things to do in state college
State College, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant college town and home to Penn State University. Here are some things to do in State College:
Outdoor Activities:
- Rothrock State Forest: Explore the beautiful forest trails, go hiking, or mountain biking.
- Whipple Dam State Park: Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or paddle-boating in the summer, and ice skating or cross-country skiing in the winter.
- Arboretum at Penn State: Stroll through the beautiful gardens and trails, featuring over 1,000 species of plants and trees.
Penn State Campus:
- Penn State All-Sports Museum: Learn about the university’s sports history and see interactive exhibits.
- The Palmer Museum of Art: Discover a diverse collection of American, European, and Asian art.
- Penn State Creamery: Enjoy a delicious ice cream and learn about the university’s dairy research and history.
Downtown State College:
- Downtown State College Farmers’ Market: Every Friday, May-October, visit the market for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
- The State Theatre: Catch a live music or theater performance at this historic venue.
- Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts: Attend this popular festival, featuring live music, food, and art vendors (late July).
Food and Drink:
- The Nittany Lion Inn: Dine at this historic hotel’s restaurant, offering classic American cuisine.
- The Tavern Restaurant: Enjoy pub-style food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
- Gigi’s Southern Table: Savor Southern-style comfort food and cocktails.
Sports:
- Beaver Stadium: Catch a Penn State football game, one of the most iconic experiences in college sports.
- Bryce Jordan Center: Attend a Penn State basketball, hockey, or volleyball game.
- Rec Hall: Watch a Penn State wrestling or gymnastics competition.
Other Attractions:
- State College Spikes: Watch a Minor League Baseball game (summer).
- Mount Nittany Conservancy: Explore the beautiful trails and scenic views.
- Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania: Engage in hands-on science exhibits and activities for kids.
Remember to check the seasonal schedules and availability for some of these activities. Enjoy your visit to State College!