New Local Favorites: Authentic Happy Valley Spots for Shopping and Dining
Community Support Powered These Local Businesses Through the Pandemic—Now They're Welcoming Visitors
The most authentic travel experiences happen at spots cherished by locals. These businesses launched just before the pandemic and thrived thanks to unwavering community backing, innovative spirit, and resilience. They've quickly become Happy Valley staples—perfect additions to your itinerary.
Axemann Brewery, 2042 Axemann Road, Bellefonte
AxemannBrewery.com
Onsite local beer, spirits, wines, and ciders; rotating local food vendors.
Game Day Pick: Blue Stripe Kölsch, available onsite and at local retailers.
Outdoor seating, family-friendly, private and semi-private event spaces.
After years of planning and over a year of construction, Axemann Brewery was poised to open in April 2020—a challenging time amid the pandemic. Owners turned adversity into opportunity by ramping up distribution to meet surging tap beer demand. The taproom debuted in July 2020, with capacity limits allowing staff to refine operations seamlessly.
Featuring open-air seating along Logan Branch stream for over 500 guests, Axemann became Happy Valley's go-to for safe, socially distanced outings. Today, it's a beloved local for its unique vibe, rotating craft beers, and top-tier food options like an onsite kitchen and food trucks.
On nice days, streamside garage doors open for breezes and views. The second-floor loft overlooks brewing with deck access and shaded tables. A front beer garden offers dog-friendly outdoor seating. Families rave: kids adore the cornhole, shuffleboard, giant Jenga, and multiple TVs.
The owners' passion honors the site's history as the old Cerro's Metal Factory, revived with nostalgic touches like repurposed locker doors forming the bar front.
Pine Grove Hall, 101 E. Pine Grove Road, Pine Grove Mills
PineGroveHall.com
Seasonal menu from 25+ farms within 50 miles.
Live local music; beer, wine, cocktails.
Outdoor seating; open Thu-Sun; private event spaces.
Pine Grove Hall, once the Old Oak Tavern near downtown State College, has earned "must-visit" status with hyper-local fare, drinks, ambiance, and live music. Owner Liz Grove notes guests love the 90%+ locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The drink menu highlights local beers, curated wines, and cocktails with fresh regional flavors.
Renovations shine with a century-old mahogany bar, hammered-copper tables, and 1920s lighting. No TVs ensure immersive experiences. Fall features acoustic, jazz, Latin, and rock acts; future plans include regional/national touring talent.
It started with curbside and takeout, evolving to outdoor then full indoor service. Open Thu-Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat-Sun noon-10 p.m.—reservations via phone or online recommended.
University Wine Company, 540 Misty Hill Drive, State College
UniversityWineCo.com
Wine tastings, events, live music, local art gallery
This family-owned winery's tasting room opened November 2020, navigating PA's indoor dining pause. Now open Tue-Sun, enjoy wines, local beers, indoor/outdoor seating, and stunning Happy Valley views—ideal for couples, friends, or groups.
Events include Sip & Paint, Yoga in the Vineyard; Fri/Sun live music and food trucks (or bring picnics). Upstairs gallery rotates local art. Follow on facebook.com/universitywineco.
Art a la Carte, 107 S. Allegheny Street, Bellefonte
artalacartepa.com
Gallery of 30+ local artists; art classes.
Jewelry, bags, décor, quilting, ceramics, and more.
In Bellefonte's historic downtown, Art a la Carte displays works from 30+ local artists—ideal for unique Happy Valley souvenirs or gifts.
Explore jewelry, ceramics, glass, wood, paintings, purses, fiber arts like quilting and felting. Features Festival of the Arts favorites and exclusives, curated by owner/artist Elizabeth Hay for quality and appeal.
Introductory classes by local artists cover pastels, jewelry, wet felting—Saturdays or evenings. Register online.
Belle Mercantile, 135 S. Spring Street, Bellefonte
BelleMercantile.com
Handmade local artisan goods, vintage, food & drinks.
Stained glass, pottery, jewelry, apparel, candles, soaps; sauces, baked goods, honey, craft sodas.
After 15 months renovating the historic Brackbill’s furniture site (1848-1990), Belle Mercantile offers a dynamic marketplace—like a juried craft show crossed with a farmers market. Owners Brian Bonner and Andrea Skirpan refresh inventory weekly.
Opening September 2020 amid restrictions, it drew shoppers with vendor variety: Happy Valley gear like Lion Paw Pottery, brooms, décor, jewelry, stained glass, knits. Food highlights include sauces, baked goods, honey, Happy Valley Pickles, and craft sodas.
