Harrisburg, PA – A new report by the Pennsylvania Tourism Office shows the tourism industry in the Commonwealth generated $66.3 billion in economic impact, supported 452,885 jobs, contributed $4.2 billion in state and local taxes, and welcomed 180 million visitors in 2021.

Exercise and spending time in nature are both scientifically proven to improve people’s physical and mental well-being, so it’s no wonder a place known as “Happy Valley” is a wonderland for all types of outdoor recreation. It’s also a great place to meet and befriend outdoor recreationalists of all stripes. Below, we talk to a handful of outdoor adventurers about how they enjoy the natural paradise that is Happy Valley:

Whether it is fishing, walking or bird watching, the Soaring Eagle Wetlands between Port Matilda and Julian in Huston Township provide access for people of all mobility levels. The property, in two parcels, is owned by State College based Wildlife for Everyone Foundation.

Happy Valley has been rooted in agriculture for generations, and Centre County’s small farms keep some traditions growing. But you don’t need your own plot of land to embrace the region’s agrarian history. Happy Valley Agventures has picked a few spring and early summer events that will appeal to everyone from hardy homesteaders to DIY late bloomers.

The Outdoor Adventure Expo, a free-admission event organized and hosted by Downtown Bellefonte, Inc., highlights the easily accessible natural assets and resources of Bellefonte and the surrounding area by bringing together a dynamic showcase of more than 60 vendors and organizations. This year’s expo is scheduled from noon-5 PM on May 21 at Talleyrand Park.

For the last several years, Happy Valley Restaurant Week (the revamped take on the prior Happy Valley Culinary Week) has delighted Centre County residents and visitors alike with can’t-miss culinary offerings from the region’s best restaurants. This year’s event is slated for June 16-25. Mark your calendars — you don’t want to miss what’s in store.

Who is Corey Elbin?

Audibly speaking, he is DJ Elbow Knee Knee, audio mixologist and one of Happy Valley’s fastest-rising community figures. He is a curator of all-vinyl musicscapes for book release events, all-age dance parties, yoga salutations and baby raves. He also collaborates with Open Music, a project ensemble of musical humanists who celebrate today’s avant-garde artists.

Happy Valley Agventures invites you to visit our fields, farms, farm stands and farm stores to experience first-hand what we grow, create and craft. Whether you are looking for a weekend stay on a farm, goat yoga, locally made ciders and wines, or just some great shopping, check out these awesome places in Happy Valley:

Whether it's your first time at Penn State or you are a regular, Penn State and the Happy Valley community provide an experience unlike any other. Our bucket list covers some of the spots that make up the quintessential Penn State Experience.