Visit Options

A group of six people and a bulldog sitting on grass in a park, surrounded by autumn trees. The individuals are smiling and interacting with the dog, wearing casual clothing in purple and tan colors.
A group of six people and a bulldog sitting on grass in a park, surrounded by autumn trees. The individuals are smiling and interacting with the dog, wearing casual clothing in purple and tan colors.

Visit Campus

Life as a Leatherneck is a life of community and collaboration. When you visit Western Illinois University (WIU), you get your first taste of Western life through campus tours, meetings with faculty and admissions staff, and Q&As with current students.

Explore Ways to Visit WIU

Immerse yourself in WIU’s welcoming community, where vibrant student life promotes connections and engagement; rigorous academics push you to achieve your dreams; and hands-on learning crops up in every classroom, internship, and extracurricular activity.

Visit WIU over a weekend, for an open house, in a showcase event, or from anywhere in the world on a virtual WIU tour.

Two young women with backpacks smile while walking in front of a large classical building. One wears a purple T-shirt and the other wears a brown T-shirt, both promoting Western Illinois University.

Visit us Virtually

Can’t make it to campus in person? You can connect with us virtually. Learn more about Leatherneck life from anywhere in the world on a virtual Western Illinois University campus visit!

Graduate School Campus Visit

For those interested in one of our master's or doctoral programs, WIU has visit options at both our Macomb and Quad Cities campuses.

A woman in a black blazer smiles while conversing with someone out of frame. She has hoop earrings and a colorful tumbler in front of her.

Campus Visit FAQs

How do I travel to campus?

Our WIU transportation directions can help you travel to the small-town charm of Macomb from Chicago, St. Louis, Southern Illinois, and beyond by car, plane, or train.

Where can I find parking?

You can obtain a free visitor parking permit at any time from Mowbray Hall on Murray Street. Visitors are welcome to park in any unreserved space in the Faculty/Staff and Q parking lots. Review the WIU visitor parking map.

How long does a campus tour take?

Your Western campus tour will last about 60 minutes and includes plenty of time to ask questions of the admissions staff or WIU student tour guide.

Can parents or guests join?

Yes! Your parents and up to 6 additional guests are welcome on campus.

Where should I stay in Macomb, Illinois, for my visit?

We recommend our on-campus University Union Hotel for a convenient and comfortable stay here in Macomb. Learn more about local accommodations for groups of all sizes.