Country Inn & Suites leads with a 9.2 rating and a 9.5 cleanliness score just 5 minutes from campus. For walking directly onto campus, Nittany Lion Inn sits on PSU grounds with a 9.8 location score. Both deliver the best proximity to Penn State at peak quality.
Twenty hotels, one target: getting you closest to Penn State with the best guest-proven quality.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 9,400+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing properties with an 8.7/10 average guest score and verified proximity to Penn State University.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Right on Campus: #2 Nittany Lion Inn→ Rates
- Best Cleanliness Score: #12 Carnegie House→ Rates
- Best Value (High Score, Low Price): #6 Sleep Inn near Penn State→ Rates
- Best for Game Day Shuttles: #5 Toftrees Golf Resort→ Rates
- Best Free Breakfast: #1 Country Inn & Suites→ Rates
#8 Wyndham Garden State College→ Rates - Best Downtown Walkability: #18 Scholar State College→ 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 | (1,300+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Nittany Lion Inn | (1,150+ 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 | (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. Graduate by Hilton State College | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Best Western PLUS University Park | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Holiday Inn Express State College | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Baymont by Wyndham Milesburg | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Hampton Inn State College | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Scholar State College | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Hampton Inn & Suites at Williamsburg Sq | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Gamble Mill | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels by Penn State for Game Day and Campus Visits
1. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area
The Vibe
This 5-star property sits on East College Avenue, a straight shot to campus in under five minutes by car. Staff score a 9.6 — the highest in this list — and the breakfast rotation gets genuine praise from week-long guests who appreciated fresh daily options.
What You Actually Get
Every room comes with elevator access, and the complimentary breakfast is served daily with rotating hot items — guests call it “amazing” and “different each day.” The indoor pool stays open year-round, and there’s a free airport shuttle to University Park. Fresh baked cookies appear in the lobby before bed. Unlike many properties near campus, this one includes free private parking and a 9.5 cleanliness score. Staff answers guest questions directly: the whirlpool tub fits two people, the hot tub is operational, and debit cards are accepted at check-in without needing a credit card.
Choose this if: you want the highest staff-rated stay within minutes of campus with included breakfast and indoor swimming.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area , PA →
2. Nittany Lion Inn
The Vibe
Sitting directly on the PSU campus, this is the closest you’ll get to academic buildings and Beaver Stadium without crossing a single street. The 9.8 location score is the highest in the entire list — guests mention walking everywhere and loving it.
What You Actually Get
The Nittany Lion Inn operates a free shuttle to University Park Airport and local spots. The on-site restaurant handles breakfast and dinner, and each room comes with a steamer instead of an iron — a small detail guests rave about. Parking costs $12 per night via the hotel’s ticket system for the attached garage. Pets are allowed with possible charges. The property has a fitness center and free WiFi rated 8.3. Guests consistently call the beds “very comfortable” and the outdoor seating area “great.”
Choose this if: being literally on campus is non-negotiable — you want to walk to class, games, and downtown State College.
3. Hyatt Place State College
The Vibe
A short walk to campus — 0.8 miles to Penn State University — and right on West Beaver Avenue, putting downtown restaurants and shops at your doorstep. The 9.5 location score matches the best in this tier.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is complimentary for all guests — consistent praise for “fresh options” and variety. The 24-hour fitness center lets you squeeze in a workout before game day, and private parking is available. Pets are allowed on request with a $75 cleaning fee, and the front desk allows leaving your pet unattended as long as you’re considerate of other guests. The WiFi is rated 9.1, and rooms have a Cleanliness score of 9.1. Unlike the Nittany Lion Inn, this property accepts no age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: you want a walkable stay with breakfast included and don’t mind a moderate 15-minute stroll to central campus.
4. Super 8 by Wyndham State College
The Vibe
At 1.7 miles from PSU, this is a short drive or easy bus ride to campus. It’s one of the more budget-friendly options on this list, and guests are surprised by how clean and updated it feels for a 2-star property.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a mini refrigerator and microwave — confirmed by guest services. The continental breakfast is included, and on-site parking is free. Pets are allowed with a flat $25 fee per stay (not per night), making it the cheapest pet option near campus. The property has a fitness center and WiFi rated 8.1. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies, so plan ahead for large family reunions. Guests mention the staff is “always so friendly and accommodating.”
