Sample Gates
Iconic limestone gates marking the grand entrance to Indiana University's historic Old Crescent, a beloved symbol of Hoosier pride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Sample Gates
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic limestone gates marking the grand entrance to Indiana University's historic Old Crescent, a beloved symbol of Hoosier pride.
"The Sample Gates are the most iconic spot on campus, a must-visit for photos and a reminder of IU's rich history."
📸 Graduation Photo Op
Essential for graduation photos! Expect company, especially during commencement season. :camerawithflash:
📍 Prime Location
Conveniently located near Kirkwood Ave and campus amenities. :round_pushpin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Sample Gates
Entrance to Indiana University's Old Crescent
The quintessential IU landmark, perfect for graduation photos and campus arrival memories.
Sunrise and Sunset Views
Around the Sample Gates
Experience the scenic beauty of the gates bathed in the warm glow of dawn or dusk.
Commencement Photo Spot
In front of the Sample Gates
A must-visit for graduates to capture their achievements with this beloved campus landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Capture Your Hoosier Moment
A Historic Campus Landmark
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Graduation Photo Op
Essential for graduation photos! Expect company, especially during commencement season. :camerawithflash:
📍 Prime Location
Conveniently located near Kirkwood Ave and campus amenities.
⏰ Timing is Key
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos. :clock1:
💎 Limestone Beauty
Appreciate the historic Bloomington limestone, same as the Empire State Building! :gem:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Graduation Photo Op
Essential for graduation photos! Expect company, especially during commencement season. :camerawithflash:
📍 Prime Location
Conveniently located near Kirkwood Ave and campus amenities.
⏰ Timing is Key
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos. :clock1:
💎 Limestone Beauty
Appreciate the historic Bloomington limestone, same as the Empire State Building! :gem:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sample Gates as an iconic and beautiful landmark, especially for graduation photos and experiencing campus pride. Its historical significance and aesthetic appeal are frequently highlighted, though some note it can get crowded during peak times.
"A beautiful little location marking the entrance to the university campus from Kirkwood. Also holds a scenic view from each side of the gate and it is very well maintained with flowers during spring and summer. This is THE place to get your graduation pictures (among several others on campus)."
Deepak Singh Bhadoriya
"Beautiful, limestone gateway to the IUB campus. Extremely scenic area around sunrise and sunset. Perfect spot for everyone to take their graduation photos and prevent any entry or exit from campus."
Hunter Richman
"I'll admit that I just saw the pin and figured I would check this out but as I do my research to write the review, these aren't just pretty gates. The concept of a gateway to mark the entrance to the campus dates back to 1932 but they didn't actually get installed until 1987. And ever since, they are the most iconic spot on campus.
IU grads know what I'm talking about. So I'll just stop here and tell you that if you're visiting or perhaps you're an alumni, get your selfie or portrait."
Bruce InCharlotte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sample Gates are centrally located on the Indiana University Bloomington campus, marking the entrance from Kirkwood Avenue. They are easily accessible by foot if you are already on campus or in the downtown Bloomington area. Parking is available in nearby garages like the Henderson Garage or the College Avenue Garage.
Yes, several parking garages are within walking distance. The Henderson Garage and College Avenue Garage are good options for visitors. Street parking may also be available but can be limited.
Bloomington Transit buses serve routes that stop near the Indiana University campus and downtown Bloomington, making it a convenient option to reach the vicinity of the Sample Gates.
The area around the Sample Gates is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
The Sample Gates are a very prominent landmark at the intersection of Kirkwood Avenue and Indiana Avenue. Most campus maps will clearly indicate their location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sample Gates are an outdoor landmark and a public space on the Indiana University campus. There is no admission fee, and you can visit them anytime.
The Sample Gates are always accessible as they are an outdoor landmark on campus. You can visit them at any time of day or night.
There is no entrance fee to see or take photos at the Sample Gates. They are a free and open part of the Indiana University campus.
While there isn't a specific tour for just the Sample Gates, many general campus tours of Indiana University will include a stop or pass by this iconic landmark.
As a public campus landmark, there are generally no specific restrictions. However, be mindful of campus events or protests that may occasionally occur in the area.
📸 📸 Photography & Vibe
For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly scenic views.
Absolutely! The Sample Gates are one of the most iconic and sought-after locations for graduation photos at Indiana University.
They exude a sense of arrival, tradition, and Hoosier pride. It's a place that signifies the start of a journey for students and a nostalgic return for alumni.
Generally, casual photoshoots are welcome. For larger professional shoots, it's always a good idea to check with Indiana University's campus administration for any specific guidelines or permits.
Yes, the entire Old Crescent area of campus offers beautiful architecture and landscaping that complement the Sample Gates.
🎫 💡 History & Significance
The Sample Gates were built in 1987 and funded by a donation from IU alumnus Edson Sample.
They mark the entrance to Indiana University's Old Crescent and symbolize the accomplishments of IU alumni. The limestone used is the same as in iconic buildings like the Empire State Building.
The Bloomington limestone used in the Sample Gates is the same material found in famous structures like the Empire State Building and the Pentagon, highlighting a connection to significant American architecture.
Yes, the Sample Gates have been a site for various campus events, including protests and demonstrations, due to their central and visible location.
The idea of a gateway to mark the campus entrance dates back to 1932, with the gates themselves being installed in 1987 to serve as an iconic spot for students and alumni.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours, like a weekday morning, to avoid larger crowds. The paved pathways make it easy for strollers, and the general atmosphere of the campus is welcoming. It's a perfect spot to introduce younger children to the idea of a university and its iconic landmarks.
🎓 Alumni and Graduates
Many alumni recommend revisiting the gates to share the experience with family or to simply reflect on their time at IU. The gates represent a tangible connection to the university's history and the shared experiences of countless students. Don't forget to capture your own moment, whether it's a solo shot or with fellow alumni.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grandeur of the gates and the surrounding campus architecture. Consider incorporating students or campus life into your shots to add a dynamic element. Remember that the gates are a busy thoroughfare, so patience may be required to capture unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Symbol of IU Bloomington
For generations of Hoosiers, the Sample Gates have represented the beginning of their academic journey and a cherished landmark to return to. They are a focal point for campus life, often seen in the background of student activities, campus events, and even protests, underscoring their central role in the university's narrative. The gates are particularly significant for graduation photos, where students capture their achievements against this iconic backdrop, making it a place of both pride and nostalgia.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal and historical context, the Sample Gates are strategically located, offering convenient access to both the campus and the vibrant downtown Bloomington area. Their presence signifies a welcoming threshold, inviting students, faculty, and visitors into the heart of the university community. Whether you're a prospective student, a proud alumnus, or a curious visitor, experiencing the Sample Gates is an essential part of understanding the spirit of IU Bloomington.
Capturing Memories at the Gates
To get the best shots, timing is crucial. Early mornings offer a serene atmosphere with fewer people, allowing for unobstructed photos and the beautiful soft light of sunrise. Late afternoons are also popular, as the golden hour casts a warm glow over the limestone, creating a magical ambiance. Many visitors and alumni emphasize the importance of capturing multiple angles and poses to truly capture the essence of their visit or graduation.
Beyond graduation, the Sample Gates are a popular spot for engagement photos, family portraits, and general campus exploration. The surrounding area is also picturesque, with well-maintained landscaping that changes with the seasons, adding further visual interest to your photographs. Remember to be respectful of ongoing campus activities and other visitors while you're capturing your memories.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit