It’s hard to top fall in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. As the leaves turn color on Mount Nittany, the students return to the campus (welcome back!), and we gear up for those magical football Saturdays, there is a sense of energy and adventure that is pure, unadulterated fun.

On Sunday, September 29, 2024, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau will host not one, not two, but three published Blue Band authors for a special Book Signing from 10 am to noon! Books will only be $20 plus all items in the newly restocked The Happy Valley Store will be 12.5% off during the signing in celebration of the Blue Band’s 125th anniversary!

Autumn in Happy Valley is bursting with vibrant experiences! From exploring colorful state parks and sampling local brews to attending festivals and apple picking, there’s no shortage of fall fun. Cheer on the Nittany Lions, take a scenic drive, or enjoy a cozy hayride—Happy Valley has it all. Grab your sweater and dive into this season’s ultimate bucket list!

Happy Valley Women's Cycling proudly declares its commitment to advancing community cycling and bolstering the local economy through transformative cycling initiatives.

If you love that fall feeling, Happy Valley is calling. From football tailgates against a vibrant autumn landscape to weekend-long retreats perfect for strolling, shopping and snuggling by the fire, it’s the coziest place to be. When you want to warm up with a beverage or a hearty meal, you’ll find a range of spots that promise both comfort and flavor.

Happy Valley is packed with so many things to do and see, it can be overwhelming to know where to go and what to do next. Once you’ve made your way through the list of the most popular outdoor adventures, like hiking up Mount Nittany, biking on a gravel road in Rothrock State Forest, and exploring Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park, searching out less well-known adventures is a great next step. Let us help guide you to some new and exciting experiences in underrated spots and unique places for every interest.

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:

Grab your friends, costumes (costumes optional), and grab your running shoes for the 2nd annual Ghostly Gallop 5k and 1-mile Fun Run!

“Exciting news! Happy Valley Women's Cycling (HVWC) is transforming into a community club in 2025, focusing on inclusivity for female cyclists. This is a fantastic opportunity for more women to join and be part of a supportive cycling community.” -Tanya Campbell.