This Charming PA Town Is Full of Surprises—Here’s Why It Belongs on Your List
Just a few miles outside of State College, there’s a small town packed with charm, history, and tons of outdoor adventure opportunities.
I’ve visited Boalsburg a few times now, and each time I think, “Wow, I could live here.” The cute little village, the focus on community, and proximity to Rothrock State Forest, make you want to slow down and stay a while.
If you’ve ever planned a trip to central Pennsylvania and wondered what else there is to do beyond Penn State, this little town deserves a spot on your list. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone who just loves a good mountain view, Boalsburg offers a little bit of everything—without the crowds.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what makes Boalsburg worth visiting, from museums and outdoor adventures to local breweries and bed & breakfasts. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway or a peaceful detour on a longer road trip through the region.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going! The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau sponsored this post. All opinions are my own.
Where is Boalsburg, Pennsylvania?
Boalsburg is a small village just five miles southeast of State College, making it an easy detour if you’re visiting Penn State or the surrounding Happy Valley region.
It sits right along Route 322, so whether you’re coming from Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, or even Philadelphia, it’s a super accessible stop on a central Pennsylvania road trip.
Despite being so close to a college town, Boalsburg has a totally different vibe—a little more laid-back and a whole lot quieter.
It’s also right on the edge of Rothrock State Forest, which means you’ve got hiking and biking trails practically in your backyard.
Things to Do in Boalsburg
Rothrock State Forest
As I said, Boalsburg borders Rothrock, so if you’re craving time outdoors, you’re in luck. There are endless trails for hiking and biking—whether you want a leisurely walk or a steep mountain climb.
Shingletown Gap is a local favorite, and in the fall, this area is absolutely stunning. Musser Gap is just up the road from Shingletown and another great option.
Head to the entrance at Tussey Mountain and you’ll find trails like Little Flat Fire Tower, Bear Meadows Natural Area, and Bald Knob. These are some of the best hikes near State College!
🥾 Want to download trail maps for all these hikes? Check out AllTrails+ for trail maps, tracking, and finding the best trails all over the country! 🥾
Tussey Mountain
Tussey Mountain is a year-round adventure spot just minutes from Boalsburg. In the winter, it’s a great place to ski, snowboard, or go snow tubing—it’s the perfect little community mountain.
Summer brings go-karts, mini-golf, a driving range, and events like WingFest and live music at their amphitheater. It’s also a popular jumping-off point for hiking or e-biking into Rothrock State Forest.
I recently visited and picked up my e-bike here to ride through Rothrock and it was one of the coolest experiences I’ve had in Happy Valley! I hate mountain biking so I was a bit nervous but these trails were easy and I loved seeing the forest from a different perspective.
Climb Nittany
Need a break from the trails? Head to Climb Nittany, an indoor climbing gym just a short drive from town. It’s a fun challenge for all skill levels and a great rainy-day option if you still want to be active. They offer day passes, rentals, and even beginner-friendly classes.
I had the chance to take their beginner class and feel like it’s one of those things that heals your inner child. I loved rock walls as a kid, so to try rock climbing as an adult was so much fun. You learn the basics of bouldering and get to climb their 40-foot top rope wall.
Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum
The Boal Mansion might look like your average historic home from the outside, but inside you’ll find artifacts from eight generations of the Boal family.
Just before the turn of the 20th century, Colonel Theodore Davis Boal went to Europe and married one of Christopher Columbus’s descendants. This is how the Columbus Chapel came to be in Boalsburg in 1909. If you’re into history, this is a stop you don’t want to miss.
Pennsylvania Military Museum
Note: The Pennsylvania Military Museum will be under renovation until at least February 2026. Check their website for updates.
Right down the road, this museum honors the legacy of Pennsylvania’s servicemen and women. It’s well-curated, easy to explore, and includes outdoor memorials you can walk through even if the museum isn’t open.
The grounds really are beautiful and it’s worth it to take a walk along the walking path where you’ll see the thirty memorials on-site. On Tuesdays, the Boalsburg Farmer’s Market can be found in the parking lot here.
“Honors to the Fallen” Memorial Day Statue
Boalsburg is the birthplace of Memorial Day in Pennsylvania, and whether you’re a history buff or just want a quick photo op, the statue commemorating that moment is worth a stop. It’s located right in town and ties in nicely with a visit to the military museum.
Where to Eat in Boalsburg
Breakfast on Boal
This little café is a local favorite for a reason. Whether you’re grabbing a breakfast sandwich, a hearty omelette, or avocado toast, it’s a great spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. The laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a slow morning.
I’ve been here a few times now and everything I’ve had was delicious. My favorite was the Hash Plate, but their breakfast burrito was a close second. If you want something sweet, the chocolate chip pancakes are huge and fluffy.
Boal City Brewing
If you’re into craft beer and relaxed atmospheres, this is your place. Boal City Brewing has a rotating tap list, a cozy indoor space, and an outdoor patio that’s perfect on a sunny day.
Not into beer? That’s totally fine because they also serve cider, wine, and signature cocktails. They host food trucks on most evenings where you can grab some dinner.
Duffy’s Tavern
This historic tavern dates back to the 1800s and still feels like a step back in time. These days you’ll find fine dining options on the menu like filet mignon, duck breast, and halibut. If you’re looking for something upscale with a nice atmospher, Duffy’s is a great choice.
Other Nearby Spots
If you’re willing to venture just a few minutes outside of Boalsburg, there are a few more places worth adding to your itinerary:
- Pine Grove Hall – Live music, seasonal menus, and a moody, upscale ambiance. This spot is ideal for a date night or a celebratory dinner.
- RE Farm Café – A true farm-to-table experience at Windswept Farm. They grow much of their own produce and the menu changes often based on what’s in season.
- Meyer Dairy – No trip to the area is complete without stopping here for a scoop of homemade ice cream. It’s old-school in the best way and super affordable.
Where to Stay in Boalsburg
Wyndham Garden State College
Just a few minutes from Boalsburg’s village and nestled against Tussey Mountain and the Mountain View Country Club golf course, this newer hotel offers spacious rooms with great mountain views.
The breakfast buffet is also one of the best I’ve seen. I stayed here on my last trip to Boalsburg and it was super convenient to everything.
➡️ Book your stay at Wyndham Garden State College now. ⬅️
Inn Boalsburg
If historic ambiance is more your thing, check out this beautiful Victorian mansion right in the heart of the village.
You can rent one of four individually decorated suites or the whole house, complete with private bathrooms, shared kitchen, and cozy living spaces. They also have two additional modern suites for rent that do not include kitchen access.
Camping & Other Options
With 750,000 acres of public land in Happy Valley, there are tons of camping options to choose from. In Rothrock, there are roadside campsites or you can backpack for some primitive camping. Check what permits are required before you go!
There are also many state parks near State College that have campgrounds with RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. There are also plenty of hotel options in State College or Airbnb and VRBO options in the surrounding area.
Final Thoughts on Visiting
Boalsburg might be small, but it has tons to offer, from the mountain views and historic landmarks to the cozy coffee shops and outdoor adventures right outside town.
It’s one of those places that feels like a secret, even if it’s just minutes from a major college town. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend, a history-filled day trip, or an active escape in the mountains, Boalsburg is a destination that is sure to surprise you.
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