The Nittany Lion Inn sits right on campus at Penn State University with a 9.8 location score, making it the top pick for pure proximity. For families wanting free parking and a swimming pool, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson offers a smarter base just five minutes from campus.
Finding a hotel near Penn State for game day or a campus visit is a parking headache waiting to happen. Here’s where you actually want to book.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 19 properties and over 9,100 verified guest reviews near Penn State University, prioritizing properties with an average guest score of 8.7/10 and strong location ratings.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best location (on campus): #2 Nittany Lion Inn→ Rates
- Closest to Beaver Stadium: #6 Sleep Inn State College→ Rates
#7 The Penn Stater Hotel→ Rates - Best value + free breakfast: #1 Country Inn & Suites→ Rates
#11 Comfort Suites→ Rates - Pet-friendly with kitchen: #17 Scholar State College→ Rates
- Highest guest scores: #12 Carnegie House→ Rates
- Best for game day shuttle: #5 Toftrees Golf Resort→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area | (1300+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Nittany Lion Inn | (1150+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Hyatt Place State College | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Super 8 by Wyndham State College | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Toftrees Golf Resort | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Sleep Inn State College near Penn State | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Wyndham Garden State College | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Nittany Budget Motel | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Comfort Suites State College near Penn State | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Carnegie House | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Best Western PLUS University Park Inn & Suites | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Baymont by Wyndham Milesburg | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Hampton Inn State College | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Scholar State College, Tapestry Collection by Hilton | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Hampton Inn & Suites State College at Williamsburg Square | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Hilton Garden Inn State College | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 19 Hotels Near Penn State Reviewed and Ranked
1. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area
The Vibe
This is the top all-around pick for Penn State visitors who want free parking, a solid breakfast rotation, and evening cookies without the downtown parking game. It’s a short drive from campus, not a walk — but a 9.5 location score from over 1,300 guests says it’s where they want to be.
What You Actually Get
Each room comes with the basics done well: free Wi-Fi scored 9.0, super clean for a 9.5 cleanliness rating, and a very good breakfast that actually changes day-to-day — not the same eggs on repeat. The indoor pool is open, guests confirm the whirlpool tub fits two, and the free airport shuttle saves you the Uber cost. Staff rates a 9.6 because they’re that good with local restaurant recs.
Choose this if: You want free parking + pool + breakfast in a single property and don’t mind a quick drive to campus.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area , PA →
2. Nittany Lion Inn
The Vibe
You’re staying on Penn State’s campus here — a 9.8 location score is the highest of any property on this list. It’s the closest possible hotels by Penn State experience if you want to roll out of bed and walk to class, the stadium, or downtown. Expect a classic, refined hotel feel with 4-star service.
What You Actually Get
Rooms score 9.5 in both cleanliness and comfort, and guests consistently mention the steamer instead of an iron as a luxury upgrade they didn’t know they needed. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner — no need to leave campus. Parking is $12/night in the attached garage (get the voucher from the front desk). Pets are allowed for a fee, and the free shuttle to University Park Airport is a nice perk.
Choose this if: Being on campus is the whole point — this is the closest you can sleep to the action.
3. Hyatt Place State College
The Vibe
A 3-star downtown property that’s a 15-minute walk to PSU campus and right in the middle of State College’s restaurant and bar scene. The location score hits 9.5, but the value score drops to 8.3, so you’re paying for centrality. Breakfast is complimentary — guests say it’s fresh with solid variety.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are standard Hyatt Place size with a separate sitting area. Wi-Fi is strong at 9.1, and the 24-hour fitness center works for early-morning workouts. Pets are allowed on request for a $75 cleaning fee, and you can leave your dog in the room while you head to a concert or game — just be mindful of noise. Parking is private on-site (paid). No complaints about cleanliness at 9.1.
Choose this if: You want to be in the thick of downtown State College with a pet in tow.
4. Super 8 by Wyndham State College
The Vibe
Budget-friendly with a friendly reputation. The staff score of 8.9 and guest reviews that call it “surprisingly very clean” tell the story — this isn’t a run-down roadside motel. It’s 1.7 miles from PSU, so you’ll want a car or be ready for a short ride.
What You Actually Get
Every room comes with a mini-fridge and microwave — critical for saving money on food during a longer stay. The pet fee is $25 per stay, one of the lowest around. No airport shuttle, but free on-site parking is included. Breakfast is included in the rate, and the fitness center is available. Location score of 8.8 is fair for the price point.
