admin Directions To Penn State University
Penn State University is a world-renowned institution located in central Pennsylvania. Whether you are a prospective student, a proud parent, or simply a curious traveler, this travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know about getting to Penn State, as well as the best things to see and do once you arrive.
Getting There
Penn State University is located in State College, Pennsylvania, which is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. If you are traveling by car, there are several major highways that will take you to State College, including Interstates 80, 99, and 322. There are also several bus companies that offer daily service to State College from major cities throughout the Northeast and Midwest. If you are flying to Penn State, the nearest airports are the University Park Airport (SCE), which is located just a few miles from campus, and the Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), which is about an hour’s drive away. From either airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi or shuttle service to State College.
Top Attractions
Once you arrive at Penn State, there are plenty of things to see and do. Some of the top attractions on campus include the Palmer Museum of Art, the Arboretum at Penn State, and the Bryce Jordan Center, which hosts concerts and sporting events throughout the year. Off campus, you can explore the beautiful countryside of central Pennsylvania by hiking or biking on the nearby trails or visiting the Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park. You can also take a short drive to the historic town of Bellefonte, which is home to charming shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks.
Food Scene
Penn State is known for its vibrant food scene, which includes a wide variety of local and international cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in State College include the classic Penn State Berkey Creamery ice cream, the famous grilled stickies from Ye Olde College Diner, and the delicious sandwiches from the iconic Penn State landmark, The Corner Room. In addition to these classic Penn State favorites, there are also plenty of new and trendy restaurants in State College, such as the farm-to-table restaurant, Fasta & Ravioli Co., and the popular gastropub, Local Whiskey.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Penn State doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly tips that can help you save money while still enjoying all the best that the area has to offer. One of the best ways to save money is to take advantage of the many free attractions on campus, such as the Palmer Museum of Art and the Arboretum at Penn State. You can also save money on food by eating at the many food trucks and carts around campus, which offer delicious and affordable meals.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure in and around Penn State. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or kayaking, there are plenty of trails and waterways to explore. Some of the top outdoor attractions in the area include the Rothrock State Forest, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails, and the Bald Eagle State Park, which is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Historical Landmarks
Penn State is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks on and off campus that are worth exploring. Some of the top historical landmarks in the area include the Bellefonte Victorian Historic District, which is home to dozens of beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes and buildings, and the historic Boalsburg Village, which is known as the birthplace of Memorial Day.
Family-Friendly Activities
Penn State is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that are fun for all ages. Some of the top family-friendly activities in the area include visiting the Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania, which is a hands-on science museum, and exploring the nearby Tussey Mountain Ski Area, which offers skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and a variety of other outdoor activities during the summer.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique and off-the-beaten-path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in and around Penn State. One of the best hidden gems is the Penn State All-Sports Museum, which is located in Beaver Stadium and offers a fascinating look at the history of Penn State sports. Another great off-the-beaten-path experience is visiting the nearby Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park, which is the only all-water cavern in the United States and offers boat tours through the underground cave system.
Natural Wonders
Penn State is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of natural wonders to explore in the area. One of the top natural wonders is the famous Horseshoe Curve, which is a railroad engineering marvel that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also explore the beautiful Penn State Arboretum, which features over 17,000 plants from around the world and is home to several stunning gardens and walking trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
Penn State is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late. Some of the top nightlife spots in State College include the Champs Sports Grill, which offers live music and events throughout the week, and the Phyrst, which is a popular bar and nightclub that has been a Penn State staple for over 50 years.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for some local flavor, be sure to visit one of the many local markets in the area. The State College Farmers Market, which is held every Tuesday and Friday, offers a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. You can also visit the Boalsburg Farmers Market, which is held every Tuesday and features a variety of local vendors and artisans.
Beaches and Mountains
Penn State is located in the heart of Pennsylvania, which means you’re never too far from either the mountains or the beach. You can take a short drive to the nearby Seven Mountains, which offer beautiful hiking and biking trails and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Raystown Lake, which is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing during the summer months.
Cultural Immersion
Penn State is known for its diverse student body and vibrant cultural scene. You can immerse yourself in the local culture by attending one of the many cultural events and festivals that are held throughout the year, such as the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts or the Multicultural Resource Center’s annual Unity Day celebration.
Art and Music Scene
Penn State is home to a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. Some of the top art and music venues in the area include the Penn State Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year, and the Woskob Family Gallery, which features contemporary art exhibitions by local and national artists.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore Penn State on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available that will take you through the historic landmarks and beautiful scenery of the area. You can take a self-guided tour of the Penn State campus, or sign up for a guided tour of the nearby town of Bellefonte or the historic Boalsburg Village.
Architectural Marvels
Penn State is known for its stunning architecture, with several buildings on campus that are considered architectural marvels. Some of the top architectural marvels on campus include the Pattee and Paterno Libraries, which feature stunning glass walls and soaring ceilings, and the Nittany Lion Inn, which is a beautiful example of Colonial Revival architecture.
Historical Sites
Penn State is home to several historical sites that are worth exploring, including the Bellefonte Cemetery, which is the final resting place of several prominent Pennsylvanians, and the Penn State Historic District, which features several historic buildings and landmarks.
Biking Routes
Penn State is a great destination for cyclists, with plenty of scenic biking routes to explore in the area. Some of the top biking routes include the Bellefonte to Milesburg Rail Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and the Penns Creek Rail Trail, which is a 9-mile trail that runs along the beautiful Penns Creek.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Penn State has plenty of options to choose from. You can visit the nearby Mount Nittany Health and Wellness Center, which offers a wide variety of fitness classes and wellness programs, or explore the nearby Tussey Mountain Ski Area, which offers yoga and other wellness retreats throughout the year.