Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania and home to Pennsylvania State University, State College exudes a unique blend of academic energy, small-town hospitality, and scenic beauty. While it is world-famous as the home of the Nittany Lions, State College has so much more to offer—whether you seek vibrant culture, history, shopping, family fun, or outdoor adventure. Let’s dive into the city’s history, top attractions, local restaurants, shopping hubs, and relaxing green spaces to see why State College has earned its “Happy Valley” nickname.
A Brief History of State College
State College’s roots stretch back to pre-colonial days, with the region inhabited by the Shawnee, Delaware, and other Native American tribes. The modern story began in the 1850s with the founding of the Farmer’s High School of Pennsylvania—renamed The Pennsylvania State College—which aimed to uplift farming with education and science. The surrounding settlement was known by various names until, in 1896, 28 local property owners voted “State College” as the borough’s official name, reflecting its deep ties to the university.
Penn State now welcomes some 46,000 students annually and serves as the area’s economic and cultural engine. Over time, State College grew beyond a college town—annexing nearby land, becoming a full-service borough, and welcoming waves of students, families, and innovators alike.
Must-See Attractions in State College
Penn State University & Old Main
University Park, State College, PA 16802
(814) 865-4700
Explore the picturesque Penn State campus—don’t miss historic Old Main, the stately Nittany Lion Shrine, and the lively student hubs. Guided campus tours available. More at Penn State Visitors.
The Arboretum at Penn State
E Park Ave & Bigler Rd, State College, PA 16803
(814) 865-9118
This stunning botanical garden and research center offers 370+ acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, woodland trails, a Children’s Garden, seasonal displays, and family events. Free admission and $1/hr parking. Visit Penn State Arboretum.
Palmer Museum of Art
Curtin Rd, University Park, PA 16802
(814) 865-7672
Features the largest art collection between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, with 10,500 works ranging from Old Masters to modern art. Free admission. Info at Palmer Museum.
Berkey Creamery
119 Food Science Bldg, University Park, PA 16802
(814) 863-9765
Legendary for hand-scooped ice cream, the Creamery has delighted students, locals, and visitors for over 150 years. Berkey Creamery.
Pegula Ice Arena & Beaver Stadium
250 University Dr & 1 Beaver Stadium, University Park, PA 16802
Catch Nittany Lions hockey or a legendary Penn State football game—both are bucket-list experiences for sports fans. Details at Pegula Ice Arena.
Discovery Space of Central PA
1224 N Atherton St, State College, PA 16803
(814) 234-0200
Interactive science museum for kids, with hands-on exhibits and programs. Discovery Space.
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
548 Puddintown Rd, State College, PA 16801
(814) 235-7819
This 62-acre preserve provides trails, a boardwalk, and wildlife-watching perfect for families, school groups, and nature lovers of all ages. Millbrook Marsh.
Centre Furnace Mansion
1001 E College Ave, State College, PA 16801
(814) 234-4779
Historic 19th-century ironmaster’s home and birthplace of Penn State, featuring guided tours and exhibits about the region’s iron industry. Centre Furnace Mansion.
State College’s Historic Landmarks
- The Glennland and Leitzell Buildings
Located at Beaver Ave & Pugh St., downtown
These commercial and residential icons date to the city’s early-20th-century boom, rich in local lore and architecture. - State Theatre
130 W College Ave, State College, PA 16801
(814) 272-0606
Originally a 1938 movie palace, now a vibrant community performing arts center hosting music, theater, film, and local events. The State Theatre. - Matson Museum of Anthropology
409 Carpenter Bldg, Curtin Rd, University Park, PA 16802
Small but fascinating museum at PSU showcasing artifacts from around the world.
