Hotels near Beaver Stadium
127 Bryce Jordan Ctr, University Park, PA 16802
Hotels near Beaver Stadium
Swipe to find hotels on the map.
- 1
Hampton Inn State College
- 2
Hilton Garden Inn State College
- 3
Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- 4
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson State College (Penn State Area), PA
- 5
Hyatt Place State College
- 6
Graduate by Hilton State College
- 7
Comfort Suites State College near Penn State
- 8
Sleep Inn State College near Penn State
- 9
Rodeway Inn State College - near University
- 10
Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State
- 11
Ramada by Wyndham State College Hotel & Conference Center
- 12
Residence Inn by Marriott State College
- 13
Super 8 by Wyndham State College
- 14
Courtyard by Marriott State College
- 15
Springhill Suites by Marriott State College
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15 Hotels near Beaver Stadium
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Hampton Inn State College
Warmth that holds steady when parking premiums and restaurant waits spiral upward.
- Keep toddlers and grandparents close with guaranteed shared-access rooms
- Relax in soft seating after a long day at the stadium
- Relax on outdoor patio seating between tailgate and kickoff
Hilton Garden Inn State College
Premium consistency crafted for guests balancing tradition with convenience all weekend long.
- Request concierge-arranged limousines for special alumni gatherings and celebrations
- Power through doubleheaders with signature omelet stations made to order
- Enjoy shared space between rooms while everyone has privacy
Scholar State College Tapestry Collection
Premium comfort designed for guests who refuse to gamble on game weekends.
- Gather in the vibrant lobby before kickoff with fellow fans
- Gather on landscaped patios before kickoff with fellow fans
- Enjoy distinctive dining without leaving the property after kickoff
Country Inn & Suites State College , PA
Midscale consistency built for travelers managing tight schedules and sold-out towns.
- Sink into premium Serta mattresses after long game day hours
- Store extra coolers and tailgate gear with spacious parking
- Power through game day with complimentary hot breakfast fuel included
Hyatt Place State College
Upscale midscale built for travelers who refuse to compromise when it counts most.
- Enjoy cage-free eggs and all-natural bacon every game morning
- Store snacks and drinks in the full-size refrigerator between games
- Enjoy meals together in integrated dining and lounge zones
Graduate by Hilton State College
Full-service tradition meets modern convenience for parents juggling visits and schedules.
- Recharge between events with freshly baked artisanal pastries all morning
- Reserve confirmed connecting rooms for your whole family upfront
- Claim collaborative seating areas for tailgate strategy sessions and recaps
Booking 9+ rooms? Get group rates.
Comfort Suites State College near Penn State
Midscale positioning that serves multi-generational families with consistent quality and value.
- Enjoy plush blankets that keep you cozy through the night
- Avoid searching for street parking with guaranteed on-site spots
- Load up on scrambled eggs before the big rivalry matchup
Sleep Inn State College near Penn State
Built for travelers who expect reliable stays during high-energy weekends.
- Start game day with yogurt, fruit, and hot breakfast meats
- Gather in modern communal spaces between back-to-back athletic events
- Stock your cooler with bottled drinks for the tailgate
Rodeway Inn State College - near University
Straightforward stays designed for families who refuse to overpay for emotion.
- Enjoy complimentary surface lot parking throughout your entire stay
- Grab continental breakfast pastries before heading to the stadium
- Refuel with packaged snacks available around the clock for families
Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State
Dependable value designed for travelers who chase kickoff across state lines.
- Use the free parking lot for trailers and tailgating gear
- Grab continental breakfast with cereals and fruit every day
- Stretch the budget with kids staying free alongside paying adults
Ramada State College Hotel & Conference Center
Built for families balancing campus visits with game-day energy and tight schedules.
- Fill up at breakfast buffet before tailgate prep begins
- Request connecting rooms to keep your entire group together
- Meet your group at the welcoming front desk reception
Residence Inn by Marriott State College
Full-apartment layouts for attendees managing chaos beyond the stadium gates.
- Celebrate game day wins at hosted evening social events
- Access cold beverages and snacks whenever hunger strikes during game weekend
- Enjoy restorative sleep on Marriott's thick signature mattresses nightly
Super 8 by Wyndham State College
Economy comfort built for fans who return year after year.
- Grab freshly brewed coffee and pastries for early kickoff mornings
- Request a crib at booking so infants sleep soundly
- Catch up with other families between kickoff and final whistle
Courtyard by Marriott State College
Polished stays designed for supporters chasing a full day of tradition.
- Power the whole family with full-service breakfast before stadium gates
- Request a crib so baby travels comfortably for alumni weekend
- Gather your crew in the open-concept Marriott Greatroom lobby
Springhill Suites by Marriott State College
Spacious standards created for guests who refuse to compromise on game day.
- Move freely through spacious layouts perfect for reunion weekends
- Celebrate wins together in the hotel's welcoming social lobby
- Reconnect with alumni friends in welcoming outdoor gathering spaces
Beaver Stadium Travel Guide
We built this guide so your team doesn't have to figure it all out from a Google search. Neighborhoods, restaurants, game day logistics, local tips — it's all here.
Beaver Stadium is not just a venue; it is the "Happy Valley" cathedral where over 106,000 fans create the second-largest stadium city in America on game days. Famous for its deafening "White Out" games and the communal spirit of its massive tailgate fields, the stadium offers a college football experience that is equal parts tradition and intensity. The surrounding campus of Penn State University transforms into a sea of blue and white, with RVs arriving days in advance to stake their claim. Visitors here must navigate the sprawling grass parking lots, master the "CATA" shuttle system to avoid gridlock, and understand the deep loyalty to the Nittany Lions. The guide below helps you find the legendary Creamery ice cream, secure the best tailgating spot in the Yellow Lot, and handle the chilly autumn winds that sweep through the valley.
Neighborhood Overview
The stadium dominates the eastern edge of the Penn State campus, bordered by the Bryce Jordan Center and the expansive agricultural fields that become parking zones. To the south lies downtown State College, a classic college town strip of bars, bookstores, and restaurants along College Avenue. To the north and east are the rolling hills and farmlands that give the area its rural charm. Access is heavily reliant on driving, with I-99 and Route 322 funneling thousands of cars into the zone-based parking lots. The "neighborhood" on game days is effectively the parking lots themselves, where a friendly, open-container tailgate culture reigns supreme. The area is extremely safe, though the sheer volume of pedestrians and vehicles creates significant congestion. Rideshare pickups are difficult near the stadium; walking downtown or to a designated shuttle stop is often the only way to catch a ride.
Where to Stay
Hotel inventory in State College is notoriously tight and expensive on football weekends, often requiring bookings a year in advance. The Nittany Lion Inn and The Penn Stater Hotel are the premier on-campus options, offering historic charm and shuttle access, but they sell out instantly. For a walkable downtown experience, the Graduate State College or Hyatt Place State College offers modern amenities near the student nightlife. Many fans choose to stay in nearby towns like Bellefonte, Boalsburg, or even Altoona (45 mins away) to find affordable rates, utilizing the shuttles or driving in. Staying in "Toftrees" offers a resort-like vibe just a short shuttle ride from the stadium.
