Visit State College: 2026 Travel Guide for State College, Pennsylvania

Visit the home of Penn State University to explore its academic history, then stay a while to enjoy its distinctive small-town delights.

Discover the charm and diverse cultural attractions of State College, home to Penn State University. The town was founded in the mid-19th century to provide housing and resources for the university. Today State College is one of Pennsylvania’s most popular destinations.

Head to Beaver Stadium during football season to watch the Nittany Lions play on their home turf. State College transforms into a hub of activity on game days as fans flock from all over the country. Learn more about the university’s athletic accomplishments at Penn State All-Sports Museum.

Visit the Palmer Museum of Art, which has 11 galleries filled with everything from modern pieces to centuries-old paintings. Watch a play at the Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy live music at the historic State Theatre. In July, experience the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, a celebration of the region’s artistic and cultural pursuits that attracts over 100,000 visitors.

Admire the region’s famous fall foliage at the Arboretum at Penn State. The university’s picturesque campus is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic or play a game of catch.

The historic downtown area borders Penn State’s campus. Satisfy your appetite at one of the ethnic restaurants, coffee shops or bistros that line the streets. Admire the historic architecture as you browse the neighborhood’s shops and galleries. Enjoy State College’s nightlife, enlivened by the student community.

Hike Mount Nittany, a natural landmark located just 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) east of State College in Lemont. Bring the kids on a beginner trail or challenge yourself on one of the paths for more experienced hikers.

State College is 86 miles (138 kilometers) from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s capital city. University Park Airport flies to many U.S. cities and is located just minutes from the downtown area. State College delights visitors by combining natural attractions with the vitality, style and culture of a university town. Root on Penn State teams or explore the lively downtown in this unique Pennsylvania destination.

Where to stay in State College

Find the best State College areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about State College

The Highlands

The Highlands might not have many top sights, but Pegula Ice Arena and Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Downtown State College

If you're spending some time in Downtown State College, Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania and What-A-Blast Extreme Laser Tag are top sights worth seeing.

Holmes-Foster

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Holmes-Foster and surrounding area, you can visit Penn State University's Blue and White Golf Courses and Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania.

College Heights

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in College Heights and surrounding area, you can visit The Arboretum at Penn State and Penn State University's Blue and White Golf Courses.

Autumn alley in the campus of Pennsylvania State University in autumn sunny day, State College, Pennsylvania.

Park Forest Village

Park Forest Village is well-liked for its art galleries and theaters. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Penn State University's Blue and White Golf Courses and The Arboretum at Penn State are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

The Nittany Lion Inn

200 West Park Avenue State College PA

$146 nightly

$162 total

Oct 5 - Oct 6

Total with taxes and fees

Book a stay at this historic hotel in State College. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a free airport shuttle. Popular attractions Bryce Jordan Center ...

9.6/10 Exceptional! (2,089 reviews)

"Room was very clean with fresh carpets. Location was excellent. Sits on campus and was walkable. Parking deck was convenient but not free. Reasonable though at 12 bucks."

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2026

The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center

215 Innovation Boulevard State College PA

$136 nightly

$151 total

Oct 6 - Oct 7

Total with taxes and fees

Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in State College. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...

9/10 Wonderful! (1,801 reviews)

"Great spot to stay for a game. Food is ok at the restaurant, not really a pub."

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2026

Toftrees Golf Resort

1 Country Club Ln State College PA

Fully refundable

$108 nightly

$120 total

Oct 1 - Oct 2

Total with taxes and fees

Book a stay at this golf resort in State College. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff ...

8.6/10 Excellent! (1,104 reviews)

"The Field restaurant on site was great as well as the golf course. Staff were super friendly, helpful and accommodating. The property itself (the rooms) are dated, but the resort is clean and presents well."

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2026

See all 783 properties in State College

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

PSU Charm: Sunny 3BR Townhome 5 Mins From Campus!

State College PA

Stay at this vacation home in State College. Enjoy balconies, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver ...

