The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau

03/07/2025

Looking for a place to eat, play, or stay while you are in Happy Valley?

Add the best to your list! In November 2024, the third annual Happy Valley Hospitality Awards recognized industry excellence in areas such as tourist attractions, events, and hospitality. These peer-nominated awards celebrate great venues and hospitality professionals in Happy Valley—here’s your chance to celebrate them too.

🏆 Festival/Event of the Year — Centre Film Festival
🏆 Tourist Attraction of the Year — Nittany Meadow Farm
🏆 Volunteer of the Year — Renea Nash-Nichols, Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village
🏆 Rising Star — Erin Pugh, Hublersburg Inn
🏆 Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Leadership — Lucy Rogers, Big Spring Spirits
🏆 Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Service — Mike Tedesco, Happy Valley Nomadic Spirits
🏆 Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Teamwork — Casie Garber and Asia Pilger, The Queen, A Victorian Bed and Breakfast
🏆 Peter J. Walker Spirit of Hospitality Award — Liz Grove, Pine Grove Hall and Flour & Stone
🏆 Peter J. Walker Spirit of Hospitality Award — Gary Brandeis, The Scholar Hotel Group

Learn more about the award recipients! ➡️ https://bit.ly/3XxXWCT

03/06/2025

Have you explored the new Palmer Museum of Art?

Nestled within the lush and scenic surroundings of The Arboretum at Penn State, the new Palmer Museum of Art offers a one-of-a-kind experience that seamlessly blends art, architecture, and nature. Home to the largest art collection between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this innovative museum is a must-visit destination in Happy Valley. With its state-of-the-art design and engaging exhibitions, the Palmer invites visitors to immerse themselves in creativity and discovery like never before.

If you've visited, share your favorite exhibit in the comments below! ⬇️

Learn more about the Palmer Museum of Art and the upcoming exhibits you can expect to see this year. — https://bit.ly/41KAHbt

03/06/2025

Located in Boalsburg, the Pennsylvania Military Museum is a community gathering place welcoming audiences of all abilities and backgrounds to gather and explore the story of the Commonwealth’s men and women serving in the Armed Forces, civilian activities on the home front, and Pennsylvania’s contributions to military innovation.

Considered the birthplace of Memorial Day, this charming and patriotic small town is still reminiscent of the early 19th century.

While the museum is temporarily closed due to a modernization and capital project to improve the space for visitors and collections, the theater is available on a limited basis for interior programming and the grounds continue to be be fully accessible to the public and we can't wait to head back inside when it's ready!

03/05/2025

The Blonde Bistro Brew Works in Bellefonte is a woman-owned microbrewery with “New Wave American” cuisine. On this episode of Your Happy Valley Adventure, Senior Correspondent Rebecca Petner introduces us to owner Ciara Semack and takes us inside her must-visit restaurant.

Have you been? What's your go to brew or dish? 🍻🍴

03/05/2025

In 2023, content creator Kim Debes of Kim Hiked It set out on an ambitious goal—to hike all 124 Pennsylvania State Parks. Along the way, she found herself returning to Happy Valley again and again, quickly realizing it’s so much more than just Penn State. Surrounded by over 750,000 acres of breathtaking public lands, Happy Valley became her perfect base camp for outdoor adventures. And with each visit, she left already planning the next one. Who can blame her?

Read about Kim's adventures in Happy Valley! — https://dispatch.happyvalley.com/blog/kimhikedit-on-a-purple-lizard-adventure-in-happy-valley

03/04/2025

Step into Apple Hill Antiques and uncover a world of vintage charm! Nestled in , this antique haven is home to unique finds, from fine art and collectibles to one-of-a-kind décor that tells a story.

Take a stroll through the past and bring home a piece of history! Have you found a favorite treasure here?

📍 2221 E College Avenue, State College, PA

03/03/2025

"We are honored that IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley has been recognized as one of the top events in North America." -Eric Engelbarts, Executive Director, Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance

IRONMAN has announced the results of its 2024 Athletes’ Choice Awards, with IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania ranking 3rd in Overall Event Satisfaction in North America!

Check it out below.

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.

03/02/2025

Have you explored our 2025 Inspiration Guide yet? This 37 page guide is your ultimate resource for all things Happy Valley where we dive into the stories that make this place special. From must-see attractions and outdoor adventures to top dining spots and local events, this guide paints a vivid picture of what it's like to visit and live in .

Ready to experience it for yourself?

Read the free guide online: ➡️ https://bit.ly/3PIDprJ

03/01/2025

From the iconic landmarks of Penn State to scenic outdoor attractions, is filled with must-see destinations. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for more, these popular locations showcase the essence of the region!

Swipe through for a list of Happy Valley's most visited destinations ➡️

02/28/2025

Exploring Central Pennsylvania? Don’t miss a visit to Nittany Valley Creamery—a hidden gem serving up the freshest, farm-to-cone ice cream made with love and local ingredients! 🍦

From creamy milkshakes and sundaes to ice cream cakes and irresistible whoopie pies, this charming creamery offers a variety of sweet treats. All ice cream is made right on-site using milk from the Glick family’s own cows, fed non-GMO feed for the freshest flavor.

