Seattle is a city of self-starters who believe that anything is possible when we work together. We’re adventurous and entrepreneurial, caffeinated, and connected. This global hub for innovation is an international epicenter for turning ideas into actions, and the UW is at the heart of it. Whether you’re into art or food, history or tech, city living or the outdoors, there’s a community for you here.

The University of Washington Campus

The UW is more than one of the world's leading public research universities: We're a community of students and faculty united by a drive to serve the public good. But our campus is pretty amazing, too. Explore our 700 acres from the comfort of your own screen, and experience what makes us the leader of the pack — from our world-class medical center to our vibrant arts community and Pac-12 athletics. One of the most beautiful academic settings in North America, the University of Washington combines beautiful grounds and spectacular views of Lake Washington, Mt. Rainier, and the Cascade mountain range to create an amazing landscape.

University District

The University of Washington is located in the heart of the UDistrict. From shops and restaurants to activities and essential services, the areas surrounding 45th Street, Brooklyn/Roosevelt, North Ave, Mid Ave, and South Ave provide the neighborhood’s residents and visitors with a range of amenities. The University District or “UDistrict” is one of the city's oldest and most diverse neighborhoods. Boasting a unique mix of ethnic restaurants, coffeehouses, retail shops, and other services, the neighborhood caters to student needs.

Seattle Neighborhoods

Seattle is home to many different neighborhoods, each with something unique to offer. Get to learn more about some of Seattle's neighborhoods in the video series below:

Exploring Washington

Washington is home to some of the most environmentally diverse regions, with something to do for everyone, all year round. From skiing to hiking, to museums and restaurants, there is something for everyone to love in the Evergreen State.

Getting Around

UW students can drive, take the bus, or walk to and from campus. Drivers can park on-campus during classes or meetings. Whether you live in downtown Seattle, a nearby suburb, or an island, the bus, ferry, and light rail systems are convenient.

If you drive, we recommend getting to campus at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit to allow time to park and find your way to your destination. When you arrive, visit one of the gatehouses to purchase a permit. The gatehouse attendant will direct you to a parking lot.

Information on parking, public transit, and campus maps.

Virtual Campus Tour

Before you make plans to visit us, check out our virtual tour of campus hosted by OSDI team member and UW College of Education Graduate Student, Tsewone Melaku, below:

If you'd like to visit us on-campus to take an extended tour, join us on our virtual tour, below, where you will find a self-guided tour that highlights important buildings and services, and also gives you a chance to learn about the unique history of the University of Washington, and the College of Education. This map can be used as both a mobile-friendly walking tour, if you are able to visit us in-person, and it can also serve as a way to get acclimated to campus and its surroundings before arrival.

30-MIN TOUR (Purple)
Explores the University of Washington's campus with stops at the locations that students use the most.

60- to 90-MIN TOUR OPTION (Gold)
Expand the tour by crossing onto the University of Washington's extended campus and accompanying neighborhood with this continuation option.

UW Vision & Values

The University of Washington educates a diverse student body to become responsible global citizens and future leaders through a challenging learning environment informed by cutting-edge scholarship.

Discovery is at the heart of our university.

We discover timely solutions to the world’s most complex problems and enrich the lives of people throughout our community, the state of Washington, the nation and the world.

Learn more about the UW's Vision & Values.

Diversity at the UW

At the University of Washington, diversity is integral to excellence. We value and honor diverse experiences and perspectives, strive to create welcoming and respectful learning environments, and promote access, opportunity and justice for all. Learn more about diversity at the UW.

UW: A Legacy of Academic Achievement

Famed for our award-winning faculty, the UW boasts seven Nobel Prize winners, 15 “genius award” fellows from the MacArthur Foundation, and two Pulitzer Prize winners. We have 81 members in the National Academy of Sciences and 91 members in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Learn more about UW faculty distinctions.

UW: A Leader in Research Funding

One of the world's great public research universities, the UW is esteemed for its creative, innovative and talented faculty. For 2019, Reuters ranked the UW as 5th in the list of the “World’s Most Innovative Universities 2019,” first among public institutions. The University received more than $1.89 billion in grant and contract research funding during FY2021. Learn more about research at the UW.