Nittany Lion Shrine
The Nittany Lion Shrine, a majestic limestone statue, is the iconic symbol of Penn State, drawing visitors for photos and a connection to university p...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Nittany Lion Shrine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Nittany Lion Shrine, a majestic limestone statue, is the iconic symbol of Penn State, drawing visitors for photos and a connection to university pride.
"THE symbol of the university!! A place where every Penn State student goes a least once a week in my opinion."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Join the line for iconic photos; it moves quickly! Best for capturing campus memories.
🚶♀️ Explore Campus
Combine your shrine visit with a walk around the beautiful Penn State campus.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Nittany Lion Statue
Old Main Lawn
The majestic limestone lion, a beloved symbol of Penn State, perfect for memorable photos and soaking in campus spirit.
Campus Photo Opportunities
Surrounding Old Main
Capture the essence of Penn State with the shrine as your backdrop, alongside historic Old Main.
A Hub of Penn State Tradition
Central Campus
Experience a central gathering spot where students, alumni, and visitors connect with the university's rich history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Photos
Understanding Its Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Join the line for iconic photos; it moves quickly! Best for capturing campus memories.
🚶♀️ Explore Campus
Combine your shrine visit with a walk around the beautiful Penn State campus.
🗓️ Avoid Peak Times
Skip football or move-in weekends for a more relaxed experience.
🦁 Symbol of Pride
Understand its significance as a cherished symbol for all Penn Staters.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Join the line for iconic photos; it moves quickly! Best for capturing campus memories.
🚶♀️ Explore Campus
Combine your shrine visit with a walk around the beautiful Penn State campus.
🗓️ Avoid Peak Times
Skip football or move-in weekends for a more relaxed experience.
🦁 Symbol of Pride
Understand its significance as a cherished symbol for all Penn Staters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Nittany Lion Shrine as an iconic and essential stop on the Penn State campus, highlighting its role as a beloved symbol and a great spot for photos. While generally a positive experience, some note that crowds can be significant during major university events like football weekends.
"The Lion Shrine is always worth the visit! People are quick and understanding of the fact that others want pictures and it moves pretty quickly. The only really long wait times are during football weekends or move-in weekends."
Eric Lynch
"Super cool tradition. They've upgraded and it's much better now than when I was a student here. Love to see multi-generational families taking pics here, it's really nice."
Darius Mark
"THE symbol of the university!! A place where every Penn State student goes a least once a week in my opinion, the shrine is so beautiful and there are so many occasions to take pictures there!! Easy to find and always taken care of, it's really an amazing spot in the campus!!"
Guillaume Shi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nittany Lion Shrine is located on the Penn State University Park campus, near Old Main. It's easily accessible by walking from most central campus locations. If driving, parking is available in nearby garages like the Eisenhower Parking Deck.
Yes, the campus shuttle system (CATA Bus) serves the Penn State campus. Several routes stop near the Old Main area, making it convenient to reach the shrine via public transit. Check the CATA Bus schedule for specific routes and times.
Parking is available in nearby garages, such as the Eisenhower Parking Deck and the HUB Parking Deck. Street parking may be limited. It's best to check Penn State's parking services for the most up-to-date information on availability and rates.
The area around the Nittany Lion Shrine is generally accessible. Paved pathways lead to the shrine, and the surrounding lawn is relatively flat, making it manageable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Using a campus map or a GPS app on your phone is recommended. The shrine is a prominent landmark on the Old Main lawn, so asking students for directions is also a great option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Nittany Lion Shrine is free and open to the public. It's an outdoor landmark on the Penn State campus.
The Nittany Lion Shrine is accessible 24/7 as it is an outdoor landmark on campus. However, for the best experience and photos, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There is no admission fee to see or take photos at the Nittany Lion Shrine. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
While there isn't a specific tour just for the shrine, many general Penn State campus tours include a stop at this iconic location. You can inquire with Penn State's visitor center for tour options.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are expected to be respectful of the campus environment and other visitors. During major events, the area might be more crowded.
📸 📸 Photography
Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Golden hour before sunset can also yield beautiful shots.
Yes, professional photography is generally permitted. However, for large-scale or commercial shoots, it's advisable to check Penn State's policies regarding photography on campus.
Visitors often pose with the lion, take selfies, group photos with friends or family, and capture the shrine with Old Main in the background. It's a popular spot for graduation photos too.
Experiment with different angles! Frontal shots capture the lion's full majesty, while slightly lower angles can make it appear more imposing. Including Old Main in the background adds context.
A smartphone or camera is essential. Consider bringing a portable charger, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time taking photos or using your phone for navigation.
🎫 🦁 About the Nittany Lion
The Nittany Lion Shrine is a limestone statue on the Penn State University Park campus, serving as a beloved symbol and iconic landmark for the university and its community.
The Nittany Lion Shrine was sculpted by Heinz Warneke and was gifted to Penn State by the Class of 1940.
The Nittany Lion Shrine was dedicated in 1940 and has been a campus fixture for over 80 years, symbolizing Penn State's enduring spirit.
The shrine is carved from a massive 13-ton block of Indiana limestone, showcasing its impressive scale and durability.
It's considered the emotional touchpoint and a central symbol of Penn State pride, representing tradition, community, and the university's identity for students, alumni, and fans.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a stroll through the campus, perhaps stopping by the Penn State Creamery for ice cream afterward. It's a low-stress, high-reward stop that adds a touch of iconic Penn State culture to your family's itinerary. Remember to bring your camera for those classic family snapshots with the lion!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for other visitors, as it's a popular photo spot. However, the flow of people is generally quick, allowing for opportunities to get your shot. Experiment with different focal lengths and angles to create unique compositions, perhaps focusing on the lion's details or a wider view including Old Main.
🎓 Alumni and Prospective Students
+1For prospective students, a photo with the shrine is almost a rite of passage, symbolizing the start of their Penn State journey. It’s a tangible connection to the university's legacy and a great way to feel immersed in the campus atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Symbolism of the Nittany Lion Shrine
+1For generations of Penn Staters, the shrine represents a shared identity and a powerful emotional connection to their alma mater. It's a place where students take photos on their first day, celebrate victories, and reflect on their time at Penn State. The shrine's quiet strength and iconic status make it a focal point for campus life and a must-visit for anyone experiencing Happy Valley.
Its enduring popularity is evident in the constant stream of visitors eager to capture a photo, a testament to its role as a beloved landmark. The shrine embodies the pride and camaraderie that defines the Penn State experience, making it a truly special place.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
+1To avoid crowds and capture the best light, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. The softer light during these times can create a more appealing atmosphere for your photos. Golden hour, just before sunset, is particularly magical.
Many visitors find that the line for photos moves relatively quickly, even during busy periods, so patience is often rewarded. Experiment with different angles and perspectives. A slightly lower angle can emphasize the lion's imposing presence, while a wider shot can showcase its integration with the campus landscape. Don't forget to capture the details – the texture of the limestone, the expression on the lion's face, and the surrounding greenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit