Don’t let this small town of 1,500 fool you, Centre Hall hosts some of the most well-attended events in Centre County. Located just a few miles from Penn State University, the town boasts delicious restaurants, places to stay, attractions, and some one-of-a-kind events.
As travelers increasingly crave destinations that evoke a sense of nostalgia, Happy Valley stands out. According to recent travel insights, 88% of people are seeking nostalgic getaways, a trend reflected in the steady stream of visitors and former residents returning to reconnect with Happy Valley’s small-town charm, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks. This region — rooted in tradition yet continually evolving — offers a unique blend of past and present that draws people back year after year.
If you’re planning your trip to Happy Valley, you may not realize that you’ll also be intersecting with one of Pennsylvania’s most remote parts of the state — the Pennsylvania Wilds. Bellefonte and Philipsburg, two beloved Happy Valley communities, offer the perfect base camp for exploring the PA Wilds — an outdoor lover’s dream. These two communities act as the “welcome mat” to some of Pennsylvania’s most breathtaking public lands, connecting visitors to adventures in nature, rich wildlife, and small-town charm.