New to Penn State? Discover Fun Ways to Explore Happy Valley, PA
Penn State alumni often recommend essential experiences for every student: climbing Mount Nittany, snapping a photo at the Nittany Lion Shrine, savoring ice cream at the iconic Berkey Creamery, relaxing at Whipple Dam on a sunny day, or wandering through the Penn State Arboretum. As Centre County's official tourism promotion agency, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) offers endless inspiration for discovering the region's stunning valleys and charming communities. Begin in downtown State College with its vibrant shops and restaurants, then dive into these curated day trip ideas:
Bellefonte and the Nittany Valley
The historic town of Bellefonte buzzes with energy, making it an ideal off-campus escape with friends or family. Browse trendy boutiques like By a Thread Boutique, Lock Boutique, and Helen Foxx, or visit artisan markets such as Belle Mercantile and Titan Market. Enjoy specialty coffee or a meal at Bonfatto’s Italian Market & Corner Café, or customize your burger at State Burger. This walkable gem features stunning Victorian architecture, Instagram-worthy spots like Talleyrand Park, and scenic waterfront views.
Continue down the Nittany Valley to Goot Essa, a renowned cheese shop offering fresh artisan cheeses from an authentic Amish farm. Refuel at the cozy Hublersburg Inn for a peaceful retreat from campus life.
Millheim and Penns Valley
Artists and photographers will love the scenic drive through Penns Valley to Millheim. Try breakfast-for-lunch at the rustic-chic IngleBean Cafe (open mic Fridays), or hyper-local ice cream at Inglebean Ice Cream next door. Savor farm-fresh dishes and live music at Elk Creek Café (and Elk Creekside). Nearby in Aaronsburg, the Dutch Fall Festival (Oct. 2-3) celebrates Pennsylvania Dutch heritage with apple dumplings and fresh-pressed cider. Pro tip: Drive Route 45 to Millheim, right on 445 to Route 192, left through picturesque Brush Valley back to State College. Watch for Amish buggies—they're common here.
Brush Valley, Penns Valley, and Boalsburg
Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park is a must-visit—America's only all-water cave and wildlife park, accessible by boat. In Boalsburg, explore world history at the Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum and the Pennsylvania Military Museum. In October, join hayrides, pumpkin picking, and farm-fresh feasts at Wasson Farm’s Octoberfest weekends.
Philipsburg and Moshannon Valley
Step back in time with a movie at the grand Rowland Theatre in downtown Philipsburg, host of the November Centre Film Festival. Indulge in 16 flavors of house-made water ice and Philly cheesesteaks (Pat’s way) at We Are Inn, adorned with Penn State memorabilia. Outdoorsy? Stroll Cold Stream Dam, or hike, kayak, and picnic at Black Moshannon State Park.
Bald Eagle Valley
In northern Centre County, Bald Eagle State Park delivers year-round adventures: hiking, swimming, camping, boating, and winter snowshoeing. En route, visit Milesburg's second Lupita’s for authentic Mexican cuisine, or Happy Dishes for soulful comforts like po' boys, shrimp and grits, and brisket cheesesteaks.
For more ideas, including parent-friendly activities, explore the Adventure Bureau Dispatch at www.happyvalley.com or visit the State College Visitor Center at 131 S. Fraser St., Suite 3, MLK Jr. Plaza.
