Map of WashU: A Comprehensive Guide to the University’s Campus
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Map of WashU: A Comprehensive Guide to the University’s Campus

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) boasts a sprawling campus with state-of-the-art facilities, historical architecture, and a vibrant student life. This map provides a comprehensive overview of the campus, highlighting key buildings, academic landmarks, and recreational areas.

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Central Campus

Academic Quadrangle

  • Arts & Sciences Building: Home to the College of Arts & Sciences
  • Brookings Hall: Houses the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts
  • Hillman Hall: Administration building and home to the Office of the Provost
  • Ridgley Hall: Faculty offices and classrooms

Danforth University Center (DUC)

map of washu

  • Campus hub with dining, retail, and student services
  • Steinberg Auditorium: Multipurpose hall for events and performances
  • Bear’s Den: Student hangout with billiards, ping-pong, and live music

Medical School

Map of WashU: A Comprehensive Guide to the University's Campus

  • Barnes-Jewish Hospital: World-renowned medical center affiliated with WashU
  • Goldfarb School of Nursing: Graduate school specializing in nursing
  • McDonnell Center for Systems Neuroscience: Research center focused on brain science

South Campus

Tyson Research Center

  • Danforth Plant Science Center: Advanced facilities for plant research
  • Genome Institute: Center for genomics research
  • McDonnell Genome Institute: Leader in genome sequencing and analysis

Athletics Complex

  • Francis Olympic Field: Home of the university’s track and field teams
  • Field House: Indoor sports and fitness center
  • WashU Soccer Complex: Facilities for men’s and women’s soccer programs

West Campus

Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts

Central Campus

  • Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum: Art museum with renowned collections
  • Olin Library: Main library for the College of Arts & Sciences
  • Sculpture Plaza: Outdoor space featuring contemporary artwork

Residential Areas

**Northside[/b]

  • Tower Residence Hall Cluster: Traditional-style dormitories
  • Millbrook Residence Hall Cluster: Suite-style dorms with shared kitchens
  • Village House: Residential community with apartments and common areas

**South 40[/b]

  • Village: University-owned apartments for students, faculty, and staff
  • Hilltop Village: Faculty housing development
  • McMillen Hall: Residence hall for graduate students

Green Spaces and Recreation

**Forest Park[/b]

  • 1,371-acre park adjacent to campus
  • Trails, picnic areas, and a golf course
  • Zoo, art museum, and history museum

Brookings Quadrangle

  • Landscaped courtyard surrounded by academic buildings
  • Amphitheater for outdoor events
  • Reflecting pool with fountains

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Confusing the DUC with the Quad: The DUC is a student-focused building with dining, services, and entertainment options, while the Quad is a historical academic center.
  • Assuming West Campus is entirely remote: While some buildings on West Campus are located across Forest Park, the majority are within walking distance from the main campus.
  • Forgetting about the bike paths: WashU has an extensive network of bike paths connecting all parts of campus, making it easy to get around.
  • Ignoring the free shuttle: The university offers a free shuttle service between the main campus and the medical school, as well as other areas.

How to Navigate the Campus

  1. Use a campus map: The university provides a detailed campus map with building locations, landmarks, and transportation options.
  2. Download the WashU mobile app: The app offers real-time building locations, bus schedules, and event information.
  3. Ask for directions: University staff and students are generally friendly and helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.
  4. Explore campus on foot: Walking around campus is a great way to get to know the layout and discover hidden gems.

Why the Map Matters

  • Helps students navigate the campus efficiently: A comprehensive campus map allows students to plan their routes and find buildings quickly, reducing stress and saving time.
  • Facilitates academic exploration: The map highlights academic buildings and research centers, enabling students to explore different fields of study and connect with faculty.
  • Promotes campus engagement: The map encourages students to discover recreational areas, student services, and cultural attractions, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
  • Enhances campus safety: By understanding the campus layout, students can avoid potentially dangerous areas and locate safety features such as blue light emergency phones.

Table 1: Campus Buildings by Function

Function Building
Arts & Humanities Arts & Sciences Building, Brookings Hall
Sciences Danforth Science Hall, McDonnell Center for Systems Neuroscience
Medical Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Goldfarb School of Nursing
Design & Visual Arts Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, Olin Library
Athletics Francis Olympic Field, Field House
Residential Tower Residence Hall Cluster, Millbrook Residence Hall Cluster
Recreation Forest Park, Brookings Quadrangle

Table 2: Campus Transportation Options

Mode of Transportation Details
Walking Extensive sidewalks and pathways
Biking Bike paths and bike racks available
Free shuttle Connects main campus, medical school, and other areas
Public transportation MetroLink station adjacent to campus
Parking Paid lots and garages available

Table 3: Campus Landmarks

Academic Quadrangle

Landmark Description
Lion’s head water fountain Historic fountain in the Quadrangle
World’s Fair Pavilion Replica of a building from the 1904 World’s Fair
Kemper Art Museum Art museum with renowned collections
Wilson Commons Outdoor plaza with a fountain and seating areas
The Loop Winding pedestrian path along the edge of campus

Table 4: Campus Green Spaces and Recreation

Area Activities
Forest Park Hiking, biking, picnics, golf
Brookings Quadrangle Relaxation, outdoor events
Athletic Complex Sports fields, fitness center
Wilson Commons Recreation, concerts
The Loop Walking, running