Northwestern University

Northwestern University showing modern architecture
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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.

Compare 2,382 hotels close to Northwestern University with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Chicago Getaway Hostel
Chicago Getaway Hostel
2 out of 5
616 W Arlington Pl, Chicago, IL, 60614
The price is $64 per night from Apr 2 to Apr 3
$64
per night
Apr 2 - Apr 3
Stay at this hostel in Chicago. Enjoy onsite parking, a 24-hour front desk, and a business center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the overall value ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"First time staying here with my husband and son and we loved everything about this place. We’ll definitely be coming back."

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023

Chicago Getaway Hostel
The Majestic Hotel
The Majestic Hotel
3 out of 5
528 W Brompton Ave, Chicago, IL, 60657
The price is $129 per night from Apr 4 to Apr 5
$129
per night
Apr 4 - Apr 5
Stay at this 3-star boutique hotel in Chicago. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"A vintage property with comfortable beds, friendly staff and an excellent location, at a reasonable price."

Reviewed on Mar 29, 2023

The Majestic Hotel
Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
3 out of 5
644 West Diversey Parkway, Corner Diversey/Clark/Broadway, Chicago, IL, 60614
The price is $93 per night from Apr 5 to Apr 6
$93
per night
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Chicago. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and onsite parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Super cute vibe. Rooms were clean and quiet."

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023

Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
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.

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Best Lodging Options Near Northwestern University

Chicago Getaway Hostel
Chicago Getaway Hostel
2 out of 5
616 W Arlington Pl, Chicago, IL, 60614
Chicago Getaway Hostel
The Majestic Hotel
The Majestic Hotel
3 out of 5
528 W Brompton Ave, Chicago, IL, 60657
The Majestic Hotel
Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
3 out of 5
644 West Diversey Parkway, Corner Diversey/Clark/Broadway, Chicago, IL, 60614
Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
SpringHill Suites Chicago O'Hare by Marriott
SpringHill Suites Chicago O'Hare by Marriott
3 out of 5
8101 West Higgins Road, Chicago, IL, 60631
SpringHill Suites Chicago O'Hare by Marriott
Marriott Chicago O'Hare
Marriott Chicago O'Hare
3.5 out of 5
8535 West Higgins Road, Chicago, IL, 60631
Marriott Chicago O'Hare
Hotel Lincoln, part of JdV by Hyatt
Hotel Lincoln, part of JdV by Hyatt
4 out of 5
1816 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL, 60614
Hotel Lincoln, part of JdV by Hyatt
Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago
Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago
4 out of 5
9300 Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, IL, 60018
Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago
Claridge House
Claridge House
4 out of 5
1244 N Dearborn Parkway, Chicago, IL, 60610
Claridge House
Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
3.5 out of 5
198 E Delaware Pl, Chicago, IL, 60611
Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
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.