When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Seattle University
Why Seattle University is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Seattle University, founded in 1891 by Jesuit priests, stands as a distinguished private Roman Catholic university located on a vibrant and green 50-acre campus in Seattle's dynamic heart. Known as the largest independent university in the Northwest US, it blends rich tradition with contemporary academic offerings. The university provides a welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages academic growth and personal development, making it an excellent gathering space for students and friends alike. Key highlights include its small class sizes, which foster close communication between students and faculty, and a diverse campus culture that promotes multiculturalism and community support. Seattle University offers a wide array of programs through its College of Arts and Sciences, Albers School of Business and Economics, College of Nursing, College of Science and Engineering, and Matteo Ricci College. It also maintains strong global connections with study abroad opportunities in countries such as France, Austria, Japan, China, and Ghana. The campus features modern facilities including the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons, enhancing both learning and social experiences. Varsity athletics teams, known as the Redhawks, compete in NCAA Division I or II, adding vibrant school spirit to campus life. Overall, Seattle University is a great place to meet up with friends, engage in extracurricular activities, and pursue academic excellence in a supportive, spirited setting.
Here's what people think of Seattle University
As of recent, Seattle University holds a 4.2-star rating based on 156 reviews.
Users reviewing Seattle University consistently appreciate the inclusive and friendly campus vibe, praising the school's efforts in multiculturalism and support for students from diverse backgrounds. The campus environment is often described as fun-loving yet academically oriented, with friendly peers and engaging clubs and activities. Positive reviews highlight the benefit of small class sizes, which improve communication with professors and foster better academic engagement. Students also value the diverse academic offerings and the beautiful, green campus setting conveniently located in Seattle's vibrant city center. However, some negative feedback centers on the high tuition costs, which some students find burdensome. Additionally, a few reviewers have expressed concerns about limited dining options on campus, citing repetitive menus. Despite these critiques, most students feel comfortable and at ease, noting that Seattle University offers a nurturing environment that helps them grow personally and academically. Overall, the university maintains a solid reputation thanks to its strong community ethos, academic rigor, and facilities improvements, keeping it well-regarded among both current students and alumni.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Viktor Nikiforov
If you are considering attending here full-time and on campus, PLEASE SAVE YOUR MONEY AND GO TO A DIFFERENT SCHOOL! This school has truly lost any and all qualities that originally drew me into picking it in the first place. Professors are extremely hit or miss- some absolutely ruin a class for you, not caring at all if you pass or not. Some do not even use the platform dedicated for all of the coursework, and are unreachable by email or take a week to respond. Throughout the entire time that I've been here, they have raised tuition every year, and by 8.44% in the past 2 years alone. There are continuous budget cuts in every department and club, and lowered student meal plans by over $200 per quarter. Facilities are often left broken for weeks without repair, even ones that are necessary for physical accessibility. If you have housing accommodations or need to be in contact with their department for any reason, forget it. They will string you around and redirect you back and forth until you give up. The financial aid department is also notorious for not giving a damn about any students' financial hardships, even allowing some to drop out because they were a couple hundred short for that quarter. They tried and failed to cover up the major flooding in the Murphy apartments due to faulty water pipes/insulation. Students that were relocated for almost 3 months were given extra MEAL PLAN allowance that wasn't even usable since it expires at the end of every quarter. The on-campus security is just decorative at this point, there are a bunch of homeless people that loiter around campus and even harass students sometimes. The only parking garage has carjackings every month, it is entirely open without any regulation or security managing it. But do feel free to attend this school if you don't care about the following: price, safety, campus life, visibility, internet access, professors, dining options, facilities, or education quality.
George Hennen
Red Flags to Note: 97 percent success rate. (means they kick people out) It takes too many clicks to find the tuition (that is 55k a year) They let you sign up for some other sight to "calculate price" which is abnormal. Almost every other review here is a reflection of the school and it's quality. Note: I have not gone here, but I looked into going here. It feels like a giant trap that I bet parents push their kids into. School should cost at most 5k a year for just the learning.
Hanny Nikawa
I don't understand the housing rule, if you live near Campus you should be automatically exempt from campus housing, but no. You have to apply for exemption and take few weeks for housing committee to decide. What a waist of time.
