Downtown State College is heating up with a wave of exciting restaurant and business openings, bringing fresh energy to the area. Whether you are a foodie, a business owner, or just someone who loves to see the town thrive, there is plenty of momentum in the heart of Happy Valley.
More names are adding to the food scene soon as a Brooklyn Style Deli just committed to come to the east end of College Avenue (near Manny’s), which is going in next to a soon to be announced new Cidery. Both names are to be announced soon.
Buffalo Wild Wings is gearing up for a grand opening on March 20th. A new pizza shop is also in the works for Fraser Street, and Pastry and Catering is eyeing a May debut in Calder Way
Manny’s Live Performance Space (in the old Saloon) is drawing big crowds as local musicians share the stage with national acts, with the focus being on immersion in creativity and expression.
Big Chicken, the fast-casual restaurant chain founded by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, which has officially signed a lease at 448 E. College Ave.
Bagels & Co., a growing Philadelphia-based bagel-and-coffee chain with locations across Pennsylvania and Florida, is still planning to set up a shop at 330 W. College Ave. in The Standard apartment building. Right alongside, Figo Italian will add an upscale dining option to the mix, serving classic Italian fare in a prime downtown location.
Beyond food, the business scene is just as lively. Seven Mountains Tai Chi has recently opened, bringing wellness and movement downtown. The trendy Hideaway Electric Speakeasy is now serving up a unique nightlife experience. One of One Alterations is now open, and VHS Skate Shop is moving and is planning to reopen soon at its new location on Calder Way. The anticipated Town Pride is set to celebrate its grand opening in early April.
And the momentum is not slowing down. With ten more businesses actively looking to move downtown as soon as the right spaces open, downtown State College is on a major growth trajectory.
Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.
To see all the cool stores in Downtown State College from Appalachian Outdoor to Growing Tree to Kitchen Kaboodle to Uncle Elis to Harpers to ….
