One of the fastest growing, most educated, and safest college towns in America, Forbes named State College the third best college town in America and ranked it highly for business and careers, noting its below-national-average cost of living. Maybe even a bigger draw: Psychology Today declared State College to be one of the least stressful places to live in the entire country, and has been noted as having top-notch health care, community events, outdoor adventures and historic destinations.
Things to Do Around Town:
Ice Sculptures
First Night State College is well known for having one of the largest displays of ice sculptures in Pennsylvania. Our team of ice sculptors erect large ice walls on the 100 block of South Allen Street and carve them into a fantastic array of beasts, people, and monuments. No visit to “First Night State College” is complete without checking them out and taking a photo or two.
Ice Slides
Our Ice Slide sponsored by PNC Bank and the First Night Giant Ice Piggy Bank sponsored by Penn State Federal Credit Union – especially popular with children – are located in Sidney Friedman Park.
Skating
With a valid Penn State ID, students can free skate for up to two hours for $7, and figure skate or hockey skate rentals are just $4 more.
Ice skating is a fun way to get exercise while spending time with friends — and an excellent idea for an inexpensive and unique winter date.
The Arboretum at Penn State
The Arboretum at Penn State is lovely at any time of year — but it’s especially captivating when its trees are adorned with twinkling strings of lights. This year, the Arboretum will host an array of seasonal garden displays, evergreen trees and holiday lights throughout its gardens from mid-December through mid-January.
Feel like a kid again at Tussey Mountain
Visit from December to March for skiing, boarding, and tubing and take advantage of the 7 trails and take on the 500 feet vertical drop. The rest of the year, check out the Fun Centre with family and friends. Race go-karts, play mini golf or par 3 golf, and practice at the batting cages and driving range.
Penn State Sports
Penn State is known for college sports! Cheer on the Nittany Lions – whether you enjoy football, basketball, baseball, or any of the other sports PSU competes in.
Be a part of the community! State College holds a variety of events where you’re find something for everyone in the family.