Attractions and places to see around Toftrees, a census-designated place in Patton Township, Centre County, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of tranquil resort environments and access to diverse natural and cultural sites. The area is characterized by its proximity to State College, providing access to university landmarks and natural features. Visitors can explore a range of outdoor spaces, historical sites, and cultural venues.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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Beginner ride. A little over 2 miles out and then back. Would have liked to have gone further but it was marked “No trespassing.“ Looking later at the map I saw it was just state game lands. We mostly saw fishermen and views along the creek. Water was high.
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State Game Lands #176, also known as The Barrens, is one of many state owned lands managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission for hunting, trapping, and fishing. However, many other outdoor activities are available to visitors as well. Keep in mind that during hunting season these other activities can be restricted. Please check local sources for exact dates for hunting season closures.
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This 62-acre nature center includes a farmstead and a significantly larger wetland area. You can't bike the trails in the nature center itself, but it makes a great destination to bike to, or to bike around on the adjacent trails and roads.
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The Arboretum at Penn State is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in nature. The gardens are beautifully kept and change throughout the seasons, so there is always something new to see. Admission is completely free, so there is no excuse not to visit!
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The Arboretum at Penn State is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in nature. The gardens are beautiful kept and change throughout the seasons, so there is always something new to see. Admission is completely free, so there is no excuse not to visit!
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The Hort Woods are a small patch of forest on the campus of Pennsylvania State University.
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The area around Toftrees offers several beautiful natural spots. You can visit Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, a 62-acre wetland area perfect for exploring adjacent trails. Another must-see is The Arboretum at Penn State, featuring 11 diverse gardens and groves with free admission. For a peaceful forest experience, check out Hort Woods on the Penn State campus. Further afield, consider hiking Mount Nittany or exploring Penns Cave, America's only all-water cavern.
Yes, several attractions near Toftrees are great for families. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center and Hort Woods are both tagged as family-friendly. The Arboretum at Penn State also offers a beautiful and engaging environment for all ages. Beyond these, Penns Cave features a wildlife park alongside its cavern tours, and Tussey Mountain provides year-round activities like skiing, snow tubing, go-karts, and mini-golf.
History enthusiasts will find several interesting sites nearby. The Centre Furnace Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, served as the ironmaster's residence and is now home to the Centre County Historical Society. You can also explore Historic Boalsburg Village, offering a glimpse into the region's past, or the Unionville Historic District with its preserved Victorian architecture.
For easy walks, consider the trails at Millbrook Marsh Nature Center or the paved paths within The Arboretum at Penn State. The Spring Creek Trail offers a gentle, mostly flat route along the creek. For more options, you can find several easy hikes, including the Tudek Park Loop and Scotia Barrens, in the Easy hikes around Toftrees guide.
Yes, the Toftrees area is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes for both road cycling and touring bicycles. Popular options include the Airport loop for an easy ride or more moderate routes like the Spring Creek – Bellefonte loop. For detailed information and route suggestions, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Toftrees and Cycling around Toftrees guides.
The region offers a variety of cultural experiences. The Palmer Museum of Art, located near Toftrees Golf Resort, is a notable attraction for art enthusiasts. You can also visit the Eisenhower Auditorium for various performances and cultural events, or the Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum for exhibits related to its namesake fields. Don't miss the Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery for a taste of local wines.
The Toftrees Golf Resort and Conference Center is the centerpiece of Toftrees, renowned for its premier 18-hole PGA championship golf course. Beyond golf, it offers deluxe villa suites, tennis courts, restaurants like The Field Restaurant, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool, providing an upscale resort experience.
Absolutely. Both Bald Eagle State Forest and Rothrock State Forest are within reach, offering extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation. These forests provide stunning landscapes, excellent hunting and fishing, and various experiences like hiking and swimming. Additionally, State Game Lands #176, also known as The Barrens, is managed for hunting, trapping, and fishing, but also allows other outdoor activities outside of hunting season.
Beyond the Arboretum and Hort Woods, the Penn State campus features iconic spots like Beaver Stadium, home to the Nittany Lions football team, and the Bryce Jordan Center, which hosts major concerts and basketball games. Don't forget to visit the famous Berkey Creamery for its popular ice cream.
Visitors particularly appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the natural areas. For instance, the gardens at The Arboretum at Penn State are noted for being beautifully kept and changing with the seasons, offering something new to see on every visit. The Millbrook Marsh Nature Center is valued for its serene wetland environment and adjacent trails.
Yes, the Centre County/Penn State Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for visitors. It provides comprehensive information and resources to help you plan your exploration of Toftrees and the wider Central Pennsylvania region.
Yes, some attractions offer accessibility. The Arboretum at Penn State and Hort Woods are both tagged as wheelchair accessible, providing pleasant outdoor experiences for everyone.


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