Attending a Penn State football game at Beaver Stadium in University Park can be an exciting experience. With over 107,000 seats, Beaver Stadium is one of the largest stadiums in the country. However, with that many people converging on one location, parking can be a major issue.
Should I Park on Campus or Off Campus?
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to park on campus or off campus. Here are some things to consider:
- On campus parking is more convenient and closer to the stadium, but is limited and more expensive.
- Off campus parking may require taking a shuttle or walking farther, but is often cheaper or free.
- Nearby neighborhoods and businesses offer off campus parking options, some sanctioned and some not.
- Certain on campus lots are permit-only for select donors, faculty/staff, accessible parking, etc.
- If you don’t have a permit, plan to arrive early to get an on campus public parking spot.
In general, I’d recommend parking off campus unless you have an on campus permit or are willing to pay higher on campus rates. Off campus parking takes more planning, but the cost savings can be significant.
On Campus Parking Options
If you decide to park on campus, here are some options:
Parking Garages
University Parking Garages offer parking close to the stadium but fill up quickly. Rates range from $40-$60 per game. The following garages are open for event parking:
- East Parking Deck – Located by the IM Building, closest garage to the stadium.
- Nittany Deck – Access from Curtin Rd, a moderate walk to the stadium.
- West Deck – West side of campus off Atherton St, about a 15 minute walk.
Surface Lots
Surface lots are cheaper but farther from the stadium. Rates are $20-$40 for game day parking. Options include:
- Lot 42 – North Atherton St. From here you can walk or take the football shuttle.
- Lot 83 – Near innovation Park. You’ll need to take the football shuttle.
- Jordan East – Foot of campus near Nittany Lion Inn. About a 20 minute walk.
Overnight Parking
If you want to stay overnight before or after the game, reserved overnight parking is available in the following lots:
- Nittany Deck – $60 overnight rate.
- East Deck – $100 overnight rate.
Make reservations early, overnight parking is limited.
Off Campus Parking Near Beaver Stadium
Parking off campus requires more planning but can save you money. Here are some options:
Park and Ride Lots
Several free Park & Ride lots are available on the outskirts of campus. You park and take a shuttle bus to the stadium. Lots open 4 hours before kickoff. Locations include:
- Grange Fairgrounds (Route 45)
- Rhine Lots (Westerly Pkwy)
- Toftrees Golf Resort
Downtown State College Parking
Several downtown State College parking garages and lots provide game day parking. From downtown you can walk or take the game day CATABus Route G shuttle to Beaver Stadium. Prices vary by location.
- Fraser St Garage – $20 parking rate.
- McAllister St Deck – $20 parking rate.
- Pugh St Garage – $50 flat rate.
Private Parking Lots
Many private businesses and individuals offer parking spots in local lots and yards on game days. These are good options but arrive early as availability is limited. Some locations include:
- Park Ave – $20 per car, a 15 minute walk.
- Foxpointe – $40 parking with shuttle service.
- Retreat State College – $20 with shuttle service.
On-Street Parking
You can look for free on-street parking in neighborhoods and side streets near campus. This requires scouting locations in advance and arriving very early. Note that University Park has parking restrictions in effect on game days.
Getting to Beaver Stadium
Once parked, you’ll need to plan how to get to the stadium. Here are some options:
- If parked on campus, follow pedestrian paths, signage, and crowds.
- Shuttles are offered from Park & Ride lots and some downtown locations.
- CATABus Route G provides service from downtown to the stadium.
- Consider using ride share services like Uber or Lyft from farther parking spots.
- Allow enough time – lines at drop-off and pick-up locations can get long.
Key Tips and Resources
Keep these tips in mind when parking for a Penn State game:
- Arrive early – At least 3-4 hours before kickoff.
- Have backup options and be flexible.
- Prepay for parking when possible to save time.
- Follow signs and police/traffic control directions.
- Don’t park illegally – You may be ticketed or towed.
Use these resources when planning your parking:
- Penn State Football Parking and Shuttle Service
- CDT Football Parking and Shuttle Guide
- Penn State Interactive Campus Map
Parking Prices Comparison Table
Here is a table comparing parking prices at different locations:
Parking Location | Price |
---|---|
On campus parking garage | $40 – $60 |
On campus surface lot | $20 – $40 |
Park and Ride shuttle lot | Free |
Downtown State College garage | $20 – $50 |
Private off campus lot | $20 – $40 |
On street parking | Free (limited) |
Conclusion
Attending a Penn State football game is an amazing experience every fan should try. With proper planning for parking, you can enjoy convenient access to Beaver Stadium without too much hassle or expense. Arrive early, know your options, and consider off campus parking for the best deals. With over 100,000 excited fans packing the stands, a little extra effort to park and get to the game is well worth it!