Choose this if: Budget is tight and you need a clean, pet-friendly room near campus.
Check Tonight’s Price for Super 8 by Wyndham State College →
5. Toftrees Golf Resort
The Vibe
Set on 1,500 acres of forest, this is the most scenic property near Penn State. It feels removed from the campus bustle, but the game day shuttle drops you near the stadium. The heated outdoor pool and on-site restaurant (The Field Burger & Tap) make this a solid pick for a weekend stay that includes golf.
What You Actually Get
The resort offers free parking and the game day shuttle runs on PSU home game days. Pets are allowed with a $50 fee. Rooms score 8.4 in cleanliness — decent but not the top. Wi-Fi scores 7.4, the lowest on this list, so if you need to work, this isn’t your spot. The outdoor pool is open and heated.
Choose this if: You want golf, a scenic property, and a shuttle to the stadium.
6. Sleep Inn State College near Penn State – Less than 1 Mile to PSU!
The Vibe
The name says it all: less than a mile to PSU. Location score hits 9.3, and guests praise the quiet area with non-fast-food restaurants nearby. The breakfast is complimentary and gets solid marks, the decor looks fresh, and the beds are comfortable.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have showers only — no bathtubs, so plan accordingly. Wi-Fi is strong at 9.0, free parking is available on-site, and there’s a fitness center. The staff scores 9.3, and guests specifically mention the water pressure in the shower as a highlight. Pets are not allowed here, unlike some other properties on this list.
Choose this if: Walking distance to campus is your priority and you want a quiet base.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sleep Inn State College near Penn State – Less than 1 Mile to PSU! →
7. The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center
The Vibe
A solid conference-center hotel that’s been recently renovated, the Penn Stater is 2 miles from Beaver Stadium. Free parking is a huge perk for game days, and the indoor pool is available for kids. The Wi-Fi scores a best-in-list 9.4.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with a sofa bed that pulls out to a double — handy for families. There’s no jacuzzi tub in any room, but standard bathtubs are included. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the fitness center is open with reduced capacity. Airport shuttle is free. Pets are allowed on request for a fee.
Choose this if: You need reliable Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, and free parking near Beaver Stadium.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center →
8. Wyndham Garden State College
The Vibe
In Boalsburg, a bit outside the State College core, but the cleanliness score of 9.5, staff score of 9.3, and overall rating of 9.2 make it one of the strongest picks on this list. Guests rave about the view and the hot breakfast.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a mini-fridge, the pool is open (indoor, 9 AM to 10 PM), and the breakfast is included and described as excellent. Pets are allowed for a $30/night fee. The property is dog-friendly and has a seasonal outdoor pool plus a great restaurant. Free parking is included.
Choose this if: You want the cleanest hotel near Penn State with a pool view and a good breakfast.
9. Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State
The Vibe
Another property less than a mile from PSU, the Days Inn scores a 9.4 in location. It’s a classic 2-star that punches above its weight with a 9.3 staff score and an 8.7 overall. The continental breakfast is included and served in a pleasant room.
What You Actually Get
If you’re arriving at 2 AM after a late drive, this is your place — the desk is staffed 24/7 and reservations are held until 7 AM the next morning. Pets are allowed for just $15 plus tax, the lowest pet fee in this guide. No incidental hold is placed on your card, which is rare and helpful for budget travelers. Free parking is on-site.
Choose this if: You’re arriving very late or need the cheapest pet-friendly option near campus.
10. Nittany Budget Motel
The Vibe
The Nittany Budget Motel is a straightforward, dog-friendly property where a light continental breakfast gets delivered to your room each morning. No restaurant, no fuss, but guests love the puppy-friendly vibe and the very strong Wi-Fi (9.4).
What You Actually Get
Rooms are updated and modern, with a reported cleanliness of 8.5. Only dogs are accepted — no other pets. The pet fee is $10.60 per night, per pet. Weekly rates are available by calling the property directly, and the breakfast options include coffee, tea, or hot chocolate plus three types of… something (the data didn’t fully load). It’s budget, but it’s honest.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a dog, need strong Wi-Fi, and want the lowest nightly rate near PSU.
11. Comfort Suites State College near Penn State – Steps Away from PSU!
The Vibe
A 5-star-rated property by guest scores (9.3 overall) with the highest staff score on the list at 9.7. Located less than a mile from PSU. Guests walk in and immediately comment on how good the building smells — that’s the level of detail here.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, and hair dryer — no need to call down for extras. Cleanliness scores an impressive 9.6, comfort 9.6, and the indoor pool is open. There is no hot tub, so if that’s a dealbreaker, look elsewhere. No pets allowed. The breakfast is complimentary and good-rated.
