There’s no shortage of fun in Happy Valley—and that goes for kids, too! If your crew includes little adventurers 10 and under, you’ll find plenty of ways to make their visit every bit as magical as yours. From hands-on discoveries to outdoor excitement, plan to spend a day (or two!) exploring the kid-friendly side of Happy Valley—where big smiles and lasting memories are guaranteed.
Discover more family adventures with museums, activities, and stores in the Happy Valley region here!
-photo provided by the Happy Valley Comic and Collectibles Convention
-photo provided by the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
Most of Happy Valley’s biggest events are already great for the whole family, like Children’s Day at the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts in State College or the People’s Choice Art Festival during July. Boalsburg hosts a fair during Memorial Day weekend. In July, you can enjoy the Central Pennsylvania Fourth Fest on the Fourth of July in State College and Philipsburg Heritage Days. The Happy Valley Comic and Collectibles Convention is held at the end of February in State College, and the Centre County Grange Fair is held at the end of August in Centre Hall. In October, there is The Dutch Fall Fest in Aaronsburg and the Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival in Howard, plus many other fun festivals held throughout Happy Valley. You can find a list of things to attend on HappyValley.com/events.
Planning a visit and don’t have a specific event in mind? Consider stopping at one of three Happy Valley Visitor Center locations for recommendations:
Each location is stocked with information about Happy Valley and ideas for family fun, such as the Downtown State College Artwalk, a guide to 38 pieces of art scattered throughout downtown State College, ranging from pig statues to modern art. Pro tip: Pick up the Happy Valley Geotour Junior passport to go on a scavenger hunt — find hidden items and words throughout Happy Valley and then return it to one of our centers for a prize!
-photo provided by Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park
-photo by Michele Granera, theadventuresabound.com
222 Penns Cave Rd, Centre Hall pennscave.com
Admission: Cavern: Adults - $23.50, Child - $15.50, Safari: Adults - $28.50, Child - $18.50, Combo: Adult - $43.50, Child - $27.50
Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, the only cave in Pennsylvania on the National Register of Historic Places, features glittering stalactites and stalagmites, often in mysteriously familiar shapes, such as “The Statue of Liberty” and “The Garden of the Gods.” The fully guided, interpretive tour by flat-bottom motorboat winds through cavern passageways and, when weather and conditions permit, includes a ride on Lake Nittanee. Bring a jacket or sweater, as the cave's interior temperature remains a consistent 52°F year-round.
You’ll be entertained and educated on the Wildlife Tour, where lifelong Pennsylvanians will learn something new about the geology, biology, and geography of the center of our state. Take a fully guided bus tour to explore Native North American animals, including bison, Texas longhorn cattle, red & silver foxes, black bears, elk, whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, wild burros, mountain lions, and the wolf pack of gray and arctic wolves! During a stop along the tour, you will walk through the outdoor natural butterfly garden, where, in the blooming season, you will see species such as Monarchs, Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, and Viceroys.
148 Woodward Cave Dr, Woodward woodwardcave.com Admission: Adults-$17, Child - $9
Penn’s Cave is not the only tourable cave in Happy Valley—Woodward Cave is a karst formation from bedrock that could be millions of years old.
One of the largest caverns in Pennsylvania, Woodward Cave boasts five spacious rooms, hundreds of feet long, with cathedral-like ceilings over 50 feet high. It is also home to the largest stalagmite in Pennsylvania, the famous Tower of Babel.
In addition to unique geological features, Woodward Cave is home to one of the most significant winter habitats for bats in Pennsylvania. For over a hundred years, local and federal agencies have closely monitored the cave to track the health of Pennsylvania’s bat population. Every winter, the cave is closed to prevent hibernating bats from being disturbed and to protect our state’s biological resources.
548 Puddintown Rd., State College
crpr.org/millbrook-marsh-nature-center
Admission: Free! Millbrook Marsh Nature Center is a hidden gem for an afternoon of outdoor fun. Spanning 62 acres of wetlands, it features a scenic boardwalk trail perfect for hiking and wildlife observation. Older kids will enjoy exploring the marsh's diverse ecosystems, spotting birds, and learning about native plants. The center also offers educational programs and events throughout the year, providing hands-on experiences that engage young minds and foster their growth. Whether you're looking to hike, learn, or simply enjoy nature, Millbrook Marsh offers a memorable family outing.
-photo provided by Penn State Arboretum Children's Garden
-photo provided by DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Laguna Splash
Childhood’s Gate at the Arboretum at Penn State
East Park Avenue and Bigler Road, University Park arboretum.psu.edu
One of Penn State’s not-so-hidden treasures invites families to explore and learn about the natural world through hands-on learning and discovery. Childhood’s Gate at The Arboretum at Penn State celebrates the flora, fauna, and natural history of central Pennsylvania. Features include sculptures of native wildlife, a simulated cave, a wading stream, raised garden beds, and a glasshouse that serves as a hub for educational programs.
