PENN STATE
RECOMMENDATIONS BY
Emma Guster, Staples 2025
I've been going to Penn State for as long as I can remember. Penn State has the largest alumni network in the United States and I'm proud to say I have many family members that are part of the Penn State Tradition. My grandparents were professors and graduates, aunts, cousins and parents all hold degrees form PSU. I have known for a long time that Penn State was my dream school. The sense of community and love for the institution through academics athletics and diversity is a perfect fit for me and for so many!
There are over 50,000 students enrolled and I cannot wait to call State College (the town that encircles University Park) my new home. Campus is almost 8,000 acres of historic buildings, green open spaces, farms (of course,) and state of the art athletic facilities. But it doesn't end there. Downtown state college is home to many shops, bars and restaurants that line the famous College and Beaver ave loop. The rich diversity the university cultivates forces the town to keep up with so many options for entertainment and experiences!
WHERE TO STAY
PHOTO CREDIT: THE NITTANY LION INN
NITTANY LION INN
On campus
On the west side of campus just steps from Rec. Hall and The Penn State Blue and White Golf Courses (18 Holes each) you will feel like you are bleeding Blue and White. This is an upscale Hotel with all of the amenities you would expect from a higher end hotel. This will book out months in advance for football games, parents weekend and graduation 4.5 Stars!
THE GRADUATE STATE COLLEGE
0.7 miles to campus
125 S Atherton Street, State College, Pennsylvania
This hotel is downtown State College, yet steps from campus. If you are looking to spend time in town and on campus this is a fun and unique space!
THE PENN STATER HOTEL
2.6 miles to campus
215 Innovation Blvd, State College, PA
Breakfast included, indoor pool, restaurant in the hotel, bar and lounge.”
WHAT TO DO
PHOTO CREDIT: MT. NITTANY
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Picture on the Lion Shrine (and check out a volleyball game, gymnastics meet or wrestling match across the street at Rec hall)
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Penn State Football Game - White Out game if you can
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Ice Cream at "The Creamery”. My favorite WPSX Coffee Break!
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Stroll downtown College and Beaver Ave. Tons of shopping and places to eat from quick bite at Raising Canes to more up scale experience at The Tavern
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Hike Mt Nittany - A must for every Penn Stater - the views of Happy Valley are unreal!
WHERE TO SHOP
PHOTO CREDIT: ALLEN STREET
Lots of downtown boutique stores to stroll through but if you’re looking for some local favorites here is where to go!
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Sports and Outdoor. Conveniently Rapid Transit Appalachian Outdoors are right next door to each other. Rapid Transit for sneakers is a local secret, you won't leave without the best fit and Appalachian Outdoors is your go to for all things hiking, skiing and looking good while you do it!
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Allen Street, State College. Boutiques - If you are looking for cute outfits for going out or everyday comfy clothes try Lock Boutique on College Ave or Buy a Thread on South Atherton.
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Downtown. McLanahan's, corner of College and Shortage Ave. They have everything you need from Hoagies to Toiletries and Groceries.
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Penn State Gear. Everyone has their favorite and mine is Family Clothes Line. They carry everything from Nike Sponsored gear to Lululemon Penn State Logowear. "
WHERE TO EAT
PHOTO CREDIT: CHAMPS SPORTS GRILLE
THE TAVERN
American cuisine
220 East College Avenue
Established in 1948, it offers elevated American comfort food, timeless cocktails, and first class service in a colonial tavern ambiance. Great for spotting alumni and former football players. For the over 21 crowd try The Sin!
THE CORNER ROOM
100 W College Ave
Everyone meets at the corner! Why not go in and try out their new menu. New owners and same traditional feel from decades before, because the new owners are two former Penn State Soccer Players. Great specials and updated menu. Can be a quick lunch or relaxing dinner.
FEDERAL TAP HOUSE
Gastropub
130 S. Fraser St. Suite 200
Large Menu and Great Spot to watch a sporting event, lots of comfortable seating and and endless amount of beer on tap.
CHAMPS SPORTS GRILLE
Sports bar
1611 N Atherton St and 139 S Allen St
Two locations
Great for meal or to watch a game, lots of indoor and outdoor seating, game room and a local favorite. Downtown location (Allen St.) is popular with students, currently number one bar in town, has a DJ and live music! Same great food and drink menu at both spots.
