Northwestern University

Northwestern University which includes modern architecture
Northwestern University featuring modern architecture
Northwestern University which includes heritage architecture
Northwestern University
Northwestern University


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.

Plan a trip to see Northwestern University

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Level Chicago – Old Town
The Emily Hotel
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago

Tours & day trips

See all 21 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 3 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 3 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

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, IL
Charming 4-bedroom house with WiFi, AC in welcoming Evanston
Spacious 2BR Near Dining & Shops

Spacious 2BR Near Dining & Shops

Chicago, IL
Spacious 2BR Near Dining & Shops
Sunlit Studio with City Charm

Sunlit Studio with City Charm

Chicago, IL
Sunlit Studio with City Charm
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

At Northwestern University, visitors can immerse themselves in a vibrant array of activities, including captivating theatre performances, exciting sporting events, and a lively entertainment scene. The campus and surrounding area offer a delightful mix of cultural experiences and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to explore both the academic environment and the energetic community of Evanston.

Shopping

Schaefer's Wines and Liquors, located 1.9km away, offers a fine selection of beverages. The Glen Town Center, 5.0km away, features a blend of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Logan Square Farmers Market, 5.6km away, presents a delightful local shopping experience.

Recreation

At Wrigley Field, enjoy the electrifying atmosphere of baseball games while soaking in the local sports culture. Nearby, Ryan Field offers thrilling football matches, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For a unique experience, visit the Ivy League Baseball Club, where you can relish the excitement of competitive baseball.

Adventure

Experience the thrills at Rainbow Falls Waterpark, located 10.6km from Northwestern University, offering fun for the whole family. For a scenic adventure, hike the Salt Creek Trail, 11.2km away, where you can enjoy the great outdoors and beautiful landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Riviera Theatre, 3.7km away, where you can enjoy cultural performances. For family fun, visit Sky High Sports Niles, also 3.7km away, or catch a show at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, just 1.9km from campus.

Find the best attractions near Northwestern University

Northwestern University and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of attractions, including beautiful beaches, urban parks, and event venues. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences, enjoy family-friendly activities, and relax by the water, making it an ideal destination for diverse interests. Whether you're seeking a peaceful day at the beach or vibrant community events, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your stay in Evanston.

  • Loyola University Chicago: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, located just 2.5km from Northwestern. With its stunning campus and lively student life, you can enjoy a taste of city culture and perhaps even attend a local event or lecture.
  • Donald E. Stephens Convention Center: Situated 6.8km away, this premier event venue is perfect for conferences and exhibitions. Immerse yourself in the bustling business vibe, and explore the diverse events held throughout the year.
  • Montrose Beach: Just 3.7km from Northwestern, Montrose Beach offers a perfect escape with its sandy shores and scenic views. Relax by the water, enjoy beach activities, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

Best time to go to Northwestern University

The best time to visit Northwestern University can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Northwestern University falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Northwestern University falls in January, 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 on your visit to Northwestern University, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and location, and sort results from lowest to highest price for the best deals. Combining hotel bookings with flights and activities in an Expedia package can also lead to significant savings. Additionally, utilise public transport options or explore the campus on foot for free activities.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking near Northwestern University with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia