A recent Centre Daily Times article referenced movies produced in Pennsylvania in 2023. Our state is of course no stranger to the film industry, with many recognizable motion pictures made in the Commonwealth over the years. During my time with the Pennsylvania Office of Tourism, Film and Economic Development marketing, more than 30 major motion pictures were filmed in Pennsylvania. Prior to that, blockbuster movies such as 1985’s “Witness” helped make already well-known Lancaster County the extremely popular tourist destination it is today.

From the beautiful Victorian homes to the sites enshrined in the National Register of Historic Places, nearly everywhere you turn in Bellefonte, you can see traces of the rich history of our community. Local Historia, a group with a “passion for local history, community, and preservation,” is a terrific source for finding out more about this history, and one of their most important recent projects is their tour, “The Underground Railroad in Bellefonte, PA.”

If you love the thrill and challenge of mountain biking, you know that when bikers discuss the best places to test their skills, the mountain ridges that surround Happy Valley are often mentioned. This area has become a premier East Coast destination for mountain bikers of all skill levels, who are drawn to the hundreds of miles of trails (290 miles in Rothrock State Forest alone) it has to offer.

From expansive farmlands to lush mountain forests, from clear limestone streams to tree-lined neighborhoods, Happy Valley is rich in scenery. Local pastel artist Jennifer Shuey’s work is synonymous with the natural beauty of Happy Valley, capturing its scenic and agricultural lands and waters in a way that is both delicate and vibrant. We tapped into her deep appreciation for the area and her talent to gain insights into what she does best, plein air painting.

Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, Bellefonte’s bed and breakfasts offer a personal experience that’s full of charm and rich history, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and productivity.

The Nittany Antique Machinery Association is once again pleased to present two special shows that are held at the Penns Cave grounds just 5 miles east of Centre Hall, PA.

It’s not too late to plan a winter getaway this Valentine’s Day. Surprise your special someone with some quality time in Happy Valley, enjoying our beautiful natural landscape, picture-perfect small towns, unique restaurants, a variety of breweries, wineries, distilleries, and a lot more. Here’s our advice for a Valentine’s Day getaway that’s filled with love and happy-ness.

Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, one of the community’s most cherished Christmas traditions, will deck the streets with holiday cheer for its 42nd year this December 8-10th. All are invited to partake in Christmas festivities throughout the weekend.

Pine Grove Hall is cool, chic and totally unexpected. If you’re a Penn State grad who loves football weekends, summer festivals and any time of year in your favorite college town, you probably think you’ve been to all the places, old and new. But if you haven’t been to Pine Grove Hall, you’re missing out on one of the best experiences Happy Valley has to offer.