Even though The Princeton Review recently ranked Penn State the No. 1 party school in the nation, there are still plenty of fun things to do around campus for the freshmen crowd.
LateNight Penn State
During most Friday and Saturday nights, the Student Programming Association sponsors free movies in the HUB, said HUB Facilities Manager Magdy Taha. There are also hot dog, pretzel and popcorn stands, he said.
Other HUB eateries, like Sbarro, have extended hours to fill late-night cravings.
"We're trying to encourage the students, especially the freshmen, to participate in campus activities," Taha said.
Students can find a variety of events and entertainment in the HUB on weekends, including playing games, catching a comedian or musician and making various different arts and crafts with friends, he said. Laser tag, painting and dance parties are among those activities previously held in the HUB.
It's free except for the food, which ranges from $1 to $5.
Bryce Jordan Center
Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, The Fray and Cirque De Soleil are just a few of the acts scheduled to appear at the Bryce Jordan Center (BJC) this fall. In the past, performers such as Keith Urban and Will Ferrell have entertained packed crowds in the state-of-the-art venue.
"Nothing beats live entertainment," Bernie Punt., BJC director of sales and marketing, said.
Tickets start at just $20, Punt said, and students can receive special discounts with their student ID card.
Those interested in attending can purchase tickets online at www.bjc.psu.edu/tickets or by calling (814) 865-5555.
Movie Theaters
Students looking to catch a movie have several options in State College, from blockbuster hits to independent films.
The State Theatre, 130 W. College Ave., frequently plays documentary and independent films with $6 student ticket prices.
"We always have a mixture of different movies, and they're films you can't find anywhere else in town," Kristy Cyone, marketing director for the State Theatre, said .
College 9, 3037 Carnegie Dr., and Premiere Theater 12, 125 Premiere Dr., play today's newest films, with tickets starting at $6.25.
Students on a budget can enjoy movies for just $1 at Carmike Cinema 6, 501 Benner Pike. The theater has tickets for movies that premiered a couple of months ago.
On Tuesdays, a small popcorn and a small soda are only $1 each.
The Corner Pocket
A fully equipped pool hall located inside the HUB, the Corner Pocket lets students relax while trying to avoid sinking the eight ball.
Open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until midnight and on weekends from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., prices begin at $5 per hour, Taha said.
Unlike other pool halls, the Corner Pocket does not permit smoking or drinking.
But that shouldn't keep students from checking it out during their lunch break, Taha said.
"It's close to the classrooms, so if you have time between classes you can play here," Taha said.
Ice Skating
Students can take advantage of ice skating at the Greenberg Ice Pavillion, located at the intersection of Pollock and McKean.
To find out when the facility has open rink times, check out its Web site at www.pennstateicerink.psu.edu, Assistant Manger Sheri Cramer said.
"It's safe and affordable and fun," Cramer said. "It's not weather-dependent, it doesn't matter what the weather is outside. It's something different for them to do out of the ordinary."
Prices start at $5.50 per session, but large groups can qualify for discounts, she said.