9.6/10 Exceptional! (18 reviews)

"Very clean & charming townhouse. Had everything we needed for a great weekend of psu football tailgating. The host was very responsive and accommodating. Would love to stay here again!"

Reviewed on Sep 7, 2026

PSU 4BR/2Full Bath Home 1/4 Mile Walk to Campus, .7 miles to Beaver Stadium

State College PA

Stay at this vacation home in State College. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver Stadium are ...

10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)

"The Perfect Penn State Stay!We absolutely loved our stay at this charming Penn State home! From the moment we arrived, it felt warm, welcoming, and incredibly comfortable. It’s situated in a beautiful, welcoming neighborhood and perfectly located for enjoying PSU. The house is spacious, beautifully ..."

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026

HUGE House 10 Mins From PSU Campus + Private Deck!

State College PA

Stay at this vacation home in State College. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and balconies. Popular attractions Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver Stadium are ...

9.8/10 Exceptional! (30 reviews)

"Great property I would stay in here again as advertised super easy to get in and out."

Reviewed on Aug 28, 2026

See all properties in State College

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular State College attractions

Pennsylvania State University

9.8/10 (2,483 reviews)

Walk around the campus of Pennsylvania State University, a top college in State College. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.

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Frequently asked questions

Is State College worth visiting?

State College is worth visiting for its lively university environment, home to Pennsylvania State University and Beaver Stadium. Travelers can also enjoy a variety of dining experiences, with options ranging from Asian to Italian cuisine. Bus transit is available for getting around town.

When is the best time to visit State College?

The best time to visit State College is from May through September. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good bet, offering cooler weather and a chance of snow.

Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in State College?

The best neighborhoods to explore in State College depend on what you want to see:

Downtown State College offers family-friendly attractions like Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania and entertainment at What-A-Blast Extreme Laser Tag.

What is State College known for?

State College is known for being home to Pennsylvania State University, a major educational institution. Travelers can also visit prominent venues like Beaver Stadium and the Bryce Jordan Center. The city, including its Downtown State College area, also offers a strong Asian food culture for travelers to enjoy.

What is a good itinerary length for State College?

A good itinerary length for State College is two to three days to explore Pennsylvania State University, Beaver Stadium, and the Bryce Jordan Center. You can also discover Downtown State College. An extended stay of three to four days allows more time to enjoy the campus and area, including a Penn State Campus Adventure.

How do you get around State College?

In State College, travelers can get around using the local bus service, with the primary hub located at the State College Bus Station. For added flexibility or reaching destinations outside the bus network, rideshare services are also available throughout the area.

What are the top things to do in and around State College?

State College offers many activities centered around its university, sports, and recreational venues:

Explore the Penn State Campus with an adventure tour.
Visit Beaver Stadium, home to university sports.
See a game or event at the Bryce Jordan Center.
Watch ice sports or skate at Pegula Ice Arena.
Play a round of golf at Penn State University's Blue and White Golf Courses.

How do I plan a trip to State College?

To plan your trip to State College, book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance. Consider staying in Downtown State College, and book activities like the Penn State Campus Adventure. For outdoor plans, always have indoor backup options for weather flexibility. Explore Pennsylvania State University and Beaver Stadium.

What cuisines can you find in State College?

In State College you can find Chinese cuisine, with dishes like General Tso's chicken, lo mein, and dumplings. Travelers can also enjoy Italian, North American, and Latin American options, including Mexican dishes like tacos. Mediterranean cuisine is also available.

Can I book a refundable hotel in State College?

Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in State College by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Why book a trip to State College with Expedia?

Expedia makes it easier to plan your State College trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.

Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in State College?

The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in State College can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.

How can I manage my State College trip on Expedia?

Once you've booked your State College trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.

What if I need help during my State College trip?

Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your State College trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.

How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to State College?

If it's your first trip to State College, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.

How can I save on my State College hotel booking with Expedia?

Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your State College hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

State College, PA

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