Life in Happy Valley: Where to Eat, Play & Shop
Welcome to my Happy Valley favorites! When I’m not helping clients find their dream homes, I’m exploring the local spots that make this area so special — from cozy coffee shops and charming boutiques to scenic walks and the best local eats. Consider this your insider guide to living and loving life in Happy Valley.
Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time local, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Here are my top 3 picks in each category — tried, loved, and highly recommended!
Coffee + Caffeine Fixes
Eden Valley Coffee
Eden Valley Coffee
Eden Valley Coffee
One of Happy Valley's newest coffee shops. Their mission is to cultivate community through serving coffee + simply loving people.
The Maple Morning Latte is my go-to!
Bonfatto's
Eden Valley Coffee
Eden Valley Coffee
Cozy neighborhood café with excellent food + drink. Great for a morning pick-me-up or casual meetups.
Typical Order: GF Hummus Toast + a SF hazlenut fredo.
Rothrock Coffee
Eden Valley Coffee
Rothrock Coffee
A go‑to for locals who love great coffee + good vibes. Their lattes, artisan roasts, and thoughtful specialty drinks make it a favorite for slow mornings or catching up with friends.
I love the simplicity of their vanilla latte - it never fails!
Boutique & Local Shopping
LOCK Boutique
Every Season home & Living
Every Season home & Living
A curated boutique for fashion and accessories — ideal for gift‑shopping or treating yourself when you want something unique.
Every Season home & Living
Every Season home & Living
Every Season home & Living
A go‑to for home accents and seasonal décor — especially lovely for someone settling into a new home!
By a thread boutique
Every Season home & Living
By a thread boutique
Curated pieces that suit real life: casual days, date nights, errands, work, and everything in between.
Quick Lunch Spots
Roots Natural Kitchen
Roots Natural Kitchen
Roots Natural Kitchen
This is my go-to for a fast, healthy lunch that doesn't compromise on flavor. It’s incredibly popular for a reason—the ingredients are fresh, the line moves fast, and they are great about dietary preferences.
My GF Order: The Apollo Bowl (no pita chips) + add broccoli. The lemon za'atar dressing is everything!
State Burger
Roots Natural Kitchen
Roots Natural Kitchen
Located in Bellefonte, this isn't your average burger joint. It’s a "build-your-own" concept where you use a clipboard to customize everything. It is my favorite spot for a safe, Celiac-friendly burger that actually tastes like the real deal.
My Order: A classic burger with onions on their Gluten-Free Bun (it’s the best in town) + a side of fries. (they have a separate fryer!, iykyk)
Federal Taphouse
Roots Natural Kitchen
Federal Taphouse
When I’m downtown and need a sit-down lunch with solid options, this is where I head.
They have a massive menu and are incredibly accommodating with allergens—offering everything from GF pizza crusts, to salads, to buns for their burgers.
Happy Hour favorites
The Lobby Bar at ASG
The Lobby Bar at ASG
The Lobby Bar at ASG
Stylish, inviting, and the perfect backdrop for catching up with friends. One of my favorite espresso martini's in town + i love pairing it with a side of their mixed nuts!
Big Spring Spirits
The Lobby Bar at ASG
The Lobby Bar at ASG
Creative cocktails that surprise in the best way. Located in Bellefonte + Downtown State College.
You can't go wrong with any of the drinks here, but by go-to's are the Lemon Drop or Chocolate Martini
Central Reservation
The Lobby Bar at ASG
Central Reservation
Elevated drinks, lively energy, and always a reason to linger.
I always order their seasonal G + T or an espresso martini!
Dinner & Date‑Night Spots
Allen Street Grill
Alloy Kitchen at Titan Hollow
Alloy Kitchen at Titan Hollow
When you want a night out that feels a little fancy — but not over the top — this spot delivers: fresh New American fare, craft cocktails, thoughtful wine selections, and a vibe that hits just right.
Alloy Kitchen at Titan Hollow
Alloy Kitchen at Titan Hollow
Alloy Kitchen at Titan Hollow
A unique space tucked away in Bellefonte with great ambiance. Whether you’re grabbing small plates or a full meal, the vibe makes it perfect for date nights or relaxing dinners.
The Cider Chicken sandwich is always 10/10!
The Tavern
Alloy Kitchen at Titan Hollow
The Tavern
Classic comfort food with local charm — a dependable, cozy place to unwind after a long day.
Move, Sweat + Refresh
HOTWORX
Bernel Road Park
Talleyrand Park
My go-to gym - obsessed with all of the isometric sessions and love the HIIT workouts when I’m short on time.
My current favorites? Pilates, Hot Core, and Hot ISO — they leave me strong, energized, and ready to tackle the day.
Talleyrand Park
Bernel Road Park
Talleyrand Park
Peaceful walks along the water, shady paths, and little spots to pause and enjoy the scenery — perfect for a morning stroll or weekend wander
Bernel Road Park
Bernel Road Park
Bernel Road Park
One of our favorites for long walks and our go-to for pickleball — open paths and newer courts make it easy to get outside and stay active.
Sweet Treats & Ice Cream
Penn State Berkey Creamery
Penn State Berkey Creamery
Penn State Berkey Creamery
The undisputed icon of Happy Valley. It’s not just ice cream; it’s a rite of passage. Whether you’re showing off campus to guests or just need a mid-week pick-me-up, the portions are huge and the quality is unmatched.
I am forever a Bittersweet Mint fan.
Dolce Vita Desserts
Penn State Berkey Creamery
Penn State Berkey Creamery
When you need something a little more gourmet than a scoop of ice cream, this is the spot. Tucked away on Commercial Blvd in State College, they make incredible cupcakes, tiramisu, and biscotti.
It’s also my top recommendation for clients who need Gluten-Free options, like me!
Meyer Dairy
Penn State Berkey Creamery
Meyer Dairy
A nostalgic, local favorite that feels like stepping back in time. Located right on South Atherton, it’s famous for the glass milk bottles you can take home.