Photo by Anna Cook Roland Curtin Mansion – part of the Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village.

If you’ve traveled at all along Interstate 80 in Pennsylvania, you’ll notice that mile marker 161 reads Bellefonte.  Colloquially, locals know this exit is the one you need to take to go to State College, one of the most popular destinations for travelers in Pennsylvania thanks to academic pursuits and die-hard sports fans, just to name a few.  But don’t be so quick to drive past the turn-off for the delightful town of Bellefonte – spend some time exploring this summer, and you’ll soon discover why Bellefonte merits the highway designation.

Offering visitors a blend of culture, historic architecture, relaxing pastimes, and access to recreational areas, you’ll discover that a trip to Bellefonte will make for a wonderful summer getaway. A drive through town offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history as a town where iron production during the 19th century established it as a center of commerce. The resources of Spring Creek allowed industrialists to grow this industry during the period of America’s Industrial Revolution. Today, the sites once booming during that period, like the Eagle Iron Works, have been restored to offer visitors a hands-on opportunity to learn the story.

Big Springs Distillery Match Factory is located within view of Talleyrand Park in Bellefonte.

Other industries in the town (including Pennsylvania Match Factory, a leading US producer) allowed for the expansion and development of a town whose impressive architecture stands today in testament to the industrialists and workers who settled here. Bellefonte’s Historic District, an impressive part of the city featuring preserved Victorian and antebellum architecture, has the power to transport your imagination to that previous era of expansive grandeur. Time spent exploring West High Street, home to a thriving commercial district filled with boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafés, is an opportunity to immerse yourself in this rich heritage.

The Bellefonte Art Museum is a celebration of the region’s cultural contributions.

A visit to the Bellefonte Art Museum is an opportunity to discover a blending of the contemporary world with historic influence. Discover emerging and local artists in exhibitions both permanent and changing.  Time spent exploring the museum’s Underground Railroad exhibit offers an opportunity to explore the role Bellefonte, as a stop, played during this chapter of American history.

Within steps of the art museum, the Miles-Humes House, Centre County Library & Historical Museum is another significant attraction sharing the history of Bellefonte. Visitors will discover collections and artifacts dating back to the 19th century in the buildings located at Allegheny and Howard Street. The Historical Museum is located in the Miles-Potter-Humes House, a classic Georgian home sharing the stories of the county’s noted residents, as well as items from textile history and pieces reflecting everyday life.

Have some outdoor fun exploring two town attractions that will delight everyone in the family.  Talleyrand Park is a scenic green space located along Spring Creek where one can enjoy leisurely walking trails, nostalgic bridges, and green lawns that make a great spot for a family picnic.  Birds, wildlife, and fish native to the creek make it a great spot for kids to connect with nature. Close to Bellefonte’s downtown business district, the park offers visitors close access to attractions like the Visitor’s Center, which is in the historic Train Station, Bellefonte Waterfront Walk, and the American Philatelic Center (the former Match Factory, now on the National Historic Register of Historic Places). Nearby spots to grab a bite to eat make the park a place where you can spend the entire day discovering one fun thing after another!

Talleyrand Park along the banks of Spring Creek.

Sunnyside Paddling Park is the second outdoor attraction you’ll want to check out on a summer visit to cool off while making some family memories together. The park offers visitors an opportunity to have a kayaking adventure on the creek’s calm waters for a day spent taking in the natural beauty of Bellefonte’s relaxing environment. If you’re looking for a more active adventure on the water, stop by Tussey Mountain Outfitters and learn about the paddle trips they offer on various sections of Spring Creek or nearby Bald Eagle Creek.

Our Fair Lady Bed & Breakfast

Home to many bed & breakfasts and unique vacation rentals, there is no shortage of cozy accommodations when planning a visit to Bellefonte. Our Fair Lady and The Queen are two Victorian-style bed & breakfasts located along Linn Street for fans of that era while others like Reynolds Mansion, Riffles and Runs B&B, Bellefonte Bed & Breakfast, and Craftsman on Curtin St. Bed & Breakfast offer a wide variety of styles and experiences to consider when booking a stay. The restored Gamble Mill offers a combination of the town’s industrial history with the charm of modern amenities to offer a unique stay in the heart of the town.

There’s more to explore in both the heart of Bellefonte and within a short drive; from popular parks to distilleries and wineries for those who enjoy craft beverages, you’ll discover a wide variety of ideas to consider for your visit. From arts and history to time spent connecting with nature, family, or a special someone, Bellefonte is the place to discover some summer magic this year!