“If the last 18 months have highlighted anything, it’s the need for outdoor recreational opportunities,” says Troy Weston, partner and designer at 3twenty9 Design. Weston conceived the idea for The Bellefonte Outdoor Adventure Expo in 2019, noting that the timing couldn’t be better for embracing outdoor fun. “The expo showcases the best of Bellefonte and Centre County: stunning, accessible natural assets, plus vendors, nonprofits, and businesses specializing in outdoor and recreation products.”

We like to think we have something for everyone, says Curtis Shulman, Director of Operations at Hotel State College & Co., a Penn State alumni-operated company that owns the Allen Street Grill, Corner Room, Bill Pickles Tap Room, Chumleys Cocktail Bar, Basement Nightspot, and Zenos Pub—all on one block just steps from Penn States Old Main. The Corner Room is Happy Valley, Shulman says of the iconic diner. Search for Penn State on Google, and youll see Old Main alongside images of the Corner

A beloved local staple since 1827, Hublersburg Inn delivers vibrant American cuisine in an authentic historic setting. Since acquiring the Inn in 2007, owner Andi Heidt and her dedicated team have elevated this classic “watering hole” into one of Centre Region’s premier destination restaurants. Renowned for both casual favorites like juicy burgers and spicy wings, and elegant special-occasion dishes such as house-made crab cakes, fresh seafood, or perfectly seared steaks, th

Discover the unique allure of Pine Grove Hall, a premier live music venue in Pine Grove Mills, Happy Valley. Housed in a tastefully restored historic building, the venue honors local heritage while immersing guests in nostalgic decor that evokes a bygone era. Savor locally sourced cuisine and craft cocktails, crafted not just for enjoyment but for a memorable sensory experience. Yet, its the exceptional live music that truly sets Pine Grove Hall apart as Happy Valleys unmatched venue

Return to The Penn Stater for Authentic Penn State Brunch Excellence Happy Valleys beloved Sunday brunch is back at The Gardens at The Penn Stater, delivering the same unforgettable experience. Savor champagne and mimosas included with your meal for an indulgent start to your relaxed Sunday. Google and Yelp reviewers consistently praise it as the quintessential, delicious Penn State breakfast. Beyond brunch, Legends Pub at The Penn Stater offers hearty all-American dishes and craft

Community Support Powered These Local Businesses Through the Pandemic—Now Theyre Welcoming Visitors The most authentic travel experiences happen at spots cherished by locals. These businesses launched just before the pandemic and thrived thanks to unwavering community backing, innovative spirit, and resilience. Theyve quickly become Happy Valley staples—perfect additions to your itinerary. Axemann Brewery, 2042 Axemann Road, BellefonteAxemannBrewery.com Onsite local beer, spirits, wines, and

The Arboretum at Penn State, nestled on the University Park campus in Happy Valley, is a cherished treasure. The H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens, open year-round from dawn until dusk, feature 10 acres of specialty gardens. Standouts include the Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden, where families can explore nature inspired by central Pennsylvania’s landscape, and the vibrant Pollinator and Bird Garden. Autumn is magical here, especially during the annual Pumpkin Festival, showcasing hundreds of

The scenic mountains framing Happy Valleys horizon offer endless opportunities for families to create lasting memories. From hiking and biking to fishing and hunting, Central Pennsylvanias outdoors has something for everyone. One of the newest additions to Happy Valleys outdoor attractions is the Harvest Fields Community Trails (HFCT), which opened in October 2020. This family-friendly destination is perfect for riders of all ages to discover the joys of mountain biking. The Harvest Fi

Planning a football weekend in Happy Valley? Elevate your trip by cheering on the Nittany Lions and exploring Centre Countys rich historical attractions. Happy Valley delivers an unbeatable mix of thrilling sports, diverse dining, outdoor pursuits, and deep-rooted history. If youre new to Centre Countys top historical sites, nows the perfect time. Local museums and historic homes offer guided tours and engaging fall events, many family-friendly. Whether youre a dedicated history enthusiast

Happy Valley is renowned for its charming accommodations and mouthwatering cuisine, but the real magic happens when you find both under one roof. Discover our expert picks for stylish stays paired with exceptional dining. The We Are Inn, 1535 Port Matilda Hwy, Philipsburg; theweareinn.com Just a year old, The We Are Inn in Philipsburg has quickly become a beloved spot for Penn State alumni. We’re the new iconic, old-school, vintage place, says owner Pat Romano. During football season, enjoy Fr

