State College, Pennsylvania, is a beautiful college town, home to Pennsylvania State University, with something for everyone, especially families. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there are plenty of fun things to do in State College that are suitable for all ages. From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, this town has it all. In this article, we’ll explore the top things to do in State College that are perfect for families.
Things to Do in State College PA
Penn State All-Sports Museum
The Penn State All-Sports Museum is a great place to start your visit to State College. Located on the Penn State University campus, this museum is dedicated to the history of Penn State athletics. Visitors can explore exhibits and memorabilia from a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and more.
Penn State Football
As the home of Penn State University, you’d have to be living under a rock to not know about Penn State football. After all, Penn State football is a big deal in State College, and attending a game at Beaver Stadium is a must-do for sports fans.
The stadium has a seating capacity of over 100,000, making it one of the largest outdoor college football stadiums in the United States. The game-day atmosphere is electric, and there are plenty of tailgating activities to enjoy before the game.
Palmer Museum of Art
The Palmer Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The museum is located on the Penn State campus and features over 9,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum’s collection includes pieces from around the world, and there are several rotating exhibits throughout the year.
Boal Mansion Museum
The Boal Mansion Museum is a historic mansion located in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, just outside of State College. The mansion was built in 1809 by the Boal family, who were early settlers in the area. The mansion is a beautiful example of Federal-style architecture, with intricate moldings, high ceilings, and elegant furnishings.
Visitors to the museum can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about the history of the Boal family and their role in the development of the area. The museum also features exhibits on the history of Boalsburg and Centre County, including artifacts and memorabilia from the Civil War and other historical events. The Boal Mansion Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and architecture of the State College area.
Bellefonte Art Museum
The Bellefonte Art Museum for Centre County is a non-profit art museum located in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, just a short drive from State College. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once a church and features a beautiful interior with high ceilings, large windows, and plenty of natural light. The museum showcases a wide variety of art from local and regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and mixed media.
Visitors to the museum can take a self-guided tour and explore the exhibits at their own pace, or attend one of the museum’s many events and programs, including art classes, lectures, and workshops. The Bellefonte Art Museum is a great place to experience the local art scene and appreciate the creativity and talent of the Centre County community.
Tussey Mountain
Tussey Mountain is a great place to visit in State College for outdoor activities. It is a ski resort in the winter and offers a variety of summer activities, including ziplining, mini-golf, and roller coasters. There is also a water park on-site, making it a perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
Mount Nittany
Mount Nittany is a popular hiking destination in State College. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great place to get some exercise with the whole family. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.
Bryce Jordan Center
The Bryce Jordan Center is a multi-purpose arena on the Penn State campus that hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and trade shows. The arena has a seating capacity of up to 15,000 people, making it the perfect place to catch live music or a basketball game.
Columbus Chapel
Christopher Columbus’ Chapel is a small historic building that is located in downtown State College. The chapel is a replica of a chapel that Columbus was said to have prayed in before setting sail for the New World. The chapel is now part of the American Philatelic Center, which houses the world’s largest collection of stamps and stamp-related artifacts.
Downtown State College
Downtown State College is a great place to explore with your family. The area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the State Theatre, a historic theater that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. There are also several beautiful gardens and parks in the area, including Talleyrand Park and the Butterfly Garden.
State College is home to several buildings and landmarks that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings include the Old Main building, the Columbus Chapel, and several other historic homes and buildings in the downtown area.
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Penn State Creamery
The Berkey Creamery, located on the campus of Penn State, is a famous ice cream shop that has been serving up delicious treats since 1865. Take a guided tour of the creamery and learn about the ice cream-making process. Of course, no visit is complete without trying some of the creamery’s famous ice cream flavors.
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Stone Valley Recreation Area
The Stone Valley Recreation Area is a beautiful park located just outside of State College. The park is a great place to explore with your family and offers a varietyof outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. There are several walking trails throughout the park, as well as picnic areas and camping facilities.
