Day 1, Settle in and Explore

Boalsburg offers small-town character with direct access to Rothrock State Forest. Stroll along Main Street and visit the Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion Museum, where centuries of global and local history are preserved in a remarkable setting.

After time on the trails, refuel at a locally owned restaurant featuring field-to-fork ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Some suggestions would be:

• Duffy's Tavern
• Boal City Brewing
• Breakfast on Boal

In the evening, take a scenic drive toward Tussey Mountain for wide-open views that remind you why mountain running brought you here. Climb Nittany, Happy Valley's only public indoor rock climbing facility, is located in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania.

(photo by Michelle Joy, Harborsandhavens.com)

Day 2, Forest to Downtown

Beyond race day, Rothrock invites more exploration. Musser Gap connects the forest to the edge of State College, offering accessible trailheads and varied terrain. Mount Nittany provides sweeping views of the valley and a satisfying climb.

Head into Downtown State College for coffee, shopping, and relaxed dining. On the Penn State University Park campus, the Palmer Museum of Art and the Arboretum provide a calming counterbalance to race intensity. Galleries, gardens, and walking paths create space to recharge.

In the evening, follow part of the Central Pennsylvania Tasting Trail. Wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries showcase regional craftsmanship. Pair a tasting with dinner and make it a well-earned celebration.

(photo by Michelle Joy, Harborsandhavens.com)

Day 3, Discover Distinctive Towns

Venture to Bellefonte, a Victorian-era town with a striking waterfront and distinctive architecture. Stop by the American Philatelic Center, home to one of the largest stamp and postal history collections in the world. It is a surprising and memorable experience.

Go underground at Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park for America’s only all-water cavern tour in Centre Hall, PA, or explore Woodward Cave in Woodward, PA, which celebrates its 100th season in 2026. Lincoln Caverns, located in nearby Huntingdon, PA, is a scenic drive. These natural wonders add depth to your visit, literally and figuratively.

If time allows, take a scenic drive on Route 45 to Millheim, where farmland vistas and a welcoming small-town atmosphere offer a slower pace and fresh perspective. Elk Creek Cafe + Aleworks is located in Millheim, Pennsylvania.

Must-see moments in Happy Valley 

• Rothrock State Forest and the surrounding 750,000 acres of public land define the outdoor spirit of the region.
• Beaver Stadium (second largest stadium in North America) and the Penn State All-Sports Museum capture the pride and tradition of Penn State athletics.
• Historic downtowns in Boalsburg, Bellefonte, and Philipsburg invite exploration, shopping, and conversation.