North Carolina State University
A historic research university in Raleigh, NC, known for its strong science programs and vibrant Wolfpack athletics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Campus blooms beautifully
North Carolina State University
Best Time
Campus blooms beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic research university in Raleigh, NC, known for its strong science programs and vibrant Wolfpack athletics.
"The worn brick buildings tell a story of dedication, learning, and persistence, creating a homey feel."
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for paid parking on campus; vouchers are not typically provided.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Tours
If official tours are full, self-guided options are available but can involve large groups.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Brick Architecture
Main Campus
Worn brick buildings tell a story of dedication and history, creating a nostalgic and homey atmosphere.
Wolfpack Spirit
Student Union & Carter-Finley Stadium
Showcase your school spirit with Wolf apparel and experience the energy of Pack football games.
Howling Cow Ice Cream
Various Campus Locations
A must-try treat that's consistently praised for its delicious taste.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Campus & Tours
Understanding Admissions & Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for paid parking on campus; vouchers are not typically provided.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Tours
If official tours are full, self-guided options are available but can involve large groups.
🍦 Taste of NC State
Don't miss the famous Howling Cow ice cream for a sweet campus experience.
📣 Wolfpack Pride
Embrace the school spirit with plenty of Wolf apparel and fan gear.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for paid parking on campus; vouchers are not typically provided.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Tours
If official tours are full, self-guided options are available but can involve large groups.
🍦 Taste of NC State
Don't miss the famous Howling Cow ice cream for a sweet campus experience.
📣 Wolfpack Pride
Embrace the school spirit with plenty of Wolf apparel and fan gear.
📱 Campus Navigation
Campus layout can be tricky after renovations; allow extra time to navigate.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise NC State's nostalgic, homey atmosphere and historic brick buildings, alongside a strong sense of school spirit. The Howling Cow ice cream is a consistent hit. However, some have found the admissions process misleading regarding costs and program details, and campus navigation can be challenging after renovations.
"Old feel to it, but the university feels homey in an undescribable way. The worn brick buildings tell a story of dedication, learning, and persistence. The indoor basketball courts are amazing. And the student union has lots of wolf apparel showcasing school spirit. It is a little hard to navigate at first since they renovated the old campuses but overall was a great place to visit and take a look around. Go wolves! :)"
Saket
"As a former PhD student in Civil Engineering, it was such a nostalgic feeling to return to the main campus. So many nice memories here. I spent over 6 years at State (PhD and a few months of Post-Doc), and had so much fun. Both the staff and fellow students were so nice and helpful. My only disappointment (but a big one) was that there was no graduation ceremony for the year 2020 due to Covid. I have always felt incredibly lucky to be on Main Campus although I was in an engineering stream, so it was sad to see Mann Hall being demolished. Howling cow ice-cream tasted yum as usual. I will definitely recommend this university to anyone - one of the best in the country imo."
Ajimon Thomas
"Admissions from my personal experience turned out to be greatly misleading, as I wasn't able to get some very important details until AFTER paying them the $300 dollar admissions deposit that they insist is not refundable (And spending the money to send my transcript from other colleges). I really shouldn't need to already be accepted and pay into the school to find out the program I applied for does not in fact offer online options despite finding on your website that it DOES. That is scam-like and extortionate. Why does it cost three HUNDRED dollars to say yes to an acceptance letter? Not to mention the tool on the site lied about what credits would transfer over, which also colored my opinion on coming here.
Most of the reviews here seem to be nostalgic graduates whom could afford the insane price to be here, so good for them. I wish I was so privileged to enjoy being taken advantage of as much as they have."
Luke Baer (PositiveThinkTank)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
NC State University is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, with major highways leading to the city. Public transportation options within Raleigh, like the GoRaleigh bus system, can also be used to reach the campus.
Parking on campus typically involves paid lots and garages. Visitors may need to pay hourly rates, and it's advisable to check the NC State Transportation website for the most current information on parking availability and fees.
The campus is quite large and has undergone renovations, which can make navigation a bit challenging for first-time visitors. Utilizing campus maps or navigation apps is recommended.