One of the best parts of exploring the Arboretum is its location: it is situated beside the (also free!) new location of the Palmer Museum and just a few minutes' walk from the Berkey Creamery.
Rhoneymeade Arboretum and Sculpture Garden
177 Rimmey Rd, Centre Hall rhoneymeade.org
Looking for an adventure off the beaten path? You will find Rhoneymeade to be a hidden gem brimming with discovery, creativity, and peaceful wonder. At the heart of the property lies a Children’s Nature Area, where young explorers can dig in, measure, play, and connect with the natural world through interactive features, including a potting table, activity table, and a weigh-and-measure station.
Rhoneymeade is also an arboretum, sculpture garden, and labyrinth all rolled into one. Wander sculptures tucked among trees, stroll through themed plantings, or lose yourself in the calm of its winding paths.
If you want to take the kids to have a little extra outdoor fun, why not take a short drive down I-99 to DelGrosso's Park & Laguna Splash? The kids will have a blast! Ticket and schedule information is at the park's website.
-photo provided by Nittany Meadow Farm
-photo by Elana Carroll
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center
3400 Discovery Rd, Petersburg shaverscreek.org
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center is a treasure trove of natural discovery and hands-on adventure. Perched between State College and Huntingdon, this nature center offers both indoor and outdoor highlights to delight kids and adults alike.
Indoors, the Litzinger Discovery Room and live-animal exhibits bring science to life with reptiles, amphibians, and native creatures on display year-round. Outside, families can stroll along the many hiking trails — including a stroller- and wheelchair-friendly boardwalk that crosses over the creek and offers a stunning view of the lake.
Be sure to check out the Klingsberg Aviary, home to more than 20 owls, hawks, and eagles (though hours may vary), and time your visit to catch one of their signature programs — think “Animal Encounters,” “Kids Corner,” and seasonal events like maple festivals.
Goats at the Nittany Meadow Farm
227 Nittany Meadow Farm Lane, Boalsburg nittanymeadowfarm.com
Special Note – This is a working farm, and a reservation is required to visit or participate in one of their many events.
What kid doesn’t love goats? Here is a chance for them to snuggle one! Nittany Meadow Farm is a small, family-owned farm in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, and it is the only goat-only dairy in Happy Valley!
Activities include goat yoga, goat visits, goats & art, goat grams, and the Goats2Go bus. The farm also produces goat milk and goat milk products.
You can even stay on the farm if you would like! There are two cottages for rent on the property.
The Mini Whinnies at Quarter Acre Woods
10960 South Eagle Valley Road, Port Matilda mini-w-horsemanship.weebly.com
Special Note – This is a working farm, and a reservation is required to visit or participate in one of their many events.
Families with children will adore The Mini Whinnies at Quarter Acre Wood in Port Matilda — a heartwarming, hands-on experience that brings kids up close with friendly miniature horses. Little ones can brush, paint, read to, and even ride these gentle equines in a safe, welcoming environment.
The farm offers day camps, birthday parties, beginner lessons, and special seasonal events, all designed to teach kindness, confidence, and care through animal connection. No prior horse experience is needed — just curiosity and a love for animals! It’s the perfect blend of learning, laughter, and unforgettable family fun.
-photo by Michele Granera, theadventuresabound.com
-photo provided by Eagle Ironworks and Curtin Village
Talleyrand Park and Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society
320 W. High Street, Bellefonte bellefonte.net/departments/parks-rec/talleyrand-park/
Nestled in the heart of Bellefonte, Talleyrand Park offers families a peaceful blend of nature, play, and exploration. The 3.5-acre park has winding walking paths, open lawns for games, a charming sculpture garden, and a busy playground located near the historic train station. Stroll along Spring Creek, spot ducks and migrating waterfowl (just resist the temptation to feed them!), and pause at the gazebo or pollinator gardens for a quiet moment.
Right at the train station (inside the park), you’ll find the Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society, where kids can board vintage trains on scenic excursions through picturesque Centre County landscapes. Seasonal rides include themed events like the Halloween Special (complete with bingo on board!) and Christmas “Santa Express” trips — ideal for families seeking excitement and nostalgia together. For more information about the society, visit bellefontetrain.org.
Eagle Ironworks & Curtin Village
251 Curtin Road, Howard
Have a history buff in the family? Add Eagle Ironworks & Curtin Village to your next Happy Valley trip! You will embark on a journey back in time to the nineteenth-century heyday of the longest-operating charcoal iron plantation in central Pennsylvania. Through hands-on demonstrations and walking tours of the furnace complex, you’ll enter the world of cold blast, charcoal-fueled iron production, with its ancient processes, massive infrastructure, and peculiar tools and mechanisms.
