by Sarah Daly
Between the spring rain and final exams, you’re probably sticking close to home–or the nearest pizza place. But sun and sleep will resume soon enough, and when they do, the realization will hit: your time in Happy Valley is winding down. If you’re like me, you have a lot left on the to-do list you started freshman year. (Was it really 4 years ago?)
We all know the obvious must-dos while studying here at Penn State—like going to a football game or participating in THON—but with those experiences in the past, have you thought about exploring the area? Centre County has a lot to offer, and lucky for you I took the time to check out the must-see attractions that every senior should be crossing off their bucket list.
So, put down the books (not like you’re studying anyway) and get out the map. You’re taking a few road trips.
Let us know what’s on your own bucket list in the comment section below.
1. Get a taste of Centre County at Elk Creek Café + Ale Works
Elk Creek Café is unlike any other restaurant of its kind in the area, and the local art hanging on the walls isn’t the only reason. Located in the heart of Penns Valley in Millheim, Pa., this unique restaurant offers craft-brewed beer and live jazz and blues music. Stop by for some local ‘Nouveau Dutchie’ cuisine (new features every day) or hit the bar for a pour from an award-winning brewer. (The Elk Creek Copper Ale won’t disappoint!) It might be a little bit more than what you’re used to spending on College Avenue, but everyone needs a break from natty light once in a while. And believe it or not, beers aren’t $2 in the real world, so consider this your first step to transitioning from a student to a (sort of) grown-up.
Catch some tunes while you’re there. Thursday through Sunday, a different band is featured at the café and tickets can be purchased ahead of time on the website.
2. Visit Penn’s Cave
Mustangs, cougars, and bears … oh my! At “America’s Only All Water Cavern and Wildlife Park,’ located only a half hour from campus, you and your friends can spend a few hours embracing nature, instead of the overcrowded bars downtown.
There are two tours to choose from, but I recommend taking both. Sit back, relax and let them take you on a ride. Take a guided one-hour cavern tour, where you’ll take a motor boat through the cave and see all of the beauty it has to offer along its limestone walls. Afterward, jump on the motorized 90-minute farm and wildlife tour where you can spot a variety of animals.
For pictures and more details, check out this OnwardState.com story. Tours run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until the end of May. Rates can be found here.
P.S. The temperature inside the cave stays at a steady 52 degrees throughout the year. Bonus? There’s no rain inside, so it sure beats the weather outside.
3. Spend the afternoon in Bellefonte
You’ve probably heard the name, and know it’s nearby, but did you know that some of the greatest leaders in Penn State’s history are buried there? Built in the 1800s, it’s hard to believe that Bellefonte has managed to keep its “Victorian charm in a modern world.” With antebellum architecture, a historic railroad, and a National Historic District, this town will keep you busy throughout the day. And, yes, it’s as beautiful as it sounds. If you’re just looking to hang out, visit Cool Beans Coffee and Tea, then head over to a bench in Talleyrand Park and sit by the water.
Got some extra change in your pocket? Stay for dinner at the Gamble Mill. This antique dining facility just down the road in Bellefonte is home to an award-winning wine list, hand-crafted beer, and lunch and dinner menus with entrees like the “fish tacos” or “locally-raised pork schnitzel.” Stop by on “Chalkboard Sunday” and get $1 off your pint while trying out one of their specials of the day. Find out what’s on tap and more here.
For more information on what to do and a quick look at Bellefonte’s history, click here.
4. Picnic at Spring Creek
Running from Houserville through Bellefonte, Spring Creek park is only minutes from downtown State College. Pack a picnic lunch, then work off your grub on the tennis, basketball and volleyball courts. If you’re staying or returning for summer, spend a lazy afternoon tubing. Always wanted to try fly-fishing? A section of the creek is known as “Fisherman’s Paradise.” A no-kill regulation applies, so don’t expect to go home with anything but some photos that capture the beauty of this local creek!
5. Drink Grown-up Beer at Otto’s Pub & Brewery
Otto’s wasn’t lying on its website; happy hour did just get a little happier here in Happy Valley. With a pub like atmosphere and an
impressive (and delicious!) list of crafted beers brewed right inside, don’t let this place fool you: the food is not your average pub food. Say goodbye to greasy mediocre finger foods, and enjoy your pint with a “Bay Shrimp Salad” (my favorite!) or “Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf.” That doesn’t mean you still can’t enjoy your classic pub favorites; ask for the “pub menu” where you can find nachos, fries and wings.
