Students aren’t the only ones who enjoy living in University Park. Full time residents of the human and canine variety call the area home as well! The experience is made better with frequent trips to Bellefonte Central, a hub of the Rails to Trails conservatory program. This abandoned rail line has been converted into a multi-use trail, and tails are wagging! Park in the convenient lot and then start walking. Just be sure to keep track of the distance, as the rail trail extends beyond University Park. If you’re not careful, you could wind up in another neighborhood! Dogs who love long walks will love Bellefonte Central!

Walnut Springs Park is a very natural, green space that’s perfect for walking your dog. If you and your pup want to feel like you’ve stepped out of State College and into the woods, all without leaving Lemont, this is the place to go. There are walking paths and lots of room to stretch out! Lederer Park is another good choice if you like a relaxed walk, and it’s more developed than Walnut Springs Park. Lederer has some playground equipment and pavilions, but there are still walking areas and plenty of green! It may be a better choice for dogs who can’t (or don’t want to) walk as far as Walnut Springs Park encourages.

The Penn State University neighborhood hugs the campus tightly, extending just a few blocks in every direction. Now, thanks to two local favorites, you only have to go a block from campus to find two great places to dine with dogs. The first place is Webster’s Bookstore Cafe. Popular with students and everyone who loves a light lunch and great read, this place offers outdoor seating and books to browse. If you want something more formal, stroll down the street to Zola Kitchen and Wine Bar. Formal Italian favorites pair well with dog-friendly outdoor seating just blocks from the university itself.

Rothrock State Forest is a must-see destination if your dog is made for endurance. You could easily spend days camping and hiking the beautiful trails, but you don’t have to spend that long to have a great experience. There are many trails to choose from, and just an hour can get you and your dog a good workout and beautiful views of nature. Dogs have to stay leashed in the park, and should stay alert, as bikers and hikers use the same trails! Rothrock State Forest is totally woof-th the trip!