Choose this if: budget is priority and you’re driving to campus — free parking and a short 5-minute drive.
Check Tonight’s Price for Super 8 by Wyndham State College →
5. Toftrees Golf Resort
The Vibe
Set among 1,500 acres of Pennsylvania forest, this resort offers a championship golf course and a quieter escape while still being close to campus action. The location score of 9.1 reflects its balance of seclusion and convenience.
What You Actually Get
The resort provides shuttle vouchers for PSU football games — a major perk that drops you near Beaver Stadium. The on-site restaurant, The Field Burger & Tap, is open and the heated outdoor pool stays clean. Pets are allowed for a $50 fee. Free parking is included, and the property has a fitness center. The WiFi is rated 7.4, so expect lower bandwidth than downtown hotels. The staff score of 9.1 signals consistent friendly service, and multiple guests mention the property stays “quiet” even on event weekends.
Choose this if: you want a resort feel, golf access, and hassle-free transportation to Beaver Stadium on game days.
6. Sleep Inn State College near Penn State – Less than 1 Mile to PSU!
The Vibe
This 4-star property is within walking distance of PSU’s campus — three blocks to the nearest academic buildings and up to two miles for farthest points. Guests describe the area as “quiet” and appreciate that restaurants nearby aren’t “just fast food.”
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is complimentary for all guests, and the property scores a 9.3 location and 9.0 cleanliness. All rooms have showers (no bathtubs), and free private parking is included. The fitness center is on-site, and WiFi is rated 9.0. Guests rave about “wonderful water pressure in the shower” and “amazing breakfast.” Pets are not allowed here, unlike the Super 8. Groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies. The decor looks newly updated per guest feedback.
Choose this if: you want a quiet, clean, and walkable base near campus with free breakfast and parking.
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 short drive from the main campus and 2 miles from Beaver Stadium, this conference hotel has recently been renovated. Guests consistently praise the “size and cleanliness” and “value rate.”
What You Actually Get
The property offers free parking in a large lot and a free airport shuttle. The indoor pool is currently closed (per guest Q&A), but the fitness center is open with reduced capacity. WiFi is rated 9.4 — the highest score for this category. Rooms have tubs (no jacuzzi), and the sofa beds pull out to a double. Pets are allowed on request with charges. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests love that the hotel has been “recently renovated.”
Choose this if: you need reliable WiFi, free parking, and a short drive to Beaver Stadium with renovated rooms.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center →
8. Wyndham Garden State College
The Vibe
Located in Boalsburg, a short drive from downtown State College, this 3-star property scores a 9.5 cleanliness and 9.4 location. Guests describe the setting as having “amazing views” and being “extremely clean.”
What You Actually Get
The Wyndham Garden features two pools: an indoor pool open daily from 9AM to 10PM and a seasonal outdoor pool with a view. Breakfast is excellent — guests consistently say “hot breakfast” and “beautiful setting.” Every room has a mini fridge. Pets (dogs) are allowed for $30/night. Free on-site parking is included, and the property has a fitness center and restaurant/bar. The Comfort score matches the Cleanliness at 9.5, meaning the beds are as well-maintained as the rooms.
Choose this if: cleanliness is your top priority and you want the pool flexibility that comes with two swimming options.
9. Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State
The Vibe
Less than a mile from PSU, this 2-star property punches above its weight with a 9.3 staff score and 9.4 location. Guests call it “very clean, conveniently located” with “very friendly staff.”
What You Actually Get
The continental breakfast is included, served in a pleasant breakfast room. Free on-site parking is available. Pets are allowed for a $15 fee plus tax — the lowest pet fee on this list. The front desk is staffed 24/7, so 2 AM check-ins are no problem. No incidental hold charges are placed on your card — just a card on file. WiFi is rated 8.7, and the property has a fitness center. Groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you want the lowest pet fee in town with a convenient location under a mile from PSU.
10. Nittany Budget Motel
The Vibe
A motel-style property that attracts repeat guests — the data shows more return visitors here than most other properties. It’s a 10-minute drive from campus and prioritizes pet owners with a dedicated policy.
