Attractions at the UW Seattle

BrianHutchinson, Leaf Group Updated March 08, 2018

The University of Washington (UW) in Seattle boasts a campus that sprawls across 643 acres. Serving more than 30,000 undergraduates, it is an epicenter for learning, research, the arts and athletics. Prospective students, sightseers and entertainment seekers have myriad options when visiting the campus.

Itinerary for UW Applicants

A visit to the UW can be a preview of a prospective student's coming college years and a powerful motivator in the decision to apply. Discover the essential stops on the university’s guided tour which includes Red Square as one of the university’s nexus points. While school is in session, the brick square teems with students at 20 minutes after the hour, when most classes dismiss. Red Square is the central gathering place for protests, talent demonstrations, games and even small events.

Step inside two libraries, Suzzallo and Odegaard, that welcome the public. Odegaard boasts a media center from which electronic materials may be checked out; it also offers an array of student-accessible computers, a writing center, workshops and a host of other resources.

The Liberal Arts Quadrangle, nicknamed “the Quad,” is an expansive grassy area that is a favorite social gathering place in spring and early fall. The Husky Union Building, or HUB, acts as a central food stop and meeting place between classes; it also hosts pre-release movie screenings and contains a bowling alley and gaming rooms. Finally, with a pool, climbing wall, aerobic machines, weight rooms, basketball and volleyball courts, an indoor track and an assortment of exercise class options, the Intramural Activities Center (IMA) is an essential stop for students interested in fitness.

Tourist Attractions

The University of Washington's most prominent tourist draw might be the annual bloom of the Yoshino cherry trees in the Quad. Though the exact timing is weather-dependent, in early spring, the area becomes a picturesque mélange of blooming reds and pinks.

Red Square is also a favorite tourist destination. Toward its southwest side, the avenue leading from the square showcases the high upward burst of Drumheller Fountain. It celebrates the centennial anniversary of the UW and can reach a height of 100 feet. On a clear day, Mount Rainer looms in the distance.

On the eastern side of Red Square, the collegiate-gothic façade of Suzzallo library beckons as one of the campus’ most memorable landmarks. Touted as the “soul of the university,” the building's second floor showcases an impressive 65-foot-high, 52-foot-wide and 250-foot-long Reading Room. Oak bookcases, long tables, large hanging lamps and hushed atmosphere provide a fitting setting for quiet study.

Events and Activities

The most potent tourist attractions include the many cultural and sporting events taking place in and around the UW. Be very entertained at Meany Hall which hosts dance, drama and musical events. The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture serves up a diverse range of exhibits for children and adults alike; past exhibits include “Coffee: the World in your Cup” and “In Search of the Giant Squid.” The Henry Art Gallery is another option for those who seek intellectual ventures. Its website notes that the gallery’s purpose is to engage “diverse audiences in the powerful experience of artistic invention."

Cheer on the football team as it takes on competitors at the famed 72,500-seat Husky Stadium overlooking Lake Washington. Other university teams with proud traditions include basketball, softball, volleyball, soccer, tennis and crew.

There's more to do than just watch. The Waterfront Activities Center offers canoe and rowboat rental for use on Lake Washington. Just outside the Waterfront Center, an outdoor climbing structure stands for those wanting to get exercise on terra firma.

Walking On and Around Campus

A walk north of campus, down 17th street between 45th and 50th, reveals the various mansions of “Greek Row.” To the west, the busy University Way, known colloquially as “the Ave.," features a diverse range of eateries, shops and nightlife, many of which target the student population. The University Book Store is at 4326 University Way.

The University of Washington’s Botanical Gardens provide a chance to commune with nature. Even on the main campus, however, enclaves secluded from the bustle of the university population abound. Sylvan Theater and Columns, Grieg Garden and the Medicinal Herb Garden are among the most popular.