F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote that “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” That sentiment can certainly be felt in Happy Valley when the arrival of Penn State students, thousands of football fans, and the refreshingly cool weather brings a renewed energy and reasons to get out and explore! Here are some of our favorite family adventures coming up in the next few months.

If you’re still planning your summer travels, then we encourage you to consider coming to Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. Summer festivals, outdoor adventures, and unique dining opportunities are just a few of the things waiting for you here.

One of the most magical things about Happy Valley is the abundance of opportunities to enjoy every season. Even better, there is a big variety of fun and affordable activities that are perfect for families with kids of all ages.

There was a time, and not long ago, that a trip to State College/Happy Valley in early June would involve golf, golf, and more golf. Rounds at Penn State’s Blue and White courses, followed certainly by a trip out to Toftrees Golf Resort for another 18, and maybe some time on the practice range in between, which was always necessary to grind my game down to a solid 6 handicap.

While it’s home to one of America’s best college towns, Happy Valley has plenty of family-friendly opportunities for fun and adventure. Here are three ideas to get you going.

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau has plenty of inspiration for Penn State students interested in exploring and enjoying all corners of the county – the beautiful valleys and unique communities that comprise our big Happy Valley.

New accessible outdoor recreation opportunities, and dining options bringing soulful comfort food and authentic Mexican cuisine to northern Centre County, offer even more reasons to spend a day in Happy Valley, PA's beautiful Bald Eagle Valley.

Happy Valley boasts bountiful outdoor recreation; beautiful gardens and museums, interesting history and architecture, a thriving craft beverage scene, and a variety of restaurants and farm-to-fork dining options that appeal to individuals and families. Part of the fun of discovering all that Happy Valley has to offer is exploring the communities of State College, Bellefonte, Philipsburg, Boalsburg and Millheim, each having their own unique vibe and each home to hidden gems worth checking out.

Since its launch in October 2019, Happy Valley Agventures has helped to raise greater awareness about Centre County’s robust agricultural product. Now, it is even easier for those looking to plan their next Agventure to do so thanks to the placement of new colorful signage at Happy Valley Agventures’ destinations throughout the county.