How to Spend 24 Hours in Boalsburg: A Perfect Itinerary Near State College
Just a few miles from State College along Route 322 East lies Boalsburg, a charming village steeped in rich history and proud heritage. Developed primarily between 1809 and 1848, it was named after the influential Boal family in 1820. Their 200-year-old estate now serves as a unique museum showcasing American and Pennsylvania history.
Originally positioned on the vital Philadelphia-to-Pittsburgh route, Boalsburg attracted travelers to its inns and taverns. Much of its Victorian and Georgian architecture endures, earning the Boalsburg Historic District a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Boalsburg claims the title of Memorial Day's birthplace. Its annual celebrations draw over 25,000 visitors with parades, carnivals, craft vendors, live music, a 3.8-mile race, and Civil War reenactments. Yet, this gem next to State College offers year-round appeal.
Start Your Morning Right
Kick off with coffee and breakfast at Pump Station Cafe, a repurposed Texaco station turned trendy spot. Grab it to-go and stroll the expansive grounds of the Pennsylvania Military Museum opposite. These free outdoor exhibits honor Pennsylvania's military contributions with memorials, tanks, howitzers, and artifacts. Indoors, discover historical displays, artifacts, and a film on generations of service. (Admission: $6 adults 12-64; $5.50 seniors; $4 ages 3-11.)
Continue the historical theme at the Boalsburg Heritage Museum in the 1825 Sara Sweet House. Explore exhibits on early village life, plus a bank barn, summer kitchen, replica country store, and early electric plant. (Suggested donation: $3. Open Saturdays 2-4 p.m., late March to early December.)
Lunchtime Delights
Satisfy your hunger at Duffy’s Tavern for standout eats and drinks. Stroll Main Street for shopping: Riley on Main offers unique furnishings and jewelry; A Basket Full has clothing and kitchenware; Bella Di Vita brims with hidden gems.
Time your visit for Tuesdays at the Boalsburg Farmers Market—outdoors at the PA Military Museum in spring/fall, indoors at St. John’s United Church of Christ in winter—for fresh local produce and goods.
Afternoon Adventures
Let the family unwind at Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation. Winter brings skiing, snowboarding, and tubing; other seasons feature mini-golf, batting cages, skate park, go-karts, and catch-and-release fishing (bring poles, bait, license if 18+).
Dinner and Entertainment
Savor dinner at Kelly’s Steak & Seafood, a local favorite voted “Best Steak” and “Best Seafood” in State College Magazine’s reader polls. Follow with a show at Nittany Theatre at The Barn, Pennsylvania’s oldest arena barn theater (late 1800s origins). Summer productions shine; opt for dinner-theater packages.
Overnight Stay
Unwind at Bed & Breakfast at The Rock Garden, where hosts Joe and Laura offer warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts.
Outdoor Exploration
Post-breakfast, drive to Rothrock State Forest near Tussey Mountain. Spanning 97,000 acres, it boasts 300+ miles of hiking trails, 100+ for biking, and gravel roads. Highlights: Allan Seeger Natural Area (350-year-old trees) and Bear Meadows bog.
A Must-See for History Buffs
Cap your trip at Boal Mansion Museum and Columbus Chapel. The 1789 mansion holds Boal family artifacts, presidential signatures, medieval weapons, and more. The chapel features North America’s premier Christopher Columbus collection, including True Cross relics. (Admission: $10 adults, $6 children 6-17.)
Adventure awaits in
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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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