Day Trips from State College
← All State College day tripsDay Trips from State College: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of State College, PA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near State College
Old Main Streets: Maryland Scenic Byway
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
Just 2 hrs 22 min from State College, rated 5.0 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.
Point Lookout Overlook Green Ridge State Forest
MD 21766, USA
Just 2 hrs 20 min from State College, rated 5.0 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.
Rimrock Overlook
Bradford, PA 16701
Just 2 hrs 34 min from State College, rated 4.9 stars by 971 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook Buchanan State Forest
Harrisonville, PA 17228
Just 1 hr 42 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Overlook
Wellsboro, PA 16901
Just 2 hrs 4 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Jones Mountain Road Vista
Mifflinburg, PA 17844
Just 1 hr 4 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Hawn’s Overlook
PA 16647, USA
Just 55 min from State College, rated 4.9 stars by 288 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
Belleville, PA 17004
Just 46 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Headache Hill Scenic View
Patton, PA 16668
Just 1 hr 9 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Penn's View Overlook
PA 16882, USA
Just 60 min from State College, rated 4.9 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.
Kettle Vista
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Just 43 min from State College, rated 4.8 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.
Bucktail Overlook (Top of the World)
Driftwood, PA 15832
Just 1 hr 34 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 162 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from State College
What are the best scenic drives near State College, PA?
The best scenic drives near State College include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from State College?
Most scenic drives near State College range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near State College?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near State College, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from State College?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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