When deciding where you want to attend college it is important do visit the campus in person. Looking through pictures online and reading reviews is not enough for you to make a decision. You should set up a campus tour and meet with admissions counselors. They can show you around campus and answer any question you may have about the university.

You can learn more about college admissions and campus tours by checking out Tips on Writing Your College Admissions Essay and Be One Step Ahead on Your College Visits.

Once you have the official campus tour out of the way, you should take campus exploration into your own hands. You should also cruise around town to see if it seems like a place you could live for four or more years, because you won’t always be on campus.

Lodging near campus is an easy find. Within walking distance you have the College Inn. Also close by is Watertown Hotel or Hotel Deca. If you’re looking for something upscale, check out Hotel Deca. This hotel is a historic boutique hotel located downtown but still close to campus with full amenities and dining. If you are on a budget and just need a place to crash, check out College Inn, it’s close to campus with an antique feel for a good price.

Seattle is well known for their diversity in restaurants and local food. Whether you are close to campus or venture out a little further, you will be sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds. There are a handful of great restaurants located on University Way, only a few blocks from the university.

As far as tourist attractions go, there is something for everyone in Seattle. If you enjoy art and culture, music, or love being in the great outdoors this is the perfect place for any student. On campus you can tour the Henry Art Gallery, the Burke Museum, the Jacob Lawrence Gallery or catch a show at the Meany Theater. Only a short drive out of the city will take you to the coast or Olympic National Forest where you can hike and explore. Some of the most popular Seattle tourist attractions include the Pike Fish Market, the Seattle Space Needle, and ferry rides or whale watching tours to near by coastal islands.

If you’re interested in the University of Washington, you have much more than just a campus to consider. Seattle is a thriving city with so much going on all the time. Seattle is nicknamed the “Emerald City.” It thrives in major industries that include clean energy and Aerospace Defense. According to Forbes, the city is ranked 6th for best places for business and careers, and ranked 13th in education. This makes it a great place to stick around once a college graduate. It also makes it a great place to have an internship while in school, make connections and start networking.

Learn more about the University of Washington and Seattle! Check out the University of Washington Visitors Guide.