Game Day: Penn State vs SMU Parking – Your Ultimate Guide
Getting to Beaver Stadium for a Penn State Nittany Lions game is an experience in itself, and parking is a significant part of that! This guide will help you navigate the parking situation for the Penn State vs SMU game, ensuring you arrive on time and enjoy the pre-game festivities without the stress of finding a spot.
Before Game Day: Planning Your Parking Strategy
Planning ahead is crucial, especially for high-profile games like Penn State vs SMU. Here's what you should consider:
1. Game Day Traffic:
- Expect Delays: Significant traffic congestion is common on game days, especially as kickoff approaches. Plan your arrival time accordingly, adding extra time to account for potential delays.
- Route Planning: Use a GPS navigation app like Google Maps or Waze to check for real-time traffic updates and choose the optimal route. Familiarize yourself with potential road closures and detours near the stadium.
2. Parking Options:
- University Park Lot Options: Penn State offers various parking lots, ranging from premium options close to the stadium to more distant, general parking lots. The price and proximity vary. Book in advance for the best selection.
- Private Parking Lots: Numerous private parking lots operate near Beaver Stadium. These can offer convenient locations but often come at a higher cost than university lots. Research options and compare prices before committing.
- Tailgating Considerations: If you plan to tailgate, factor in the space needed for your setup when choosing a parking location. Larger lots often offer more room for tailgating activities.
3. Parking Permits and Reservations:
- Advance Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for popular games. Pre-purchasing parking permits online avoids long queues on game day and guarantees a parking spot.
- Permit Types: Familiarize yourself with the different permit types offered by Penn State and private providers to select the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Game Day: Getting to Your Parking Spot
1. Arrive Early:
This cannot be stressed enough! The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of finding a parking spot close to the stadium and avoiding traffic jams.
2. Follow Signage:
Game day parking signage is generally well-marked, but it's still beneficial to review the parking map beforehand. This helps you navigate efficiently and avoid confusion.
3. Be Patient:
Expect delays, especially in the hours leading up to kickoff. Remain patient and courteous to other drivers and parking attendants.
Post-Game: Departing Beaver Stadium
1. Plan Your Exit Strategy:
Review the parking map and identify the best route for exiting the parking area to minimize post-game congestion.
2. Be Aware of Traffic Flow:
Traffic flow is often managed by Penn State police and staff. Follow their directions carefully to ensure a smooth and efficient departure.
3. Allow Extra Time:
Plan for significant delays after the game. Exiting the stadium and surrounding areas can take considerably longer than arriving.
Optimizing Your Game Day Experience
By carefully planning your parking strategy, you can significantly reduce stress and make the most of your Penn State vs SMU game day experience. Remember to check the official Penn State athletics website for the most up-to-date parking information and any potential changes or announcements. Enjoy the game!