Day Trips from State College
← All State College day tripsDay Trips from State College: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of State College, PA. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
12 family activities near State College
Worlds of Discovery
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Just 2 hrs 34 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 111 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Keystone Safari
Grove City, PA 16127
Just 2 hrs 30 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 2,884 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Living Treasures Animal Park
Jones Mills, PA 15646
Just 2 hrs 10 min from State College, rated 4.6 stars by 2,146 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lollipop Lagoon
Allentown, PA 18104
Just 2 hrs 38 min from State College, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Just 2 hrs 33 min from State College, rated 4.5 stars by 17,428 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Plumpton Park Zoo
1416 Telegraph Rd, Rising Sun
Just 2 hrs 54 min from State College, rated 4.5 stars by 2,406 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Schnecksville, PA 18078
Just 2 hrs 46 min from State College, rated 4.5 stars by 4,879 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den
Scranton, PA 18503
Just 2 hrs 23 min from State College, rated 4.5 stars by 2,584 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Fun Fore All Family Fun Park
Cranberry Twp, PA 16066
Just 2 hrs 46 min from State College, rated 4.5 stars by 1,976 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Dutch Wonderland® Family Amusement Park
Lancaster, PA 17602
Just 2 hrs 11 min from State College, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Lahey Family Fun Park
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
Just 2 hrs 31 min from State College, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Hickory Falls Family Entertainment Center
Hanover, PA 17331
Just 2 hrs 21 min from State College, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from State College
What are the best family activities near State College, PA?
The best family activities near State College include zoos, children's museums, amusement parks, state parks with easy trails, and interactive science centers. Check the cards above for top-rated spots with real drive times.
What are cheap things to do with kids near State College?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near State College are free or under $15 per person. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Check the budget estimates on each card above.
Are there indoor family activities near State College for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near State College are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from State College?
For families with young kids, 1-2 hours is the sweet spot. Longer drives (2-3 hours) work well with older kids and are worth it for standout destinations like major zoos or amusement parks.
Don't know where to go?
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