Visiting Penn State for the first time (or the fifth) can be one of the most exciting experiences for an aspiring PSU student and their family, long-time football fans, or just lovers of a little adventure. You could spend well over a week exploring all that Happy Valley has to offer.

From the French pique-nique, picnic originally referred to a meal in which everyone contributed something, but evolved to mean dining outdoors or al fresco, especially in scenic surroundings. Picnicking options in Happy Valley come with beautiful views and options for extra fun or a little extra pizzazz. Here are our top picnicking picks in Happy Valley:

Happy Valley is home to several of the most beautiful, challenging and fun mountain biking trails in Pennsylvania. From beginners to advanced cyclists, there is a trail for everyone to bike and more importantly, a reason for out-of-town cyclists to make Happy Valley their destination for their next cycling adventure.

Woodward Cave also features a beautiful, secluded 13-acre campground that features campsites and rental cabins and you can turn your tour into a secluded weekend getaway!

The State Theatre is a non-profit performing arts center dedicated to serving the Centre County region. It’s a mainstay of the State College community and a vibrant hub of local culture, featuring artists both homegrown and nationally renowned.

“People ask me the best age to come,” says Terri Schleiden, Penn’s Cave’s Marketing Director. “Children, or young adults, or retired folks … and I say yes! All of the above! Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park appeals to all ages.”

Located 15 minutes southwest of State College, the Pasto Agricultural Museum connects our agricultural past with present-day practices and cutting-edge research in food and fiber systems, environmental issues, and natural resources.

The Home of Family Fun & Famous Food

Come join us for an amazing family fun day at DelGrosso’s Park with great amusement park rides and the awesome Laguna Splash Water Park.

The Arboretum at Penn State, located at Penn State’s University Park campus, is a special Happy Valley treasure. The H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens, open daily from dawn until dusk, offer visitors ten acres of specialty gardens. Beyond the gardens lie fields and woodlands for hiking, biking, and observing wildlife. Admission is free.