Graduation weekend at Penn State is a proud, busy, and occasionally chaotic few days. Families arrive from all over, downtown fills up, and everyone is trying to squeeze photos, ceremonies, and celebration dinners into a tight window. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping the weekend about your graduate rather than the logistics.
Book everything early
Hotels around State College sell out months ahead of commencement, often at premium rates, and the closest ones go first. The same goes for restaurant reservations for celebration dinners and any transportation you will need. If graduation is on your calendar, book lodging and dining as far in advance as you can.
Plan your photo stops
Graduation photos at Penn State's iconic landmarks are a tradition. The Nittany Lion Shrine, Old Main's lawn, and the "We Are" sculpture are the most popular backdrops — and the most crowded during graduation weekend. Going early in the morning helps you beat the lines. A chariot ride between photo spots can make the rounds easier, especially in graduation gowns and dress shoes.
Getting families around campus
Graduation weekend often means guests of every age and mobility level — grandparents, young siblings, out-of-town relatives — all trying to get across a large campus at the same time. Parking is limited near ceremony venues, and walking the full distance is a lot for some guests. Pedicabs offer a comfortable, short-distance option to move families between parking, ceremonies, photo spots, and downtown without wearing everyone out.
Leave room to celebrate
Between the ceremony and the packing, it is easy to forget to actually celebrate. Build in a relaxed meal, a walk through campus, or a ride around the places your graduate spent the last four years. These are the moments the whole family will remember.
Make the day effortless
Your graduate has earned the spotlight — the weekend should feel like a celebration, not a scramble. Vamos! Lion Chariot provides fun, comfortable short-distance transportation and photo-friendly rides for graduates, families, and student groups. Reach out early to arrange your graduation weekend, since these dates book quickly.