The Nittany Lion Inn sits on the Penn State University Park campus in State College, and it is the classic traditional hotel of Happy Valley. Built in a colonial-revival style, it offers a more formal, old-world feel than the chain hotels along the highways, with a lobby, dining spaces and grounds tied to the university. For travelers who want to combine a Huntingdon County trip with a taste of Penn State, or who prefer a larger town base with more dining and evening options, it is a strong choice about an hour north of Raystown Lake. State College is a full-service college town, with a lively downtown, restaurants for every budget, breweries, shops and cultural venues. Staying at the Nittany Lion Inn puts you within walking distance of campus attractions such as the Palmer Museum area and the Berkey Creamery, and a short drive from downtown. It is also an obvious base for football weekends, graduations and campus events, though those dates book far in advance and carry premium rates.
The inn's value depends on how you plan the trip. If your priorities are the East Broad Top and the lake, staying in Huntingdon saves driving time. If you want a hotel with more character, more dining and evening entertainment, State College is attractive, and the drive south along the valley to Huntingdon takes roughly an hour, leaving time for a full day of sightseeing. Some travelers split a stay, spending two nights in State College and two in Huntingdon.
Expect a traditional hotel experience
A main building, a formal restaurant and gathering spaces, and service oriented toward visiting families, alumni and business guests. Check current amenities, parking arrangements and pricing when you book, since event weekends can change both. On non-event dates, rates are often more reasonable, and the campus is a pleasure to walk in the morning.
Pair the stay with the Penn State Campus Adventure and a visit to the Creamery, then drive south for a train ride at Rockhill Furnace or a day at Raystown Lake. In autumn, football weekends transform the town, so consider whether you want that energy or want to avoid it. For couples, parents visiting students and travelers who like a classic hotel with a sense of place, the Nittany Lion Inn is the area's most characterful choice outside the bed and breakfast circuit.
Why stay here
- ✓On the Penn State campus
- ✓Traditional colonial-style inn
- ✓Walkable to campus attractions
- ✓Dining options nearby
- ✓Near the Berkey Creamery
- ✓Larger-town evening options
- ✓About an hour from Huntingdon
- ✓Popular with alumni and families
Good questions
Where is it?+
On the Penn State University Park campus in State College.
How far is it from Raystown Lake?+
Roughly an hour by car, depending on the route and traffic.
Is it busy on football weekends?+
Yes. Home game weekends, graduations and move-in dates book far in advance at higher rates.