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Altoona, PA
Take your students on an exciting educational adventure to Altoona, PA with Benedict’s Bus Service! Rich in railroad history and surrounded by the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, Altoona offers a variety of attractions that combine learning, exploration, and fun. Visit the Railroaders Memorial Museum to discover the important role Altoona played in the development of American railroading. Students can explore the Horseshoe Curve, an impressive engineering landmark where they can watch trains navigate one of the country’s most famous railroad curves. For a hands-on experience, the Altoona Area Historical Society and nearby historic sites provide opportunities to learn more about the region’s past. Schools can also enjoy outdoor recreation and scenic views at places such as Lakemont Park, home to the historic Leap-the-Dips roller coaster. With opportunities for history, science, engineering, and recreation, Altoona makes a memorable destination for a student field trip. Let Benedict’s Bus Service handle the transportation so teachers and students can focus on learning, exploring, and enjoying the day.
Altoona, PA Attractions
Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
A tour to the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark offers a fascinating look at the engineering and railroad history that helped shape Pennsylvania and the nation. Students can ride the funicular to the overlook and watch trains navigate the famous 2,375-foot-long curve while learning how the railroad overcame the Allegheny Mountains. The experience combines history, engineering, and breathtaking views for an educational and memorable field trip.
Railroaders Memorial Museum
A student tour to the Railroaders Memorial Museum in Altoona, PA, brings the history of the railroad industry to life through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and historic railroad equipment. Students can learn about the important role Altoona played in Pennsylvania Railroad history and discover what life was like for the workers and families who built the industry. With hands-on displays and fascinating stories, the museum offers students an educational look at the people, technology, and innovation behind America’s railroads.
Urban Air Adventure Park
offer your students an exciting day filled with active fun, challenges, and adventure at the Urban Air Adventure Park. Students can enjoy a variety of attractions and activities designed to encourage movement, teamwork, and friendly competition in a safe indoor environment. It’s a great way for students to take a break from traditional learning while building memories and having fun together.
Flight 93 National Memorial
This tour is a meaningful opportunity to learn about the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93 and their actions on September 11, 2001. Students can explore the memorial grounds, visitor center, exhibits, and Wall of Names while learning about the events of that historic day and the lives of those who were lost. The experience provides an important lesson in American history, courage, sacrifice, and the lasting impact of September 11.
Quecreek Mine Rescue Site
A student bus trip to the Quecreek Mine Rescue Site offers a firsthand look at the remarkable 2002 rescue of nine coal miners who were trapped underground for 77 hours. Students can visit the rescue site, view the actual rescue capsule and other artifacts, and learn about the teamwork, technology, and determination that brought the miners safely to the surface. The experience provides a memorable lesson in Pennsylvania coal-mining history, emergency rescue efforts, and human perseverance.
Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park
Explore the wonders of nature and wildlife at Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, where students can experience Pennsylvania’s only all-water cavern and learn about the unique geology of the region. The guided boat tour takes students through the beautiful underground cave while the wildlife tour provides an up-close look at native animals and their natural habitats. This memorable field trip combines science, nature, wildlife, and adventure for an educational experience students are sure to enjoy.
Lincoln Caverns
Explore the fascinating underground world of Lincoln Caverns, where students can discover stunning rock formations, winding passageways, and the geological history hidden beneath Pennsylvania’s surface. Guided tours take students deep into the caverns while teaching them about geology, cave formation, groundwater, and the natural forces that shaped these remarkable underground environments. This educational adventure combines hands-on learning with exploration and is sure to make science and Pennsylvania’s natural history come alive.
Penn State Stadium Tour
Experience the excitement of Beaver Stadium with a behind-the-scenes tour that gives students a closer look at one of college football’s most iconic venues. Students can explore areas of the stadium and learn about its history, traditions, game-day operations, and the role it plays in the Penn State community. It’s an exciting educational experience that combines sports, school spirit, history, and a look at what happens behind the scenes of a major college athletic program.
Penn State's Berkey Creamery
Discover the science and tradition behind some of Pennsylvania’s most famous ice cream at Penn State’s Berkey Creamery. Students can learn about dairy production, food science, and the Creamery’s long history while enjoying the opportunity to sample its popular ice cream and dairy products. This fun and educational experience combines agriculture, science, and a sweet taste of Penn State tradition.
Penn State All-Sports Museum
Explore the history of Penn State athletics at the Penn State All-Sports Museum, where students can discover the achievements, traditions, and stories behind the university’s many sports programs. Interactive exhibits and memorabilia showcase legendary athletes, coaches, teams, and memorable moments throughout Penn State’s athletic history. This engaging tour offers students a fun look at sports, teamwork, school spirit, and the dedication it takes to compete at the collegiate level.
Other fun activities include a guided campus tour of Penn State and a visit to Escape Rooms!