Peak summer is a precious time in the Midwest. In a place where more than half the year is sweater weather and 35 degrees is considered borderline shorts temperature, a day that’s actually warm enough to melt an ice cream cone is a rare and magical thing.
An entire weekend of blue skies and warm sunshine? That’s cause for celebration.
This upcoming weekend in Altoona (July 31st to August 2nd) is shaping up to be summer at its best, and we want to help you celebrate properly. As of this writing, we’re looking at clear skies and highs in the low 80s—the perfect weather to get some fresh air at Altoona’s attractions and end the day with a cool glass of locally brewed beer.
Here are a few ideas to help you get out and celebrate the sun.
#1: Catch a free outdoor concert at the Prairie Meadows racetrack
The Prairie Meadows live racing season is in full gallop, but these outdoor extravaganzas are about more than racing. (Although, if you haven’t explored the sport, you should check out our blog for beginners.)
This weekend, Prairie Meadows is hosting two free, family-friendly concerts on the apron of the racetrack. You don’t have to pay a dime to get in—just head over to the track on Friday, July 31st at 5PM to catch Nashville country artist Chad Bearden. Come back Saturday, August 1st at 5PM for Lexi Parr & the Rubyblonde Band, a group that brings together blues, country and rock influences to create a sound all their own.
Get the details here.
#2: Escape to an island in the sun with a Weezer tribute band
As part of the “Reclaim Your Summer” concert series at Adventureland, Hashpipe: A Weezer Tribute and Arch Allies are taking the main stage at the park beginning at 8:30PM on Friday, July 31st. The show’s included for free with your admission to Adventureland, so you can test your mettle on the coasters before kicking back with a classic.
Learn more here.
#3: Get some fresh air & hot deals at The Outlets of Des Moines
As an indoor-outdoor shopping mall, The Outlets of Des Moines is at its very best on days when the weather behaves. This weekend is the perfect time to pick up a pretzel at Auntie Anne’s and stroll from premium shops (like Kate Spade New York) to glorious oddities (lookin’ at you, Beef Jerky Experience).
Take a gander at the hottest sales happening at The Outlets here.
Thanks for reading! Looking for more outdoor adventure in Altoona? This is a good place to start.