The Ultimate Guide to Parking in State College, PA

Downtown State College Parking 

Downtown State College offers an eclectic mix of shopping, dining options and entertainment venues. State College Borough also offers a variety of parking options to accommodate residents, visitors and Penn State University students. The borough features multiple parking garages, metered street parking and surface lots, all conveniently located near downtown shops, restaurants and campus attractions. Parking rates are affordable, with both short-term and long-term options available. For ease of use, payments can be made via meters, kiosks or the Parkmobile app. It's important to note that overnight street parking is restricted, and specific regulations may apply during special events.

When it comes to parking in downtown State College, you have a few different options: 

Whether you opt for street parking, parking garages, or parking lots, downtown State College ensures that visitors can navigate its bustling streets with ease. So, park your worries aside and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of downtown State College as you explore its myriad attractions and experiences. 

Street Parking 

Street parking is readily available throughout the entirety of the downtown area, offering convenient access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. However, it's important to note that street parking in downtown State College operates on a metered system, requiring payment for the duration of your stay. 

Parking Garages 

For those seeking more structured parking solutions, several parking garages dot the downtown landscape, providing safe and convenient options for those exploring the area. You'll find parking garages situated in several locations in downtown State College and on the PSU campus. 

Here are some of the most popular parking garages in the State College area:

• Nittany Parking Deck: Located on the Penn State University campus, this deck offers ample parking and is a go-to for visitors attending university events or spending time in the downtown area.
• East Parking Deck: Another Penn State facility, the East Deck is situated close to major campus buildings and provides easy access for those visiting the eastern side of campus.
• Hub Parking Deck: Centrally located near the HUB-Robeson Center, this deck is ideal for those visiting the heart of the university campus. It's especially convenient for quick access to university services and dining options.
• Beaver Avenue Parking Garage: Positioned on the 200 block of West Beaver Avenue, this garage is a favorite for visitors exploring downtown State College. It's close to many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a practical choice for those spending time in the area.
• Pugh Street Parking Garage: Located on the 100 block of South Pugh Street, this garage is another popular option for downtown parking. It provides easy access to numerous businesses and is a reliable choice for those looking to park near the main commercial district.
• Fraser Street Garage: Situated on the 100 block of South Fraser Street, this garage is known for its central location in the downtown area, offering convenient parking for those visiting nearby attractions.
• McAllister St. Parking Deck - Found on the 100 block of McAllister Street, this parking deck offers convenient access to downtown businesses and is a great option for those looking to park close to the central shopping and dining areas.
• Eisenhower Parking Deck - Located near the Eisenhower Auditorium on Penn State's campus, this deck is particularly convenient for those attending performances or events at the auditorium. It also offers easy access to nearby academic buildings and is a popular choice during university events.

Parking Lots 

In addition to parking garages, parking lots are also scattered throughout downtown, providing additional options for those in search of parking convenience. You can find parking lots located in the 200 block of Allen Street, the 100 block of McAllister Street, and in the 100 block of West Beaver Avenue. These lots offer convenient parking solutions, allowing visitors to park their vehicles securely while they explore all that downtown State College has to offer. 

State College Parking Rentals 

In a college town like State College, securing convenient and reliable parking can often be a challenge, especially for residents without dedicated parking options. Fortunately, the concept of parking rentals provides a practical solution for those in need of long-term parking solutions. 

Benefits of Parking Rentals: 

Parking rentals offer several benefits for individuals seeking long-term parking in State College: 

1. Guaranteed Spots: Renting a parking space provides peace of mind, ensuring that you have a designated spot to park your vehicle without the uncertainty of searching for available parking each day. 
2. Convenience: For residents living in areas where street parking is limited or restricted, parking rentals offer a convenient alternative, allowing them to access their vehicles easily and without hassle. 
3. Accessibility: Renting a parking space in close proximity to residential or commercial areas ensures easy access to amenities, workplaces, and other points of interest in State College. 

