Find your perfect vacation or retirement property in the Alleghenies
By Jodie Dello-Stritto
The Alleghenies region, with its sweeping mountain views, vibrant small-town communities and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and other activities and entertainment, is a thriving visitor destination. Still, it’s an often-overlooked gem when people are shopping for a vacation or retirement property.
The region boasts a blend of natural beauty, charming cultural attractions and affordable real estate, making it a prime location for active retirees and individuals and families looking for a home-away-from-home getaway property. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff or food enthusiast, the Alleghenies offers the perfect setting for your next real estate investment.
Why choose the Alleghenies
The appeal of the Alleghenies for a vacation or retirement property lies not only in its beauty and culture but also in its affordability. Compared to other vacation or retirement destinations, real estate in this region remains quite affordable, allowing you to purchase more house for your money.
Additionally, the Alleghenies provide the tranquility of rural living with access to charming, bustling small towns, not far from cities like Pittsburgh, Harrisburg and Philadelphia.
- Affordable Real Estate: The cost of living in the Alleghenies is lower than in many other parts of the country, making it easier to find reasonably priced vacation or retirement real estate. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside cabin, a mountain retreat or a charming small-town home, the region offers a variety of options.
- Four-Season Living: The Alleghenies experience all four seasons, providing the perfect backdrop for seasonal indoor and outdoor activities. Summers offer swimming, boating and more, while autumn brings comfortable temperatures and transforms the landscape into a canvas of vibrant foliage, ideal for hiking, biking and walks in town. Winter brings skiing, snowboarding and cozy nights by the fire. Spring arrives with blooming wildflowers, brilliant greens and fresh air.
- Close-Knit Communities: The people of the Alleghenies take pride in their tight-knit, welcoming communities. For retirees, this offers a sense of belonging and connection, while vacation homeowners will appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere that makes visiting feel like coming home.
Steps to take when looking for a vacation or retirement property in the Alleghenies
Purchasing a vacation or retirement property is a major investment, and the Alleghenies offer a wide range of properties to consider. To make the process smoother, here are a few steps realtors suggest:
- Determine Your Priorities: Start by considering what you want in a property and space. Do you want a quiet, rural retreat, or would you prefer a home in a small town with access to amenities like shops and restaurants? Perhaps proximity to outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, is most important to you. Clarifying your priorities will help you narrow down your search.
- Visit the Region: Spend time exploring the various counties in the Alleghenies to get a feel for what each area has to offer. Visit during different seasons to see how the landscape and activities change. This will help you decide which area best suits your lifestyle.
- Work with a Local Realtor: Local real estate agents have intimate knowledge of the area and can help you find the best properties within your budget. Realtors familiar with the Alleghenies will know about any unique aspects of the region’s market, such as local zoning laws, taxes or maintenance considerations for rural properties.
- Consider Maintenance and Accessibility: If you’re purchasing a second home, think about how often you can visit and whether the property will require ongoing maintenance. Properties in rural areas may require more upkeep, particularly during winter months when snow removal may be necessary. If you plan to rent out the property when you’re not using it, you also want to investigate local ordinances on rentals and look into property management services.
- Understand Financing Options: Whether you’re paying in cash or financing your vacation home, it’s important to explore all available options. Some lenders offer specific programs for second homes or retirement properties, so be sure to shop around for the best mortgage rates and terms.
- Understand Local Taxes and Insurance: Each county in Pennsylvania may have different property tax rates, and the cost of insurance can vary based on the location and type of property you choose. Factor these things into your overall budget when considering a vacation or retirement home in the Alleghenies.
The Alleghenies region of Pennsylvania offers everything you could want in a vacation or retirement home: natural beauty, affordable living, rich culture and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re drawn to the outdoor adventures of Raystown Lake, the charming streets of Bedford or the college sports and cultural vibrancy in State College, the Alleghenies has something for everyone. This region is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those ready to make it their home away from home — or their forever home.
More of what you can enjoy in the Alleghenies
The best of the great outdoors
The landscape of the Alleghenies is defined by its rolling hills, expansive forests and winding rivers, creating a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The region’s four-season climate allows for a variety of activities throughout the year, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, skiing and more.
Centre County offers outdoor adventure and natural beauty at every turn. The county boasts parts of the Rothrock State Forest, a great spot for hiking, camping and mountain biking. There’s also a vast network of parks and walking and biking paths. You can beat the summertime heat at one of many community pools or state park lakes, also perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing, and hit the slopes at Tussey Mountain in the winter for skiing, snowboarding and tubing.
If you’re a fan of lakeside living, Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County is one of Pennsylvania’s most pristine bodies of water. With over 8,000 acres of water and 110 miles of shoreline, Raystown Lake is perfect for fishing, boating and swimming. The surrounding area also features excellent hiking trails and plenty of campsites, making it a hotspot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Family-friendly events and activities make it a great place for kids and the young at heart.
Known for its historic covered bridges and pastoral landscapes, Bedford County is a retreat for anyone seeking the peace and quiet of the countryside. Stunning Shawnee State Park offers opportunities for hiking, fishing and boating, while the rolling hills and scenic byways make for picturesque road trips year-round.
