Bellefonte PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bellefonte, Pennsylvania.
1. Talleyrand Park
SCENIC RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Talleyrand Park offers 3.5 acres of picturesque landscapes along Spring Creek, featuring Victorian-inspired buildings, bridges, and monuments that reflect Bellefonte's rich heritage. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, view the Bellefonte Governors Memorial honoring seven state governors, and explore the Barnard Sculpture Garden which includes a notable Abraham Lincoln bust sculpted in 1917.
2. Big Spring Spirits
LOCAL CRAFT DISTILLERY
Big Spring Spirits is a popular craft distillery in Bellefonte offering locally-produced spirits and cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy tasting sessions and learn about the distillation process while experiencing one of the town's most beloved modern attractions.
3. American Philatelic Center
STAMP COLLECTOR'S PARADISE
The American Philatelic Center serves as headquarters for stamp collectors and philately enthusiasts from around the world. This unique attraction offers visitors a glimpse into the fascinating world of stamp collecting through exhibits, research facilities, and special collections.
4. Bellefonte Art Museum
CULTURAL ARTS HUB
The Bellefonte Art Museum showcases diverse artistic works in a historic setting within Centre County. Art enthusiasts can explore rotating exhibits featuring local and regional artists while appreciating the cultural significance this institution brings to the Bellefonte community.
5. Centre County Library & Historical Museum
HISTORY AND LITERATURE
The Centre County Library & Historical Museum combines literary resources with fascinating historical exhibits about the region. Visitors can browse the extensive book collection while also learning about Bellefonte's past through carefully curated displays and artifacts.
6. Bellefonte Victorian Christmas
MAGICAL HOLIDAY TRADITION
Bellefonte Victorian Christmas transforms the town into a magical holiday wonderland each December, celebrating its Victorian heritage with themed festivities throughout the weekend. The 43rd annual celebration, themed "The Christmas Express," offers visitors an enchanting experience filled with community spirit and historical charm.
7. Bellefonte Under the Lights
EVENING COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Bellefonte Under the Lights creates a magical evening atmosphere in Talleyrand Park with ambient lighting, community gatherings, and exceptional food and drink options. The event captures the town's community spirit while offering visitors a unique nighttime experience in a picturesque setting.
8. Spring Creek
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Spring Creek offers some of the finest trout fishing opportunities in Pennsylvania with its crystal-clear waters flowing through Bellefonte. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the serene beauty of this waterway while anglers appreciate the abundant fish population and picturesque surroundings.
9. Bald Eagle State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Bald Eagle State Park provides extensive outdoor recreational opportunities just minutes from Bellefonte with its large lake, hiking trails, and camping facilities. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, wildlife watching, and picnicking in this natural retreat that showcases Pennsylvania's beautiful landscape.
10. Plaza Centre Antique Gallery
HISTORIC TREASURE TROVE
Plaza Centre Antique Gallery occupies the historic former Richelieu Theatre (later Plaza Theatre) designed by Anna Wagner Keichline, Pennsylvania's first registered female architect. This massive antique store and flea market spans six floors with over 100 vendors, offering visitors a treasure hunt through history in a building that itself represents Bellefonte's rich architectural heritage.
11. The Pennsylvania Match Factory
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE
The Pennsylvania Match Factory stands as a testament to Bellefonte's industrial past with its distinctive historic architecture and significance. Visitors can explore this preserved factory complex to learn about the town's manufacturing history and appreciate its adaptive reuse in modern times.
12. Bellefonte Governors Memorial
POLITICAL HERITAGE MONUMENT
The Bellefonte Governors Memorial honors seven state governors, including five Pennsylvania governors, who once called Bellefonte home. Located in Talleyrand Park, this monument celebrates the town's remarkable political legacy and historical significance in state governance.
13. Barnard Sculpture Garden
ARTISTIC OUTDOOR EXHIBIT
The Barnard Sculpture Garden pays tribute to accomplished local sculptor George Barnard with an outdoor collection of remarkable works. A highlight of this Talleyrand Park attraction is the Abraham Lincoln bust, cast from Barnard's original 1917 plaster sculpture, offering visitors a connection to both local and national artistic heritage.
14. Tussey Mountain
FOUR-SEASON RECREATION AREA
Tussey Mountain provides year-round recreational activities near Bellefonte, from winter skiing and snowboarding to summer concerts and events. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the mountain's diverse offerings including hiking trails, an amphitheater, go-karts, and mini-golf across its expansive facilities.
15. The Governor's Pub
HISTORIC DINING EXPERIENCE
The Governor's Pub offers a unique dining experience in Bellefonte with its history-themed atmosphere and quality food and beverages. Visitors can enjoy classic American fare while soaking in the ambiance that pays homage to the town's impressive gubernatorial heritage.