Yes, you can do self-guided tours. However, if official tours are full, be prepared for potentially large groups and ensure you have a plan for parking.
Hillsborough Street has seen many changes over the years. Exploring it offers a glimpse into the evolving character of the area surrounding the university.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While general campus access is free, specific events, tours, or attractions may have associated costs. Parking fees are also a consideration for visitors arriving by car.
Official campus tours are often available, but they can fill up quickly. It's recommended to book in advance. If tours are full, self-guided options are a viable alternative. +1
Admissions deposits are typically required upon acceptance and are generally non-refundable. It's crucial to understand all financial commitments before paying.
It's important to verify program details, including online options and credit transfer policies, directly with the university to avoid potential misunderstandings after committing.
Information on visitor discounts for campus amenities or events is not widely publicized. It's best to check specific venue or event pages for any available offers.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the historic brick buildings, the student union for Wolf apparel, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere during football season at Carter-Finley Stadium.
Student life is characterized by strong school spirit, diverse activities, and a welcoming community, with many students actively involved in campus life. +2
Yes, NC State features indoor basketball courts and a student union that offers various amenities and spaces for students and visitors.
Wandering through the older sections of the main campus allows you to appreciate the historic brick architecture and the stories they tell.
Absolutely! The student union is a prime spot to find a wide variety of Wolf apparel and school spirit merchandise.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
NC State offers various dining halls with diverse options. Reviews suggest good pizza, average burgers, and notable mac and cheese and salad selections.
Beyond campus dining, Raleigh offers many food options, including popular spots like Morgan Street Food Hall, which features a variety of vendors.
Yes, Howling Cow ice cream is a highly recommended campus treat, consistently praised for its delicious flavor.
While specific options vary by dining hall and vendor, most university dining services and local eateries in Raleigh strive to offer a range of dietary choices. It's best to check menus directly.
Hillsborough Street and the surrounding areas in Raleigh offer a wide array of restaurants and eateries catering to student and visitor tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic brick buildings, scenic campus grounds during different seasons (like autumn), and lively scenes around Carter-Finley Stadium offer great photo opportunities. +1
Golden hours, both morning and late afternoon, often provide beautiful lighting for campus photography, highlighting the architecture and natural beauty.
The iconic brick architecture, the main quad areas, and any prominent campus sculptures or water features are popular subjects for photos.
Yes, capturing the energy of events like football games at Carter-Finley Stadium can make for dynamic and memorable photographs.
Many visitors and students capture campus life, seasonal beauty, architectural details, and moments of school spirit. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit around events or simply enjoying a self-guided tour to soak in the atmosphere. Be aware of potential parking fees if you're driving to campus.
🎓 Prospective Students
Pay close attention to admissions details, including non-refundable deposits and program specifics, to avoid any surprises.
✈️ International Students
Embrace the Wolfpack spirit and explore the campus, from its historic buildings to its modern facilities. Engaging with student life and local attractions in Raleigh can enrich your experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing NC State's Campus
Beyond the architecture, the campus buzzes with student life. From the energy at Carter-Finley Stadium during football games
For those considering NC State, understanding the campus tour process is key. While official tours are popular, self-guided options are available. Be prepared for potential parking fees and large tour groups if you opt for a self-guided exploration.
Admissions and Financial Considerations
Some former students and visitors have noted that information provided on the university's website might not always be entirely accurate regarding program specifics or credit transfers, leading to potential disappointment or unexpected costs.
While many reviews from alumni are nostalgic and positive, reflecting fond memories of their time at NC State, it's important for prospective students to balance these sentiments with practical considerations regarding costs and the clarity of admissions information.
Campus Life and Traditions
The university also celebrates seasonal changes, with autumn often highlighted for its picturesque campus scenery. Student life extends beyond academics and sports. Many students engage in various activities, and international students find NC State a welcoming place to study abroad for a semester, experiencing American college life firsthand.
Traditions like the Howling Cow ice cream add a unique flavor to the NC State experience, providing simple yet memorable joys for students and visitors alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit