10 Fun Things To Do Near State College, Pennsylvania (Centre County Guide)
If you’re planning a trip to
State College, PA—home of Penn State and famous “Happy Valley”—you’re in for more than just football games and tailgates. This laid-back college town in
Centre County is surrounded by rolling mountains, cozy small towns, and a ton of outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, dropping off a student, or taking a little central Pennsylvania road trip, here are
10 fun things to do in and around State College that give you a real feel for the area.
1. Stroll Through Downtown State College & Penn State Campus
You can’t visit State College without walking around downtown and the
Penn State University Park campus. The town and campus blend together, so it’s easy to explore on foot.
Take your time wandering:
- College Avenue & Beaver Avenue – Lined with shops, cafes, bars, and local restaurants.
- Old Main – The iconic Penn State building with a big lawn that’s perfect for sitting and people-watching.
- Allen Street – A friendly, walkable block that often has events, vendors, or live music.
If you’ve never been to a big college town before, this area has that classic “campus vibe” you see in movies—students walking with backpacks, street musicians, local pizza spots, and plenty of school spirit.
Tip: Grab a coffee, walk through campus, and see if you can spot the Nittany Lion statue (you’ll probably end up taking a photo with it).
2. Visit the Palmer Museum of Art (Free & Relaxing)
Right on the Penn State campus, the
Palmer Museum of Art is a great stop if you want something calm and cultural.
You’ll find:
- American paintings and sculptures
- European art
- Rotating special exhibits
One of the best parts?
Admission is free.
It’s an easy way to spend an hour or two, especially on a rainy or chilly day. Even if you’re not usually a “museum person,” the space itself is peaceful and not overwhelming like a huge city museum.
3. Hike or Drive to the Top of Mount Nittany
If you’ve seen pictures of State College from above, there’s a good chance they were taken from
Mount Nittany. This is one of the most famous hikes in the area.
The
Mount Nittany trailhead is only about a 10–15 minute drive from downtown State College, in the village of Lemont.
Here’s what to expect:
- A fairly steep climb at the beginning (you’ll feel it in your legs).
- Several overlooks with views of Beaver Stadium, campus, and the whole valley.
- Loop trails on a mostly wooded mountaintop.
Wear good walking shoes and bring water. The hike is manageable for most people who are in average shape, but it’s not a flat stroll.
Personal note: The view at the top is especially pretty in October when the leaves change color. If you like fall road trips, this is a great stop.
4. Explore Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
If you want something easier than a mountain hike, head to
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, just a few minutes from downtown State College.
This is a calm, family-friendly spot with:
- Boardwalks over wetlands
- Flat walking trails
- Lots of birds and wildlife
It’s great for:
- Short walks with kids
- Photography
- A quiet break from town
You don’t need special gear, and you can spend as little as 30 minutes or as long as a couple of hours just wandering around.
5. Tour Penn State’s Berkey Creamery (And Eat Ice Cream!)
The
Berkey Creamery on Penn State’s campus is a must-do if you like ice cream. It’s not an exaggeration to say this is one of the most famous spots in State College.
Why is it special?
- The ice cream is made right on campus.
- They’ve been doing dairy research for over 150 years.
- They serve huge portions in lots of flavors.
Popular flavors often include:
- Peachy Paterno
- Death by Chocolate
- Alumni Swirl
They usually won’t mix flavors in one scoop (it’s kind of a local rule), so you may have to choose just one—or get two scoops.
Tip: If you’re visiting on a football weekend or during graduation, expect a line. It usually moves fast, though.
6. Walk the Arboretum at Penn State
Just a short drive or walk from campus, the
Arboretum at Penn State is one of the prettiest spots in town. It’s free to visit and open to the public.
You’ll find:
- Formal gardens with flowers and fountains
- A peaceful lawn with mountain views
- A fun children’s garden area with interactive features
It’s a perfect place to:
- Take a walk before or after dinner
- Bring a cup of coffee and relax
- Take photos; a lot of people do engagement or graduation pictures here
If you’re looking for a low-stress, low-cost thing to do in State College, this should be near the top of your list.
7. Discover Black Moshannon State Park
For a deeper nature escape, drive about 25–30 minutes from State College to
Black Moshannon State Park in Centre County.
This park feels a little wild and remote in a good way. It’s known for its dark, tannin-colored lake and bog areas.
You can:
- Rent canoes or kayaks in season
- Swim at the beach area in summer
- Hike through forests and along the water
- Cross-country ski or snowshoe in winter
If you like quiet, this is a great place to spend half a day. Pack snacks, water, and maybe a light jacket—the air can feel cooler up there, even in warmer months.
8. Visit Historic Bellefonte (Victorian Charm Near State College)
About 15–20 minutes from State College, you’ll find
Bellefonte, the county seat of Centre County. It’s a small town with beautiful old homes and a charming historic downtown.
In Bellefonte, you can:
- Walk along Spring Creek and Talleyrand Park
- Check out Victorian architecture
- Browse antique and vintage shops
- Enjoy local bakeries and cafes
If you enjoy old-fashioned downtowns with brick buildings and character, this makes a nice side trip from State College. It’s easy to combine with a hike or another activity and turn it into a full day.
9. Catch a Game or Event at Beaver Stadium & the Bryce Jordan Center
If you time your visit right, you can experience the energy of a major college event.
Beaver Stadium is one of the largest football stadiums in the country. On game days, State College comes alive with:
- Tailgating in giant parking lots
- Fans dressed head-to-toe in blue and white
- Loud crowds and school traditions
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, the atmosphere is something to see at least once.
Right nearby, the
Bryce Jordan Center hosts:
- Concerts
- Comedy shows
- Family events and performances
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking the event schedule in advance. You might be able to add a concert or game to your weekend.
10. Explore Local Wineries, Breweries, and Cideries Around Centre County
The area around State College and Centre County has a growing number of
wineries, craft breweries, and cideries. It’s a fun way to see the countryside and support local businesses.
Depending on your route and interests, you might:
- Visit a local winery with a view of the hills
- Try a flight at a craft brewery in or around downtown
- Relax with a hard cider on a patio in nice weather
If you’re traveling with friends or as a couple, this can be a great afternoon or evening plan. Just be sure to have a designated driver or use local ride services if you’re tasting.
Planning Your Trip to State College, PA
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring and fall are especially beautiful. Fall weekends can be busy with football games.
- Getting around: Downtown and campus are walkable. For parks and nearby towns in Centre County, you’ll want a car.
- Weather: Winters can be cold and snowy. Pack layers if you’re visiting between November and March.
If you like a mix of
outdoor activities, small-town charm, and college-town energy, State College and Centre County make a surprisingly well-rounded getaway.
What Would You Add to This State College Bucket List?
Have you spent time in
State College or Centre County, Pennsylvania?
- Did you hike Mount Nittany?
- Find a favorite spot downtown?
- Discover a hidden gem café, trail, or shop?
Share your experiences, tips, and favorite things to do near State College in the comments below. Your ideas can help future travelers plan their own “Happy Valley” adventure.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Pennsylvania or visiting Penn State.
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