How to Spend 48 Hours in State College: The Ultimate Itinerary
State College, home to Penn State University, draws visitors for nostalgic returns to campus or business trips to Central Pennsylvania. Whether you're a first-time explorer or a returning alumnus, this curated 48-hour itinerary highlights the area's outdoor adventures, vibrant arts scene, and passionate sports culture.
Experience the best of this welcoming community with our expert-guided plan.
Day 1
Arrive in the morning and start with a bagel sandwich at Irving's (the basement offers a peaceful spot in summer) or savor Central Pennsylvania's premier coffee at W.C. Clarke’s Cheese Shoppe on Calder Way. Owner Bill Clarke has roasted beans on-site for over 40 years, with an honor-system payment that's a local tradition.
Related Article: Can’t Miss Breakfast Spots and Coffee Shops in State College
On a pleasant day, stroll the tree-lined campus mall across Allen Street to the Hintz Family Alumni Center garden, featuring blooming plants, whimsical sculptures, and wildlife like ducks and squirrels. Nearby, visit the iconic Nittany Lion Shrine at Curtin and Burrowes roads for a family photo with the legendary limestone statue guarding Penn State since 1942.
Continue to The Palmer Museum of Art along Curtin Road. Explore over 8,200 artworks across 11 galleries, nine rotating exhibitions, and a sculpture garden. Admission is free (donations appreciated), with striking lion paws out front perfect for photos.
Refreshed by art, head downtown for lunch—Penn State alumni may detour to the transformed Hetzel Union Building (HUB). Favorites include Baby’s Burgers & Shakes (bring quarters for mini jukeboxes) or healthier options like The Green Bowl, Fiddlehead, or Tadashi.
Shop for Penn State gear at Student Book Store, McLanahan’s Penn State Room, and The Family Clothesline. Enhance your stroll with statecollegepublicart.com to discover downtown's public artworks.
Treat yourself at Berkey Creamery on campus, where Ben & Jerry honed their craft. Enjoy the “Cow to Cone” video tour, then indulge in generous scoops—lick quickly to beat the melt!
Savor your ice cream under blue-and-white umbrellas or walk to The Arboretum at Penn State across Park Avenue. Discover diverse gardens, reflecting pools, and the Children’s Garden with kaleidoscope flowerpots, a cave sandbox, and a giant caterpillar—ideal for families.
Related Article: Fun Things to Do With Kids in State College
Cap Day 1 with dinner downtown at classics like The Deli, The Tavern, or The Corner Room, or newer gems like Liberty Craft House and Local Whiskey. Check The State Theatre for shows or State College Spikes baseball—night games often end with fireworks.
Day 2
Begin outside town in charming Lemont for coffee, tea, or breakfast bites at Café Lemont (try the creamy Thai Iced Tea). Nearby, tackle Mount Nittany trailhead for 2-8 mile hikes rewarding panoramic views of campus, Tussey Mountain, and surrounding valleys.
Prefer easier nature? Visit Millbrook Marsh Nature Center's 62-acre preserve with wetlands, forests, boardwalks, and creek access. Trails link to Spring Creek Park for splashing, fishing, and play.
Lunch at Happy Valley Brewing Company in a 200-year-old restored barn, offering craft beers and a full menu.
Explore history at Centre Furnace Mansion, a restored 19th-century ironmaster’s home with exhibits (free admission; grounds open dawn to dusk). On campus, tour Penn State’s All-Sports Museum in Beaver Stadium, celebrating athletic achievements. Pose at the We Are statue, Pegula Ice Arena, or Central Pennsylvania Convention and Visitors Bureau for interactive displays and guides.
For dinner, try outdoor seating at Toftrees spots like The Field or American Ale House, family-friendly Otto’s Pub & Brewery, or top-rated Faccia Luna pizza.
Depart with breakfast at The Waffle Shop and a half-gallon from The Creamery, packed in dry ice.
Adventure awaits in
HappyValley.com
Penn State was just the beginning. Delightful towns, thrilling attractions, and rolling natural splendor abound here in Happy Valley. A wealth of adventure for the whole family, only found here.
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