In 1763, Captain James Potter and Thomas Thompson stood a top Nittany Mountain looked upon the woodlands, the big blue sky, and the streams of this bountiful, majestic valley and proclaimed, “By heavens, Thompson! I have discovered an empire!”

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.

Explore all the flavors of Happy Valley, PA

Local ingredients can be found on the menus of many restaurants and craft beverage establishments throughout Happy Valley. From stand-out farm-to-fork dining options to classic American fare and adventurous ethnic cuisine -- and everything in between -- you can find a restaurant to suit your palate. We invite you to take your own flavor journey. [Learn how the Happy Valley Takeout Trail can enhance your experience if you do.]

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.

From brand-new eateries to long-time favorites, Centre County’s restaurants are breaking out fresh fall flavors just in time for the season.

Pumpkin spice, warm cinnamon, crisp apples — there’s something about fall flavors that just make you feel all cozy and, well, happy. Luckily, you can easily find a healthy dose of fall flavor at a range of Happy Valley restaurants.

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.

There’s something about the experience at Pine Grove Hall.

It could be the ambiance of the space, in a tastefully restored building that’s a nod to the heritage of the community it calls home, Pine Grove Mills. Inside, the decor is perfectly curated to transport visitors back to another era.

If you ask a resident of Happy Valley where to find a “fine dining” experience in the region, you’re likely to get a wide range of responses. As one local said in a social media poll, it all depends on your definition of fine dining.