
University of Pennsylvania
An Ivy League gem in Philadelphia, UPenn boasts stunning Gothic architecture, world-class academics, and a dynamic student life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

University of Pennsylvania
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An Ivy League gem in Philadelphia, UPenn boasts stunning Gothic architecture, world-class academics, and a dynamic student life.
"Beautiful walking around the university area, historical building, libraries and more."

🚶♀️ Campus Strolls
Wander through the historic Gothic buildings and modern structures. Many find the campus itself a beautiful place to explore. :athletic_shoe:
👜 Purse Culture
Notice the unique trend of students carrying designer purses instead of backpacks to class. :handbag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fisher Fine Arts Library
Central Campus
A stunning architectural masterpiece, its soaring atrium and intricate details are a photographer's dream.
Franklin Field
Southwest Campus
The historic home of the Penn Relays, this iconic stadium offers a glimpse into collegiate sports history.

Wharton School
East Campus
Experience the modern, attractive architecture of one of the world's leading business schools.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Campus
Beyond the Books
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Campus Strolls
Wander through the historic Gothic buildings and modern structures. Many find the campus itself a beautiful place to explore. :athletic_shoe:
👜 Purse Culture
Notice the unique trend of students carrying designer purses instead of backpacks to class. :handbag:
📚 Explore Libraries
Beyond Fisher Fine Arts, discover other impressive libraries like the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center. :books:
🎓 International Student Aid
UPenn offers scholarships for international students, making it an accessible Ivy League option. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Campus Strolls
Wander through the historic Gothic buildings and modern structures. Many find the campus itself a beautiful place to explore. :athletic_shoe:
👜 Purse Culture
Notice the unique trend of students carrying designer purses instead of backpacks to class. :handbag:
📚 Explore Libraries
Beyond Fisher Fine Arts, discover other impressive libraries like the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center. :books:
🎓 International Student Aid
UPenn offers scholarships for international students, making it an accessible Ivy League option. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the University of Pennsylvania's beautiful campus, rich history, and impressive architecture, particularly the Fisher Fine Arts Library. The vibrant atmosphere and sense of community are also frequently highlighted. Some find parking challenging and expensive, and the sheer size of the campus can be overwhelming without a guide.
"Beautiful walking around the university area, historical building, libraries and more. The stadium is amazing and if you are looking to be there when they have major events they will be great to see lots of students competing in several different sports."
Andreano Lanusse
"Famous ivy college located at philadelphia, not far away from the city, full of the green areas, feel cool walking in such a hot summer day. A lots of over one hundred years buildings in the Camp, I wish I could have chance to study here. The fisher arts library, the museum, sports field, bookstore, cafe and other facilities make the university become a separate community, really enjoy the walking in the Camp, even I may have missed some nice spot without the guide. Warton business building is so modern and attractive, another must come place"
Minna Zhu
"UPenn has many colleges and is a big university campus.
Globally recognized"
Amb. Dr. Sandeep Mehta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The University of Pennsylvania is easily accessible by public transportation in Philadelphia. SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line (MFL) has a station at 34th Street, directly serving the campus. Several bus routes also stop near UPenn. If driving, parking can be challenging and expensive, so public transit is often recommended.
Yes, UPenn is located in West Philadelphia, a short distance from Center City Philadelphia. You can reach attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall via SEPTA's MFL or a short taxi/rideshare.
Walking is the best way to experience the University of Pennsylvania campus. Wear comfortable shoes as it's quite spread out. You can also utilize campus shuttles if needed.
Yes, there are several parking garages available on and around the UPenn campus, such as the Penn Museum Garage and the Walnut Street Garage. However, parking can be costly and fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Absolutely! The University of Pennsylvania campus is open to visitors. You can explore the grounds, visit public areas like the Penn Bookstore, and even tour the Penn Museum. Official campus tours are also available for a more structured experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to the University of Pennsylvania campus grounds is free. However, specific attractions within the campus, like the Penn Museum, do require admission tickets.
The University of Pennsylvania campus itself is generally accessible at all times. However, individual buildings, libraries, and facilities have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check the specific hours for any particular building or attraction you wish to visit.
Yes, the University of Pennsylvania offers guided campus tours, often led by current students. These tours provide insights into the university's history, academics, and student life. Booking in advance is usually recommended.
Yes, the Penn Bookstore is open to the public and is a great place to find UPenn merchandise, books, and supplies. It's located at 3601 Walnut Street.
Yes, the Penn Museum (University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology) has an admission fee. Ticket prices and hours can be found on their official website.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the stunning Fisher Fine Arts Library, the historic Franklin Field, and the modern Wharton School buildings. Many visitors also enjoy exploring the various green spaces and architectural details throughout the campus.
