Upon deciding to come to Penn State, one of my biggest concerns was if I would be able to buy everything I needed to survive on my own! Especially without a car! And I’m sure you’re all wondering the same thing. Well the answer is YES!

Downtown State College is just a quick walk from anywhere on campus. During the colder times of the year, a short bus ride can take you right where you need to be. Although there are a ton of restaurants, there are an abundance of stores. They range from selling your normal Penn State gear, to fashionable clothing, books, and pharmacy necessities.

Though there is a mall nearby, taking a stroll Downtown to shop is always a great way to kill some time and buy pretty much anything. My favorite stores are the newly added Target, H&M, and Urban Outfitters. Target pretty much has everything and anything you may need – making it the perfect addition to State College. When it comes to game day, Downtown has got you covered. With at least 5 different stores dedicated to selling everything Penn State, your wardrobe will quickly turn blue and white.

Urban Outfitters located on College Ave.

Don’t need clothes, but you need books? The Student Bookstore is located right on College Ave. They have all the textbooks you need and usually have some really great discounts as well. They also carry school supplies and PSU clothing!

The mother-store of State College hands-down has to be McLanahan’s. They have everything you need. It’s truly a superstore. Part grocery store, part clothing shop, part convenient shop, part deli, part school supplies. You need something. You go here.

Those are some of my favorite places, but State College offers some of the most unique places to shop. It’s all just a quick Internet search away, or you can just come down here and see for yourself!