When you visit Bellefonte, you’ll find yourself inspired by historic architecture, the natural beauty of Talleyrand Park, friendly business owners and welcoming residents.

There are few better places to enjoy autumn than in Happy Valley. There’s the energy and magic of home game Saturdays, for starters. There’s the breathtaking sight of the trees on Mount Nittany (and beyond) turning orange, yellow and red. On top of the energy and beauty that makes Happy Valley fall so special, there’s a full calendar of fall festivals and spooky fun for the whole family to enjoy. This October, you don’t want to miss the Spooky Speakeasy or Candlelight Ghost Tours.

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.

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.

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.

Take in the sights and flavors of Happy Valley at these top spots with outdoor dining options.

When the sun is shining, there’s no better place to be than Happy Valley. And if you want to grab a bite or drink and maintain that sunshine status, outdoor dining options abound. From craft cocktails to fine dining, there’s a patio in Happy Valley just waiting for you.

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.

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.