Date of Visit: June 29, 2021
Our family absolutely loves going to baseball games. I grew up at Municipal Stadium watching the Reading Phillies (now the Reading Fightin’ Phils) and explore ballparks as often as possible.
So on our visit to Altoona, we had to check out an Altoona Curve.
The Curve play in the Eastern League where they serve as the AA affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The stadium is located just outside town and right off of Interstate 99, about 30 minutes north of the PA Turnpike.
We parked past the left field wall. Walking up, we could see down into the stadium, which appeared almost “sunken” into the ground below us. Fans entering the main gate then either go down to the lower bowl or climb to the second deck for the game.
Peoples Natural Gas Field is a beautiful park with two grandstand decks, picnic areas, and kids play areas. The most unique feature, however, isn’t even inside the park – it’s the wooden roller coaster over the right field fence.
The stadium is built adjacent to Lakemont Park, a classic amusement park with two roller coasters, bumper cars and a couple other attractions. But the park certainly plays well with the Curve, as evident by the “Go Curve” in lights on the cars.
(Editor’s Note: as of 2024, Lakemont Park ceased operations of its coasters and offers only batting cages and mini golf).
The entertainment inside the park was plentiful with in-between inning shenanigans featuring the Curve Mascot, Loco.
There is also a kids play area that my son really enjoyed – especially the giant inflatable slide. Sure, we had to miss some of the game, but some play time helped our three-year-old make it through an entire nine-inning game so we’ll take it.
With the Curve losing late in the game, the crowd began chanting, “We want Al! We want Al!” Not being a local, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Through a small door in the outfield emerged another mascot, Al Tuna, the Curve’s “rally fish.” Al came out, did a little dance and a twirl before heading back into his home.
Following his appearance, the Curve did score a run, but it wasn’t enough as the home team fell 4-2. But they still sent everyone home happy with a fantastic fireworks display to end the evening.
The fireworks were launched from between the right field wall and the coaster which made for a great backdrop.
Between the game and the fireworks, it was a long night but a fun one. And we can’t wait to come back. Maybe the Curve will win next time. Maybe Al Tuna will appear. Either way, it’ll be a fun night at the ballpark.
When You Go
- Tickets vary in price depending on promotions and seating, but there are many options for $10 and under.
- Garage parking is available for $4 just outside the left field wall.
- The park has some great food options – burgers, wings, pierogis and more.
More Things to Do in Altoona
Horseshoe Curve
Ritchey’s Dairy
Delgrosso’s Amusement Park
