Central PA is one of the best places to visit. With proximity to Penn State, as well as entertainment and recreation for all interests, central PA offers something for everyone. Some of our top-notch events and attractions drawing thousands of visitors to the area include:

The Bryce Jordan Center

Home to Nittany Lion and Lady Lion basketball, the BJC also serves as Central PA’s major concert venue, hosting superstars like Billy Joel, Cher, and Bruce Springsteen yearly.

Central PA Festival of the Arts

Consistently ranked among the top outdoor fine art and fine craft shows in the nation, Arts Fest draws more than 300 exhibitors and 100,000+ visitors every July.

Central PA 4th Fest

This daylong celebration features a parade, family friendly entertainment, a giant American flag cake, and one of the top 5 fireworks displays in the country.

Centre County Grange Fair

The nation’s only encampment fair offers family fun, unique and delicious food, national entertainment acts, and farm and animal exhibits every August.

State College Spikes

Minor league affiliates of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Spikes light up State College summers with unique promotions, community events, and family fun.

Penn State Athletics

From Beaver Stadium to Rec Hall to the new Pegula Ice Arena, Penn State sports are a highlight all year long. Cheering the Nittany Lions on to victory is a favorite local pastime.

Penn State’s Center for the Performing Arts

Bringing world-class national and international performances in theatre, dance, music, and more to the central Pennsylvania stage.
Central PA encompasses many rural areas and more populated areas, such as State College. You’ll find countless youth and adult recreation programs, all kinds of community events and festivals, musical performances, and multiple wineries, breweries, and distilleries. There’s something here for you, no matter what your interests are.

Outdoor Recreation

Centre County offers over 44 parks (including 5 state parks) and other nearby outdoor recreation opportunities. Lake Raystown in Huntingdon County offers fishing, boating, hiking, kayaking, and more. Spruce Creek is also a popular spot for fishing—even former presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and Jimmy Carter have made visits here to fish.

If your interests lie in the arts, there’s certainly something here for you.


Performing Arts

The Center for the Performing Arts | The Playhouse | The Pavilion | The State Theatre

Art Galleries

Green Drake Gallery & Arts Center | Palmer Museum of Art | Gallery Shop

There are also several crafts and arts festivals, including the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, one of the top shows in the nation held every July. For more information about area attractions, visit happyvalley.com.