Blair County’s Blue Knob Ski Resort boasts the highest skiable mountain in Pennsylvania, well-groomed alpine and cross-country trails, which double as hiking and biking trails in the warmer season. There’s also a golf course, swimming and more within the resort and at Blue Knob State Park.
Winter sports enthusiasts will also love Somerset County’s Seven Springs Mountain Resort, a favorite for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, the resort transforms into a hub for mountain biking, ziplining and hiking. The Laurel Hill State Park also provides great opportunities for outdoor recreation, with miles of trails and abundant wildlife.
Small-town charm and cultural attractions
The towns and cities of the Alleghenies are filled with a deep sense of history and community. These areas have worked hard to preserve their cultural heritage while offering visitors and residents modern amenities and attractions.
Bedford’s downtown is rich in history and home to several architectural gems. The Omni Bedford Springs Resort is an elegant retreat with natural mineral springs, offering a relaxing spa experience. You’ll also find unique shops, galleries, and fine dining in this picture-perfect small town.
Altoona in Blair County is home to attractions like the Railroaders Memorial Museum, which pays homage to the region’s significant role in America’s rail history. Nearby, the Horseshoe Curve, a national historic landmark, offers visitors a breathtaking view of passing trains in a scenic mountain setting.
Cambria County’s Johnstown has reinvented itself while honoring its industrial past. Today, visitors can explore the Johnstown Flood Museum, the Heritage Discovery Center and the Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center, which showcases the region’s rich cultural diversity. The annual Flood City Music Festival is a highlight, drawing musicians and fans from across the country.
In State College, you’ll find a thriving arts scene, including the Palmer Museum of Art and the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, which takes place annually in July. The area also hosts frequent live performances, from theater to concerts, offering year-round entertainment at the Bryce Jordan Center, The State Theatre and other venues. Small towns dot the county, from rural spots like Millheim to more bustling places like Bellefonte and Phillipsburg, which offer shopping, dining, and unique events like Bellefonte Victorian Christmas. And, of course, you’ll have access to big-time college athletics at Penn State.
Culinary delights
The farm-to-table movement is thriving in the Alleghenies, thanks to the region’s agricultural heritage and abundance of local farms. From gourmet dining experiences to casual eateries, food lovers will find plenty to savor.
Bedford’s dining scene is anchored by restaurants like the Jean Bonnet Tavern, established in 1762, which specializes in fine dining, and The Golden Eagle Inn, a historic tavern offering refined rustic cuisine.
Blair County has a variety of dining options, including family-owned Italian eateries like La Fiesta and upscale options like The Allegro, where guests enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes in an elegant setting.
Centre County offers an impressive array of international cuisines and locally focused restaurants, such as The Field Burger & Tap, known for its burgers made from local beef, and Otto’s Pub & Brewery, which serves house-brewed beers and family-friendly dishes. Elk Creek Café in Millheim also boasts craft beers and a local, seasonal menu.
Check out these vacation home locations across the Alleghenies
Raystown Lake, Huntingdon County
If a waterfront home is on your wish list, Raystown Lake is the ultimate destination. Properties around Raystown Lake range from cozy cabins to luxury waterfront homes. The area is perfect for those who love boating, fishing or simply relaxing by the water.
Glendale Lake, Cambria County
A peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood in Flinton, Glendale Lake is part of beautiful Prince Gallitzin State Park. Known for its clean environment and strong community spirit, residents love the serene atmosphere and the beautiful surroundings, as well as the easy access to outdoor recreation. It’s also not far from Alleghenies cities like Johnstown and Altoona.
Everett, Bedford County
Everett offers a mix of historic homes and newer builds. Its location near the Buchanan State Forest and Juniata River means endless outdoor adventures are at your doorstep. The town is quaint and
friendly, making it a welcoming place for a getaway home. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a
slower pace and a strong sense of community.
Indian Lake, Somerset County
Nestled in the scenic hills, this hidden gem is known for its serene waters, peaceful surroundings, and abundant recreational activities. Offering four seasons of fun, one of the unique features of Indian Lake is its proximity to the Indian Lake Golf Club, which the legendary Arnold Palmer designed. Springs Mountain Resort and Hidden Valley Resort, both offering top-notch skiing and winter activities, are also nearby.
Blue Knob, Blair County
Blue Knob, located in Blair County, is best known for Blue Knob All Seasons Resort, which boasts the highest skiable mountain in Pennsylvania. For those who love winter sports, purchasing a home near this resort is an ideal choice. In the warmer months, Blue Knob becomes a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing, offering year-round appeal. The area has a range of mountain homes and cabins, perfect for those seeking a high-altitude escape with spectacular views.
State College, Centre County
A popular second home or retirement spot for Penn State alumni, State College offers year-round access to Penn State events and local events, from athletics and performing arts to festivals and markets. In the surrounding area, you can also find mountain cabins and cozy small-town cottages, all just a short drive from shopping, dining and recreation.
