Things To Do
Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts takes over downtown State College and the Penn State campus with incredible visual arts, live music, and street food. The famous Sidewalk Sale features over 300 juried artists from across the country. When: Thursday, July 9 – Saturday, July 11 (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM); Sunday, July 12 (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM). Where: Downtown State College and University Park Campus (Centered around South Allen Street). Highlights: Live musical performances across multiple outdoor stages, street painting, and the signature water-dumping buckets to keep cool.
Peoples Choice Festival
Thursday - Saturday 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Festival Location: The People’s Choice Festival will take place at the Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg, PA.
WingFest at Tussey Mountain
Kick off the weekend on Thursday night with WingFest at Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation. This local staple pits local restaurants against each other for the title of best wings, all accompanied by great live music on the amphitheater hillside. When: Thursday, July 9 starting at 5:00 PM. Where: 301 Bear Meadows Rd, Boalsburg, PA 16827. Highlights: Live music from Pink Talking Fish (a fusion tribute to Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, and Phish) starting at 8:00 PM, plus tons of wing vendors and beverages.
The Arboretum at Penn State
If you want a peaceful escape from the busy festival crowds, take a stroll through The Arboretum at Penn State. It features gorgeous, manicured botanic gardens, peaceful walking trails, and beautiful fountains. Where: E Park Ave & Bigler Rd, State College, PA 16803. What to see: The H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens and the children's garden, which highlights the natural beauty of the Pennsylvania landscape. Admission is free!
The Corner Room
A State College landmark since 1926, The Corner Room stands right at the bustling corner of College Avenue and Allen Street, making it the perfect spot to people-watch during Arts Fest. Where: 100 W College Ave, State College, PA 16801. Vibe: Traditional, historic diner atmosphere serving up comforting American classics, hearty breakfasts, and burgers.
Penn State Berkey Creamery
No trip to State College is complete without visiting the historic Penn State Berkey Creamery. It has been serving world-famous, fresh ice cream made right on campus since 1889. Where: 119 Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building, University Park, PA 16802. Pro-Tip: Remember the golden rule of the Creamery: you cannot mix flavors! They only serve single-flavor scoops to keep the lines moving fast. Try local favorites like "Peachy Paterno" or "WPSU Coffee Break."