As early as 1855, “Jack’s Road House” began welcoming hungry and weary travelers. In 1880, the hotel was bought by John W. Stuart who renamed the facility “The College Hotel.” In 1904, the Nittany Real Estate Company bought the hotel and completely remodeled it adding a bowling alley and barber shop. In 1910 the U. S. Post Office moved into the first floor and remained there until 1917. In 1937 Matty C. Mateer, owner of the Hotel State College, helped found the Hotel Restaurant School at Penn State University. Matty was also one of the founding members of the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association.

Since 1855, The Hotel State College & Company (regardless of former names) has been a primary source of employment for Penn State students. Today, the tradition of genuine hospitality continues from the quaint rooms available at The Hotel State College to the restaurants The Corner Room and Allen Street Grill and the entertainment facilities Players Nite Club and Zeno's Pub.