Washington University in St. Louis
- Local Atmosphere

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The atmosphere in St. Louis is not one of a traditional college town, as most students agree. The city is big enough that kids feel they can get away and utilize the resources of a semi-metropolis. At the same time, the campus is in a calm suburb, where there is a laid-back Midwestern atmosphere that many students from both the East Coast and West Coast find appealing. The immediate area surrounding the campus also offers plenty of fun opportunities: Forest Park to the east has a 10K bike trail, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, the world-class Saint Louis Art Museum, lakes with gondolas, and plenty of picnic grounds. The Loop is a commercial district bordering campus on the north, with plenty of cafés, bars, shops, restaurants, a nice movie theater, and a few music venues. Most students seem to stay in the general area of campus, but there is plenty to do downtown and throughout the metro area.

The city seems to be on a slow but steady upswing. Washington Avenue houses a strip of trendy, hip bars and nightclubs, worth at least a weekend–evening visit. There are also neat little areas stashed around town that take a little digging to discover, like the cool stores on South Grand Boulevard, the bars on Pestalozzi Avenue, and the vibrant African American neighborhoods in North St. Louis. The most common complaint about St. Louis is the lack of centrality. The Metrolink makes it possible to get pretty much anywhere, but a car makes basic tasks like going to the dry cleaner significantly easier.

Wash U Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Local Atmosphere at Washington University in St. Louis

co2015

Anthropology and Archaeology '15

5.0

A+

Friendly Atmosphere!

WashU and the larger St. Louis community definitely have the Midwest Charm. Everyone at WashU, from the students to the professors from counselors to staff, is friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere at WashU is not cut-throat like other top-tier, largely pre-medical universities; students work and study together frequently. Students and faculty try to build a very inviting and collaborative atmosphere, which definitely helps with studying!

May 18, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at Washington University in St. Louis

kellymnoe23

Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering '12

4.6

A

Finding your Niche

I think one of the best parts about Wash U is that everyone can find their niche. From bro'd out frat guys to the engineering nerds that only want to discuss the latest Python update to athletes to the laid-back eco-conscious awesome co-opers. Wash U is a great place for anyone to find a great friend group.

Mar 05, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at Washington University in St. Louis

WuWuWUSTL

Marketing '15

4.6

A

Nice to Get Around

Some very good places to eat not far from campus. Grocery store, Walgreens and other useful stores are very close by in or near the loop. Forest Park is also nice to have.

Mar 05, 2012

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Photos of Washington University in St. Louis's Local Atmosphere

Relay For Life

Photo by awklein

Relay For Life Philanthropy is a huge part of Greek life on campus. Relay For Life is a large event held every year to aid in cancer research; it's supported by many organizations, including every sorority and fraternity on campus.

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Photo by awklein

Clayton

Photo by awklein

Clayton Clayton is an area very close to campus. Clayton has many nice hotels and restaurants.

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Photo by awklein

Plaza in Clayton

Photo by awklein

Plaza in Clayton The Plaza in Clayton surrounds the Ritz-Carlton Hotel near campus. This area has many cute restaurants, coffee shops, and stores.

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Photo by awklein

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