In 2023, I set out to hike in all 124 Pennsylvania State Parks. I began with day trips to state parks nearest my home in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Eventually, I expanded to weekend getaways that included multiple state park visits, often with my husband and five children.

IRONMAN has announced the results of its 2024 Athletes’ Choice Awards, highlighting the top-scoring events in a variety of categories based on athletes’ post-event surveys from all of last year’s IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 races globally.

If you find yourself exploring the beautiful countryside of Central Pennsylvania, make sure to stop by Nittany Valley Creamery—a hidden gem where fresh, farm-to-cone ice cream is the star of the show. Owned by the Glick family, this charming creamery opened its doors in 2022, bringing their passion for quality, local ingredients straight to your taste buds. The ice cream is crafted right on-site using milk from the family’s own herd of cows that graze on non-GMO feed, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful product.

Top spots for retreats, workshops, and corporate events, perfect for companies looking to bring together remote talent or connect with customers.

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 love local and delicious, you’ll love this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of local farming and artisanal craftsmanship that makes up Happy Valley Agventures.

*Crunch* The sound of a crispy leaf that you step on in the fall. Or maybe it’s your boot on fresh snow in wintertime, a springtime snack in the forest, a rocky summit in the summer heat. Happy Valley offers year-round enjoyment of nature, with miles of hiking and biking trails across six state parks in Centre County—and plenty of eco-friendly ways to explore!

Happy Valley is more than a destination for sports and scenery; it’s a culinary haven waiting to be discovered. From cozy cafes nestled in historic towns to innovative eateries pushing the boundaries of flavor, the region’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Visitors will find farm-to-table fare, artisan creations, and local flavors that celebrate the best of Pennsylvania’s bounty.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and what better way to get in the spirit of love than by hearing stories from two of Happy Valley’s most inspiring couples? Senior Correspondent Rebecca Petner of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau recently sat down with Megan and Jason Coopey of Way Fruit Farm, Tamara and Bob Schuster of Our Fair Lady Bed and Breakfast, and active community leaders Gary and Lydia Abdullah. You can catch their interviews on Instagram and Facebook to hear how love and business intertwine for these beloved local owners.