Happy Valley, PA home to Penn State University and a proud tradition of athletic excellence, is making its mark as one of the Northeast’s top sports destinations. Recently recognized by Sports Destination Management as a Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism for hosting the Keystone State Championships, the region continues to attract major tournaments, youth sports organizations and athletes from across the country and beyond.
That recognition follows a growing list of high-profile events that have chosen Happy Valley for their competitive stage, including the IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley, which will host the North American Championship in 2026. Together, these events showcase the area’s ability to deliver top-tier experiences for athletes while generating meaningful economic benefits for the community.
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania, Happy Valley’s combination of premier facilities, scenic surroundings and strong community support creates a winning formula for sports events of all kinds. From soccer and basketball to lacrosse, volleyball and baseball, the region offers versatile venues and a welcoming atmosphere that keep event organizers and families returning year after year.
Nittany Valley Sports Centre
As one of the largest and most versatile indoor facilities in Central Pennsylvania, the Nittany Valley Sports Centre offers 74,000 square feet of rentable space designed to accommodate a wide range of sports and events. Located just minutes from Penn State University and downtown State College, the complex can host six basketball courts, nine volleyball courts and features a 60-yard by 40-yard indoor turf field suitable for soccer, field hockey and other field sports.
The facility includes turf, hardcourt and Taraflex flooring options, allowing event organizers to tailor configurations for tournaments, leagues and training programs throughout the year.
As a full-service complex, the Nittany Valley Sports Centre offers multi-purpose space, concessions, complimentary spacious parking and great food and beverage options at the Courtside Café, creating an excellent experience for athletes and families alike.
Organizers appreciate the Centre’s professional-quality amenities, efficient layout and proximity to lodging, dining and entertainment in downtown State College.
It has become a cornerstone of Happy Valley’s sports landscape, hosting events that bring thousands of visitors to the region each year and helping solidify its reputation as one of Pennsylvania’s premier destinations for youth and amateur athletics.
C3 Sports Complex
The C3 Sports Complex is a versatile indoor venue built to accommodate a variety of sports and training activities, offering 38,000 square feet of indoor court space with six basketball courts, nine volleyball courts and 12 pickleball courts across both hardwood and sport court surfaces.
A full-service facility, C3 Sports features locker rooms, breakout rooms, concessions and a multi-purpose event space that provide everything needed to host large tournaments and training camps in a comfortable, accessible environment. Guests also enjoy complimentary parking and the well-organized layout makes it easy for teams and families to move throughout the facility.
With its flexible design and convenient access to nearby hotels, restaurants and retail options, C3 Sports continues to attract regional tournaments and training programs that contribute to Happy Valley’s standing as a premier hub for youth and amateur athletics.
Whitehall Road Regional Park
Officially opened in Fall 2025, the Whitehall Road Regional Park adds an exciting new chapter to Happy Valley’s growing list of premier sports venues. The park features two tournament-sized grass multi-purpose fields with LED sports field lighting, as well as two medium-sized multi-purpose fields ideal for youth competitions and community programming.
With ADA-compliant restrooms, ample parking and state-of-the-art design, Whitehall Road Regional Park represents the future of recreation and sports in Centre County. Its balance of tournament-ready facilities and community-focused amenities makes it a destination where competition and connection thrive side by side.
A Community Built for Sports
What makes Happy Valley truly special is its spirit of collaboration. Local partners and community organizations are committed to creating a welcoming experience for visiting teams, helping events of all sizes run smoothly from arrival to departure.
Visitors can explore the vibrant downtown of State College, enjoy outdoor recreation at Tussey Mountain and Bald Eagle State Park or catch world-class performances at Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center and Eisenhower Auditorium.
With an array of family-friendly attractions and dining options, there is always something for teams and families to enjoy while they are here.
Whether you are planning your next tournament, showcase or championship, you will find that Happy Valley is built for competition and backed by community.
Ready to plan your next event in Happy Valley?
Contact:
Eric Engelbarts, Executive Director
Email: EricE@happyvalley.com
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