How to Find and Lease a Parking Space: 

If you're considering renting a parking space in State College, West Side Village offers a seamless process to help you secure the perfect spot: 

1. Review Lot Locations, Diagrams & Rates: Explore the various parking lot locations, layouts, and rental rates provided by West Side Village to identify the option that best suits your needs. 
2. Submit the Parking Request Form: Fill out the Parking Request Form, specifying your preferred lot, vehicle information, and the desired length of the permit. This form allows you to communicate your requirements and preferences effectively. 
3. Complete the Parking Agreement & Payment: Once your parking request is processed, you'll be required to complete a parking agreement and submit payment according to the agreed-upon terms and conditions. 
4. Pick Up Your Parking Pass: After finalizing the paperwork and payment, you can pick up your parking pass at the West Side Village office, ready to start enjoying the convenience of your designated parking space. 

By leveraging the offerings of West Side Village and following their straightforward process, you can secure a reliable parking solution tailored to your specific needs, ensuring seamless access and convenience during your time in State College. 

Overnight Parking in State College 

For visitors and residents alike in State College, the need for overnight parking solutions is a common concern, especially for those without off-street parking options. While daytime parking may offer more flexibility, navigating overnight parking can pose unique challenges. 

Unfortunately, overnight parking on the street is restricted between the hours of 2:00 am and 6:00 am throughout downtown and most of the borough. As a result, street parking becomes unavailable during these crucial overnight hours, necessitating alternative parking solutions for those in need. Additionally, many parking lots in the area enforce a maximum five-hour time limit, further limiting options for overnight parking. This restriction aims to discourage long-term parking in these lots, prioritizing turnover and availability for shoppers, diners, and other visitors throughout the day. However, there is some good news for anyone seeking overnight parking options in downtown State College! The following parking garages remain open and available for parking 24/7, providing a secure and convenient option for overnight stays: 

• 100 block of South Fraser Street 
• 100 block of South Pugh Street 
• 200 block of West Beaver Avenue 

Whether you're a visitor in need of a temporary parking spot or a resident without off-street parking, these garages serve as a dependable resource for overnight parking needs. 

Safety Tips for Overnight Parking 

When parking overnight in State College, it's essential to prioritize safety and adhere to best practices. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and stress-free overnight parking experience: 

1. Choose well-lit areas: Opt for parking spots in well-lit areas or near security cameras to enhance safety and deter potential risks. 
2. Secure valuables: Remove any valuables from plain sight or consider storing them in the trunk to minimize the risk of theft or break-ins. 
3. Lock your vehicle: Always lock your vehicle and ensure all windows are closed before leaving it unattended overnight. 
4. Follow parking regulations: Familiarize yourself with parking regulations and adhere to posted signs and restrictions to avoid citations or towing. 

Bonus: Secret Parking Tips for Penn State Football Games 

Penn State football games attract tens of thousands of fans from far and wide so, naturally, finding parking can become quite the ordeal. Lucky for you, we have a few tips you can use to reliably locate a spot: 

• On-Campus Lots After 5:00 pm on Fridays: While parking lots can fill up quickly on game days, there's a hidden gem awaiting savvy parkers. After 5:00 pm on Fridays, on-campus lots open up for parking, offering a chance to secure a spot even amidst the pre-game rush. While these lots closer to Beaver Stadium might reach capacity early, consider venturing to westside lots further from the stadium for greater availability. 
• Neighborhood Street Parking: When on-campus options are scarce, look no further than the neighborhoods south and southwest of Penn State's campus. While State College typically enforces parking restrictions between 2:00 am and 6:00 am, these rules are often relaxed during weekends featuring football games. 
• Park and Ride: Embrace the spirit of adventure and opt for parking further away from Beaver Stadium, then hop on a bus or shuttle for a hassle-free journey to the game. Services like the CATA bus offer free rides on game weekends, providing a convenient and cost-effective transportation solution for football enthusiasts. 

State College Parking Rates 

Whether you're opting for street parking, utilizing parking garages, or parking in designated lots, being aware of the associated costs and hours of operation can help you plan your visit efficiently. 

