Bark at the Park Beagle

PAWsitive News for Pets

The perfect places in Happy Valley that are welcome to dogs...and people. Hotels, restaurants, attractions and more, open to you and your furry best friend.

– by Lesley Kistner

Happy Valley locals love their pets, and we know you do too. There are plenty of hot spots and special events in Centre County that allow our four-legged friends to experience their own Happy Valley adventure. There are ample pet-friendly lodging options as well, from hotels to B&Bs to campgrounds. Below are just a few of the many places your furry travel companion is welcome

Summer-time fun

The State College Spikes, the Class A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, hosts several Bark in the Park nights at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. The promotion for Bark in the Park typically occurs 3-4 times a season and are open to four-legged friends (dogs don’t need a ticket!), and there are doggie pools, water stations and designated “doggie restroom” areas. Their host for the evening is Bob the Baseball Dog, a Labrador retriever that is one of the Spikes’ friendly mascots.

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Any-season fun

Tudek Park in State College offers a fenced-in, off-leash run, a separate area for small dogs, and a pump for water after playtime is over.

Beautiful Black Moshannon State Park is pet-friendly throughout the park and even on most sites in the campground! Black Mo even offers boat rentals that allow you to take your pup out exploring their beautiful landscapes. After a day on the water, stop over at the park’s concession and enjoy lunch on their pet-friendly outdoor picnic tables.

Known as an excellent place for bird and wildlife watching, Bald Eagle State Park is a great environment for pets too. Just be sure to check the park website for specific pet policies.

In nearby Cold Stream Dam in Philipsburg, dogs are permitted on the trails behind the picturesque dam.

Dining

Several restaurants and taverns throughout Centre County allow pets to accompany owners on their outdoor patios (weather permitting).

Deck, Dogs, Drinks

In historic Bellefonte, Robin Hood Brewing Co., the Governor’s Pub, Big Spring Spirits, Bella Vino Wine Bar, Good Intent Cidery, Cool Beans Coffee Shop and Bonfatto’s Italian Market & Corner Cafe are pet-friendly, as is the historic Hublersburg Inn. Duffy’s Tavern in historic Boalsburg, The Naked Egg Café in Centre Hall, and the rustic farm-to-table Inglebean Coffee House in Millheim also accommodate pets – just to list a few!

RE Farm Café at Windswept Farm and the Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery are two additional popular establishments that won’t bark if your dog joins in on the farm-to-plate dining and wine tasting experiences.

Lodging

Pets and their owners can both get a good night’s sleep at many of Happy Valley’s ample lodging options. Plan to camp? Bellefonte/State College KOA Campground; Gram & Pap’s Fort Bellefonte Campground; Kearns Campground; and Hemlock Acres Campground are good choices.

If you and your pampered pooch prefer the charm of a quaint bed and breakfast, try The Queen, A Victorian Bed &Breakfast or the McCafferty House Bed & Breakfast, both in Bellefonte.

Pet-owning wine enthusiasts might want to consider staying at the Vintner’s Inn, a vacation home rental adjacent to Seven Mountains Wine Cellars. While pets are permitted at the Inn, keep in mind that prior approval is required.

Pet-friendly hotels include the Graduate Hotel State College; Residence Inn by Marriott – State College; Sleep Inn; Quality Inn; Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State; Comfort Suites; Nittany Budget Motel; Super 8 by Wyndham State College; and Estya Hotel in Milesburg.

If you aren’t sure if dogs are welcome at an establishment at which you plan to visit or stay, just ask! We don’t want you to miss out on a memorable, pet-friendly Happy Valley adventure.

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau publishes up-to-date event information at HappyValley.com/events