Need something for the kids? Explore science, art and more at Centre County museums
Are you looking for a fun way to get out of the house on a summer afternoon? Centre County has plenty of museum offerings, including showcases of art, history, science and athletics.
There are exhibits on Penn State’s campus that are open to the public, as well as a discovery center where children can dissect animals or learn about math.
Some of the museums are free, and one with a suggested donation of $5 offers top views of Beaver Stadium.
Check out these six museums in and around the State College area.
Bellefonte Art Museum
Current exhibits at The Bellefonte Art Museum for Centre County showcase the region’s role in the underground railroad, a photography gallery, dream catchers from various Indigenous cultures and an “Interactive Daydream.”
The gallery hosts poetry readings and craft-making workshops, as well as receptions to celebrate new programming.
Price: Admission is free.
Location: 113 N Allegheny St., Bellefonte, PA 16823
Centre Furnace Mansion
This restored historic home serves as the headquarters for the Centre County Historical Society. It’s furnished to show Moses Thompson’s residency there from 1842 to 1891.
Tours are available by appointment, and you can book online a minimum of 12 hours in advance. There’s also a miniature, identical copy of the mansion on permanent display.
Price: Tours are free, but there is a suggested donation of $4 per person.
Location: 1001 E College Ave., State College, PA 16801
The Palmer Museum of Art
The Palmer Museum of Art is located on Penn State’s campus and is open to the public. Permanent collections include American, contemporary and Baroque art galleries and a studio glass and ceramics display.
You can see a special exhibit of staff favorites through Sept. 4, and check out works by former faculty until Aug. 14.
Price: Admission is free.
Location: The Pennsylvania State University, Curtin Road, University Park, PA 16802
Discovery Space
This science and technology center has more than 45 exhibits, and its newest features marine animals, including sea stars, hermit crabs and ocean fish.
The museum offers a variety of programming, from preschool sensory exploration to squid dissection for children ages 10 and older. There are displays focusing on mathematical concepts, as well as archeological dig pits and block toys.
Price: $7 for ages 3 and older and free for those under 3. Free parking is available onsite.
Location: 1224 N Atherton St., State College, PA 16803
Penn State All Sports Museum
The Penn State All Sports Museum consists of 10,000 square feet of displays honoring the history of the university’s athletics. Permanent exhibits include the Heisman Trophy won by John Cappelletti in 1973, along with other awards won by student-athletes and interactive components.
You can also view Beaver Stadium from the Mount Nittany Club Level in showings that are given approximately three times per day.
Price: There is a suggested donation of $5 for adults and $3 for students, seniors and children. Parking is available at ParkMobile lot 95112 for $1 per hour or $5 per day.
Location: The museum is located at the southwest corner of Beaver Stadium, across from the Bryce Jordan Center. A long canopy leading from Curtain Road marks the entrance.
Boalsburg Heritage Museum
Explore life in the 19th century at the Sarah Sweet House, Summer Kitchen, Boalsburg Country Store and other historical sites.
You can tour this museum Saturday afternoons or by appointment. The home was built in 1825 and is typical of houses constructed by Pennsylvania German settlers.
Price: Tours are free, but donations are appreciated.
Location: 304 East Main St., Boalsburg, PA 16827
