When I first chose to attend Penn State University, I completely recognized the fact that this university is truly in the middle of no where. A beautiful campus, miles of beautiful farm land surrounding the perimeter, and a cute little college town; that was enough for me, or so I thought. However, during my second year with access to a set of wheels, I naturally found myself exploring more of downtown State College, and even further off campus.

After stumbling across a few hidden treasures, I thought I'd recognize these small establishments for being pretty cool.

1. Rothrock Coffee

1736 S. Atherton St., State College PA 16801

Unfortunately, Rothrock Coffee is off campus. However, the five minute car ride makes this trendy little café all the more special. Rothrock has all different types of drinks, acaii bowls, parfaits, pastries, and sandwiches. And their Nutella croissant panini is actually to die for.

2. Sowers Harvest

421 E Beaver Ave, State College, PA 16801

Although Sowers Harvest is becoming more popular as the days go on, the large menu of carefully crafted breakfast and lunch foods combined with the kind and inviting employees, make this little whole in the wall an absolute gold mine.

3. Saint’s Café

123 W. Beaver Avenue, State College, PA 16801

Saint's cafe not only has some of the best coffee in the area, but also provides a great atmosphere. Whether you have school work to do, or want to meet an old friend for a top notch latte, you can never go wrong with Saint's.

4. Webster’s Book Store and Café

133 E Beaver Ave, State College, PA 16801

If your looking for the ultimate hippie vibe, Webster's is where it's at. Not only does this underground cafe provide a wide variety of different espresso drinks and a yummy vegan menu, but it's also a great place to find some used books, records, stationary, and even more.

5. Naked Egg Café

320 Pine Grove Rd, State College, PA16801

The Naked Egg Café is another off campus find, but totally worth the hike. This cute, little stand-alone café, surrounded by acres of farm land, offers simple breakfast and lunch meals with a unique catch.

6. The Field

1 Country Club Ln, State College, PA16803

The Field Burger and Tap is located in Toftrees Resort. Whether your parents and family are visiting, or if you and your friends are looking for a little get away, The Field is one of the best places to get a mouth watering burger and shake(made with our very own Berkey Creamery ice cream) hidden among this small little town.

7. Rey Azteca

485 Benner Pike, State College, PA 16801

If you're one of those people who truly appreciate authentic Mexican food, Rey Azteca, with two locations less than ten minutes off campus, will most definitely get you your fix. Available for take out or dine in, this variety of Mexican food is reasonably priced and probably some of the most genuine in all of State College.

8. Meyer's Dairy

2390 S Atherton St, State College, PA 16801

As a Penn State student, I might actually be crazy for admitting this, but I think I have truly found an ice cream parlor that lives up to the high standards Penn State Berkey Creamery has set in place. Not only are the ice cream and other dairy products of Meyer's phenomenal, the atmosphere is a total blast from the past. Originally established in the mid 1940's, Meyer's Dairy has a completely admirable authentic vibe that creates so much character.