Penn State and Beaver Stadium are set to host a home playoff game against SMU on Saturday, December 21.

Per SMU’s Office of the Provost, East Coast states such as New Jersey and Massachusetts are among the most popular home states for current Mustang students. This, combined with the magnitude of the game, means a decent number of SMU fans will make the trip to Happy Valley.

If you are one of those traveling fans, from all of us at Onward State, we hope you enjoy your stay. To aid in your fun, here is a list of places we think are must-visits while you are in State College.

Charlie Pegler: The End Zone

We at Onward State know how much you SMU fans love your nights out on the town. That’s why you should spend your Friday night at one of the premier nightclubs in Centre County. Enjoy some bottle service with some beautiful people and make sure to tip well. Have a nice time in our lovely town, you Mustangs. There’s nothing like The End Zone in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania.

Aidan Conrad: The HUB

The HUB is a must-see place for first-timers in State College. You’ll have so many options to eat, like Chick-fil-A, and get a nostalgic mall feeling as soon as you step in!

CJ Gill: Pollock Testing Center

Every Mustang fan who makes the trip to Happy Valley can spend a beautiful afternoon in the middle of campus at the glorious Pollock Testing Center. Students often reflect on the impact it has on their lives throughout their time at Penn State. The building itself is known for its impressive architecture and one-of-a-kind brick facade. Folks traveling from the Dallas area will need to stop by and see it for themselves and spend a little bit of time testing their abilities at the famous Pollock Testing Center.

Collin Ward: East Halls

True love is not easy to find in this world. I am sure some of you SMU fans are sick of the limited amount of potential mates at your smaller school. At East Halls, you never run out of people to meet. People of any age can enjoy a welcoming community, a delicious bite to eat, and a sand pit! It’s not too late to find love in 2024, folks, and East Halls is the place to do it. Just ask some of our staffers.

Nolan Wick: Canyon Pizza

Canyon Pizza has a wide range of delicious, affordable options in downtown State College. Known for its welcoming and clean environment, the place has had a glowing reputation for many years. If you’re looking for a good sit-down restaurant after a long trip from Texas, it’s hard to beat Canyon Pizza.

Michael Siroty: Federal Taphouse

I had a totally fantastic experience there.

Joe Lister: McDonald’s

In need of a nice, late-night snack after hitting the town? Go to 442 E. College Ave. Their very real cooks will make you a very real hamburger.