Quick-Plan Overview
Getting There
University Park Airport (SCE) · 10 min drive
Arrival & Parking
Pre-paid "Yellow Lot" parking is essential
Local Transit
CATA Shuttle from downtown avoids traffic
Tip
Berkey Creamery for pre-game ice cream
Tip
Chicken Basket inside the stadium is iconic
- University Park Airport (SCE) · 10 min drive
- Pre-paid "Yellow Lot" parking is essential
- CATA Shuttle from downtown avoids traffic
- Berkey Creamery for pre-game ice cream
- Chicken Basket inside the stadium is iconic
Game Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Arrival strategy is defined by your parking pass; the "Yellow Lots" are the general admission fields where the massive tailgates happen. These lots open at 7 AM (or earlier for night games), and getting there early is crucial to avoid the traffic jams on Atherton Street. If you aren't driving, the CATA Game Day Shuttle from downtown or South Atherton is a lifesaver, dropping you near the stadium for a small fee. Pre-game rituals include visiting the Nittany Lion Shrine for a photo and stopping by the Berkey Creamery for a scoop of "Peachy Paterno". Gates open two hours prior to kickoff; be aware of the strict clear bag policy (12"x6"x12") and the "No Bag" express lanes.
During the Event
Beaver Stadium is a massive, erector-set style bowl where the noise stays trapped inside; ear protection is recommended for kids. The seating is primarily aluminum benches, so renting a seatback or bringing a cushion is a smart move for comfort. The venue is cashless, and the "Chicken Basket" (chicken tenders and fries) is the undisputed king of concessions, with fans swearing by its unique taste. If it's a "White Out" game, wearing white is mandatory to participate in one of the most visually stunning spectacles in sports.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting 100,000 people takes time. The immediate roads around the stadium are turned into one-way outbound routes, forcing you away from campus. If you took the shuttle, head straight to the pickup zone near the Bryce Jordan Center, but expect a line. Many fans choose to return to their tailgate to grill post-game meals and let the traffic die down for an hour or two. Walking back to downtown State College (approx. 20-30 mins) is often faster than driving if your hotel is in that direction.
Arrival & Pre-Event
Arrival strategy is defined by your parking pass; the "Yellow Lots" are the general admission fields where the massive tailgates happen. These lots open at 7 AM (or earlier for night games), and getting there early is crucial to avoid the traffic jams on Atherton Street. If you aren't driving, the CATA Game Day Shuttle from downtown or South Atherton is a lifesaver, dropping you near the stadium for a small fee. Pre-game rituals include visiting the Nittany Lion Shrine for a photo and stopping by the Berkey Creamery for a scoop of "Peachy Paterno". Gates open two hours prior to kickoff; be aware of the strict clear bag policy (12"x6"x12") and the "No Bag" express lanes.
During the Event
Beaver Stadium is a massive, erector-set style bowl where the noise stays trapped inside; ear protection is recommended for kids. The seating is primarily aluminum benches, so renting a seatback or bringing a cushion is a smart move for comfort. The venue is cashless, and the "Chicken Basket" (chicken tenders and fries) is the undisputed king of concessions, with fans swearing by its unique taste. If it's a "White Out" game, wearing white is mandatory to participate in one of the most visually stunning spectacles in sports.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting 100,000 people takes time. The immediate roads around the stadium are turned into one-way outbound routes, forcing you away from campus. If you took the shuttle, head straight to the pickup zone near the Bryce Jordan Center, but expect a line. Many fans choose to return to their tailgate to grill post-game meals and let the traffic die down for an hour or two. Walking back to downtown State College (approx. 20-30 mins) is often faster than driving if your hotel is in that direction.
Things to Do
Walkable
Penn State All-Sports Museum
On siteLocated directly inside the southwest corner of the stadium, this museum celebrates the history of Nittany Lion athletics. It features exhibits on Joe Paterno, fencing, wrestling, and football, offering a deep dive into the school's "Success with Honor" philosophy. It typically opens before games but closes well before kickoff, so plan an early visit. It is the perfect place to kill time if you arrive before the tailgates are in full swing.
Berkey Creamery
0.4 miThis world-famous dairy store on campus is a pilgrimage site for ice cream lovers. Known for its strict "no mixing flavors" rule and generous scoops, it serves legendary flavors like "Death by Chocolate" and "Peachy Paterno". On game days, the line can wrap around the building, but it moves efficiently. It is a quintessential Penn State experience just a short walk from the stadium lots.
