The Perfect Way to Show a Guest Around the UW
November 14, 2024 by Paige Stanley
Voted as 1 of top 25 most beautiful college campuses in the U.S, the University of Washington is a must-see for Seattle visitors. To help you show off your gorgeous campus, we curated the perfect way to show a guest around. Follow this itinerary when touring your friends and family around to best showcase your beautiful school!
Stop 1
Start off the morning with a coffee from your favorite cafe on campus! With 12 cafes and espresso bars on campus, there is something for everyone! Some of our favorites are Suzzallo Starbucks, Public Grounds and Husky Grind.
Stop 2
After grabbing some pre-tour fuel, start your journey on Memorial Way. Walk along the grand tree-lined street toward Denny Hall. Denny Hall is the oldest building on campus, opening in 1895!
Optional stop
If you are a North Campus resident, after passing Denny Hall, head toward the North Campus residence halls to show your guests your building and Denny Field.
Stop 3
Walk down Denny Yard toward The Quad. The beautiful buildings surrounding the grand trees will be sure to awe your guests. Bonus points if it is cherry blossom season!
Stop 4
Walk through The Quad toward Suzzallo Library, the most iconic spot on campus! After entering the doors, head up the grand staircase to the reading room to fulfill your guests’ Hogwarts dreams. Make sure to check the hours of the library to ensure you don’t miss this must-see!
Stop 5
After exiting Suzzallo, walk through Red Square toward Kane Hall to look out over Rainier Vista. If you’re lucky, you will see Mount Rainier peeking out of the clouds!
Optional stop
If you are a West Campus resident, head toward the George Washington statue and cross the footbridge over to Campus Parkway. Show your guests your residence hall and Area 01.
Stop 6
Walk down toward Drumheller Fountain for a beautiful view of the grassy lawns and brick buildings. In the spring and summer, roses fill the area surrounding the fountain.
Stop 7
Head east, past Guggenheim Hall, toward The Hub. The Hub is a great way to show your guests all of the awesome ways to get involved on campus. If you have the time, take a pit stop at the bowling alley or arcade for some friendly competition.
Stop 8
After all this walking, you must have worked up an appetite. Good thing Husky Den is right around the corner! With 7 location options, it has something for everyone. Check the hours and days of operation on our website.
This brings you to the end of the essential tour! Now is the time for you to get creative and show off your personal favorites of UW, such as where your classes are or your favorite place to study. Some other popular favorites are:
1. Husky Stadium and the waterfront
Husky Stadium really is the “Greatest Setting in College Football.” Even if it’s not a game day, head down to the stadium and you can peek through the gates to see the view of Lake Washington. Go around the stadium toward the ASUW Shell House to stroll along the Montlake Cut for waterfront views.
2. University Village
University Village is a great place to do some shopping. With tons of stores and restaurants, this outdoor mall has something for everyone.
3. The Burke Gilman Trail
If you are not too tired of walking, head to the Burke Gilman Trail for a tree-lined stroll on the perimeter of campus. The trail heads toward Ravenna Park in one direction and past UW’s Life Sciences Building and Gas Works Park in the other direction.
The University of Washington's grand buildings and vistas, as well as all of the perks that come with living on campus, make it an awesome place to show guests! Have fun playing tour guide!
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