What You Actually Get
This motel accepts only dogs for pets with a $10.60 fee per pet per night. The continental breakfast is delivered to your room each morning — choose between coffee/tea/hot chocolate and three types of breakfast items. Weekly rates are available for longer stays (call to confirm). WiFi is rated 9.4 — surprisingly strong for a budget motel. The property has a restaurant and free parking. No age restriction for check-in. Guest quote: “the continental breakfast being delivered every morning was a hit with my dog.”
Choose this if: you’re traveling with a dog, need budget rates, and want breakfast without leaving your room.
11. Comfort Suites State College near Penn State – Steps Away from PSU!
The Vibe
This 5-star property lives up to its ranking — staff score of 9.7 is the highest in the entire list, and cleanliness at 9.6 is near-perfect. Located less than a mile from PSU, guests say “it smelled so good as soon as I walked into the building.”
What You Actually Get
Every room comes equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, and hair dryer. The indoor pool is available (no hot tub), and face coverings are not required for guests or employees. Free private parking is included. The breakfast is included and rated as good. Pets are not allowed here — strict policy. Groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies. The mattress comfort gets specific praise: “the mattress was so comfortable including the pillows and blanket.”
Choose this if: exceptional staff service and a near-perfect clean room within walking distance of PSU matter most.
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 on this list at 9.6/10, Carnegie House is a 4-star boutique hotel 3.6 miles from PSU. Guests describe it as “beautifully done” and wish they’d found it sooner — many are parents visiting PSU students who discovered it late in their children’s college careers.
What You Actually Get
The property offers exceptional cleanliness at 9.8, with staff and comfort both scoring 9.7. Free private parking is included. The on-site restaurant serves meals. Check-in is available until midnight. The WiFi is rated 8.9. Pets are allowed with charges. No elevator is available — all rooms are accessed via stairs (the property is a converted house-style hotel). No EV charging station is available. Guests rave about the style and the friendly staff.
Choose this if: you want boutique luxury, impeccable cleanliness, and don’t mind a 3.6-mile drive to campus.
13. Graduate by Hilton State College
The Vibe
Formerly the Atherton Hotel, this Graduate by Hilton property sits right next to PSU with a polished, collegiate-inspired decor. Guests love the “location, decor, parking, cleanliness, staff and comfort.”
What You Actually Get
WiFi scores a perfect 10.0 — the best connection on this list. The underground parking garage costs included in the amenity fee. The hotel charges a $10 nightly amenity fee plus tax. Pets are allowed for $35/night (dogs, cats, birds, fish — no more than two per room). All mattresses were replaced in 2019 when Graduate took over. Breakfast is available and rated good. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner. One parking space per room reservation, subject to availability.
Choose this if: reliable WiFi is critical and you want to be adjacent to campus with stylish, Hilton-quality rooms.
Check Tonight’s Price for Graduate by Hilton State College →
14. Best Western PLUS University Park Inn & Suites
The Vibe
Located about one exit from main campus via highway, this 3-star property sits in a quiet setting about 3.5 miles from PSU. Guests highlight “clean rooms,” “friendly staff,” and curtains that make rooms “dark and good for a deep sleep.”
What You Actually Get
The indoor swimming pool is available, and breakfast is included (rated good). Free private parking is available on-site. The WiFi scores a perfect 10.0. Rooms have air conditioning, and the fitness center is open 24/7. Sofa beds come with sheets, pillows, and blankets—just ask at the front desk. Pets are not allowed here. No age restriction for check-in. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies. Guests mention it’s “great for a deep sleep.”
Choose this if: you prioritize sleep quality and don’t mind a short highway drive to campus.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western PLUS University Park Inn & Suites →
15. Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square by IHG
The Vibe
Located near the Mt. Nittany Expressway, this 3-star IHG property serves both the airport and game day crowd well. A third-party shuttle operates for all PSU home games, and the free airport shuttle covers University Park.
