Centre County

September 7, 2023

Outfitting the PA Wilds: Local Historia

When most people think of outfitters, they imagine businesses that will help them explore the wilderness and waterways by offering guided hiking tours or renting kayaks. However, Local Historia helps travelers explore in a different way… by guiding them through history and culture. Local Historia is based in Bellefonte, Centre County, along the I-80 Frontier landscape of the PA Wilds. Local Historia’s mission is to shine light upon the past, connect you with local history through engaging content, walking tours, and other unique experiences.

April 5, 2022

Remote work initiative launches in Pennsylvania Wilds community

Piloting in summer 2022 in the PA Wilds community of Bellefonte, The Wilds Are Working: A Remote Lifestyle Experience will allow remote workers to live, work, volunteer, and explore all that the rural area has to offer. Applications are now open through April 30 to participate in the July 2022 Remote Lifestyle Experience.

October 21, 2021

‘We’re just happy to be in Bellefonte’: PA Wilds-based shop relocates to Bellefonte

“There’s a movement for people wanting to shop small and local,” says shop owner of Smith + Front Staci Egan. Step inside one of Bellefonte’s most historic gems — the Gamble Mill — and you’ll find a shop that’s been a longtime staple in the Pennsylvania Wilds. It’s just in a new spot. Smith + Front, a retail store previously based in Philipsburg, has opened in a new location in Bellefonte.

May 25, 2021

Live Music and Outdoor Dining are just the beginning for May 28th Friday in the ‘Fonte

Downtown Bellefonte will kick off its 2021 Friday in the ‘Fonte Summer Series on May 28, 2021. The series will feature free live music, pop-up outdoor beverage and dining spaces, kids activities and historic walking tours.

April 28, 2021

The Nature Inn: An Eco-Friendly Gem in the PA Wilds

Bald Eagle State Park offers an amazing nature experience in the PA Wilds, and located in its heart is The Nature Inn. Explore The Nature Inn and the wonders of Bald Eagle State Park.

October 28, 2020

Enjoy an October celebration during Friday in the ‘Fonte

This month during Friday in the ‘Fonte — held the last Friday of every month in downtown Bellefonte — join the local business community for an October celebration.

September 20, 2020

Being a tourist in your own community 

COVID-19 has taught us the importance of not only being aware of the businesses, experiences and assets around us, but also the importance of supporting them to ensure their longevity in our communities. 

August 24, 2020

Exploring Bellefonte’s rich heritage: A Q&A with local historian and business owner Matt Maris

Every day, we walk past historic buildings and sites, or drive by them on our daily commutes — and we may not even realize it. Matt Maris, the founder of Local Historia, is sharing his knowledge and love for local history in his community of Bellefonte — in the I-80 Frontier region of the PA Wilds — through walking tours.

February 10, 2020

Philipsburg revitalization organization looks toward future

Like many small-town communities across the state, Philipsburg, located along the I-80 Frontier of the Pennsylvania Wilds, started to see hard times as its major industries started to decline.  But recent efforts by the Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation have focused on fostering entrepreneurship, as well as events that bring the community together and encourage economic development.

February 5, 2020

Celebrating the Legacy of the Mills Brothers

If you’re interested in music, you’ve likely been influenced by the Mills Brothers. Even if you’re not aware of it, chances are your musical tastes have been shaped by them. This group from Bellefonte was groundbreaking, paving the way for many musicians to come. And they began in the Pennsylvania Wilds, in what is today the Centre County portion of the I-80 Frontier.