Parking Rates for Meters 

Parking meters offer a convenient solution for short-term parking needs in State College. Here's what you need to know about metered parking: 

• Cost: The typical rate for metered parking is $1.25 per hour, with a minimum payment of $0.75 for credit card transactions. 
• Payment Options: You can pay directly at the meter using coins or credit cards. Additionally, remote payment via the Parkmobile app is available for added convenience. 
• Enforcement Hours: Metered parking is enforced from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on most days, with Sundays often exempt from enforcement. 

Parking Garage Rates 

For those seeking more structured parking options, parking garages provide secure and reliable solutions. Here's a breakdown of the typical rates and hours for these facilities: 

• Free Period: The first 30 minutes of parking in garages are often free. 
• Daytime Rate: From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., the rate is $1.00 per hour. 
• Evening Rate: From 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., the rate drops to $0.75 per hour. 
• Maximum Daily Rate: The maximum daily rate for parking in garages is typically $18.00. 
• Special Events: During special events, such as Penn State football games, the hourly rate may increase to $2.25 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $32.00. 

Parking Lot Rates 

Parking lots also provide a more secure and reliable solution than street parking. Here’s a breakdown of the typical rates and hours for these lots: 

• Cost: Parking in lots typically incurs a rate of $1.25 per hour, with a maximum five-hour time limit. 
• Enforcement Hours: Parking lot rates and time limits are enforced from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 
• Payment Options: Pay at the kiosk using credit card or exact change (in bills and/or coins) or utilize the Parkmobile app for convenient remote payment. 
  

State College Parking FAQs

Where can I find the most convenient parking in downtown State College?

Popular options include the Beaver Avenue Parking Garage, Pugh Street Parking Garage, and the Fraser Street Garage, all centrally located with easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Is overnight parking allowed in State College?

Overnight parking is allowed in certain garages like the Fraser Street Garage, Pugh Street Garage, and Beaver Avenue Parking Garage. However, street parking is restricted from 2:00 am to 6:00 am in most areas.

How do I pay for parking in downtown State College?

Parking can be paid for using coins, credit cards, or via the Parkmobile app, which allows for remote payment at most meters and kiosks.

Are there any free parking options available in State College?

While parking in garages is not typically free, some garages offer the first 30 minutes at no charge. On-street parking may also be free on Sundays and during certain hours, but always check local signage.

What should I do if I receive a parking ticket in State College?

Parking tickets can be paid or appealed through the State College Parking Portal. It’s important to pay or appeal promptly to avoid additional fees.

Can I rent a parking space in State College?

Yes, parking rentals are available for residents and visitors, offering guaranteed spots in convenient locations near downtown and Penn State University. West Side village offers a variety of parking spaces for rent in State College. 

Where to park at Penn State for a weekend?

For Students:

• Permit Holders: Park in your designated lot or any campus garage like East, Nittany, or Eisenhower Decks. Check specific lot regulations for weekend access.
• Resident Lots: Continue parking in your assigned lot if you have a valid permit.

For Non-Students:

• Campus Garages: Park in East, Nittany, or Eisenhower Decks with hourly or daily rates.
• On-Campus Lots: Many lots open for free parking after 5:00 pm on Fridays.
• Visitor Passes: Purchase a weekend pass for designated lot.
  

Wrapping Up:

Never Be Unprepared for Parking in State College Again! 

From downtown parking options to navigating overnight stays, and even tackling the challenges of game day parking during Penn State football events, we've covered it all. Don't forget the importance of understanding parking rates, whether it's for meters, garages, or lots, to effectively plan your budget. 

And for those seeking long-term solutions, considering parking rentals like those offered by West Side Village can provide the peace of mind of a guaranteed spot. 

Remember, preparation is key. So, as you embark on your State College adventures, arm yourself with knowledge and strategy to ensure smooth sailing in the realm of parking. With these insights in your arsenal, you'll never be caught off guard by parking challenges in State College again.