Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in State College
Visitors can cheer at Beaver Stadium, explore forested parks, or enjoy the arts downtown. Farmers markets, music venues, and coffee shops enrich the town’s social life. Hiking trails and bike paths wind through surrounding woodlands and rolling hills. State College supports active lifestyles in a spirited setting.
Top areas to stay at in State College
Downtown State College
The downtown core offers walkable streets lined with restaurants, bookstores, and music venues. Airbnbs in State College’s downtown area include stylish apartments, penthouses, and student-friendly condos. Guests can dine, shop, or catch live performances steps from their rental.
College Heights
This leafy, residential neighborhood lies just north of campus with historic homes and quiet streets. Vacation rentals in State College’s College Heights area include heritage houses, garden flats, and family lodgings. The area appeals to professors, visitors, and families attending university events. College Heights provides classic comfort near the action.
Lemont Village
East of downtown, Lemont is a small community known for its charm, art galleries, and scenic backdrop. Rentals in State College’s Lemont area include cozy cottages, country-style homes, and artistic spaces. Guests can walk nature trails, browse handmade crafts, or attend folk festivals.
Toftrees
Located near the golf resort and business parks, Toftrees suits professionals and vacationers alike. Vacation homes in State College’s Toftrees area include condos near greens, executive suites, and quiet retreats. Golfers, business travelers, and leisure seekers enjoy the setting.
Park Forest Village
Northwest of town, Park Forest Village offers tree-lined roads, family parks, and a suburban feel. Airbnbs in State College’s Park Forest Village include brick ranch homes, townhouses, and backyard-friendly rentals. The area is ideal for longer stays or family visits. Park Forest provides space and calm within reach of town.
What to do if you spend a vacation in State College
Penn State University Campus
The centerpiece of town, Penn State’s campus features historic buildings, sculptures, and botanical gardens. Visitors can tour the Old Main, walk arboretums, or attend university events. Football games and arts festivals energize the grounds.
Beaver Stadium
Home to the Penn State Nittany Lions, this stadium hosts major games and tailgating traditions. Fans gather in blue and white to celebrate college football with passion. Tours and events occur year-round. Beaver Stadium symbolizes school pride and community spirit.
The Arboretum at Penn State
This lush garden space includes themed landscapes, walking paths, and a children’s discovery area. Visitors can relax among native plants or attend seasonal garden events. The arboretum provides peaceful moments near campus.
Downtown Farmers Market
Held weekly, the market features local produce, baked goods, and handmade products from central Pennsylvania. Guests can meet farmers, enjoy live music, or sample regional treats. The market supports local agriculture and community connection.
Mount Nittany Hike
A classic local activity, this moderate hike leads to panoramic views of the university and valley. Hikers can choose from multiple trails with scenic stops and woodland paths. The summit view is popular for photos and reflection. Mount Nittany provides a satisfying outdoor challenge.
Palmer Museum of Art
Located on campus, this museum holds an eclectic collection of American, European, and contemporary pieces. Travelers can view exhibits, attend talks, or explore art history through changing shows. The museum supports learning and cultural appreciation.
Tussey Mountain
South of town, Tussey Mountain offers skiing in winter and concerts or go-karts in warmer months. Families and groups can enjoy seasonal fun and mountain scenery. The recreation area draws crowds year-round. Tussey Mountain adds activity to State College visits.
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
This wetlands preserve includes boardwalks, educational exhibits, and guided tours for nature lovers. Visitors can spot birds, explore marsh ecosystems, or attend events. The center supports conservation and environmental learning. Millbrook Marsh connects ecology with public access.
Where to find a vacation rental near State College, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
About three hours southeast of State College, Philadelphia is one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the country. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. After sightseeing, relax in an apartment in Philadelphia just steps from major cultural attractions. Its rich history and urban energy provide an exciting counterpoint to State College’s academic and rural charm.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Roughly two and a half hours west, Pittsburgh is a dynamic city set at the confluence of three rivers and known for its steel heritage and sports culture. Highlights include the Andy Warhol Museum, PNC Park, and scenic views from Mount Washington. You can stay in an airbnb in Pittsburgh near the Strip District for dining and nightlife. Pittsburgh’s blend of innovation, arts, and tradition offers a well-rounded alternative to the college-town vibe of State College.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Located about two hours southeast, Lancaster is known for its picturesque Amish countryside, vibrant market culture, and rich colonial heritage. Visitors can browse stalls at Lancaster Central Market, ride the historic Strasburg Rail Road, or tour the surrounding farmlands. Make the most of your stay in a house in Lancaster near market squares and heritage sites. Lancaster offers a peaceful yet culturally rich destination within easy reach of State College.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Just under two hours southeast, Harrisburg, the state capital, offers a mix of cultural landmarks, political history, and riverfront views. Attractions include the Pennsylvania State Capitol, Broad Street Market, and the National Civil War Museum. Make the most of the city with a vacation rental in Harrisburg close to museums and downtown cafés. Harrisburg’s metropolitan offerings provide a vibrant and educational contrast to the college-town atmosphere of State College.
Allentown, Pennsylvania
Approximately two and a half hours to the east, Allentown is part of the Lehigh Valley and known for its museums, parks, and family attractions. The Da Vinci Science Center and Allentown Art Museum are popular stops for visitors. Choose an apartment in Allentown close to cultural venues and green spaces. Allentown adds another layer of urban culture to a vacation based around State College.
Embark on diverse urban adventures across the United States
State College offers a vibrant blend of college-town energy and rich cultural sites like the Palmer Museum of Art, making it a great base for embarking on your next urban adventure. If the dynamic city vibes of this Pennsylvania hub have you yearning for more, you'll find the perfect continuation of your journey with Killeen airbnb. Explore the historic Robert M. Gray Planetarium or the beautiful Stillhouse Hollow Lake in Killeen, Texas. Over in Chico, California, the experience of urban excitement is mixed with natural beauty. Secure your stay with Chico vacation rentals and be sure to visit the iconic Bidwell Park or the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. Further south in Florida, short-term rentals Sanford invite you to uncover the charm of historic downtown Sanford, featuring galleries, theaters, and the stunning Lake Monroe. Lastly, soak up the blend of modern and traditional in Arizona with vacation rentals in Chandler, which allow you to dive into the city’s art culture, local cuisines, and marvel at the Desert Breeze Park. Each destination brings its own unique urban allure and treasure trove of experiences.