For the first time in four years, the Nittany Lion Inn will open its doors to the public. The 93-year-old building was under construction for the past 16 months, but it’s now ready just in time for football weekends. Our photographers were granted a sneak peek at the new and improved hotel.

The most extreme change is found in the entryway. Multiple walls were knocked down to create an open layout as guests make their way to the front desk. Gary Brandeis, CEO and founder of the Scholar Hotel Group, said the goal was to make the space feel academic and welcoming.

Harpers opened a small shop in the lobby that will feature exclusive items only available at the Nittany Lion Inn.

The courtyard located in the center of the Inn is now visible and accessible from the lobby. It was previously only visible to the guests with rooms facing it.

Four new restaurants are opening at the Nittany Lion Inn. To the right of the front desk is a new coffee shop, Dear Joe that is open from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Formerly known as Whisker’s, the new bar restaurant Triplett’s will serve casual food as well as cocktails. The restaurant is named in honor of the first Black student to earn a varsity letter on Penn State’s football team, Wallace (Wally) Triplett.

The Lionne and 1855 Lounge found towards the back of the hotel are the fine dining restaurants. The Lionne features an extensive wine list to accompany the high-end dining experience. The room has aspects of the original 1930s construction that create an elegant atmosphere for the patrons. There is an outdoor patio attached to The Lionne for additional seating.

The 1855 Lounge is located in the space that was once the Alumni Lounge. The room is equipped with a bar specializing in bourbon and whiskey. There is a humidor in the lounge as well.

When booking a room at the Nittany Lion Inn there are two categories. Standard rooms are available with two queen beds or one king bed. There are also two styles of suites, king suites and king junior suites.

Each room has a custom Nittany Lion door knocker to greet the guests. The wallpaper found in each room is custom as well, with hidden lions in the pattern.

The Nittany Lion Inn will officially be open to the public on Tuesday, September 3. Rooms are available to book on their website and reservations for The Lionne are found on OpenTable.