For swim families in central Pennsylvania, traveling for district meets is a regular part of the experience. If you’re headed to PennWest Clarion for a big competition, staying at the Hampton Inn in Clarion, PA, is a convenient and comfortable choice. Here’s a guide to making the most of your trip.
Getting to Clarion, PA
Clarion is located along I-80, making it an easy drive from most parts of central Pennsylvania. Depending on your starting point, the trip can take anywhere from two to four hours. Be sure to check traffic and weather conditions, especially during the winter months, as snow can make the drive more challenging. This is why we choose to stay two nights at a hotel this year.
Why Stay at the Hampton Inn?
The Hampton Inn Clarion is a top choice for families attending the district swim meet. Here’s why:
- Proximity to PennWest Clarion – The hotel is just a short drive from the university’s Tippin Natatorium, making it easy to get to early morning warm-ups. 6 minutes.
- Complimentary Breakfast – Fueling up before a long swim meet is essential, and the Hampton Inn offers a hot breakfast to keep athletes energized.There were high protein options.
- Comfortable and Clean Rooms – After a long day at the pool, families appreciate the hotel’s clean, quiet rooms for a good night’s sleep.
- Indoor Pool and Fitness Center – If your swimmer wants to stretch out or relax in the pool, the hotel provides great amenities. They had a Peloton bike to try and their weight rack was extensive.
- Nearby Dining Options – Whether you need a pre-meet pasta dinner or a quick bite in between sessions, there are plenty of restaurants nearby, including local favorites and chain options.
Dining in Clarion
If you’re looking for a place to eat before or after the meet, consider these options:
- Clarion River Brewing Company – A local favorite offering American cuisine in a relaxed setting.
- Bob’s Sub & Sandwich Shop – Great for a quick, casual meal.
- Eat’n Park – A family-friendly option with a variety of dishes to satisfy everyone.
- Cozy Café – A great spot for breakfast or a mid-day coffee break.
- Wendys, McDonalds, and Walmart Comfort food for kids and adults.
Exploring Clarion
If you have downtime between sessions, Clarion offers a few attractions worth checking out:
- Clarion River Walk – A scenic spot for a stroll and some fresh air.
- Clarion Mall – A small shopping center where you can browse for essentials or grab a coffee.
Swim Meet Tips for Parents
Attending a district swim meet can be a long but exciting experience. Here are some tips to make the weekend smoother:
- Pack Extra Towels & Warm Clothes – The pool deck can be cold, and multiple towels help keep your swimmer dry.
- Bring Snacks & Water – While there may be concessions, having your own healthy snacks can be a lifesaver.
- Check Parking & Arrive Early – Meets can get crowded, so plan to arrive early to secure a good parking spot and seating. There was a parking map that was helpful for overflow parking.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Clarion for a district swim meet is a great experience for both swimmers and families. With comfortable accommodations at the Hampton Inn, dining options, and a few local attractions you can make the trip enjoyable beyond just the competition.
Whether it’s your first district meet or you’re a seasoned swim parent, a little planning goes a long way in making the weekend a success. Good luck at the meet!
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Getting to Clarion, PA
- PennDOT Traffic Conditions: https://www.511pa.com – Check real-time traffic and weather updates before your drive.
Where to Stay
- Hampton Inn Clarion: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/clarion-hampton-inn/ – Book your stay directly.
Dining in Clarion
- Clarion River Brewing Company: https://www.clarionriverbrew.com
- Bob’s Sub & Sandwich Shop: https://www.facebook.com/Bobs-Sub-Sandwich-Shop-109131622433237
- Eat’n Park Clarion: https://www.eatnpark.com
- Cozy Café: https://www.facebook.com/CozyCafeClarion
Exploring Clarion
- Clarion River Walk: https://www.visitpa.com/region/pennsylvania-wilds/clarion-river
- Clarion Mall: https://www.clarionmall.com
Swim Meet Tips for Parents
- USA Swimming Parent Resources: https://www.usaswimming.org/parents – Tips and guides for swim parents.
- Clarion University Tippin Natatorium: https://www.pennwest.edu – Check event schedules and facility info.
Recommended Swim Gear
- 12 & Under Tech Suit (Arena): https://amzn.to/3DqfmuB
