a child and they've definitely updated and expanded the experience since then. The inclined plane runs every 30 minutes, but we decided not to wait and climbed the 194 stairs. At least that's how many we were told there were. I didn't count them. I was too busy praying my legs wouldn't give out, though there are landing areas to rest if you choose - but we heard a train about half way up and I wasn't missing that sucker. Lol We got lucky and climbed to the top just in time to watch three trains maneuver the curve in 30 minutes. Beautiful spot to take some panoramic photos of the gorgeous PA mountains as well.
Stephanie CondonStephanie Condon
00
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
2400 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Altoona, PA 16601
Map
Phone
(814) 946-0834
Call
Website
railroadcity.org
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Reviews
Overview
4.6
(897 reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
The Horseshoe Curve is a three-track railroad curve on Norfolk Southern Railway's Pittsburgh Line in Blair County, Pennsylvania. The curve is roughly 2,375 feet long and 1,300 feet in diameter.
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