Pennsylvanias Ultimate Haunted ExperienceExperience triple terror and triple fun every Friday and Saturday in October at Lincoln Caverns Ghosts and Goblins tours. Get the scare of your life with haunted caves, trails, and hayrides.Saturday Daytime Family Tours (11 AM - 5 PM, Saturdays Only)Haunted cave, natural cave, Legends Trail, and hayride. 90 minutes of Halloween fun for all ages!All tickets $21.98. Children ages 4–12 include panning for gems!Evening Terror Tours (6 PM – 9:40 PM, Fridays an

From November 5-7, the historic Rowland Theatre—the areas longest-running venue since 1917—hosts the Centre Film Festival, captivating the community with compelling stories. This event showcases local filmmakers and films from the Happy Valley area, with select screenings available virtually starting November 1. “The Centre Film Festival tells the stories that are here in central Pennsylvania,” says festival co-founder, filmmaker, and Penn State professor Pearl Gluck. “There are so many great la

Discover the stunning sights and savory flavors of Happy Valley at these premier outdoor dining destinations. When the sun shines, Happy Valley is unbeatable. Enjoy a meal or drink outdoors with plentiful patio options. From craft cocktails to fine dining, theres a perfect spot waiting for you. Toftrees Consistently voted Best Outdoor Dining, the American Ale Houses shaded patio under towering oaks is ideal for exploring its diverse menu. Just a mile from Toftrees, RE Farm Café—near its own

The State College Spikes made a triumphant return to action this summer, bringing fun, affordable family entertainment to Happy Valley during the inaugural season of the Major League Baseball Draft League. Future MLB stars showcased their talent on the field, creating excitement for fans of all ages. Capped by a record-breaking crowd of 7,183 fans on the Fourth of July, the Spikes 2021 season delivered countless memorable moments as baseball returned to the ballpark. Spikes gam

From established favorites to exciting newcomers, Centre Countys restaurants are embracing fresh fall flavors perfect for the season. Pumpkin spice, warm cinnamon, crisp apples—these autumn tastes evoke coziness and joy. Discover them at top Happy Valley dining spots. Hublersburg Inn At Hublersburg Inn, fresh ingredients drive seasonal menus that rotate every six weeks. Owner Andi Heidt Biddle notes, “Fall is the best time to use fresh local produce.” Expect local squash, root vegetables, apples

A comprehensive guide to roads, paths, and trails for cyclists Happy Valley offers cyclists exceptional opportunities for recreation and commuting, featuring low-traffic roads and vast public lands that invite riders to immerse themselves in nature. Dont just take our word for it—ask Allan Stoekl and Nan Moschella, former State College residents now living in Mount Airy, Pennsylvania. These passionate cyclists have ridden in Vermont, Colorado, and even southern France with friends. Yet they r

Expert vintners understand the profound value of time—from nurturing vines for the finest vintages and harvesting grapes at peak ripeness to aging wines to perfection. Mount Nittany Winery, with over 30 years of expertise since opening in 1990, has mastered these arts. They even turned the challenges of COVID-19 into opportunities for innovation and enhancement. Their first upgrade transformed wine tastings. After researching wineries nationwide, they shifted from individual pours to reserved-t

Stroll through open meadows with sweeping views of mountain ridges. Savor roasted pork from heritage breeds raised at Rimmey Road Farm. Discover a harmonious blend of farming, art, and nature amid the sculptures, gardens, and diverse tree species at Rhoneymeade Arboretum & Sculpture Garden. Rhoneymeade serves as an ideal starting point and must-visit stop on the Happy Valley Agventures’ Ag Heritage Driving Tour (PDF) and the Centre County Farmland Trust’s Round Barn Farm Route—one of three

The Obligatory PSU Pregame Show and Podcast, presented by HappyValley.com, returns this fall for its sixth season as head coach James Franklin and the Penn State Nittany Lions gear up for the 2021 campaign. This beloved show has become a staple in Happy Valley, essential listening at tailgates and throughout the offseason. Hosted by PSU postal legend Mike “the Mailman” Herr, Penn State fans favorite mail carrier; Brandon Noble, former defensive tackle for Penn State, the Dallas Cowboy