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Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard

In conversations with hospitality partners about navigating COVID-19 challenges, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) fielded a key question: "If there are no events, why would people visit Happy Valley?"

The concern was understandable amid pandemic-related cancellations of beloved summer events, which understandably dampened community spirits despite their foreseeability.

Events undeniably drive visitation. The annual Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts alone draws over 100,000 visitors to Happy Valley in mid-July. With the Arts Fest and others canceled this year, locals and tourists alike will miss these highlights, impacting hotels, restaurants, attractions, and shops.

Even as restrictions ease, this summer's travel will differ. This prompted the HVAB team to ask: How familiar are residents with Happy Valley's offerings beyond their hometowns? Do locals recognize the destination's year-round appeal, especially post-COVID, as an affordable drive-to market boasting abundant outdoor activities, unique museums, rich history, stunning architecture, quaint towns, a vibrant craft beverage scene, diverse restaurants with farm-to-fork options, and charming boutiques?

These insights are crucial.

Local photos inspire visitors—don't forget your camera when exploring Happy Valley!

Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard

Residents make the best brand ambassadors. Sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm with out-of-town friends and family spreads the word. Social media posts of authentic experiences inspire others, while guiding visitors to "off-the-beaten-path" spots enhances their stays, letting them experience Happy Valley like locals.

This summer is ideal for being a tourist in your own backyard. Here's how to start.

Grab your camera for scenic drives along Happy Valley's routes like 550, 45, 64, and 192, with their picturesque agricultural corridors.

Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard

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Plan Your Next 'Agventure'

Happyvalleyagventures.com highlights Happy Valley's farms, farmers markets, growers, agriculture attractions, and more.

Visit Centre County's charming towns like Bellefonte, Boalsburg, Millheim, Aaronsburg, and Philipsburg. Discover hidden shops, restaurants, bakeries, and coffee spots. Try new eateries and savor diverse flavors.

Aim to complete a Central PA Tasting Trail passport.

Revisit unique museums and attractions, or join walking tours for local history and architecture.

Create a list of hikes, bike trails, and strolls beyond the usual. Consult local bike shops or fellow residents for tips.

The HVAB's Adventure Bureau Dispatch blog offers fresh ideas. Share your outings on social media with #HappyValleyPA and #HVAgventures to inspire others.

In these challenging times, exploring locally supports businesses hit by reduced travel. While a summer visitor surge is anticipated, full recovery will take time. Champion Happy Valley and help summer-dependent spots thrive—it's a community win.

  • Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard

    High-end vintage at Shindig Alley, one of Happy Valley's unique shops

  • Summer: The Perfect Time for Happy Valley Locals to Play Tourist in Their Own Backyard

    Small towns like Millheim hold big surprises around every corner

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