Discover Bellefonte: New Businesses, Tried-and-True Favorites, and Annual Events
Bellefonte's Victorian charm draws in curious visitors and savvy entrepreneurs alike. This small town's welcoming vibe and blend of down-home feel with big-city trends keep locals and tourists returning for its shops, restaurants, and events year-round. Experience the serene small-town atmosphere infused with modern appeal.
Now Open!
Bellefonte's vibrant streets are buzzing with new businesses. Entrepreneurs are attracted to its unique atmosphere, supportive community, and growth potential. Many are planting roots here, joining established locals in building lasting success.
Mark Dello Stritto, owner of Bellefonte.com and Vice President of Creative at 321Blink advertising and design agency, notes that Bellefonte is increasingly seen as an ideal spot to "open, grow, or expand businesses."
"When I merged with a Pittsburgh company, we insisted on staying in Bellefonte for its community and expansion opportunities. It aligns with our agency's philosophy of standing out and being refreshingly different," he explains. "That's why we're here, and many others feel the same."
These service-oriented businesses serve Happy Valley residents in central Pennsylvania, addressing community needs and market gaps with passion-driven offerings.
Discover these standout new businesses in Bellefonte:
Axemann Brewery (2042 Axemann Rd Suite 125, Bellefonte; info@axemannbrewery.com) launched amid the COVID-19 pandemic, leveraging its "essential" status. On March 18, 2020, they began canning Blue Stripe beer, delivering to W.R. Hickey’s Beer Distributor on March 24 in sleek new cans. They're hiring and gearing up for full operations.
Belle Mercantile (135 South Spring Street, Bellefonte; 814-360-6989) aimed for a spring 2020 opening. This cooperative showcases local handmade artisan and vintage items. As their website states, it's "a community invested in local goods, quality products, and connecting with friends, neighbors, and visitors."
The Cakery (135 W High St, Bellefonte; 814-359-8113) evolved from M&C Cakery, with Melissa Stitzer taking sole ownership in 2018 and opening in Bellefonte in March 2019. Specializing in custom cakes, they offer scones, cookies, decorated sugar cookies, mini pies, French macarons, brownies, "scotcheroos," sweet breads, and more. Seasonal fruit tarts, fresh white bread, and entremets are highlights.
Stitzer rotates weekly flavors and introduces new treats, including hand-painted cakes. "Bellefonte is beautiful, cozy, full of history and architecture. It's growing, and there was no local bakery—it was a perfect fit," she says.
Lock Boutique (136 West High St., Bellefonte; 570-660-1501) planned a March 23, 2020, grand opening, delayed by the pandemic. Owners Ashley Foltz and Lydia Shafer are poised to launch with "chic, trendy, affordable" women's clothing in sizes small-3XL, plus shoes and accessories—hand-picked for variety.
"Every woman should find something she loves," says Foltz. "Bellefonte has a need for this, it's thriving with small-town community charm."
Pink Peony Bride, owned by Terry Burns, postponed its spring 2020 opening but eagerly awaits. It features curated wedding jewelry, handmade headpieces, occasion wear, gifts, and vintage estate pieces. Personal one-on-one appointments ensure tailored service. "I want every bride to feel welcomed, celebrated, and special," Burns says. Appointments recommended post-gown selection.
A Few Tried-and-True Favorites
While exploring new spots, savor these local staples:
Bonfatto’s Italian Market and Corner Cafe (401 W High St, Bellefonte; 814-353-3330) delights with coffee, ice cream, and bombolini (Italian donuts). Near Talleyrand Park, it's ideal for quick treats or leisurely visits.
For house-made truffle parmesan fries, try Red Horse Tavern (104 N Main St, Pleasant Gap; 814-359-2082). Elevate with Filet Mignon, Pork Cutlet, or Atlantic Salmon.
Mamma Lucrezia’s (136 S Allegheny St, Bellefonte; 814-353-1200), featured on Food Network's Restaurant: Impossible, serves authentic Italian pizza, pasta, stromboli, and eggplant parmesan.
Hublersburg Inn (449 Hublersburg Rd, Bellefonte; 814-383-2616), a favorite since 1827, offers American cuisine like the Hubie burger or Friday fish and chips. Enjoy 15% off orders over $50 on weekends (check current offers).
Upcoming Events
Check individual websites for the latest details
Events adapt to circumstances, but Bellefonte's traditions endure. Visit happyvalley.com/events for updates.
Under the Lights, a waterfront communal dinner in September—sold out 800 tickets in 2019.
Returning in 2021 and beyond:
The Big Spring Festival at Talleyrand Park.
The Children’s Fair at Armor Street & East Curtin Street.
The Bellefonte Cruise, June 19–21, 2020 (bellefontecruise.org).
Bellefonte Arts and Crafts Fair, Talleyrand Park, July 31–August 1, 2020 (bellefontefair.org).
Christen Bell is a freelance writer with nonprofit and event experience based in State College, Pennsylvania