5–15 Minutes Away
The Arboretum at Penn State
0.8 miLocated just across Park Avenue from the stadium lots, this beautiful botanical garden offers a peaceful escape from the tailgate noise. It features the Childhood's Gate Children's Garden, fountains, and manicured flower beds. It is free to enter and offers a great spot for pre-game photos or a relaxing walk. The pumpkin display in October is a local favorite.
Mount Nittany Hike
3.5 miFor the adventurous, a hike up Mount Nittany offers the best aerial view of the stadium and the "Happy Valley" landscape. The trailhead is a short drive away in Lemont, and the hike to the Mike Lynch Overlook is steep but rewarding. It is a popular tradition for alumni to hike it on game morning. Allow about 2-3 hours for the round trip.
Walkable
- Penn State All-Sports Museum — Located directly inside the southwest corner of the stadium, this museum celebrates the history of Nittany Lion athletics. It features exhibits on Joe Paterno, fencing, wrestling, and football, offering a deep dive into the school's "Success with Honor" philosophy. It typically opens before games but closes well before kickoff, so plan an early visit. It is the perfect place to kill time if you arrive before the tailgates are in full swing. On site
- Berkey Creamery — This world-famous dairy store on campus is a pilgrimage site for ice cream lovers. Known for its strict "no mixing flavors" rule and generous scoops, it serves legendary flavors like "Death by Chocolate" and "Peachy Paterno". On game days, the line can wrap around the building, but it moves efficiently. It is a quintessential Penn State experience just a short walk from the stadium lots. 0.4 mi
5–15 Minutes Away
- The Arboretum at Penn State — Located just across Park Avenue from the stadium lots, this beautiful botanical garden offers a peaceful escape from the tailgate noise. It features the Childhood's Gate Children's Garden, fountains, and manicured flower beds. It is free to enter and offers a great spot for pre-game photos or a relaxing walk. The pumpkin display in October is a local favorite. 0.8 mi
- Mount Nittany Hike — For the adventurous, a hike up Mount Nittany offers the best aerial view of the stadium and the "Happy Valley" landscape. The trailhead is a short drive away in Lemont, and the hike to the Mike Lynch Overlook is steep but rewarding. It is a popular tradition for alumni to hike it on game morning. Allow about 2-3 hours for the round trip. 3.5 mi
Food & Drink
Stadium Zone & Gathering Spots
The Tavern Restaurant
1.2 miA historic landmark in downtown State College, The Tavern has been serving alumni since 1948. It features a maze of dining rooms filled with Penn State memorabilia and old lithographs. The menu focuses on classic American comfort food and prime rib. It is a favorite for post-game dinners, so reservations are essential on football weekends.
The Field Burger & Tap
2.5 miLocated at the Toftrees Golf Resort, this spot is famous for its massive, chef-driven burgers and hand-spun milkshakes. It offers a lodge-like atmosphere with a great beer list, slightly removed from the downtown chaos. It is a popular spot for fans staying at the resort or taking the shuttle. The "Lancaster Burger" with bacon jam is a standout.
Local & Elevated Picks
Allen Street Grill
1.2 miPerched on the corner of College and Allen, this restaurant offers the best people-watching view of downtown from its second-floor porch. The menu is modern American with excellent cocktails, offering a slightly more upscale vibe than the student bars below. It is a classic spot to soak in the town's energy after a win.
Champs Sports Bar & Grill
2.0 miWhile there is a location downtown, the North Atherton spot is the legendary original, filled with memorabilia and massive TVs. It serves solid pub fare and is a favorite hangout for former players and serious fans. It gets incredibly crowded, but the atmosphere is unmatched for watching other games before the Lions play.
