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.

Since the Bryce Jordan Center opened its doors in 1996, it has been host to sold out shows, record-breaking events, screaming fans and contagious energy. More than 2,000 events have taken place—including performances by Garth Brooks and the Jonas Brothers, to Cirque du Soleil to THON the largest student philanthropy on earth. In total, more than 16 million fans have made lifetime memories attending an event at the Bryce Jordan Center.

A guide to roads, paths and trails

Happy Valley is well-positioned to offer bicyclists both recreation and transportation with low-traffic roads and an abundance of public lands that allow riders to get out into nature.

The State College Spikes jumped back into action this summer, once again providing Happy Valley with fun, affordable family entertainment as future major league stars played in the inaugural season of the Major League Baseball Draft League.

Pennsylvania's Ultimate Haunted Experience

Experience triple terror and triple fun during Fridays and Saturdays in October with Lincoln Caverns Ghosts and Goblins tour. Get the scare of your life with haunted caves, trails and hayride.

Heading into Happy Valley for a football weekend? Make the most of your time in the area by not only cheering on your Nittany Lions, but also checking out some of the historic spots around the region.

The picturesque mountains that line the Happy Valley horizon provide limitless opportunities for families to make lifelong memories. Whether hiking, biking, fishing or hunting, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors of Central Pennsylvania.

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 year‑round from dawn until dusk, offer visitors ten acres of specialty gardens.

Strong Community Support Helped Local Businesses Survive Pandemic, Now They’re Ready for Visitors

The best traveling experiences are often made in spots locals love the most. Local love means a lot to these businesses who started up not long before the pandemic. Their dedication and creativity through that tough time made them fast favorites in Happy Valley. Make sure to add them to your list.