Northwestern University Tours

Northwestern University featuring modern architecture
Northwestern University showing modern architecture
Northwestern University which includes heritage architecture
Northwestern University featuring modern architecture
Northwestern University featuring a lake or waterhole and a park


You don’t have to be a student to appreciate the attractions and ambiance of this celebrated university on the banks of Lake Michigan.

Northwestern University, located outside the town of Evanston and just north of Chicago, is rooted in local history and features an array of attractions. Wander around the historic grounds of the university, enjoying the buzz of an active student population, before stopping by some of its venues and museums.

Explore the grounds of a university that has been running since 1855, when it started with 10 students. It has since grown to encompass 12 faculties, with separate schools in Qatar and Chicago. The neighboring town of Evanston, which grew alongside the university, was named after one of its founders.

Enter the campus through the Weber Arch, the symbolic gateway to the university where freshmen start the year with a marching band procession.

Follow the paths through the leafy grounds to University Hall, a fairy-tale like building that dates back to the founding of the institution.

Other landmarks on the campus include the Deering Library, which is modelled after King’s College in Cambridge, and the Shakespeare Garden, where you will find plants that feature in the Bard’s plays.

Wander around the Arts Circle, a cluster of venues in the south of the campus. The Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art hosts a range of temporary exhibitions and film screenings. Its permanent collection includes work by artists such as Andy Warhol and Albrecht Dürer. These sleek modern buildings also host the Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, the Josephine Louis Theater and studio spaces for students.

Leave the academic buildings behind and wander down to the lakefront. Students enjoy relaxing on two beaches here to break from their studies. Look south to see the skyline of Chicago in the distance.

Ride a CTA bus or train from Chicago up to Evanston, then wander along to the campus. Alternatively, drive here from Chicago in about 35 minutes and use the parking located around the campus.

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Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
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Reviews of Northwestern University

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
697
5 - Excellent 58%
4 - Good
341
4 - Good 28%
3 - Okay
140
3 - Okay 12%
2 - Disappointing
12
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
21
1 - Terrible 2%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Good restaurants and shopping in Evanston near NU campus.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

The campus, which extends out into the lake and around a lagoon, is a beautful blending of fantastic new buildings andhandsome old ones, The grounds are immaculate.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler

Residents of Evanston are beyond rude, to the point that they called police while several OSU tailgaters ( that called ahead and were where the NU AD office told them to go) were sitting inside their RVs ( no music, wasnt game day yet, no activity of any kind going on) and took out their cell phones and took pictures of our RV. If you dont want to be in a big 10 university, this is they way to behave. The police actually told us the residents were out of line, but there was nothing they could do about it. Be prepared for rudeness! The actual staff at Ryan Field was awesome and friendly however

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Northwestern is about an hour away by train. Easy to follow. Take red line to purple line.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

No need for a rental car. The public transportation system is awesome. No parkimg at property. 53$ a day for vallet.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great hotel if in town for Northwestern visit.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Northwestern University

Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG

Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG

3 out of 5
1501 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL
Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG
Hilton Orrington / Evanston

Hilton Orrington / Evanston

4 out of 5
1710 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL
Hilton Orrington / Evanston
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston

3.5 out of 5
1818 Maple Ave, Evanston, IL
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston
Graduate by Hilton Evanston

Graduate by Hilton Evanston

4 out of 5
1625 Hinman Ave, Evanston, IL
Graduate by Hilton Evanston
Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston

Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston

3.5 out of 5
1515 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL
Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston
The Gem Museum Suites

The Gem Museum Suites

3.5 out of 5
1555 Oak Avenue, Evanston, IL
The Gem Museum Suites
Charming 4-bedroom house with WiFi, AC in welcoming Evanston

Charming 4-bedroom house with WiFi, AC in welcoming Evanston

Evanston
Charming 4-bedroom house with WiFi, AC in welcoming Evanston
Walking distance to restaurants, shops and Lake Michigan,

Walking distance to restaurants, shops and Lake Michigan,

Chicago
Walking distance to restaurants, shops and Lake Michigan,
Spacious 2BR Near Dining & Shops

Spacious 2BR Near Dining & Shops

Chicago
Spacious 2BR Near Dining & Shops
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Northwestern University

Northwestern University in Evanston offers a vibrant array of activities, including thrilling theater performances, engaging sports events, and lively nightlife experiences. Visitors can enjoy shopping at unique local boutiques, catch a ride on a nearby Ferris wheel for stunning views, and attend exciting music concerts that showcase various genres. With so much to explore, Northwestern is a fantastic destination for entertainment and recreation.

Shopping

Schaefer's Wines and Liquors offers a great selection of beverages just 3 miles from Northwestern University. If you're up for a drive, Harlem Irving Plaza and Logan Square Farmers Market, both 9 miles away, provide diverse shopping experiences with vibrant city vibes and local goods.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at Wrigley Field, just 7 miles away, where you can soak in the vibrant sports atmosphere. Enjoy live performances at the Aragon Ballroom, located 6 miles away, for a night of entertainment. For a relaxing day outdoors, visit Glenview Park Golf Club, also 7 miles away.

Adventure

Rainbow Falls Waterpark, located 17 miles from Northwestern University, offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions. For hiking enthusiasts, Salt Creek Trail, 18 miles away, features picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, 27 miles from campus, combines exciting water fun with entertainment for all ages.

Nightlife

At Northwestern University, the Riviera Theatre offers a blend of culture and romance just 6 miles away, perfect for a night out. For family fun, head to Kiddie Kingdom, an exciting arcadeAdventureZone 7 miles away. Don’t miss the Vic Theatre, another cultural gem located 8 miles from campus.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Northwestern University

When visiting Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, you'll find a variety of attractions to explore, including beautiful beaches, urban parks, and event venues. These points of interest cater to those seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and relaxation by the shore. Don't miss the charming North Shore area nearby, which offers additional opportunities for recreation and enjoyment during your stay.

  • Loyola University Chicago: Located 4 miles from Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with modern architecture and a lively student life. Explore its beautiful grounds and enjoy the bustling city vibes that surround this prestigious university.
  • Donald E. Stephens Convention Center: Situated 11 miles away, this event and conference venue is a hub for business and professional gatherings. With its spacious facilities and modern amenities, it’s perfect for attending various events and enjoying the dynamic business vibes of the area.
  • Grosse Point Lighthouse: Just 0.8 mile from Northwestern, this historic lighthouse is a charming landmark that provides a glimpse into the region's maritime history. Experience the cultural vibes as you explore the lighthouse and its scenic surroundings.

Best time to go to Northwestern University

The best time to visit Northwestern University is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.7°F (-3.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February27.0°F (-2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Northwestern University

To save money during your visit to Northwestern University, consider traveling between December and February for lower accommodation rates, particularly on Wednesdays. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and explore eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Combining your hotel, flight, and activities into a package can lead to additional savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Look for free activities on campus and utilize public transport to minimize travel costs while exploring Evanston.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Northwestern University are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Northwestern University is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Northwestern University is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to choose your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can organize your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that you see the most affordable hotel options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Northwestern University with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia