Washington University in St. Louis
A premier research university in St. Louis, known for academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and international opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience diverse dining options
Washington University in St. Louis
Best Time
Experience diverse dining options
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier research university in St. Louis, known for academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and international opportunities.
"The DUC is the heart of WashU, offering a great mix of dining, resources, and student activities."
Explore Soulard Neighborhood
Don't miss the Soulard neighborhood for local dining experiences. Alums regret not visiting!
Be Aware of Surroundings
Stay aware of your surroundings in St. Louis; it's a general safety tip for the city.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Danforth University Center (DUC)
Central Campus
The vibrant hub for dining, student services, and events. A must-visit to feel the pulse of WashU.
McDonnell International Scholars Academy
Global Scholarship Program
Full tuition scholarships for exceptional international students. A gateway to studying in the USA.
WashU Campus Architecture
Throughout the Campus
Admire the blend of modern amenities and welcoming architecture across the beautiful campus.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Campus Life
International Student Opportunities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore Soulard Neighborhood
Don't miss the Soulard neighborhood for local dining experiences. Alums regret not visiting!
Be Aware of Surroundings
Stay aware of your surroundings in St. Louis; it's a general safety tip for the city.
Tempur-Pedic Mattresses
Enjoy comfortable Tempur-Pedic mattresses in many dorms, plus AC and laundry on every floor.
Full Tuition Scholarships
International students: look into full tuition scholarships offered by WashU and similar universities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore Soulard Neighborhood
Don't miss the Soulard neighborhood for local dining experiences. Alums regret not visiting!
Be Aware of Surroundings
Stay aware of your surroundings in St. Louis; it's a general safety tip for the city.
Tempur-Pedic Mattresses
Enjoy comfortable Tempur-Pedic mattresses in many dorms, plus AC and laundry on every floor.
Full Tuition Scholarships
International students: look into full tuition scholarships offered by WashU and similar universities.
Print at the DUC
Need to print? The DUC has at least 5 printers available for student use.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Washington University in St. Louis is praised for its vibrant campus life, particularly the Danforth University Center, and its commitment to student comfort with well-equipped dorms. International students benefit from scholarship opportunities. However, some dining experiences can be chaotic during peak times, and general city awareness is advised.
"🏛️ Danforth University Center – Washington University in St. Louis 🏛️
The Danforth University Center (DUC) is the vibrant heart of campus life at Washington University in St. Louis, bringing together dining, student services, meeting spaces, and event venues under one elegant roof. Its central location makes it a daily gathering spot for students, faculty, and visitors.
Inside, you’ll find multiple food options, comfortable lounges, study nooks, and versatile rooms for clubs, organizations, and university events. The DUC also serves as a hub for student engagement, leadership activities, and cultural programs, making it a true community anchor.
The building’s design combines modern amenities with welcoming architecture, offering both functionality and a warm atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, attending a lecture, or hosting a conference, the DUC delivers convenience and energy.
✅ Highlights: Excellent dining choices, multipurpose event spaces, student-centered services, and a lively campus atmosphere.
💯 A must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the pulse of WashU’s campus life."
Mohammed Junaid
"This has a good mix of dining, academic resources, "fun room," meeting halls, career center, student Union, etc. Overall, it's kind of a great hub for students to go to, especially if you need a bite to eat or a place to study. For food, lines can get long at certain times. Career center can also get busy if they have events going on. But all the resources here are helpful. Student affairs is just upstairs, and they even have a piano that anyone can play on. There's also at least 5 printers in the DUC, so if you need to print, head on over!"
Megan Lin
"Total confusion!!! I've never encountered a worse college cafeteria space. No signage whatsoever about procedures. No trays available. No indication that, at a summer conference, meal tickets must be presented at the cash register. No indication that cups for drinks are not at the drink machines, but rather at said cash register in a different room. Also poor choice of food, at least on a Sunday evening--hopefully food will improve as the week continues, but I'm not counting on it!"
Mark Filbert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Washington University in St. Louis is accessible by car, with major highways nearby. Public transportation options include MetroLink light rail and bus services. Many students and visitors find ride-sharing services convenient for navigating the city and campus.
The main campus address is Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130. This is a key location for navigation and finding specific buildings.
Yes, the campus is well-known and signposted. Using GPS with the address 'Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO' will guide you effectively.
The campus is very walkable. For longer distances, WashU offers a campus shuttle service. Biking is also a popular option, with many bike racks available.
Yes, there are several parking garages and surface lots available for visitors and students. Parking fees may apply, and it's advisable to check the university's parking services website for current rates and locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the campus grounds is free. However, specific events, performances, or tours may require tickets or advance registration. Check the university's events calendar for details.
The Danforth University Center (DUC) has varying hours depending on the day and academic calendar. Generally, it's open from early morning to late evening during the academic year. Specific hours can be found on the WashU website.
Yes, Washington University in St. Louis offers campus tours, often led by current students. These tours are a great way to see the campus and learn about student life. Registration is usually required.
There are no admission fees to simply walk around the Washington University in St. Louis campus. Admission fees apply to specific ticketed events or for enrollment as a student.
For prospective students, detailed information on admissions, including requirements, deadlines, and application processes for undergraduate and graduate programs, can be found on the official Washington University in St. Louis admissions website.
🎫 🏛️ Campus Experience
Students often praise the dorms for their comfort, with mentions of Tempur-Pedic mattresses, air conditioning in every room, and laundry facilities on each floor. Specific dorm recommendations can vary based on personal preference and year of study.
The Danforth University Center (DUC) offers a 'fun room' with gaming consoles, TVs, billiards, and an ice cream machine. The campus also hosts numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic competitions.
Popular majors include those in business, pre-med fields, and engineering. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines.
Yes, WashU is a strong choice for international students, with opportunities like the McDonnell International Scholars Academy offering full tuition scholarships. The university is known for its academic rigor and diverse student body.
The Washington University logo, often featuring the university's shield and motto, can be found on official university merchandise, signage around campus, and on the university's official website.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The DUC offers a variety of eateries. While generally good, some reviews mention long lines during peak hours and occasional confusion with ordering procedures, especially for summer conference attendees.
Yes, vegetarian options are typically available in the dining halls, including vegetarian soup mentioned in reviews. The variety can depend on the specific dining location and time of day.
Absolutely. The DUC is a central hub with multiple food vendors, making it easy to grab a quick meal or snack between classes or during study sessions.
Food quality can be mixed, with some reviewers praising the variety and convenience, while others note issues with food choice or service during specific times. The DUC is a primary dining location.
Yes, besides the main dining options in the DUC, there are likely cafes and smaller food outlets scattered across the campus, offering coffee and lighter fare.
📸 📸 Photography
The Danforth University Center's architecture, the historic Brookings Hall, and the scenic campus grounds offer numerous picturesque locations for photography. The university's blend of classic and modern design provides diverse backdrops.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in common areas of university buildings. However, for commercial photography or professional shoots, you may need to obtain permission from the university's media relations or facilities management.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for campus photography. Midday can be harsh, but shaded areas and architectural details can still be captured effectively.
Yes, drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check Washington University's official policies regarding drone operation before attempting to fly one.
Iconic views often include Brookings Hall with its grand facade, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, and the serene campus quads. The DUC also provides a lively, modern perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more interactive experience, consider checking the university's public event listings for any science demonstrations, art exhibits at the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, or sporting events that might be suitable for children. The general campus environment is safe and pleasant for walking around, offering a glimpse into university life.
🌍 International Students
+1Beyond scholarships, WashU is known for its diverse student body and robust academic programs. Prospective international students are encouraged to thoroughly research admission requirements, application timelines, and scholarship details. Engaging with the university's international student services office can provide valuable guidance throughout the application and enrollment process.
+1🎓 Prospective Students
Exploring the Danforth University Center (DUC) is essential to understand the student hub for dining and activities. Pay attention to the dormitories, as many are praised for their comfort, including Tempur-Pedic mattresses and convenient amenities like laundry on every floor. Researching specific majors and degrees offered will help you align your academic goals with WashU's strengths.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Danforth University Center (DUC): The Heartbeat of Campus
Inside the DUC, you'll discover a diverse array of food options catering to various tastes and dietary needs. Beyond sustenance, the center offers comfortable lounges for relaxation, quiet study nooks for focused work, and versatile rooms that host a multitude of clubs, organizations, and university-wide events. It's a space designed to foster student engagement, leadership development, and cultural exchange, truly acting as a community anchor.
The DUC's architecture thoughtfully combines modern functionality with a welcoming aesthetic, creating an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch, attending a lecture, or participating in a conference, the DUC provides both the practical amenities and the vibrant ambiance to enhance your experience. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the pulse of WashU's campus life.
International Student Opportunities and Scholarships
+1For prospective international students, exploring these scholarship avenues is crucial. Beyond the McDonnell Academy, other universities in the US, including those similar to WashU, also provide full tuition scholarships. It's advisable for international applicants to thoroughly research admission requirements, scholarship criteria, and application deadlines well in advance.
Securing a place at WashU, especially with scholarship support, can be a transformative experience. The university's commitment to academic excellence and its welcoming environment for international scholars make it a highly sought-after destination for higher education in the United States.
+1Campus Life and Student Comfort
Beyond comfortable sleeping arrangements, the university ensures practical needs are met. Air conditioning in every room is a standard feature, providing comfort regardless of the season. Furthermore, the convenience of laundry facilities on every single floor significantly simplifies daily routines for residents, reducing the time and effort needed for this essential chore.
These elements, combined with the academic rigor and vibrant campus activities, contribute to a well-rounded student experience at WashU. The emphasis on comfortable and functional living spaces underscores the university's commitment to supporting its students' overall well-being.
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