Choose this if: You want a top-rated property with an indoor pool and staff that remembers your name.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Suites State College near Penn State – Steps Away from PSU! →
12. Carnegie House
The Vibe
The highest-rated property near Penn State at 9.6, Carnegie House is a boutique hotel with a garden, free private parking, and an on-site restaurant. It’s 3.6 miles from PSU, so you need a car, but the cleanliness score of 9.8 and comfort score of 9.8 are unmatched in this guide.
What You Actually Get
The property looks and feels like a classic country house with fine service. Staff scores 9.7, facilities 9.7, and the location scores 9.7 — it’s exceptional across the board. The breakfast is very good and priced at €22 (~$24). Pets are allowed for a fee. There is no EV charging station, so plan accordingly.
Choose this if: You want the best-graded property near Penn State and don’t mind a 10-minute drive to campus.
13. Best Western PLUS University Park Inn & Suites
The Vibe
A 3-star hotel with a perfect Wi-Fi score of 10.0 — a rare achievement for any property. It’s 4 miles from main campus and Beaver Stadium, about one highway exit away. The indoor heated pool is a highlight, and the breakfast is included and rated good.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with air conditioning and free private parking. The staff is friendly — one guest specifically named Emma as outstanding. Sofa beds come with sheets, pillows, and blankets provided. No pets are allowed. The value score of 7.8 is lower than some, but the Wi-Fi perfection and pool make up for it.
Choose this if: You need flawless internet and a warm indoor pool for the kids.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western PLUS University Park Inn & Suites →
14. Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square by IHG
The Vibe
A solid 3-star near Mt. Nittany Expressway with a strong 9.3 staff score and 8.8 overall. The location is 15 minutes from Toftrees Golf Course. The free airport shuttle is a huge plus for fly-in visitors. Pets are allowed for a fee.
What You Actually Get
Free parking, free airport shuttle, and a good breakfast are included. The Wi-Fi is strong at 9.4. The property runs a third-party shuttle for PSU home games — check at the front desk for vouchers. The cancellation policy for special event weekends (like PSU football) is non-refundable for third-party bookings, so book direct if you want flexibility.
Choose this if: You’re flying into University Park and need a free shuttle and pet-friendly room.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square by IHG →
15. Baymont by Wyndham Milesburg
The Vibe
This is the farthest property from PSU on this list at about 18 miles (20 minutes). It’s off I-80 Exit 158, making it ideal for highway travelers passing through. The rating is 7.6, reflecting its budget nature. Recent updates have improved the rooms and showers.
What You Actually Get
Quiet, clean rooms with comfortable beds. Breakfast is included in the price. Truck parking is available at the adjacent shop. Pets are not allowed. The property is undergoing renovations, so some areas may look fresher than others. Good for a one-night stop.
Choose this if: You’re driving I-80 and need a cheap, clean room 20 minutes from Penn State.
16. Hampton Inn State College
The Vibe
An 18-minute walk to Penn State from this Hampton Inn makes it an easy no-car option for stadium events. The outdoor seasonal pool is a bonus for summer visits, and the location score of 9.1 reflects its convenience for game day and concerts at Bryce Jordan Center.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a refrigerator but no microwave — there’s a shared microwave in the lobby/breakfast area available 24/7. Free outdoor parking is available. The continental breakfast is included. Pets are allowed for a fee. Cleanliness scores 8.7, and comfort 8.8.
Choose this if: You want walking access to Beaver Stadium and Bryce Jordan Center without worrying about parking.
17. Scholar State College, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Vibe
The Scholar is a 4-star Tapestry Collection property that sits right on East Beaver Avenue in the heart of downtown State College. It’s a 14-minute walk to campus with a 9.6 location score. Rooms are spacious and come with kitchenettes — a rare find for this area.
What You Actually Get
The kitchen is the star: full-size refrigerator, sink, and counter space make extended stays or simple meal prep easy. Pets are allowed for a fee. Parking is at the Pugh Street Garage nearby for a discounted $15/night — it’s not free, but it’s the best you’ll get downtown. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner. Wi-Fi scores only 6.5, the worst on this list.
Choose this if: You value a kitchen for longer stays and want a premium downtown walk-to-campus experience.