Best Restaurants & Local Cuisine
State College offers a dynamic food scene, spotlighting everything from classic comfort to cutting-edge fare:
- Allen Street Grill
100 W College Ave, State College, PA 16801
(814) 231-4745
Modern American cuisine, craft cocktails, and college-town ambiance on the Hotel State College’s second floor. Allen Street Grill. - The Field Burger & Tap
1 Country Club Ln, State College, PA 16803
(814) 234-8000
Voted “Best Burger & Fries,” specializing in hand-formed burgers, Amish cheese, and spiked milkshakes. The Field Burger. - The Tavern Restaurant
220 E College Ave, State College, PA 16801
(814) 238-6116
A historic favorite, serving hearty American classics since 1948 in a wood-paneled, old-world setting. The Tavern. - Otto’s Pub & Brewery
2235 N Atherton St, State College, PA 16803
(814) 867-6886
Signature local brews, farm-fresh eats, and Pennsylvania pride. Otto’s Pub. - RE Farm Cafe at Windswept Farm
1000 Fillmore Rd, State College, PA 16803
(814) 826-2233
Farm-to-table creative cuisine in a scenic country setting. RE Farm Cafe. - Little Szechuan
228 W College Ave, State College, PA 16801
(814) 238-0132
Outstanding Chinese cuisine with spicy specialties. Little Szechuan.
For more options, see the StateCollege.com Dining Guide.
Shopping in State College
- Nittany Mall
2901 E College Ave, State College, PA 16801
(814) 238-8037
This regional mall features 40+ stores (Dunham’s Sports, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works), plus seasonal events and easy access from campus. Nittany Mall. - Hills Plaza
2121 S Atherton St, State College, PA 16801
Offers convenient shopping for groceries, specialty gifts, and dining, within minutes from anywhere in town. - Downtown State College Improvement District
Explore local boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, and PSU merchandise stores along College Ave, Beaver Ave, and Allen Street. Downtown State College.
Family-Friendly & Relaxation Spots
- Tom Tudek Memorial Park
400 Herman Dr, State College, PA 16803
(814) 231-3071
85 acres with walking paths, tennis courts, dog park, butterfly garden, and playgrounds—a local favorite for relaxation and play. - Tussey Mountain
301 Bear Meadows Rd, Boalsburg, PA 16827
(814) 466-6266
All-seasons outdoor fun—skiing, snow tubing, mini-golf, go-karts, concerts, and more. Tussey Mountain. - Stone Valley Recreation Area
Allensville Rd, State College, PA 16828
A 700-acre outdoor center with hiking, boating, fishing, and a ropes course. Stone Valley Recreation. - Pegula Ice Arena and Get Air Trampoline Park
Family-favorite indoor sports and high-energy fun for all ages. - Central PA 4th Fest & Arts Fest
Annual July 4th fireworks and the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts (in July) bring music, crafts, and food from across the region. - Rothrock State Forest
Miles of hiking and biking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks to enjoy 15 minutes from downtown. - Happy Valley Adventure Bureau
Check their visitor site for up-to-date family attractions and itinerary inspiration. Happy Valley Attractions. - Discovery Space & The Rivet
See above for the children’s discovery museum and adjacent maker space ideal for curious kids, tinkerers, and families.
State College truly exemplifies the best of classic college-town living—cosmopolitan and welcoming, intellectual and traditional, all set against a backdrop of natural Central Pennsylvania beauty. Here, history lives not only in the limestone of Old Main or the artifacts of Centre Furnace Mansion, but in the traditions, creativity, and spirit of its students and residents. Whether on a football weekend or a quiet spring getaway, visitors can expect has a genuine local vibe, artisanal eats, and cultural events year-round.
With proximity to parks, family attractions, outdoor adventure, lively downtown shopping, and top-rated restaurants, State College’s charm is enduring. For those considering their next trip—or seeking more resources on Pennsylvania’s vibrant cities—myphillyconnection.com provides insider tips and inspiration for planning the perfect Keystone State journey.
Every visit to State College unveils new traditions and experiences—guaranteed to keep you coming back, whether for a game, a hike, or a taste of Berkey Creamery’s legendary ice cream.