Editor Picks: Hotels near Penn State University

There’s no mistaking the prestige of Penn State’s athletics department: a quick Google search for the school’s notable alumni pulls up a slew of coaches, wide receivers, defensive ends and linebackers. While Pennsylvania State University maintains 23 additional campuses throughout its native Commonwealth (in places like Abington, Berks, and Harrisburg), its flagship location of University Park is in the appropriately named borough of State College. Here, students can pursue excellent educational opportunities as well; Penn State is known as a “Public Ivy” for the distinguished tutelage it provides.

The motto of Penn State is the simple-yet-effective “Making Life Better.” Looking for lodging near this mega-school? We can make you life a little better —and easier— by helping you select from the many options for overnighting nearby. Here are three of the best hotels, selected according to proximity to campus, price and quality.

Comfort Suites State College

From $85/ night

This property occupies prime real estate in State College: Penn State is only two blocks away, and other attractions —like the Palmer Museum of Art, Beaver Stadium, Bryce Jordan Center and Pegular Ice Arena— are nearby. In each suite, seating and sleeping areas are partially divided, with a microwave, fridge, coffeemaker, ironing equipment and hair dryers included. Outside the guest rooms, you can find a business center, meeting space, fitness room, indoor pool and laundry. Freebies abound as well: breakfast, wifi, wired internet, weekday newspapers, and transportation to the airport if needed.

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Days Inn Penn State

From $99/ night

While the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center is a popular three-star choice for travelers, Days Inn Penn State is similarly priced (often cheaper) and even closer, sitting one block from the University Park campus. You can do conferences here, too; the onsite meeting spaces can accommodate up to 700 people. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, an in-room iron will ensure your clothes stay spiffy. Cable TV and a work desk are also provided for every guest. You can lounge around in the airy elegance of the three-story central atrium, or visit the workout center or indoor pool to stretch your muscles before a (very short) walk to Penn State or State Theatre, also within walking distance.

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Nittany Lion Inn

From $129/ night

This stately, 223-room property is a favorite among travelers, with some of the highest guest ratings in the State College area. Located on the Penn State campus, its location is ideal for prospective students or visiting families. Should you need or want to venture outside the college’s bounds, the Inn offers complimentary shuttle rides to University Park Airport and other local points of interest. All rooms feature cable TV, a private bathroom and iPod docks, while select suites also come with extra seating, a fridge and a microwave. If you’re craving more elaborate food than the microwave can provide, there’s the Dining Room, an on-site restaurant open for three meals daily. For drinks, try the pub/restaurant Whiskers.

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