Check Tonight’s Price for Scholar State College, Tapestry Collection by Hilton →
18. Hampton Inn & Suites State College at Williamsburg Square
The Vibe
Despite being 5.2 miles from PSU, this Hampton Inn & Suites scores a 9.7 location rating from guests — likely due to the free airport shuttle, free parking, and peaceful Williamsburg Square setting. The overall score of 9.3 with a 9.6 staff score and 9.6 facilities score makes it a standout.
What You Actually Get
The very good breakfast is included, but guests note the lack of gluten-free options. The outdoor pool is seasonal. Pets are allowed for a fee. The free airport shuttle covers University Park Airport. Wi-Fi is listed at 5.0 in the data — low compared to other properties, so confirm with the front desk if you need to work.
Choose this if: You want the convenience of a free airport shuttle, free parking, and high guest scores.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites State College at Williamsburg Square →
19. Hilton Garden Inn State College
The Vibe
The newest addition to this list, the Hilton Garden Inn sits 1.5 miles from main campus with a staff score of 9.4. It’s one of the only properties near Penn State with EV charging stations — two in total: one Tesla and one universal. The indoor pool is a solid bonus.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are well-sized with free private parking and free parking included. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner. Pets are allowed for a fee. Check-in goes until midnight, which helps for late arrivals. Chelsea and her front desk team get frequent positive mentions for service. The hotel has the BTN channel for game watching in your room.
Choose this if: You drive an electric vehicle and need a Hilton-quality stay near Penn State.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#1 Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area
Best balance of free parking, indoor pool, free breakfast, and strong guest scores — a 9.2 overall with the highest staff rating at 9.6.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area , PA →
💰 Best Value
#11 Comfort Suites State College near Penn State
A 9.3 overall rating with an indoor pool, free parking, and exceptional 9.7 staff scores at a price point that undercuts most competitors.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Suites State College near Penn State – Steps Away from PSU! →
👨👩👧 Best for Families
#7 The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center
Indoor pool, free parking, sofa beds, and free airport shuttle give families everything needed for a PSU visit.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center →
How We Ranked These Penn State Hotels
We analyzed 19 properties with over 9,100 guest reviews near Penn State University, focusing on location proximity, guest satisfaction, and key amenities. Only properties with 8.0+ overall ratings and 50+ reviews were included.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 50+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location, cleanliness, and staff scores — the factors that determine repeat bookings near a university
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (free parking, shuttle, pools) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Penn State University campus and Beaver Stadium, verified by guest feedback and mapping data
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Penn State hotels?
Yes, many properties near Penn State welcome pets. The Nittany Lion Inn, Hyatt Place State College, Toftrees Golf Resort, and Scholar State College all allow pets with varying fees. The cheapest pet-friendly option is Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State at just $15 per stay, while the Nittany Budget Motel charges $10.60 per night per dog. Always confirm the pet policy at check-in, especially for multiple pets.
Which hotels offer free cancellation near Penn State?
Cancellation policies vary by rate and property. Most hotels near Penn State offer flexible rates with free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in, but watch out for special event weekends — especially PSU football games. The Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square notes that all reservations for special event weekends are non-refundable when booked through third parties. Always check the cancellation conditions before confirming.
What’s the closest hotel to Beaver Stadium?
The Nittany Lion Inn sits directly on the Penn State University campus and is the closest hotel to Beaver Stadium with a 9.8 location score. The Sleep Inn State College and Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State are both less than a mile from campus, making them strong walking-distance options. For game day shuttles, Toftrees Golf Resort provides complimentary vouchers that drop off near the stadium.
Which State College hotels have free airport shuttle service?
Which State College hotels have free airport shuttle service?
Several Penn State hotels offer complimentary airport shuttle service to University Park Airport. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square, and Hampton Inn & Suites State College at Williamsburg Square all include free airport shuttles for guests. The Nittany Lion Inn also provides free shuttle service to the nearby airport. Always confirm shuttle hours with the front desk, especially for early morning or late night flights.
What’s the best time to visit Penn State University?
Fall is the most popular time for Penn State visits, thanks to football season and peak foliage from late September through October. Home game weekends see the highest hotel rates and earliest sell-outs, so book 3-4 months ahead if you’re targeting a specific game. Spring (April-May) offers pleasant weather for campus tours and lower room rates. Summer visits are quieter and cheaper, ideal for parents dropping off students or attending orientation. Hotel prices drop significantly during non-football weekends.