Small towns and off-peak seasons are the latest travel trends to benefit Happy Valley. In recent years, travelers have gained more appreciation for the unique character and quiet charm of small towns. Spending time in a small town allows visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and become part of the community spirit that these destinations possess, offering a richer, more personal experience.

Another perk of small-town travel that visitors enjoy? Smaller crowds, especially during off-peak seasons when you can enjoy local attractions with less congestion and get a true feel for the place you’re visiting. Off-season travel also often comes with the benefit of lower rates for accommodations.

Happy Valley’s visitor season peaks in the fall when the Nittany Lions attract scores of Penn State alumni and fans to Beaver Stadium, but it unofficially kicks off in July when Downtown State College and Penn State campus host the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts. Visitors are discovering that there are just as many opportunities to enjoy the area’s restaurants, events, entertainment, and attractions throughout Happy Valley year-round. Go explore if you are visiting for the Central PA 4th Fest, Philipsburg Heritage Days, the Centre County Grange Fair, the Nittany Antique Machinery Show, or Punkin Chunkin’.

State College, home to Penn State and a thriving Downtown

Penn State brings big-time athletics and big-city arts opportunities to Happy Valley

Winter and spring at Penn State are packed with exciting sports events. The men's and women's basketball teams play at the Bryce Jordan Center, where fans can enjoy action-packed games and high-energy crowds. Men’s and women’s ice hockey lure loyal fans to Pegula Ice Arena, headquarters of “Hockey Valley,” a must-see facility that opened in 2013. Wrestling and men’s and women’s volleyball also enjoy dedicated fan bases that promise big energy and excitement.

But it's not just about sports. The arts are alive at Penn State, including a line-up of major touring shows at Eisenhower Auditorium, home to the Center for the Performing Arts at Penn State. The annual season includes everything from Broadway musicals and family-friendly shows to international ballet companies and symphonies. In other arts news, Penn State recently celebrated the opening of a breathtaking brand-new facility for its renowned Palmer Museum of Art.

At the Penn State Arboretum, accessible trails wind through the beautiful seasonal botanic gardens. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors within a short walk from campus and Downtown.

Downtown State College offers diverse dining options and quaint shopping opportunities

Whether you’re a casual diner or a cultured foodie, Downtown State College has a restaurant for you, for every meal. Start your day with the fluffiest pancakes or a jam-packed omelet at the Original Waffle Shop, a hometown tradition. Expand your palate at lunch with one of many international options or grab a burger at Local Whiskey, then enjoy a fresh feature and creative cocktail in the cozy atmosphere at Central Reservation.

College and Beaver Avenues are lined with unique specialty shops like Kitchen Kaboodle, Appalachian Outdoors, Way Fruit Farm’s Downtown market, and apparel boutiques for men and women, including the popular Harpers. Of course, there’s no shortage of Penn State fanwear and souvenirs. Check out Lion’s Pride and the Student Book Store for a range of products and prices.

State College accommodations

While visiting State College, you can choose from lodging options that give you out-the-door access to Downtown amenities and campus attractions, like Hyatt Place State College, or the newly renovated and recently reopened historic Nittany Lion Inn. There are also ample hotel accommodations within a few miles of Downtown, like the Toftrees Golf Resort, Best Western Inn & Suites just off I-99, and Hampton Inn State College which is within walking distance of Downtown and campus venues, including the Bryce Jordan Center, central PA’s stop for concerts and other touring acts.

If you are heading to town with an RV during football season, Grange Park in Centre Hall offers a great option for tailgating and avoiding the crowds around Beaver Stadium.

Nearby restaurants, shopping, and attractions

There’s plenty to see and do within minutes of Downtown State College, including an abundance of locally-owned restaurants. In Pine Grove Mills, The Naked Egg Café serves breakfast and lunch, while newcomer Flour & Stone and its sister restaurant Pine Grove Hall offer dinner (and, often, live music). On North Atherton, visit Otto’s Pub & Brewery for casual, family-friendly dining and craft beer. On South Atherton, enjoy wood-fired pizza, fresh salads, and handmade pasta dishes at Faccia Luna. Boalsburg’s Boal City Brewing is a craft microbrewery situated next to Rothrock State Forest, with a taproom and beer garden setting and plenty of outdoor seating offering great views. The location is nearby the bicycle path from State College and Penn State.

History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Centre County Historical Society, located just outside of Downtown State College. The society is housed in the meticulously preserved Centre Furnace Mansion, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. Visitors can explore the mansion’s beautifully restored rooms, each filled with period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the region’s industrial and cultural heritage. Exhibits and displays cover a wide range of topics, from the early settlers and Native American history to the development of Penn State University and the impact of the iron industry.

Apple Hill Antiques just minutes from town on East College Avenue is a treasure hunter’s dream. One of Central Pennsylvania’s premier antiques and vintage collectibles co-ops, Apple Hill is celebrating 27 years in business and a new location. With 40+ dealers and a wide array of quality items, you’ll enjoy hours of exploring.

Happy Valley is home to top small towns

Bellefonte

Bellefonte offers a blend of history, outdoor beauty, and vibrant local businesses. Known for its Victorian architecture, the historic town boasts indoor and outdoor attractions, bed and breakfast lodging, and a selection of popular eateries.

Stroll through its streets and stop by the Bellefonte Art Museum, housed in a restored historic building, where you’ll find exhibits celebrating local and regional artists. A few blocks away Talleyrand Park provides scenic views along Spring Creek, complete with walking paths, a gazebo, benches, and picnic tables.

Four Ways Pub & Eatery is popular for its sustainably sourced ingredients that are minimally processed and turned into tasty burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Bonfatto’s Italian Market & Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner (until 7 PM), offering coffee, Italian specialties, and its famous Bonanza sub.

Helen Foxx & Co., a boutique known for stylish women’s clothing and accessories, will give you a warm friendly welcome as you browse the latest styles. Families will love the Bellefonte Brick Studio, a unique destination for Lego lovers of all ages, and Belle Mercantile is a must-see for its wide selection of artisan-made items, like candles, jewelry, stained glass, pottery, knitted apparel, specialty foods, and more.

After a day of exploring, unwind at one of Bellefonte's charming inns, like The Queen, Our Fair Lady, Bellefonte B&B, or Riffles & Runs, named for the area’s (and the owner’s) passion for fly fishing. In December, Bellefonte celebrates Victorian Christmas, a town-wide holiday-themed recognition of its heritage, and in the spring, Spring Creek is stocked with trout.

Philipsburg

Known as the Wilderness City, historic and rustic Philipsburg is another great choice for a visit to Happy Valley. For outdoor enthusiasts, Philipsburg is a great choice for its proximity to Black Moshannon State Park. Its pristine lake, miles of trails, and serene woodland are perfect for hiking, kayaking, and picnicking. In the winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.

Grab breakfast or lunch at Poppy & Company Café before hitting a few shops. Thieves Market offers furniture, home décor, and gifts, and Shindig Alley specializes in high-quality mid-mod antique furnishings and decor and has a well-stocked vintage boutique.

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the We Are Inn, which offers spacious rooms and in-house dining at the Lobby Grille and features a Penn State theme with plenty of unique memorabilia.

Unique accommodations for your home base

For travelers who prefer the privacy and comforts of home, the Trailside Inn in Snow Shoe is off the beaten path, yet just a short drive from Penn State and Happy Valley's charming small towns like Bellefonte and Phillipsburg. Find their listing on Airbnb.