Top Fun Things to Do with Kids in State College: Family-Friendly Activities Near Penn State
Every fall, families flock to State College, Pennsylvania, for Penn State football games. Many alumni return to Happy Valley with their children, creating new memories beyond the stadium.
Iconic stops like Berkey Creamery for ice cream and photos at the Nittany Lion Shrine are must-dos. But for more family adventures, explore these low-key, kid-approved spots—all within minutes of Beaver Stadium.
Discovery Space: This children's science center on Atherton Street offers hands-on exhibits, programs, and events. It's a sensory playground where kids learn through play, with fresh activities regularly.
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center: Nestled in a 62-acre preserve of wetlands, forests, and meadows, boardwalks make wildlife viewing accessible for all ages. Trails connect to bike paths leading to Spring Creek Park.
Tom Tudek Memorial Park: Spanning 87 acres, this park features two playgrounds, open fields, pavilions, tennis/basketball courts, the Snetsinger Butterfly Garden, and a dog park. Spot horses in the adjacent field—bring carrots!
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Sneak upstairs to grab a free short story from the Short Edition dispenser—one of few in the U.S.!
Schlow Centre Region Library: Don't overlook this gem. The award-winning children's area boasts cozy reading nooks, puzzles, toys, computer games, puppets, and a puppet stage—all free.
Bernel Road Park (Airport Park): An airport-themed playground delights with runways for bikes/scooters, separate areas for toddlers and older kids, and fun slides for all.
Spring Creek Canyon Trail: This flat, 3-mile trail off I-99 offers stunning fall foliage, creek views, wildflowers, birds, and ends at Fisherman’s Paradise.
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Explore the kaleidoscope flowerpots, sandbox cave, and giant caterpillar!
The Arboretum at Penn State: Serene gardens feature the Children’s Garden, packed with natural discoveries for young explorers.
Fun Unleashed: Near Nittany Mall, this indoor playground has tunnels, slides, arcade games, and laser tag for all ages.
Tussey Mountain Ski & Recreation: Year-round fun includes mini-golf, batting cages, skate park, go-karts, and stocked fishing pond (bring bait; license for 16+).
Penn State All-Sports Museum: Celebrate Nittany Lions' athletic legacy across sports, inspiring kids with stories of excellence and sportsmanship.
Penn Skates: Retro roller skating with lights, music, and free parent entry (WiFi available). Rentals up to size 15.
Hike Mount Nittany’s James Cleveland Trail: A 4-mile adventure to a historic plane crash site, boulder field, and valley vistas—less crowded than the main trail.
Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park: Choose boat cave tours (National Register site), wildlife bus rides, Miner’s Maze, or Jeep adventures.
Adventure awaits in
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