Medlar Field at Lubrano Park
Medlar Field is a baseball stadium located on the Penn State campus. The stadium is home to the State College Spikes, a minor league baseball team. An afternoon or evening spent at a baseball game is always a fun family activity. You can catch a game during the summer months and enjoy the beautiful weather while cheering on the team and feasting on all your ballpark favorites.
Pegula Ice Arena
The Pegula Ice Arena is a state-of-the-art ice rink located on the Penn State campus. The arena is home to the Penn State Nittany Lions hockey team and also hosts a variety of public skating sessions throughout the year. Visitors can also rent the rink for private events, making it a great place for a fun family outing or a great date idea.
Eisenhower Auditorium
The Eisenhower Auditorium is a beautiful venue on the Penn State campus that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. The auditorium has a seating capacity of up to 2,500 people and is known for its exceptional acoustics and beautiful interior design.
Bald Eagle State Park
Bald Eagle State Park is a beautiful park located just outside of State College. The park is a great place to explore with your family and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. There are several walking trails throughout the park, as well as picnic areas and camping facilities.
Pennsylvania Military Museum
The Pennsylvania Military Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the state of Pennsylvania and its involvement in various military conflicts throughout history. The museum features exhibits and artifacts from the American Revolution to the present day.
Big Spring Spirits
Big Spring Spirits is a local distillery that produces a variety of spirits, including whiskey, gin, and vodka. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the production process, as well as sample some of the spirits. The distillery also has a tasting room and a restaurant on-site.
Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park
Penn’s Cave is a natural attraction located in Centre County, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 miles east of State College. The cave is a limestone cavern that was formed over millions of years by the flow of water. The cavern is over 1,500 feet long and features several large chambers filled with stunning formations, including stalactites and stalagmites.
Visitors to Penn’s Cave can take a guided tour of the cavern and explore the beautiful underground formations, including a stunning crystal-clear lake that is over 100 feet deep. The tour is conducted on a flat-bottomed boat that navigates through the cavern, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the natural wonders.
In addition to the cavern tour, Penn’s Cave also features several other attractions and activities, including a wildlife tour that showcases native animals such as bears, bison, and elk, and an off-road tour that takes visitors through the rugged terrain of the surrounding mountains.
State College Golf Courses
State College, PA is home to several beautiful and challenging golf courses, making it a great destination for golf enthusiasts. The Penn State Golf Courses, located on the Penn State University campus, offer two 18-hole championship courses and a 9-hole executive course. The courses are open to the public and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Toftrees Golf Resort, located just outside of State College, features an 18-hole championship course and a variety of other amenities, including a pro shop and restaurant. The resort also offers golf packages that include accommodations and access to other area attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, State College has the perfect golf course for you.
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Nittany Lion Shrine
The Nittany Lion Shrine is a famous landmark on the Penn State campus. The statue is a large bronze sculpture of a mountain lion and is a popular spot for taking photos. The statue is located near the Penn Stater Hotel and is a must-visit for any Penn State fan.
Tom Tudek Memorial Park
Tom Tudek Memorial Park is a beautiful park located just outside of State College. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. There are several walking trails throughout the park, as well as picnic areas and tennis courts.
Discovery Space
The Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania is an interactive science museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. The museum features exhibits on a variety of topics, including space, the human body, and robotics. Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities and workshops.
Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts is an annual event that takes place in downtown State College. The festival features a variety of artists and performers, as well as food vendors and other activities. The festival is a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy a fun-filled day with your family.
Black Moshannon State Park
Black Moshannon State Park is a beautiful park located just outside of State College. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. There are several walking trails throughout the park, as well as picnic areas and camping facilities. The park is also home to a beautiful lake, making it a great place to cool off on a hot summer day.
State College, Pennsylvania, is a hidden gem in the heart of Central Pennsylvania. From exploring the natural wonders of Mount Nittany and Penn’s Cave to taking in the local culture at the Palmer Museum of Art and State Theatre, there is truly something for everyone in this beautiful college town.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a nature lover, or a culture buff, State College has it all. The town’s proximity to Penn State University only adds to its charm, with historic landmarks, beautiful gardens, and a variety of sporting events to explore. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, State College is the perfect destination for a memorable and fun-filled trip.