Looking for the true brew experience? Stop by for “Firkin’ Friday,” and enjoy a British-style cask of ale on tap every Friday at 5 p.m. I have no idea what “firkin” means and have yet to experience it myself, but learning while drinking seems pretty bucket list worthy to me. For specials and hours click here.
6. Take a trip to Whipple Dam
Whipple Dam is best known for its lake, but until the weather gets nice enough to swim, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy it. If you are the outdoorsy type, then this is the perfect spot for you. Try a hand at fishing in this 22-acre lake or go to watch the wildlife, with an abundance of animals ranging from bears to the great blue heron.
Take a break from stressing about a job and head to the park for a picnic; you can even reserve your own picnic pavilion. You are welcome to use the charcoal stoves to grill your lunch or dinner. Just don’t leave anything behind; you wouldn’t want a bear following you to your car—unless that’s also on your bucket list.
Wondering how you’ll get there? Follow signs for “Whipple Dam” from South Atherton Street and after an uphill drive of plenty of twists and turns, you’ll arrive. If you’re a Jersey girl like me, rethink your decision to volunteer as the navigator. I wasn’t a big fan of the drive through the mountains or the fact that my roommate from Pennsylvania who sat in the passenger’s seat was laughing at me. Coming from a town called Cherry Hill you think I’d be used to this kind of drive, but here’s your fun fact for the day: There are no hills in Cherry Hill (and after my trip to Whipple Dam, I’m thankful for that).
7. Stroll Through Boalsburg
Travel back in time. Tucked away off of South Atherton Street is historic Boalsburg. This small town looks like something right out of a movie. 
If the beauty of this quiet and quaint downtown isn’t enough of a draw, Boalsburg offers specialty shops you won’t see in State College. You will find a handful of little boutiques filled with eclectic accessories and antiques to keep you occupied for the day. Don’t worry, guys, this historic village isn’t just for the ladies. On your way into town along South Atherto
n Street is the Pennsylvania Military Museum, open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat while in Boalsburg, Duffy’s Tavern is a great place to stop. Just make sure to order off the “lunch and casual dining” menu if you’re looking to save money.
Oh, and for my history buffs, did I mention it’s the birthplace of Memorial Day? Just don’t mention that to anyone from Waterloo, New York. Apparently, Memorial Day is its claim to fame as well. Read all about it before visiting.
8. Cool off with Meyer Dairy
It wouldn’t be a bucket list without having a place to stop for ice cream, except this time we aren’t going for the traditional pick. Move over Creamery, you’re not the only ice cream shop in the neighborhood. Located at 2390 South Atherton (heading toward Boalsburg), this dairy store and farm features plenty of flavors. 
But that’s not the best part. Unlike the Creamery, you can create your own sundae and even mix up the flavors. Enjoy your creation while watching the cows from one of the picnic tables in the back. If the weather isn’t nice, take a seat in the open dining hall, or grab some milk. Pick up a reusable, old-fashioned glass bottle of chocolate or regular milk and get $1 back if you return it! If you’re lactose intolerant like me, you can shop for locally-made chocolate, syrup, and honey while your friends eat the ice cream. At least I can say I’ve been there, right?
9. Hike Mount Nittany
You didn’t think I’d forget this one did you? Everybody knows you can’t leave Penn State without climbing to the top of Mount Nittany for the best view of campus. The hike up may be rocky and steep as the website states, but nothing is more rewarding as a Penn State fan than the view of Beaver Stadium from up there. Make sure to bring water and a map, so you can follow the trail you want to take; you have your choice between blue (4.8 miles) and white (3.7 miles)!
Not in tip-top shape? No worries, I don’t think most of us seniors are. If I can manage to go out four nights a week, skip the gym to sit outside at Cafe, and make it to the top without a problem, then you can too. Plus, there’s enough to distract you and your friends. Take a look around as you make your way up to the top; come May, pink azaleas will surround you on the trail.
10. See it All at Jo Hays Vista
Mount Nittany isn’t the only place in town with a view that will wow you. Pick a clear day and head south down Route 26, following signs for Pine Grove Mountain. At the top is a gravel parking lot where you can park, step out and see all of State College and University Park. Go at night, and the lights for miles are just as captivating. Don’t forget to take a picture while you’re up there. This time next year when you are sitting in your cubicle, you’ll want something nice to look at. You’ll probably be wishing you were still in Happy Valley.
Fore more ideas on where to visit in these last few weeks visit Onward State’s “Onward & Outward’ series, which features local day-trip destinations in and around the State College area, focusing on places off the beaten path. And don’t forget to tell us about your own bucket list!
