12 Penn State Tours That Reveal Hidden Gems

Penn State, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the United States, offers a wide range of tours that allow visitors to explore its beautiful campuses, state-of-the-art facilities, and rich history. From guided walking tours to self-guided explorations, there are numerous ways to discover the hidden gems of Penn State. In this article, we will delve into 12 Penn State tours that reveal the university's most fascinating and lesser-known attractions.

Introduction to Penn State Tours

Penn State’s University Park campus, located in the heart of Pennsylvania, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in education, history, or natural beauty. With over 8,000 acres of land, the campus is home to a diverse range of architectural styles, from modern buildings to historic landmarks. The university offers a variety of tours, each designed to showcase a unique aspect of Penn State’s character. Whether you’re a prospective student, a history buff, or simply a curious visitor, there’s a Penn State tour that’s sure to captivate and inspire.

1. Historic Campus Tour

The Historic Campus Tour is a 90-minute guided walking tour that takes visitors through the university’s most historic buildings and landmarks. The tour begins at the Old Main building, a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture, and proceeds to the Palmer Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of American and European art. Along the way, visitors will learn about the university’s founding, its early years, and the significant events that have shaped its history.

2. Campus Walking Tour

The Campus Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore the university’s beautiful grounds at their own pace. The tour takes visitors through the Arboretum, a 370-acre park featuring stunning gardens, walking trails, and a beautiful pond. Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit the Береговая линия, a unique outdoor art installation that explores the relationship between nature and art.

3. Art and Architecture Tour

The Art and Architecture Tour is a guided tour that focuses on the university’s vibrant arts scene and stunning architecture. The tour visits the Palmer Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of American and European art, as well as the University Art Gallery, which showcases the work of local and international artists. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many public art installations, including the Landmark Sculpture, a stunning example of modern art.

4. Sustainability Tour

The Sustainability Tour is a guided tour that highlights the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The tour visits the Sustainability Institute, which showcases the university’s innovative approaches to sustainability, as well as the Ecological Research Center, which conducts cutting-edge research on environmental issues. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many green buildings, including the LEED-certified Recreation Building.

5. Engineering Tour

The Engineering Tour is a guided tour that showcases the university’s state-of-the-art engineering facilities. The tour visits the Engineering Building, which features cutting-edge laboratories and research facilities, as well as the College of Engineering, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many engineering-related research centers, including the Center for Nanotechnology.

6. Athletics Tour

The Athletics Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the university’s world-class athletic facilities. The tour visits Beaver Stadium, home of the Penn State Nittany Lions football team, as well as the Pegula Ice Arena, which hosts a wide range of ice hockey and figure skating events. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many athletic training facilities, including the Holuba Hall.

7. Campus Museum Tour

The Campus Museum Tour is a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore the university’s many museums and galleries. The tour visits the Palmer Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of American and European art, as well as the University Art Gallery, which showcases the work of local and international artists. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many specialized museums, including the Matson Museum of Anthropology.

8. Outdoor Adventure Tour

The Outdoor Adventure Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the university’s beautiful outdoor spaces. The tour visits the Whipple Dam State Park, which features stunning hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities, as well as the Stone Valley Recreation Area, which offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

9. Campus History Tour

The Campus History Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the university’s most historic buildings and landmarks. The tour visits the Old Main building, a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture, as well as the Eisenhower Chapel, a beautiful example of modern architecture. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many historic residences, including the Fraser Street Residences.

10. Art Gallery Tour

The Art Gallery Tour is a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore the university’s many art galleries and exhibitions. The tour visits the University Art Gallery, which showcases the work of local and international artists, as well as the Palmer Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of American and European art. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many specialized galleries, including the Zoller Gallery.

11. Science Tour

The Science Tour is a guided tour that showcases the university’s state-of-the-art science facilities. The tour visits the Science Building, which features cutting-edge laboratories and research facilities, as well as the College of Science, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in science. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many science-related research centers, including the Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics.

12. Student Life Tour

The Student Life Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the university’s vibrant student community. The tour visits the Student Union Building, which features a wide range of student amenities, including dining, entertainment, and recreational facilities, as well as the Fraser Street Residences, which offer a unique and supportive living environment for students. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the university’s many student organizations and clubs, including the Penn State Student Government Association.