Travis Moon
If you are looking to attend this university, DONT!!! The professors are condescending, do not care about your quality of learning nor wellbeing, and simply don’t bother with teaching you material aside from reading off of powerpoints. As a senior, the changes in quality and costs of this school over merely 4 years is astounding. The tuition has been raised every single year but our resources have also been given budget cuts each year. The facilities- buildings, dormitories, bathrooms, classrooms, are all extremely dated and nonfunctional. Mold is a common issue, and heating in the winter is hard to come by. If you have any sort of mobility issues, forget about accessibility. Most elevators are broken as well as the automatic door openers. The credits earned here are not transferrable to any other institution either, so you are softlocked into completing your degree here as you have no other choice. Prospective students, look elsewhere.
Bryan Son
It's okay, for incoming students, don't plan on bringing much for dorm rooms. If I'm Bellarmine, one kitchen in the basement. In Camp, each floor. Xavier, no idea.
How to reach Seattle University
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Why Seattle University may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Seattle University with your friends?
Seattle University offers an exceptional setting for group meetups due to its vibrant campus atmosphere, wide range of activities, and welcoming community spirit. Whether you and your friends are seeking a lively hub for socializing, an inspiring environment for learning, or engaging recreational opportunities, Seattle University covers all bases. The university’s campus blends urban convenience within Seattle’s dynamic University District with peaceful outdoor spaces and modern facilities that encourage connection and exploration. Meeting up here means access to not only university-run programs and recreational centers but also to nearby parks, cultural sites, and student-led events that create a unique backdrop for social gatherings. The school’s emphasis on inclusivity and personal development further enhances the experience by fostering belonging and shared growth. Most importantly, the combination of active spaces such as the Eisiminger Fitness Center and the Outdoor Recreation Program, alongside quiet spots for conversation or study, ensures that your group can find activities that match everyone’s interests. This makes Seattle University an ideal rallying place where friends can bond, stay active, and enjoy the best of what the city and campus have to offer.
What activities can you do at Seattle University that make it perfect for a group meetup?
Seattle University offers a broad spectrum of activities centered around fun, fitness, learning, and community that make it perfect for groups of friends or family. A cornerstone for group activities is the University Recreation (UREC) program, which features the modern Eisiminger Fitness Center. Here, your group can work out together—whether through individual training, group fitness classes, or friendly intramural sports leagues like soccer and basketball. These opportunities encourage teamwork and camaraderie, suitable for all skill levels. Beyond physical fitness, Seattle University also champions social connection through its unique Esports and Gaming Club, where friends can engage both competitively and socially in popular online games, creating a lively atmosphere for gamers of all styles. The campus also provides a rich environment for outdoor enthusiasts: the Outdoor Recreation program organizes subsidized trips and clinics that help groups explore nature while fostering leadership and community spirit. This diversity in programming gives your gathering options ranging from physically active to leisurely and immersive, satisfying different group dynamics and preferences.
What outdoor spaces surround Seattle University that enhance group meetups?
Seattle University’s location in the University District offers immediate access to numerous impressive outdoor spaces that enhance group meetups with scenic beauty and variety. Close by is Gas Works Park, a striking urban park with panoramic views of Lake Union and downtown Seattle’s skyline. It features expansive grassy hills excellent for picnics, kite flying, or relaxing conversations while surrounded by intriguing remnants of old gasification plant machinery, adding a historic flavor. Another popular nearby destination is Green Lake Park, centered around a 2.8-mile path that invites running, biking, skating, and walking with friends amidst lush greenery. This spot also offers water activities such as swimming or paddleboarding, ideal for groups interested in an active day outside. For a quieter escape into nature, Ravenna Park provides forested trails, tennis courts, and playgrounds where groups can enjoy idyllic walks or play outdoor games while immersed in a peaceful ravine setting. These parks are accessible from the campus, extending the range of your group's meetup options well beyond the university grounds.
What cultural and social experiences make Seattle University a vibrant meetup spot?
