Zeno's

Tucked away beneath the historic Corner Room restaurant, Zeno’s pub is rightly considered a legend of State College. Locals often refer to it as an "underground paradise," located in the very heart of the cultural life of Pennsylvania, USA. This is a place where classic pub traditions meet the spirit of the modern craft scene.

The establishment is famous for its impressive collection of drinks: here you can find rare international beers, authentic cask ales, and even the exclusive Zeno’s Rye beer, brewed specifically for the pub by a local brewery. High ratings and hundreds of positive reviews confirm that this "underground" bar has become a must-visit spot for students, university alumni, and travelers alike.

The atmosphere inside is cozy and friendly, making Zeno’s an ideal space for socializing. In addition to a wide selection of beer, the bar offers an excellent selection of bourbons and whiskeys. It's not just a place to grab a drink, but a true cultural hub that brings together fans of quality sound and interesting flavor discoveries.

For those planning a visit to this legendary establishment, it's worth saving its coordinates in advance. The pub is located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for exploring on foot.

If you want to check for table availability or the concert schedule, it's best to take a look at the establishment's official website.

The main activity at Zeno’s is, of course, tasting. Visitors have access to a vast selection — from classic Belgian varieties to bold new American craft releases. Be sure to try the signature rye whiskey or local beer from nearby breweries, such as Elk Creek Café.

For those who appreciate music, the pub offers an excellent program of live performances. Since the 1990s, sets by local bands have regularly played here, creating a unique drive and energy. It’s a wonderful opportunity to dive into the modern underground scene and feel the true spirit of a college town.

An interesting feature is the establishment's atmosphere itself, which encourages meeting new people. You can chat with the bartenders, who are true experts in their field, or take part in the traditional gatherings that make this pub so popular among different generations of guests. This place is perfect for those seeking an authentic American experience in a relaxed setting.

Finding Zeno’s is easy, as the pub is located at the epicenter of city life, at the intersection of West College Avenue and South Allen Street. It's an ideal spot for those who prefer walking: the journey from the city center or the Penn State University campus takes only 5–10 minutes.

For those using public transportation, the CATA bus system is a great option, with stops in the immediate vicinity of the establishment. If you are arriving by car, there are several public parking lots nearby, which are typical for the downtown area.

Travelers arriving at University Park Airport will find it most convenient to take a taxi or a dedicated shuttle. The trip of about 10 kilometers will take approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The history of this iconic spot began in 1971, when brothers Zeno and Chris Papadopoulos purchased a former hotel building. During the renovation, an unused liquor license was discovered in an old desk, which gave the owners the idea to open a pub. By 1972, the establishment opened its doors, named in honor of one of the brothers.

In the 1980s, Zeno’s became a true pioneer of craft culture on the US East Coast. It was then that the famous "beer passport" system was introduced, featuring 80 types of beer from all over the world. Those who successfully completed this "marathon" were honored with a personalized nameplate on the pub wall, turning the establishment into a pilgrimage site for true connoisseurs of the brew.

An important milestone in its development was the appointment of Dave Staab as manager in 1984. Interestingly, his career here began as a janitor after a Grateful Dead concert. Under his leadership, the pub was one of the first to offer draught beer and significantly expanded its music program, inviting talented local bands.

In 2022, the pub celebrated its 50th anniversary in style. This event emphasized Zeno’s status as not just a drinking establishment, but a true cultural icon that has managed to preserve its unique atmosphere and community spirit for half a century.

To fully experience the atmosphere of the establishment, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. This time is quite sufficient to leisurely explore the extensive drink menu, taste several rare varieties, and enjoy a live musical performance.

If you plan to visit Zeno’s as part of a large group or want to catch a specific band, your stay may be longer. An evening here flies by unnoticed amidst interesting conversations and the discovery of new craft beer flavors or aged whiskeys.

Zeno’s pub welcomes guests daily, except for Sundays. The establishment's schedule is as follows:

• Monday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Tuesday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Friday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Sunday: Closed

Since the schedule may change on holidays or during special events, it is recommended to check for the latest information on the official website before visiting.

Thanks to the pub's central location, a visit can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites. A walk around the neighborhood will allow you to better experience the academic and cultural atmosphere of the college town.