Buying a House in State College PA

Where Is it?

State College, PA, also known as Happy Valley or Nittany Valley, is home to Penn State University and the surrounding area. Found in the center of Pennsylvania, State College has something to offer to everyone, boasting the largest alumni association in the world at PSU.

Why State College?

As a former schoolteacher turned realtor, I would always ask my clients and residents what brought them to State College. I’d hear all types of reasons, from a family who moved here because their child had learning disabilities and they were advised to move here due to the excellent programs for their child. One couple moved to State College from South Carolina because as was his father, their son wanted to pursue an engineering degree, and PSU is known for its outstanding rank nationally for its engineering program. Some couples, who are former alumni, tell me they move back to State College once they retire, as they loved the memories they made here and want to “come home” in a sense and reconnect with former friends and family.

State College not only boasts one of the best and largest universities in the country, and all the events and activities that go along with that, but also offers tons to do for everyone of all ages around the city.

What to do at State College?

State College has plenty of things in and around the university to do year-round, not just during the summer.

• Tussey Mountain offers fun for all ages all year round. During the spring, summer, and fall there is a golf course, an event area where various concerts are held, and a go kart track to race your friends and family. During the winter Tussey Mountain has its own ski resort!
• Pegula Ice Arena offers tons of fun, from learning how to ice skate, to joining a hockey team, or just to skate around with friends.
• PSU Thon is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world! It’s a year long effort that raises funds and brings awareness to childhood cancer. THON puts on events like their 5k race, hair donations, and their annual THON weekend, where PSU students and volunteers gather in the Bryce Jordan Center for a 46 hour no sitting, no sleeping dance event to raise money.
• Bryce Jordan Center Hosts top-name performers, bands, singers, family shows, commencements, comedians, and various sporting events.
• Palmer Museum of Art is a brand new 85-million-dollar art museum being built by Penn State next to the Aboretum to open soon. PSU required a bigger, more spacious facility to showcase their extensive art display from the world.
• Penn’s Cave is the only all water cave east of the Mississippi. Guests can take a boat tour to explore the unique cave.
• Beaver Stadium is the 2nd largest stadium in the United States and offers and atmosphere unlike anywhere else. The 106,572 seated stadium is the home to the Nittany Lions football team.
• Central Pa 4th Fest is the largest firework display show in the state of Pennsylvania. Few events bring more excitement and energy to the State College area. (All ages involved) As a music teacher my chorus was accompanied by a piano on Allen Street. Great art and entertainment, a variety of food, and plenty of fun for all.

See You Soon

There is no place quite like State College. Positioned right in the heart of Pennsylvania, You won’t find anything else quite like it. There’s a reason they call us Happy Valley, and you should come find out for yourself. – Emily Schmalstieg