State College, Pennsylvania is home to Penn State University. Whether you’re visiting a student, just exploring the area, or a local finding fun things to do, check out this list of kid-friendly adventures in and near State College.
Visit the Nittany Lion Shrine
A popular attraction any time of the year, the Nittany Lion statue is located within a small grove of trees near Rec Hall along Curtin Road. There is a small parking lot for temporary parking as you are viewing and photographing the large mountain lion statue.
Explore The Arboretum at Penn State
While on Penn State University campus, check out the impressive Arboretum at Penn State. The arboretum is located at the corer of East Park Avenue and Bigler Road. There is no charge for admission to the arboretum. There is a large parking lot beside it with a small charge for parking. Adjacent to the arboretum is the new Palmer Museum of Art.
Inside the arboretum is the H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens. The garden includes a strolling garden, children’s garden, pollinator and bird garden, plus a marsh meadow and much more.
Check out the children’s garden where you can explore a limestone cave, glass house, and a larger-than-life caterpillar.
Check out a Cavern via Boat at Penn’s Caves
Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park is located a bit of a drive from State College in nearby Centre Hall. Tickets for the Penn’s Cave tours should be purchased in advance, but some walk-ins may be available if arriving early.
The cavern tour is by boat, which explores the inside of the cave that remains a constant 52 degrees. There are also 60-minute wildlife tours given by bus through the nearby pastures and forests.
Play at Bernel Road Park
Bernel Road Park is located at 2417 Bernel Road in State College. The playground features an airport theme, as it’s located close to State College airport. There is a “runway” for bikes or scooters and even an air traffic control tower to climb.
In 2024, the park added a new fitness court, which features seven stations for people to work overall fitness through pulls, squats, lunges, and more.
Enjoy Ice Cream at Berkey Creamery
Last, but not least, is Berkey Creamery. This ice cream store is on Penn State University campus in the Food Science Building on the corner of Bigler and Curtain Road. The creamery features many flavors of ice cream which can be served in a cup or cone.
When visiting in the warmer months, there are many outdoor picnic tables with shade umbrellas for enjoying your ice cream.
Looking for more things to do in the area?
These places a bit farther from State College, but check out the nearby DelGrosso’s Amusement Park and Raystown Lake.