Plus, enjoy the stunning valley views while savoring your treat in the cozy Dairy Barn. On weekends, they even host cookouts with delicious burgers and pulled pork sandwiches!

This spot is a must-visit for any ice cream lover. Read more on The Dispatch: https://bit.ly/41uCWiI

02/28/2025

There's no place like home 🏡

From iconic landmarks to community spirit, home is where the heart is.

What landmark tells you you're home?

02/26/2025

Many of the State High Culinary students are already working in our vibrant restaurant scene. Our Senior Correspondent, Rebecca Petner, introduces us to the future of Happy Valley Hospitality.

Send them good luck wishes as they compete in the ProStart Program competition at the The Penn Stater tomorrow!

Shoutout to RE Farm Cafe, Allen Street Grill, and The Field Burger and Tap 🍴

02/25/2025

Meet in Happy Valley—the perfect spot for your next work retreat!

Looking for the ideal location for your next corporate meetup, team-building workshop, or customer event? Happy Valley has it all: versatile meeting spaces and top-notch accommodations for a perfect balance between productivity and relaxation.

When the work is done, explore local wineries, hike Mount Nittany, catch a Penn State game, or unwind in charming small towns like Bellefonte and Boalsburg.

Ready to plan? Check out our top venue picks and start organizing an unforgettable experience: https://bit.ly/4hL1DNT

02/25/2025

Stay a while in !

From charming B&Bs to cozy cabins and modern hotels, Happy Valley has the perfect stay for every kind of traveler. Whether you're here for a weekend adventure, a Penn State game, or just a relaxing getaway, you'll find comfort and hospitality waiting for you.

✨ wake up to scenic mountain views
✨ stay steps away from vibrant downtowns
✨ experience the warmth of local hospitality

Book your stay and make Happy Valley your home away from home: https://bit.ly/3Ps2dmy

📍 Harmony Forge Inn - Historic Inn & Wedding Venue in Bellefonte, PA

02/23/2025

Are you ready, ?

Happy Valley Comic Con is coming March 1-2, and it’s THE place to be for comic collectors, pop culture fans, and anyone who loves a great find!

What to expect:
💥 wall-to-wall comics, toys, and collectibles
💥 a chance to snag an exclusive, limited-edition variant comic cover
💥 meet fellow fans and industry insiders
💥 immerse yourself in all things superheroes, sci-fi, and nostalgia

Whether you’re on the hunt for that prized issue, meeting fellow fans, or just soaking up the incredible atmosphere, there's something for everyone.

Learn more, tag your fellow fans, and get ready for an epic adventure: https://dispatch.happyvalley.com/blog/exclusive-limited-edition-commemorative-variant-comic-cover-at-the-happy-valley-comics-collectibles-convention

📷 Tom Range

The Happy Valley Comics & Collectibles Convention, happening March 1-2, 2025, at Nittany Valley Sports Centre in State College, Pennsylvania, is your gateway to an unforgettable experience in the world of comics and collectibles. This year’s event features an exclusive, limited-edition commemo...

02/23/2025

Small-town charm, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks — rooted in tradition yet continually evolving — Happy Valley, PA offers a unique blend of past and present that draws people back year after year.

At the heart of Happy Valley’s nostalgic appeal is Penn State University, a landmark that anchors memories for alumni who once roamed the campus. Yet, Happy Valley’s charm isn’t limited to Penn State. Nearby towns, like Bellefonte and Boalsburg, add layers of history and warmth. Bellefonte’s Victorian architecture, Boalsburg’s title as the birthplace of Memorial Day, and charming local shops and eateries create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a simpler time.

Happy Valley isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a place where memories are made, bringing you back time and time again. Discover why Happy Valley feels like home: https://bit.ly/415sddb

📍 Old Main, Penn State University

02/21/2025

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.

Happy Valley Agventures showcases the region’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions and the modern innovations that keep this legacy alive and growing. Happy Valley's local food movement is thriving and wholly authentic, from Penn State University’s agricultural heritage to the sprawling family-owned farmlands that dot the landscape.

Those interested in learning more about the area's agricultural history and it's developments over time can visit the Pasto Agricultural Museum. Programs explore the intersection of science and history, offering activities, demonstrations, lectures, and tours that highlight the museum collection, and connect the past to the present day.

Visit HappyValleyAgventures.com and make a plan to explore a variety of experiences, from visiting local farms to enjoying farm-to-table dining and drinking.

Here are five reasons to take an ‘Agventure’ in 2025! https://bit.ly/3EH0Ezz

02/21/2025

Housed in an eclectic 200-year-old barn, Happy Valley Brewing Company is a restaurant and brewery offering dining on two floors, along with entertainment.

Ready to enjoy the finest, freshest beer paired expertly with rustic cuisine in a charming atmosphere? Head to State College, Pennsylvania, right here in !

Embark on a culinary adventure like no other: https://bit.ly/463TQop