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.

As Centre County’s destination marketing organization, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau’s (HVAB) mission is to promote all that is special about the communities and valleys that comprise our one big Happy Valley, PA. For HVAB leadership and staff, championing the county as a fantastic place to visit, live, conduct business and work is something proudly done in and outside of the office. In a month that celebrates love, some HVAB team members share what they personally adore about Happy Valley.

Need something to do this holiday season? Why not take a visit to State College, PA! From free Trolley Tours to Tree Decorating Contests, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy!

Since its inception, Shrub has been considered a simple non-alcoholic drink mixer. It is most popularly mixed with chilled sparkling water. It is also a natural sweetener and flavor booster when added to iced tea and lemonade.

There is nothing like experiencing gameday in Happy Valley – the tailgating is second to none and Beaver Stadium is the most electric atmosphere in all of college football. Not to mention the Penn State Nittany Lions have playoff aspirations this year and are ranked inside the Top 10 in preseason polls for only the 12th time since 1990. The football game may get you to travel to State College, but there is much more to do in and around Happy Valley this fall.

Here’s a look at some of the best reasons to extend your stay in Happy Valley this football season:

The Downtown State College Improvement District (DSCID) and the Borough of State College are excited to announce a special initiative aimed at invigorating the downtown area following a challenging construction season. From August 6 to August 18, 2024, all municipal parking, meters, lots, and garages will offer free 2-hour parking.

Alumni will say there are a few things that every student must do while at Penn State: climb Mount Nittany; take a photo at the Nittany Lion Shrine; enjoy a scoop of or more at the famous Berkey Creamery; spend a sunny day at Whipple Dam; or stroll through the Arboretum. As the official tourism promotion agency for Centre County, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) has plenty of inspiration for ways to enjoy the beautiful valleys and unique communities that comprise our big Happy Valley. Start by adding fall fun to your list at some of the county’s most popular farms and farm markets.

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.