Stadium Zone & Gathering Spots
- The Tavern Restaurant — A historic landmark in downtown State College, The Tavern has been serving alumni since 1948. It features a maze of dining rooms filled with Penn State memorabilia and old lithographs. The menu focuses on classic American comfort food and prime rib. It is a favorite for post-game dinners, so reservations are essential on football weekends. 1.2 mi
- The Field Burger & Tap — Located at the Toftrees Golf Resort, this spot is famous for its massive, chef-driven burgers and hand-spun milkshakes. It offers a lodge-like atmosphere with a great beer list, slightly removed from the downtown chaos. It is a popular spot for fans staying at the resort or taking the shuttle. The "Lancaster Burger" with bacon jam is a standout. 2.5 mi
Local & Elevated Picks
- Allen Street Grill — Perched on the corner of College and Allen, this restaurant offers the best people-watching view of downtown from its second-floor porch. The menu is modern American with excellent cocktails, offering a slightly more upscale vibe than the student bars below. It is a classic spot to soak in the town's energy after a win. 1.2 mi
- Champs Sports Bar & Grill — While there is a location downtown, the North Atherton spot is the legendary original, filled with memorabilia and massive TVs. It serves solid pub fare and is a favorite hangout for former players and serious fans. It gets incredibly crowded, but the atmosphere is unmatched for watching other games before the Lions play. 2.0 mi
Local Tips
Bag policy is 12x6x12 clear plastic: strictly enforced
Yellow Lot parking is grass: plan for mud if raining
Wear white for the "White Out" game: it's mandatory
Seasonal note: Central Pennsylvania weather is volatile. September games can be hot and humid, requiring sunscreen and hydration. October brings perfect foliage and crisp football weather. November is cold, often gray, and windy; the open stadium offers no protection, so thermal layers, boots, and blankets are essential for late-season survival.
- Bag policy is 12x6x12 clear plastic strictly enforced
- Yellow Lot parking is grass plan for mud if raining
- CATA Shuttles cost a small fee and run continuously
- Wear white for the "White Out" game it's mandatory
- Arrive at lots by 8 AM for prime tailgate spots
- Seasonal note: Central Pennsylvania weather is volatile. September games can be hot and humid, requiring sunscreen and hydration. October brings perfect foliage and crisp football weather. November is cold, often gray, and windy; the open stadium offers no protection, so thermal layers, boots, and blankets are essential for late-season survival.
Weather & Seasons
Winter
The stadium is winterized and mostly dormant, but basketball season at the adjacent Bryce Jordan Center is active. It is cold and snowy, with temperatures in the 20s.
Spring & early summer
April brings the "Blue-White" spring game, often played in cool, breezy conditions (50s). It is a teaser for the season. May and June are quiet and pleasant, perfect for campus visits.
Mid-summer
July and August are warm and humid, with highs in the 80s. The campus is quieter without students. It is festival season in State College (Arts Fest).
Fall season
September starts summer-like, but October is the glory of Happy Valley—cool air, changing leaves, and sweater weather. November turns harsh quickly, with freezing rain or snow likely for the final home games.
Rain & snow
Rain turns the grass parking lots into mud pits; 4WD vehicles are recommended for wet weekends. Snow games are iconic, but the aluminum benches get icy—bring a blanket or cushion.
Winter
The stadium is winterized and mostly dormant, but basketball season at the adjacent Bryce Jordan Center is active. It is cold and snowy, with temperatures in the 20s.
Spring & early summer
April brings the "Blue-White" spring game, often played in cool, breezy conditions (50s). It is a teaser for the season. May and June are quiet and pleasant, perfect for campus visits.
Mid-summer
July and August are warm and humid, with highs in the 80s. The campus is quieter without students. It is festival season in State College (Arts Fest).
Fall season
September starts summer-like, but October is the glory of Happy Valley—cool air, changing leaves, and sweater weather. November turns harsh quickly, with freezing rain or snow likely for the final home games.
Rain & snow
Rain turns the grass parking lots into mud pits; 4WD vehicles are recommended for wet weekends. Snow games are iconic, but the aluminum benches get icy—bring a blanket or cushion.
