Michelle Valentine begins her journey at Goot Essa, a family-run Amish farm where farm owner John Esh and on-camera representative Randall Stratton introduce her to the art of traditional cheese-making. She steps into an underground aging cave where wheels of handcrafted cheese are carefully matured, and she learns about the Amish dedication to natural food production. Sampling a variety of cheeses paired with homemade jams, she experiences flavors that have been perfected over generations.

Goot Essa
351 Wise Rd., Howard, Pennsylvania 16841
(814) 383-0180

Continuing her culinary exploration, Michelle Valentine visits Pine Grove Hall, a renowned farm-to-table restaurant. Owner Elizabeth Grove and Chef Tory Glossner take her behind the scenes to show how locally sourced ingredients are transformed into exquisite dishes. She enjoys a meal that highlights the region’s agricultural bounty while learning how this restaurant supports local farmers and musicians.

Pine Grove Hall
101 E. Pine Grove Rd., Pine Grove Mills, Pennsylvania 16868
(814) 954-5419

Next, Michelle Valentine embarks on a breathtaking underground adventure at Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park. Guided by Martin G. Brumbaugh, she boards a motorboat and glides through America’s only all-water cavern. The spectacular rock formations and storied past of the cave come to life as she learns about its geological significance and early Native American legends. After the cave tour, she hops onto a safari bus, where Olivia Wright introduces her to a variety of roaming wild animals, from grazing bison to majestic elk.

Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park
222 Penns Cave Rd, Centre Hall, Pennsylvania 16828
(814) 364-1664

Embracing the outdoor spirit of Happy Valley, Michelle Valentine takes on fly fishing at The Feathered Hook, a premier fishing lodge. Under the expert guidance of Matt Kowalchuk, she learns how to select the right lures, dress for success in the river, and how to properly cast a line. She experiences firsthand the peaceful beauty of the flowing waters and gains a new appreciation for the skill and patience required in the sport.

The Feathered Hook
516 Main Street, Coburn, Pennsylvania 16832
(814) 349-8757

Stepping back in time, Michelle Valentine explores the Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum, where historian Anna Rupprecht leads her through a fascinating collection of artifacts, including pieces with connections to Christopher Columbus. The mansion’s rich history and carefully preserved relics provide an incredible glimpse into the past.

Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum
163 Boal Estate Drive, Boalsburg, Pennsylvania 16827
(724) 859-5324