Old Main | State College

Old Main is a central administrative building located on the campus of Pennsylvania State University in State College, Pennsylvania.

It serves as the primary administrative hub for the university and is a prominent structure within the campus landscape.

Visual Characteristics

Old Main is a five-story, rectangular building constructed primarily of sandstone. Its exterior features a light brown hue with darker brown accents around window frames and cornices. The architectural style is predominantly Collegiate Gothic, characterized by its symmetrical facade, arched doorways, and prominent central tower. The building measures approximately 300 feet in length and 100 feet in width.

Location & Access Logistics

Old Main is situated at the heart of the University Park campus, at the intersection of College Avenue and University Drive. It is approximately 1 mile east of downtown State College. Ample metered parking is available in the adjacent Eisenhower Parking Deck, accessible from University Drive. Several campus bus routes, including the Blue Loop and White Loop, stop directly in front of Old Main.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Old Main began in 1859 and was completed in 1863. It was designed by architect William L. Phillips. The building's original purpose was to house classrooms, laboratories, and administrative offices for the newly established Farmers' High School, the precursor to Penn State. The site itself is part of the Appalachian Plateau physiographic province.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the building's exterior architecture. The main lobby area is accessible to the public during business hours. Information about university history and exhibits are sometimes displayed within the lobby. Guided campus tours, which often include a view of Old Main, depart from the nearby visitor center.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on each floor of Old Main. Limited shaded areas are present on the surrounding campus grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the building and campus. Food vendors and dining halls are located within a 0.25km radius.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the sandstone facade. The building is accessible during standard university business hours, Monday through Friday. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A persistent local legend claims that a hidden tunnel connects Old Main to the university president's residence, though no evidence supports this. The building's original cornerstone, laid in 1859, contains a time capsule with documents from the era.

Nearby Landmarks

• Penn State Creamery (0.3km West)
• Beaver Stadium (1.5km Northwest)
• Palmer Museum of Art (0.4km Southwest)
• Eisenhower Auditorium (0.2km West)
• Old Botany Building (0.6km North)