In 1763, Captain James Potter and Thomas Thompson stood a top Nittany Mountain looked upon the woodlands, the big blue sky, and the streams of this bountiful, majestic valley and proclaimed, “By heavens, Thompson! I have discovered an empire!”

Discovery Space is a growing science center and makerspace based in State College. With 5,000 square feet of interactive exhibits and two classrooms, our science center offers year-round science explorations for families and a wide variety of hands-on programs and events in a fun learning environment.

The historic Centre Furnace Mansion is a beautifully restored and furnished 19th century iron master’s mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mansion and adjoiningFurnace Stackstand as a testament to two of the most important economic and developmental facets of Centre County history: the 18th century origins of the iron making industry and the 19th century founding of the Pennsylvania State University. The site features several acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, historic trees, and heirloom gardens and is a perfect venue for weddings, gatherings and meetings.

The Bellefonte Art Museum for Centre County has created a vibrant community for the arts serving families, artists, and patrons while making a positive social and economic impact on Happy Valley.

2021 has been declared the International Year of Caves and Karst by the United Nations, and local cave enthusiasts say it’s none too soon. After all, about 20% of the earth’s land surface is affected by karst—slowly dissolving rocks that create landforms such as sinkholes, ridges, fissures, and most famously, caves. This year, theInternational Union of Speleology, along with caves all over the world, will be celebrating these unique landforms and spreading knowledge about how we can all enjoy and help preserve them for the next generation.

Assistant VP of DEI for Student Affairs chosen as Honorary Grand Marshal

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. Sept. 28, 2021 — Penn State Homecoming has selected Brian Patchcoski as the 2021 Honorary Grand Marshal. The Honorary Grand Marshal was officially announced on Friday, Sept. 24 in a video posted to the Penn State Homecoming website.

Explore all the flavors of Happy Valley, PA

Local ingredients can be found on the menus of many restaurants and craft beverage establishments throughout Happy Valley. From stand-out farm-to-fork dining options to classic American fare and adventurous ethnic cuisine -- and everything in between -- you can find a restaurant to suit your palate. We invite you to take your own flavor journey. [Learn how the Happy Valley Takeout Trail can enhance your experience if you do.]

Looking for off-campus student lodging in State College? The Retreat at State College offers something unique: a home away from home.

There’s something different about Bear Lodges, three non-traditional B&Bs located in Wellsboro, 90 minutes north of State College, and nestled in the heart of gorgeous Pennsylvania Grand Canyon country. Owner Jim Meade says Bear Lodges are not just accommodations catering to a great destination …. they are a getaway in themselves.