What You Actually Get
The free airport shuttle runs to University Park Airport. A third-party shuttle operates for all PSU home football games — pick up details at the front desk. Breakfast is included and good. Free parking is available. Pets are allowed with charges. WiFi is rated 9.4. The fitness center is on-site, and upper floors are accessible by elevator. Guests consistently praise “customer service excellence.” Note: October home game weekends often have non-refundable rates, so book early if you need flexibility.
Choose this if: you need both airport and game day transportation without rental car fees.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express State College at Williamsburg Square by IHG →
16. Baymont by Wyndham Milesburg
The Vibe
An 18.4-mile drive from PSU — this is the furthest property on the list but the most affordable. Located off I-80 Exit 158, it’s a practical stop for highway travelers visiting Penn State.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (rated 8.8) and free parking are included. The property is currently undergoing renovations, so some areas may look updated while others remain older. Truck parking is available at the adjacent truck shop. Breakfast is included. Pets are not allowed. Guests note “quiet and clean rooms” and “very comfortable beds” at this price point. Good for Penn State visitors who want to save on lodging and don’t mind a 20-minute morning drive to campus.
Choose this if: you’re on a tight budget and driving to campus — 20 minutes on I-80 and you’re there.
17. Hampton Inn State College
The Vibe
An 18-minute walk from PSU puts this Hampton Inn in a solid walking range to campus, and a 5-minute drive to Beaver Stadium and the Bryce Jordan Center. Guests call it “very convenient” to both venues.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a refrigerator (no microwave — there’s a communal microwave in the lobby/breakfast area available 24/7). Free parking is available in an outdoor lot. The seasonal outdoor pool operates in warmer months. Breakfast is a continental-style included meal. Pets are allowed with charges. WiFi is rated 9.0. The fitness center is on-site. No age restriction for check-in. Groups booking more than 9 rooms have different policies. Staff score 9.0 and guests mention “very simple check-in.”
Choose this if: you want a walkable distance to PSU with free outdoor parking and Hilton reliability.
18. Scholar State College, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Vibe
Located at the heart of downtown State College on East Beaver Avenue, this Hilton Tapestry property is a 14-minute walk to PSU. Guests say it’s the “best location for walking everywhere on campus and downtown.”
What You Actually Get
Many rooms include a kitchen — a huge plus for extended stays or guests who want to prepare meals. Parking is available at the nearby Pugh Street Garage for a discounted rate of $15 per night. Breakfast is available. Pets are allowed with charges. WiFi is rated 6.5 — the lowest on this list, so plan for limited connectivity. The fitness center is on-site. Guests love the “spacious room” and “very clean” common areas. The air conditioning system works well per reviews. The hotel also has a restaurant open for breakfast and dinner.
Choose this if: downtown walkability and a kitchen for longer stays matter more than strong WiFi.
Check Tonight’s Price for Scholar State College, Tapestry Collection by Hilton →
19. Hampton Inn & Suites State College at Williamsburg Square
The Vibe
This 3-star Hilton property is located 5.2 miles from PSU but earns a 9.7 location score — indicating guests find it well-situated despite the distance. The 9.5 cleanliness and 9.6 staff scores are impressive for a property further from campus.
What You Actually Get
The seasonal outdoor swimming pool operates in warmer months. Breakfast is included and rated “very good” — though guests note it could use more gluten-free options. Free parking is available in a dedicated lot. Pets are allowed with charges. The free airport shuttle runs to University Park Airport. WiFi is rated 5.0 — the lowest score in this list. Accessible rooms are available on the first floor. The hotel has four floors total. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you want a pet-friendly Hilton property with high cleanliness and staff scores, and you’re driving to PSU.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites State College at Williamsburg Square →
20. Gamble Mill
The Vibe
In Bellefonte, 11 miles from PSU, this converted historic mill offers a completely different experience — think repurposed industrial charm with exposed beams and cozy rooms. Guests call it a “beautifully done” transformation.
What You Actually Get
The property features a restaurant and bar, free private parking, and free WiFi (rated 7.5). No elevator is available — the building is a historic structure. Two-bedroom deluxe apartments have two bathrooms; three-bedroom deluxe apartments have two as well. A one-bedroom suite is available on the firstst floor for guests who need step-free access. Pets are not allowed. Check-in ends at 11:00 PM, and check-out is between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The property scores 9.2 overall with standout cleanliness and comfort scores of 9.5 each.
