Six Binge-Worthy Dramas That Match the Fall Energy in State College

By Jayla Davis

Fall in State College always feels like a reset. The summer heat fades, the air turns crisp, and the energy across campus slows down a little. You start noticing how the wind hits Old Main Lawn differently, how the nights end earlier, and how everyone suddenly starts dressing like they are in a movie.

It is that season when coffee shops are packed, homework piles up, and finding a good show to unwind with becomes just as important as finishing your readings.

If you are looking for something that fits the fall vibe, here are six binge-worthy picks that match the energy of cool weather, cozy nights, and the kind of drama that keeps you watching when you should be studying.

1. Gilmore Girls (Netflix / Hulu) 

Gilmore Girls is the epitome of if fall were a TV-show. The small-town setting, the endless coffee, and the chaos of Rory and Lorelai’s world all fit this time of year perfectly. It is the kind of show that makes you want to grab your favorite drink from Irving’s, sit by the window, and watch the leaves fall outside.

Beyond the comfort, it also hits harder when you are in college. Rory’s stress, ambition, and growing pains feel relatable in a way that makes you want to root for her even when she messes up. It is warm, a little messy, and just what you need when the semester starts to feel overwhelming.

(Bonus points for being a show you can simply just put on for background noise when studying.)

2. The Vampire Diaries (Max / Peacock)

If you like your fall a little darker, The Vampire Diaries has the perfect vibe. Mystic Falls always looks like it is stuck in October, with fog, forests, and candlelight everywhere. The drama, heartbreak, and supernatural storylines make it the kind of show that pulls you in and keeps you there for hours.

It is nostalgic and chaotic in the best way. Whether you are watching it for the first time or rewatching for the comfort of knowing exactly how bad Damon’s decisions will get, it never fails to hit when the weather turns cold.

3. Desperate Housewives (Hulu/ Prime Video) 

Desperate Housewives is one of those shows that is way better than people remember. Wisteria Lane looks peaceful at first, but every house hides a secret. The show mixes mystery and humor with real emotion, which makes it addictive but not heavy.

It is great for when you want something bingeable that still keeps you interested. Between the gossip, the drama, and the surprisingly smart writing, it feels like the adult version of Pretty Little Liars. 

4. Pretty Little Liars (Max / Hulu/ Prime Video)

If you grew up during the early 2010s, Pretty Little Liars probably had you in a chokehold. The small-town mystery, the texts from “A,” and the constant secrets make it the perfect fall rewatch. Rosewood always looks like autumn, which adds to the atmosphere.

It is dramatic, sometimes ridiculous, but always entertaining. You do not need it to make sense; you just need it to make you forget about your Canvas notifications for a few hours.

5. Gossip Girl (Netflix / Max/ Hulu) 

Gossip Girl is the ultimate city drama. It captures everything that makes fall feel cinematic: layered outfits, boy drama, and constant chaos. Every episode feels like it belongs on a vision board.

Even if you are not living an Upper East Side life, the energy still translates. Watching Blair and Serena navigate friendship, ambition, and the pressure to look perfect feels relatable in a different way as a college student. It is about figuring yourself out while trying to stay composed, which is something most of us understand by midterms.

6. The Twilight Saga (Hulu / Prime Video)

Last but definitely not least, Twilight is the definition of fall comfort. Forks, Washington feels like a place built for November weather. The gray skies, forest scenery, and nostalgic soundtrack make it an easy pick when you just want to zone out and enjoy something familiar.

The story might be dramatic, but that is what makes it fun. It is moody, emotional, and somehow still comforting years later. Whether you are Team Edward or Team Jacob, Twilight will always be a fall essential.

Stars Hollow has coffee, Mystic Falls has chaos, and State College has the perfect mix of both. Choose your favorite drama, cozy up with a Pumpkin Spice late and make this fall one worth rewatching.