For Fritz Smith, president and CEO of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, the love for hospitality started at a very early age, in a place fueled by tourism.

“I grew up in Washington, D.C., a place where the two major industries were government and tourism,” he said. “You saw thousands of people visiting the Washington Monument and going in and out of the Smithsonian Museum buildings almost year-round. Something inside me said, “I bet those people are spending a whole lot of money while they are here!”

Walkability makes for a fabulous visitor experience and contributes to how desirable a town or city is for residents. Just ask any beach town. There’s a reason the boardwalk is one of the most popular places at the shore: everything is right there.

Visitors will find this same benefit in Happy Valley’s best small towns, including State College, home to one of the most beautiful and walkable campuses in the country.

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.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve the Happy Valley way! First Night State College is back in person for 2021, and it’s better than ever.

State College was just voted the number one college football town in the nation by ESPN, thanks in large part to our vibrant downtown filled with your favorite bars, restaurants, art and shops. This fall, shop those downtown shops for perfect gifts for your Penn State fans and you’ll be supporting your favorite downtown shops. Here’s how.

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

From finding the perfect distinctly Happy Valley gifts for friends and family, to showing appreciation to valued employees and colleagues with one-of-a-kind corporate gift giving ideas, Happy Valley's shops, restaurants and hotels have just what you need this holiday season.

Home to Penn State University, State College is a safe, vibrant and diverse university town. If it’s been a while since you explored the downtown, plan to spend a day or two visiting new establishments and popular favorites.

Boalsburg is a quaint town where history is on full display everywhere you look. Quaint shops, plentiful dining options, and abundant, nearby outdoor recreational opportunities make Boalsburg an ideal destination for individuals and families to spend a day.