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Altoona

Altoona, Iowa, United States

Altoona, Iowa, located in the United States, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, entertainment, and outdoor adventures. One of the main attractions in Altoona is Adventureland Park, a beloved amuse…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Altoona.

Top Hotels in Altoona

Top Flights to Altoona

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Altoona.

Tours

Prairie Meadows Casino

A casino and horse racing venue offering exciting games, live events, and dining options.

Altoona History Museum

Explore the local history of Altoona through fascinating exhibits and collections.

Shopping

Outlets of Des Moines

Shop for great deals at various retail outlets offering well-known brands.

Outdoor

Altoona Adventureland

A premier amusement park featuring thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment suitable for families and thrill-seekers.

Yellow Banks Park

A serene park offering trails, picnic spots, and camping, ideal for nature lovers.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Altoona.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

19,000

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Altoona

Jan

1°-7°

Feb

3°-6°

Mar

8°-3°

Apr

15°3°

May

21°8°

Jun

26°13°

Jul

28°16°

Aug

27°15°

Sep

23°11°

Oct

17°5°

Nov

10°0°

Dec

4°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Altoona.

What people love

Altoona, Iowa, offers a variety of attractions and benefits for travelers. Here are some of the pros of visiting Altoona:

Adventureland Resort: Altoona is home to Adventureland, one of Iowa's largest amusement parks, featuring over 100 rides, shows, and attractions, making it a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.
Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, & Hotel: This venue offers a combination of live horse racing, casino gaming, and entertainment, providing a variety of activities for adults looking to enjoy a night out.
Shopping and Dining: Altoona has a range of shopping options, including the Outlets of Des Moines, which feature a variety of brand-name stores. There are also numerous dining options, from local eateries to well-known chains.
Proximity to Des Moines: Altoona is a short drive from Des Moines, the capital of Iowa. This proximity allows visitors to easily explore the attractions and amenities of a larger city, including cultural events, museums, and parks, while enjoying the smaller-town charm of Altoona.
Outdoor Activities: The area offers several parks and recreational areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Community Events: Altoona hosts various community events throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to experience local culture and festivities.
Family-Friendly Environment: The community is known for being welcoming and safe, making it an ideal location for families traveling with children.

These features make Altoona a convenient and enjoyable destination for a variety of travelers.

What to know

Altoona, Iowa, is a small city located in the United States. While Altoona has many positive aspects, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to this area:

Limited tourist attractions: Altoona is a smaller city, so it may not offer as many tourist attractions or activities compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of entertainment options may find Altoona to be lacking in this regard.
Limited dining options: As a smaller city, Altoona may have a more limited selection of restaurants and dining options compared to larger cities. Visitors who enjoy exploring different cuisines and dining experiences may find the choices in Altoona to be somewhat limited.
Transportation challenges: Altoona is not a major transportation hub, so getting around the area may require a car or reliance on limited public transportation options. Visitors who prefer to travel using public transportation or who do not have access to a car may find it challenging to explore the city and its surroundings.
Weather considerations: Iowa weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers. Visitors traveling to Altoona should be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if planning outdoor activities or sightseeing.
Limited nightlife options: Due to its smaller size, Altoona may not offer as vibrant nightlife options compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a lively nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and entertainment venues may find Altoona to be quieter in the evenings.

Overall, while Altoona has its charms and attractions, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

Altoona, Iowa, is a city located in Polk County and is part of the Des Moines metropolitan area. Its history is tied closely to the development of railroads and the expansion of the Des Moines area.

Founding and Early History: Altoona was officially incorporated on March 11, 1876. The city was named after Altoona, Pennsylvania, which was a significant railroad town. The name was chosen because the founders hoped Altoona, Iowa, would become a major railroad hub. The city's location was strategic, as it was situated along the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad lines, which provided significant growth opportunities.

Growth and Development: In its early years, Altoona's economy was largely based on agriculture, with many of its residents working on farms or in businesses that supported local agriculture. As the city grew, it began to develop a more diverse economy.

Notable Historical Events:

Adventureland Amusement Park: One of the major landmarks in Altoona is Adventureland Park, which opened in 1974. It is one of Iowa's largest amusement parks and has been a significant driver of tourism and economic growth in the area.
Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino: Opened in 1989, Prairie Meadows has played a crucial role in the local economy. It started as a horse racing track and later expanded to include a casino. The revenues from Prairie Meadows have helped fund various community projects and developments.

Significant Figures:

While Altoona does not have widely recognized historical figures on a national scale, many local leaders and business people have contributed to its growth and development through the years.

Landmarks and Attractions:

Adventureland Park: As mentioned, this amusement park is a significant attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of rides and entertainment options.
Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino: Besides being an economic engine, it also hosts various events and entertainment options.
Outlets of Des Moines: Opened in 2017, this shopping center offers a variety of retail options and has been part of Altoona's recent economic development.

Recent Developments: In recent years, Altoona has experienced significant growth due to its proximity to Des Moines. It has become a desirable location for families and businesses, contributing to ongoing residential and commercial development.

Overall, Altoona's history is marked by its evolution from a small railroad town to a vibrant suburb of Des Moines, supported by entertainment, retail, and a strong sense of community.