Venue Facts
Primary team
Penn State Nittany Lions
Neighborhood
University Park / State College
Nearest airport
University Park (SCE)
Parking
Yellow Lots (Grass/Paved)
Walkable district
Downtown State College
Groceries & supplies
Giant Food on N Atherton
Pharmacy
CVS on W Beaver Ave
Urgent care
Mount Nittany Medical Center
Downtime
The Arboretum at Penn State
Pro tip
Buy parking passes in advance
| Primary team | Penn State Nittany Lions |
| Neighborhood | University Park / State College |
| Nearest airport | University Park (SCE) |
| Parking | Yellow Lots (Grass/Paved) |
| Walkable district | Downtown State College |
| Groceries & supplies | Giant Food on N Atherton |
| Pharmacy | CVS on W Beaver Ave |
| Urgent care | Mount Nittany Medical Center |
| Downtime | The Arboretum at Penn State |
| Pro tip | Buy parking passes in advance |
Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions travelers ask before booking near Beaver Stadium — answered with the specifics you actually need.
Questions Travelers Ask What people want to know before booking near Beaver Stadium
What are the closest hotels to Beaver Stadium?
The closest hotel to Beaver Stadium is Hampton Inn State College (1.24 mi, from $125/night) — a 2-minute drive. Other nearby options include Hilton Garden Inn State College (1.66 mi, from $164/night) and Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton (1.74 mi, from $128/night). Hampton Inn State College offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center. Hilton Garden Inn State College offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center. Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center.
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium are good for families?
Several hotels near Beaver Stadium are well-suited for families. Hampton Inn State College (1.24 mi, from $125/night), Hilton Garden Inn State College (1.66 mi, from $164/night), and Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton (1.74 mi, from $128/night) all offer suites, connecting rooms, a pool, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry.
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium are good for team or group travel?
Several hotels near Beaver Stadium accommodate team and group travel. Hampton Inn State College (1.24 mi, from $125/night), Hilton Garden Inn State College (1.66 mi, from $164/night), and Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton (1.74 mi, from $128/night) all offer meeting space, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry.
Are there budget-friendly hotels near Beaver Stadium?
Yes — Sleep Inn State College near Penn State (2.27 mi, from $101/night), Rodeway Inn State College - near University (2.33 mi, from $67/night), and Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State (2.53 mi, from $99/night) are budget-friendly options near Beaver Stadium, with free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Are there extended-stay hotels near Beaver Stadium?
Yes — Residence Inn by Marriott State College (3.05 mi, from $184/night) is an extended-stay property near Beaver Stadium, with full kitchens and on-site laundry.
Hotel Amenities & Features Pools, breakfast, pet policies, and more
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium offer free breakfast?
Hampton Inn State College (1.24 mi, from $125/night), Country Inn & Suites by Radisson State College (Penn State Area), PA (1.9 mi, from $122/night), and Hyatt Place State College (2.07 mi, from $148/night) include complimentary breakfast.
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium have an outdoor pool?
Rodeway Inn State College - near University (2.33 mi, from $67/night) has an outdoor pool.
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium have an indoor pool?
Hampton Inn State College (1.24 mi, from $125/night), Hilton Garden Inn State College (1.66 mi, from $164/night), and Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton (1.74 mi, from $128/night) have an indoor pool available year-round.
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium have a fitness center?
Hampton Inn State College (1.24 mi, from $125/night), Hilton Garden Inn State College (1.66 mi, from $164/night), and Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton (1.74 mi, from $128/night) have an on-site fitness center.
Which hotels near Beaver Stadium are pet-friendly?
Hilton Garden Inn State College (1.66 mi, from $164/night), Scholar State College Tapestry Collection by Hilton (1.74 mi, from $128/night), and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson State College (Penn State Area), PA (1.9 mi, from $122/night) accept pets. Fee policies vary by property.
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