Choose this if: you want a scenic, historic drive to PSU and prioritize character and charm over proximity.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#2 Nittany Lion Inn
On-campus location with a 9.8 location score, 9.3 overall rating, and free shuttle service — nothing beats waking up on PSU grounds.
💰 Best Value
#6 Sleep Inn State College near Penn State
Less than a mile from PSU with a 9.3 staff score, free breakfast, free parking, and an 8.7 overall rating at a budget-friendly price point.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sleep Inn State College near Penn State – Less than 1 Mile to PSU! →
👨👩👧 Best for Families
#1 Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
5-minute drive to campus, indoor pool for year-round swimming, free breakfast with rotating daily options, and spacious rooms that suit family stays.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, State College Penn State Area , PA →
How We Ranked These State College Hotels
I evaluated 20 properties near Penn State University using 9,400+ verified guest reviews to find the best hotels by Penn State for campus visitors. The focus was on proximity accuracy, guest satisfaction, and real-world amenities.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that drive repeat bookings near universities
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns, especially parking, breakfast, and pet policies
- Location signals: Verified actual walking times and driving distances to Penn State University campus and Beaver Stadium
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels by Penn State are closest to campus?
The Nittany Lion Inn sits directly on the Pennsylvania State University campus with a 9.8 location score — the closest option. Hyatt Place State College is 0.8 miles from campus (a 15-minute walk), and Sleep Inn and Comfort Suites are both less than one mile away. The Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State is under a mile from PSU as well.
Are pets allowed at these State College hotels?
Several properties allow pets. Super 8 by Wyndham has the cheapest pet policy at $25 per stay flat fee. Days Inn by Wyndham Penn State charges $15 plus tax per stay. Nittany Budget Motel charges $10.60 per pet per night and only accepts dogs. Wyndham Garden charges $30/night for dogs. Graduate by Hilton charges $35/night for dogs, cats, birds, and fish (max two pets per room). Properties like Country Inn & Suites, Sleep Inn, and Comfort Suites do not allow pets.
Do any hotels near Penn State offer free parking?
Yes. Country Inn & Suites, Super 8, Toftrees Golf Resort, Sleep Inn, The Penn Stater, Days Inn, Hampton Inn State College, Comfort Suites, Carnegie House, Best Western PLUS, Holiday Inn Express, and Hampton Inn & Suites at Williamsburg Square all include free on-site parking. Nittany Lion Inn charges $12/night for garage parking. Graduate by Hilton includes parking in its amenity fee. Scholar State College uses a nearby garage for $15/night. The only property with no free parking option is the Nittany Lion Inn where paid garage parking is required.
Which hotels near Penn State include breakfast?
Breakfast is included at Country Inn & Suites (hot breakfast with rotating daily options), Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn (complimentary for all guests), Hampton Inn State College, Best Western PLUS, Holiday Inn Express, and Wyndham Garden (excellent breakfast per guest feedback). Super 8 and Days Inn offer continental breakfast. Nittany Budget Motel delivers breakfast to your room each morning. Nittany Lion Inn and Graduate by Hilton offer breakfast at their on-site restaurants (not complimentary).
What’s the best time to visit State College for Penn State?
Football season (September through November) draws the largest crowds, with home game weekends seeing peak pricing and limited availability — book months ahead. Spring and fall offer mild weather for campus walks. Summer sees lower rates and fewer crowds, though some properties may have pool access closed for maintenance. For the best balance of pleasant weather and reasonable rates, aim for late April through early June or late September through mid-October for non-game weekends.
Which hotels offer game day shuttle service to Beaver Stadium?
Toftrees Golf Resort provides shuttle vouchers to guests for PSU football games that drop near the stadium. Holiday Inn Express State College has a third-party shuttle for all home games. The Penn Stater Hotel is 2 miles from Beaver Stadium and offers free airport shuttle service but not specifically game day shuttles. The Nittany Lion Inn offers free shuttle to University Park Airport and local spots. Country Inn & Suites has a free airport shuttle but no dedicated game day service — a 5-minute drive covers it.