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Cheap train tickets from Harrisburg to Altoona

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Harrisburg to Altoona Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There is one daily train from Harrisburg to Altoona. Traveling by train from Harrisburg to Altoona usually takes 2 hours and 36 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.

Distance81 mi (131 km)
Fastest train2h 36m
Lowest price$29.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Pennsylvanian
Train lines1

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Harrisburg to Altoona

(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)

4.0

4.0

Debora J

September 23, 2022- Vacation

Amtrak Pennsylvanian

Pros: Scenic tour Comfortable spacious seats. Cons: There is a large gap between the train and sidewalk in Harrisburg station. They do verbally warn you but it is a high, unnecessary risk and seems to me, a lawsuit waiting to happen. There was a lot of trash in the seating area of the train. People were still getting off the train as others were allowed on. We had a very slow person in our group and it was not very handicapped friendly. We hope to be able to get more information on what to do for those who are slow but not wheelchair bound because the train ride itself was most enjoyable. Tips: If it’s your first Amtrak experience, go with someone who is familiar with the station.

What is the price of a train ticket from Harrisburg to Altoona?

The average price for a train ticket from Harrisburg to Altoona is $29.00, This is one of the best deals we’ve seen for train fares recently. By booking your trip at least 12 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $19.00 more.

Monthly avg. prices

$50$40$30$20$10JFMAMJJASOND
Ticket prices for the train from Harrisburg to Altoona often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $26. If you're thinking of traveling from Harrisburg to Altoona during October, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $42 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in October, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

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Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Harrisburg to Altoona. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 12 days before departure, you can save around $19.00. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!

Which train should you take from Harrisburg to Altoona?

Amtrak Pennsylvanian is the one and only train line which connects Harrisburg to Altoona. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Pennsylvanian12h 36m$39.42
  • The Amtrak Pennsylvanian runs daily between New York City and Pittsburgh, passing through cities such as Philadelphia and Harrisburg. The trains feature basic amenities such as a cafe car and free onboard WiFi and offer checked baggage service. A trip from Harrisburg to Altoona takes about 2 hours and 36 minutes on the Pennsylvanian.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Harrisburg to Altoona

The distance between Harrisburg and Altoona is approximately 81 miles, or 131 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 36 minutes, Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Harrisburg to Altoona on Thursday. Tickets for Thursday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Harrisburg at 2:00pm and arrives in Altoona around 2 hours later.

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Altoona with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Altoona to Harrisburg.

City Information

Harrisburg

As the capital city of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg offers numerous historic buildings with impressive architecture that will leave you in awe. Among the most impressive ones is the state’s Capitol Complex itself. With a dome that reminisces St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the building features as many as 475 rooms filled with exquisite artworks and statues. History fans should also consider visiting the State Museum of Pennsylvania, which follows the history of the state from the beginning of time to this day. Another must-see destination is the National Civil War Museum, which is one of the largest museums dedicated to the Civil War. If too many history lessons stress you out, a cruise along the Susquehanna River on the Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat will definitely help you unwind.

Harrisburg’s grilled dishes are some of the most famous staples in the city, and among the best establishments is Progress Grill, which has been serving customers since the late 1940s. For some really creative pizzas, The Pizza Grille will be a good choice.

The Harrisburg Transportation Center is the central hub for intercity travel. At the lower level, you can catch a bus by Greyhound, Jefferson Lines or Fullington Trailways to other Pennsylvanian cities such as Allentown and Philadelphia. Travelers can also take Amtrak trains to popular destinations like New York and Philadelphia on a daily basis. The city’s principal airport is Harrisburg International Airport, which is located in Middletown, southeast of the city.

Altoona

Altoona, PA, US - ALT-0

Image credit: Carol VanHook

Link to image attribution

Altoona is a central Pennsylvania city located deep in the Alleghany Mountains, with prominent landmarks that appeal to art and history buffs and rail fans. The Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark is a popular engineering site, while Altoona features skiable mountains with challenging slopes at Blue Knob and locations for mountain biking, tennis, swimming, and golf. Train fans can also check out the Railroaders Memorial Museum, while other landmarks include the Cathedral of Blessed Sacrament, Mishler Theatre, and Jaffa Shrine Center. Families can visit Lakemont Park with roller coasters, picnic spaces, and water slides.

Beer lovers will enjoy Altoona for its breweries and festivals, like the Annual Beer Wine Spirits Festival, Rails & Ales Brewfest, and the Annual Tyrone Hops & Vines Festivals. The city is always bustling with things to do, like live music shows, spoken word nights, yoga, and flower workshops. There are also several breweries to visit and bustling nightlife in the downtown area.

Hop on an Amtrak train or Amtrak Thruway bus to get to the city from anywhere in the country. Within Altoona, the Altoona Metro Transit provides bus and paratransit services to residents.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Harrisburg?

Harrisburg Transportation Center  - HARHTC-0

Image credit: Adam Moss

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Harrisburg Transportation Center  - HARHTC-1

Image credit: David Wilson

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Main departure station: Harrisburg Transportation Center

The Harrisburg Transportation Center (HTC) is a national historical landmark, with a portion of the station dating back to 1887. The station still serves as the city’s primary transportation hub and welcomes over half a million passengers annually. The Harrisburg Transportation Center is the departure point for Amtrak’s Keystone Service to New York City and a stop on the Pennsylvanian route from New York City to Pittsburgh. Besides train service, bus service on Jefferson Lines, Fullington Trailways, and Greyhound operates through this station. Located in downtown Harrisburg, the station is a quick walk from Capitol Park and some of the city’s top restaurants and shopping.

All train stations in Harrisburg:

  • Harrisburg Transportation Center

Where is the train station in Altoona?

Main arrival station: 1231 11th Ave

Altoona has one train station.

All train stations in Altoona:

  • 1231 11th Ave

Get around town with Moovit

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