Experience in the genteel ambience of a Federal-era ironmaster’s mansion, furnished in the American Empire and Victorian styles favored by five generations of Curtins, including the birth family of Pennsylvania’s “Civil War Governor,” Andrew Gregg Curtin. A stroll among the humble houses in the workers’ village will evoke echoes of life in a rural outpost once reachable only by creek and bridle path, then by canal, and later by railroad and highway.
Family-friendly guided tours occur on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month from June through September. The tours begin at 2 PM and last 75-90 minutes.
-photo provided by Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania
-photo provided by Climb Nittany
The American Philatelic Society
100 Match Factory Place, Bellefonte stamps.org
Admission: Free!
Located in a historic match factory, the American Philatelic Society offers engaging exhibits on stamp collecting and postal history that captivate visitors of all ages. Children can explore themed displays, participate in hands-on activities, and discover the fascinating world of philately.
The center also houses the American Philatelic Research Library, one of the world's largest philatelic libraries, offering a wealth of resources for young collectors. With its welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly programs, the American Philatelic Society offers a unique and enriching experience for children and adults alike.
Discovery Space & The Rivet 1224 North Atherton St., State College https://discoveryspace.org/visitcentrecounty/
Discovery Space is a hands-on science center designed to spark curiosity and inspire learning. With over 45 interactive exhibits, kids can explore physics, biology, engineering, and more through playful experimentation. Highlights include a music room with real instruments, a gravity station that demonstrates how high you could jump on different planets, and the Mad Lab, which features creative science projects. The Marine Life Center introduces young explorers to live fish and aquatic ecosystems, while rotating exhibits keep every visit fresh and engaging.
Located in the same imaginarium, The Rivet at Discovery Space offers a dynamic makerspace where creativity and hands-on learning come together for families with children aged eight and up. Designed to inspire the next generation of innovators, The Rivet offers youth workshops on Saturdays, where kids can explore activities such as pottery, 3D printing, woodworking, and more.
In addition to youth programs, The Rivet offers classes and open workshop hours for teens and adults, fostering a community of makers.
328 Discovery Drive, Boalsburg 5.life/climbnittany
Admission: Adults - $19, Child - $13
Spending a weekend in Happy Valley, and it’s rainy or too cold to enjoy outdoor fun? Discover a love of climbing at Climb Nittany, the Centre Region's only public indoor rock-climbing facility.
The facility offers bouldering (shorter walls, no ropes, thick padding for landing), top-rope, and lead climbing.
First time? Don’t worry or be intimidated! The basics of climbing are quick and easy to learn. Take the Discover Climbing class designed for people with little or no climbing experience—a 45-minute beginner course designed for ages 14+ (younger climbers can join as “add-ons”). Learn essential Top Rope climbing skills, including holding the rope.
-photo provided Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation
-photo provided by Happy Valley MiniGolf
Get ready for double the miniature-golf fun in Happy Valley!
Happy Valley MiniGolf in State College features a creatively designed 18-hole outdoor course that winds through lush landscaping, waterfalls, and scenic views—perfect for families seeking lighthearted competition and shared laughter.
Just a short drive away, Tussey Mountain’s Mini Golf offers another engaging 18-hole course set around a cascading waterfall, stream, and sweeping views of the slopes and Mount Nittany. Handicap accessible and fun for all ages, it’s part of Tussey’s Fun Centre, which also offers go-karts, par-3 golf, driving range, and catch-and-release fishing.
Happy ValleyMinigolf 1890 S Atherton St, State College
Admission: Adult - $8, Child - $5
Tussey Mountain Mini Golf 301 Bear Meadows Road, Boalsburg tusseymountain.com/mini-golfAdmission: Adults - $9, Children - $6
-photo provided by Penn State Arboretum Children's Garden
-photo by Anna Cook, stuckonthego.com
For families with older kids who love to stay active, Happy Valley’s six state parks are outdoor playgrounds waiting to be explored. At Bald Eagle State Park, spend the day boating, fishing, or paddling on the 1,700-acre lake. Black Moshannon offers rugged hiking trails, mountain biking, and a cool lake perfect for kayaking. Head to Poe Valley or Poe Paddy for camping, stream fishing, and forest hikes that connect right to Bald Eagle State Forest. Penn-Roosevelt invites off-the-grid adventures with horseback riding and trail exploration, while McCalls Dam is ideal for a quiet day of fishing or picnicking in the woods.
By no means is the above list of things to do with kids complete. New stores, activities, and events are popping up every day in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. Be sure to visit each organization's website for the most up-to-date information, and The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau's website to discover new businesses. And make sure to have fun when you visit!
Remember, you and your kids can put the Happy in Happy Valley!
Find your happy place in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania!
© 2026 The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau | Design & Development by 3twenty9 Design
We have a question for you!