For nearly an entire year, The Tavern closed its doors to make way for a number of renovations that aimed to update the classic downtown joint after more than 72 years in business.

Finally, following an eight-month renovation, The Tavern is back open for business. Our staff ventured over this week to check out its new digs.

Outdoors, many will notice a refurbished exterior complete with a handicap-accessible walkway that should hopefully counteract the wobbly brick sidewalk that’s caused many embarrassing slip-ups. A new coat of paint goes a long way, too.

Inside, guests will find a number of retouched seating and dining areas that possess a certain elegance you can’t always find in State College. Of course, The Tavern’s ever-cozy feel remains dutifully intact.

A refurbished bar should catch your attention, too. What a countertop!

Some nifty touches really tie the place together without being all in-your-face about it. We’re particularly fond of these metal engravings of State College, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh’s maps that line the indoor stairway.

Outside is perhaps the biggest new attraction: a deck! The Tavern’s new second-story patio gives diners a view of Old Main and College Ave. while they chat over cocktails or enjoy a meal.

There’s even an artificial fireplace that should keep things warm enough when you’re outside on chilly State College evenings.

While some new renovations seem far too modern for a longtime staple, The Tavern certainly hasn’t lost its roots.

New displays inside, like this antique Tavern menu, offer a glimpse into the past. There’s also a new case that proudly displays snippets of Penn State’s “La Vie” yearbook from 1891 to 2015.

The Tavern’s original deed is hung up on the wall, too.

While the renovations are certainly enticing, so is The Tavern’s new menu. Our own Alysa Rubin said the ahi tuna tower and wagyu salad were really good.

Interested in checking out the new-look Tavern for yourself? It’s now open from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 3 to 8 p.m. on Sundays.