Seattle University is situated in an intellectually and culturally rich neighborhood, which contributes to its vibrancy as a meetup destination. The surrounding University District is known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and cultural venues, allowing groups to explore local cuisine and shopping before or after campus activities. Nearby, the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture offers an enriching experience with exhibits ranging from Indigenous artifacts to dinosaur fossils, perfect for groups interested in learning and exploration. The campus itself frequently hosts educational events, community programs, and student performances that meeting groups can participate in or attend. On a more relaxed note, the vibrant university community and its facilities—including cozy libraries and inviting study lounges—provide great spaces for casual hangouts or deeper conversations. With numerous events and a diverse student body, Seattle University fosters a lively social culture that blends academic rigor with community interaction, making it a stimulating and memorable setting for a group gathering.
How does Seattle University foster inclusivity and community among visitors and participants?
One of Seattle University’s core strengths as a venue for group meetups is its dedication to inclusivity and belonging. The University Recreation program explicitly embraces imperfection, welcoming everyone regardless of skill or background to participate in fitness and sports activities. This creates a supportive environment where friends can feel comfortable trying new things together without pressure. The recreational facilities and programs actively encourage social connection by promoting teamwork and community values. Moreover, the Outdoor Recreation program’s mission to “make the outdoors accessible to all” by offering subsidized or free activities highlights the university’s commitment to breaking down barriers that can prevent participation. This inclusive ethos extends beyond activities to the campus culture at large, where diversity and personal expression are valued and celebrated. For gathering groups, this means you are surrounded by an environment that respects and nurtures individual and collective identity, fostering deeper bonds and an uplifting experience.
What are practical reasons for hosting your meetup at Seattle University?
Seattle University is not only appealing for its activities and culture but also highly practical as a meetup location. The campus enjoys excellent connectivity within Seattle’s University District, making it easy for attendees to access public transportation, nearby eateries, and various entertainment options. Facilities such as the Eisiminger Fitness Center and common gathering spaces are well-maintained, modern, and welcoming, ensuring comfortable and convenient use for groups. Operating hours for University Recreation are generous, including weekends, which provides flexibility in scheduling your gathering. The diverse range of indoor and outdoor venues allows meetups to adapt to different weather conditions and group sizes. Furthermore, Seattle University’s recognized rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 150 reviews reflects a generally positive visitor experience, adding confidence for organizers that their group event will be supported by competent staff and quality amenities. These logistical advantages combined with vibrant community energy make Seattle University a smart choice for hosting memorable meetups with family or friends.
What opportunities exist at Seattle University for educational and unique shared experiences?
Seattle University offers plenty of ways for groups to engage in educational and memorable activities that go beyond typical social meetups. The campus environment naturally encourages intellectual interaction, with access to impressive facilities such as libraries, lecture halls, and cultural centers. Groups interested in history, culture, or science can combine their visit with tours or visits to nearby landmarks like the University District’s museums or local theaters. On-campus talks, workshops, and community programs frequently take place and often welcome guests, providing stimulating content for groups wanting to learn and discuss together. Additionally, Seattle University supports experiential learning through its outdoor programs, which emphasize leadership, environmental awareness, and personal growth. These programs offer group outings that are both fun and meaningful, strengthening bonds through shared challenges and discoveries. By choosing Seattle University for your meetup, your group benefits from an enriching mix of academic and practical learning opportunities integrated with recreational and social elements.
Which types of group sizes and interests are best suited for meetups at Seattle University?
Seattle University is highly versatile for meeting groups of nearly any size and interest, providing a variety of settings and activities to accommodate different social dynamics. Small groups or intimate family gatherings might enjoy quiet spots around campus or join recreational classes and outdoor excursions that encourage close interaction. Medium-sized groups will find the intramural sports and Esports teams particularly appealing for fostering teamwork and friendly competition in a structured environment. For larger groups, the university's open spaces, event halls, and connections to parks like Gas Works enable accommodation of bigger celebrations or community events with plenty of room for movement and group activities. The wide spectrum of interests—ranging from fitness enthusiasts, gamers, nature lovers, to culture seekers—means Seattle University offers a communal space where everyone’s preferences can find expression. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice whether your group wants an active day, a cultural exploration, or a relaxing social gathering in a supportive and well-equipped venue.