Location plays a major role for any sports planner in selecting where to host an event. Not only should a destination provide a variety of well-equipped venues, but it should have a strong reputation as a sporting destination. In Pennsylvania’s Centre County, home to the famous Penn State University, you will find more than just the world-class facilities. You will find a region whose culture has been in many ways shaped by sports and a community that rallies around its athletes. Whether you are coming from elsewhere in Pennsylvania or from across the U.S., Central Pennsylvania allows sports planner to think big.
Notable Recent/Upcoming Events
- NCAA Fencing Championship (March 22-25 2018)
- NCAA Women’s Regional Gymnastics (April 7-8 2018)
- USA Wrestling final X Series (June 16-17 2018)
- USCAA Golf Championship (Oct.7-9 2018)
- Big 10 Men & Women’s Cross Country (November 8-9 2018)
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CVB/Sports Commissions Services Offered
- Volunteer Staff
- PR/Media Assistance
- Signage
- Site Visits
- Transportation Assistance
- Lodging Services
- Grant Programs
- Welcome Bags/Gifts
- Itinerary Development
- Event Planning Assistance
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Things to do in Central Pennsylvania
Snowcapped mountains, scenic valleys, and lush forests comprise the diverse geographic setting of Centre Country in Central Pennsylvania. Whether you’re visiting in the middle of winter or the heat of the summer, there are always countless outdoor activities that await and plenty of cultural experiences, international dining options, and vibrant entertainment options.
For a unique experience, check out Penns Cave, where you will be guided by boat through a series of limestone caverns, followed by a trip to the adjoining Wildlife Park, where you can get a firsthand glimpse at animals such as bobcats, bison and deer. Nature lovers will also enjoy a visit to the Shavers Creek Environmental Center with its interactive Discover Center, hiking trails, and Raptor Center. Those looking to learn more about the region’s history will enjoy a tour of the Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum, where the former is a chapel transported from Spain in 1909 and the latter of which was home to eight generations of the Boal family for over 200 years and still contains original furnishings.
Since there will certainly be no shortage of sports fans among your group, take some time to learn more about the athletic history and heritage of Penn State at the Penn State All-Sports Museum. And a trip to Central Pennsylvania wouldn’t be complete with making time for the great outdoors. Tussey Mountain welcomes visitors year-round, for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter and go-karting, mini golf, concerts, festivals in more throughout the rest of the year.
And while you’re in town, don’t forget to check out some of the major national sporting events that may be taking place when you’re in town. In the past year, State College has been fortunate to host the NCAA Fencing Championships, NCAA Women’s Regional Gymnastics, and USA Wrestling’s Final X Series, just to name a few. Set for later in 2018 are the USCAA National Golf Championships (Oct. 7-9) and the Big 10 Men and Women’s Cross Country (Nov. 8-9). Year around, Central Pennsylvania is truly a sports lovers dream!
How to Get to Central Pennsylvania
By car: Central Pennsylvania is located about 1.5 hours northwest of Harrisburg on US-22 and just over 3 hours northwest of Philadelphia on I-76 and US-22. For those traveling from the west, Pittsburgh is just over 3 hours away along I-99 and US-22.
By air: State College boasts its own airport, University Park Airport, which is located just minutes from the center of town.
Contact Information
Company Name: Central PA/Penn State CVB
Sports Sales Manager: Shirley Smith
Title: Director of Sales
Telephone: 814-231-1401 x306