Where To Park For Penn State Football Games

Where to Park for Penn State Football Games

Getting ready for a Penn State game at Beaver Stadium? That’s awesome! But before you cheer on the Nittany Lions, you need to figure out where to park. Parking can be tricky, especially when thousands of fans are heading to the same place. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the best spot for your game day experience. Let’s explore your parking options!

Official Penn State Parking Lots

Penn State manages a huge number of parking lots right near Beaver Stadium. These are your most convenient options, but they also come with some rules and can fill up quickly. Here’s what you need to know:

Permit Parking

Most of the lots closest to the stadium are reserved for permit holders. This means you need to have a special pass to park there. These passes are usually given to season ticket holders, people who contribute to the athletic program, or are purchased in advance from Penn State. If you are looking for this option you should consider buying one early, because these are very limited and usually sell out quickly.

• Who Gets a Permit? Season ticket holders, athletic donors, and some faculty/staff get first dibs.
• How Do I Get One? Check the Penn State Athletics website to see if permits are available or what you need to do to be considered eligible. It often involves a donation or commitment to buy season tickets.
• Where Are These Lots? These prime lots include the lots near the stadium like, the Yellow lots, the Brown lots, and the Orange lots. These lots can differ on where they are actually placed, so it’s essential to check your specific parking permit.

The benefits of permit parking are that you are close to the stadium, can tailgate with friends, and it is a very traditional Penn State game day experience.

Day-of-Game Parking

If you don’t have a permit, don’t worry. Penn State does sell some day-of-game parking spots. These are usually located in the outer lots, like the paved lots on the East side of campus or grass lots further away from Beaver Stadium. These lots require a cash purchase the day of the game. Arriving early is important because these lots tend to fill up quickly.

• Cash Only: Be prepared to pay with cash, as credit cards may not always be accepted.
• Where Are These Lots? Typically, these are in the Orange lots near the Ag Arena and other areas a bit further from the stadium. They are usually the largest lots and can handle a lot of cars, but also tend to be furthest away from the stadium.
• Arrive Early: For the best spot and to make sure you find a place before the lot is full, get there early.

The cost for these lots varies depending on the game and location, so make sure to check Penn State’s Athletics website before you head out.

Alternative Parking Options

Official Penn State parking isn’t your only choice. If you are struggling to find a spot, here are some other options that you can use:

Off-Campus Parking Lots

Many businesses and private landowners near campus offer parking during football games. These lots are sometimes more affordable than official Penn State lots, but they come with their own set of pros and cons. Here are some tips when using this option:

• Cost: The cost will vary by location. Expect to pay somewhere between $20 and $50 per game, but this can fluctuate.
• Distance: Many of these are within walking distance to the stadium, but some may be a bit further out, so you will have to check each location before you plan on parking.
• Check for Shuttle Services: Some lots offer shuttle services to the stadium.
• Tailgating: Some lots allow tailgating, but always confirm before you go.
• Safety: It’s very important that you only park in authorized parking areas. Avoid areas that look unofficial and be sure you’re not blocking any businesses and roadways.

Shuttle Services

If you don’t want to deal with parking at all, then taking a shuttle can be a good solution. There are a few shuttle services that operate during Penn State football game days. They pick you up from a remote location and take you straight to the stadium and back after the game. Here’s what to consider:

• CATA Shuttle: The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) offers a special shuttle service from various locations around State College and the surrounding area. You have to buy the CATA pass before game day. The CATA loop is a great way to travel to and from the stadium without paying expensive parking fees.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in the area will provide shuttle service for their guests on game days. If you are staying in a hotel, be sure to ask them about this option.

Ride-Sharing

Using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option for some, but it can be a bit complicated during football games. It is recommended that you check their terms and conditions before using this option.

• Drop-Off Location: You will be dropped off at a designated area off of Park Ave, this area is usually very crowded and hard to move around before and after the game.
• Surge Pricing: Be aware that prices can increase a lot during peak times like right before and after a game.
• Post-Game Wait: Be prepared for a possible wait to get a ride after the game due to a high demand for this service.
• Safety: It’s always best to be with a group when using rideshares at night.

Tailgating at Penn State

Tailgating is a big part of the Penn State football experience! It’s a great way to hang out with friends, eat food, and get excited for the game. If you plan to tailgate, you should keep these things in mind.

Tailgating Locations

Most of the official Penn State parking lots allow tailgating. Usually you can begin setting up for your tailgate approximately 6 hours prior to kickoff, but this can vary by game. Remember that you cannot save spaces for others and if you want to tailgate next to friends, you must arrive at the same time. Make sure to review the tailgating rules that are located on the Penn State Athletics website, they can vary from game to game.

Tailgating Guidelines

• Clean Up: Make sure you clean up your area before you head into the stadium. Put your trash in the proper receptacles and help keep the lots clean.
• Grilling: You can grill, but make sure you follow all the fire safety rules. Have a fire extinguisher on hand, do not leave your grill unattended, and dispose of coals safely.
• Alcohol: Public consumption of alcohol is only allowed within the designated tailgating areas, please follow all the legal consumption rules.
• Respect Others: Be respectful of those around you. Keep your music at a reasonable level and don’t block other people’s spaces.

Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience

Parking for a Penn State football game can be stressful, but here are a few tips to make it much easier for you.

Plan Ahead

• Check the Penn State Athletics Website: Before you go, check the official website for the most up-to-date parking information, parking map, specific traffic patterns, and rules.
• Arrive Early: The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have of finding a parking spot and being able to enjoy tailgating before the game.
• Have a Backup Plan: It is helpful to have an alternative plan in case your preferred parking spot is full.

Navigation

• Use Navigation Apps: Use a navigation app like Google Maps to help you get around and find your way to the correct parking lot.
• Follow Traffic Signs: Pay attention to the traffic signs and any directions given by parking staff.

What to Bring

• Cash: If you plan on using the day-of-game parking, make sure to have cash on hand.
• Parking Permit: Don’t forget your parking permit if you have one!
• Comfortable Shoes: You might have to walk a bit, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Tailgating Supplies: If you plan to tailgate, remember to bring everything you need, like food, drinks, chairs, and a grill.

Remember, patience and preparation are key to a great Penn State game day experience. With a little planning, you’ll be cheering on the Nittany Lions in no time!

By planning ahead and knowing your options, you can find a parking spot that works for you. Whether it’s an official Penn State lot, an off-campus option, or a ride-sharing service, there’s a way to get to Beaver Stadium without a hassle. Now, go get ready for game day! Have fun, be safe, and GO LIONS!