A notable observation at UPenn is the prevalence of students carrying designer purses to class instead of traditional backpacks. This unique aspect of campus fashion has been highlighted in student vlogs.
Absolutely! The Gothic architecture, especially the Fisher Fine Arts Library, offers incredible photo opportunities. The campus provides a beautiful backdrop for photography, capturing both historic and modern elements.
UPenn boasts a wide range of facilities, including numerous libraries, state-of-the-art research centers, athletic facilities like Franklin Field, student centers, cafes, and the Penn Museum.
Yes, UPenn is recognized for its strong academic programs and also offers full tuition scholarships for international students in certain fields, making it an attractive option for global learners.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area around UPenn, particularly along Walnut Street and Sansom Street, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can find diverse cuisines catering to student tastes and visitor preferences.
Visitors often seek out local eateries with a 'funky' vibe. The West Philadelphia neighborhood surrounding UPenn has many independent cafes and restaurants that offer a more authentic local experience away from typical tourist traps.
Besides the campus cafes and dining halls, the streets bordering UPenn, like Walnut Street and Chestnut Street, are lined with numerous eateries. The area around the Penn Bookstore and the Perelman Center for Political Economy are also good spots to explore for food.
Yes, UPenn has several cafes and quick-service spots scattered throughout the campus, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a snack between classes or while exploring.
While not directly on campus, the broader Philadelphia area is known for its culinary scene. Within the university's orbit, you'll find a mix of student-favorite casual spots and more established eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fisher Fine Arts Library is a prime photography location with its stunning interior architecture. Other great spots include the historic College Hall, the modern Wharton School buildings, and the general campus grounds with their mix of Gothic and contemporary styles.
Photography at UPenn often focuses on its impressive architecture, from the intricate details of historic buildings to the sleek lines of modern structures. Capturing the vibrant student life and iconic landmarks like Franklin Field is also popular.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted on the University of Pennsylvania campus. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. It's always a good idea to be mindful of individuals' privacy.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography on campus, minimizing crowds and creating beautiful lighting conditions. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
While candid shots of campus life are common, it's respectful to avoid photographing individuals up close without their consent, especially for commercial purposes. Focus on the architecture and wider campus scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a time when there might be public events or open houses. The sheer scale and beauty of the architecture can also be captivating for younger visitors. Pack snacks and drinks, and focus on exploring a few key areas rather than trying to see everything.
🎓 Prospective Students & Academically Inclined
Don't miss exploring the Wharton School and the Fisher Fine Arts Library to get a feel for the university's academic and architectural strengths. Researching scholarship opportunities, especially for international students, is also a key step.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the 'golden hour' – early morning or late afternoon – for the best natural light. Be mindful of student privacy, but candid shots of campus life against the stunning architectural backdrop can be very rewarding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of UPenn
Complementing the historic charm are contemporary structures like the Wharton School buildings, which showcase sleek, modern aesthetics. This juxtaposition of old and new creates a visually dynamic campus. Walking through UPenn feels like a journey through architectural history, with each building telling its own story.
Beyond these iconic examples, the campus is dotted with numerous other architecturally significant buildings, including College Hall, one of the oldest structures, and the Perelman Center for Political Economy. Exploring these diverse styles offers a rich visual experience for any visitor.
Student Life and Campus Culture
UPenn is also known for its strong sense of community and diverse student body. The university offers a wide array of student organizations, clubs, and activities catering to every interest, from academic societies to arts and cultural groups. This ensures that students can find their niche and engage in meaningful extracurricular pursuits.
Furthermore, the campus buzzes with events, lectures, and social gatherings throughout the academic year. Experiencing UPenn means immersing yourself in this dynamic environment, where academic rigor meets a lively social scene, making it a truly engaging place to be.
Academic Excellence and Opportunities
UPenn offers significant opportunities for students, including extensive research facilities, interdisciplinary studies, and strong connections to industry and professional networks. For international students, the university is also noted for providing full tuition scholarships, making it a more accessible option for aspiring scholars from around the globe.
The university's commitment to innovation and its rigorous academic environment prepare graduates for successful careers and impactful contributions in their respective fields. Whether pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies, students at UPenn benefit from a world-class education and a supportive academic community.
Social
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