When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
UIC Student Center East
Why UIC Student Center East is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
UIC Student Center East (SCE) is a dynamic hub of student life located at 750 S Halsted Street on the UIC East Campus. Known as the 5th largest student union in the world and part of the combined 3rd largest UIC Student Centers system, SCE offers an unparalleled variety of amenities and gathering spaces that make it a prime destination to meet friends and engage on campus. This iconic Walter Netsch-designed building features a lively food court with diverse dining options, convenient stores including an Amazon store and UIC Bookstore, as well as a bank. Students frequently gather in its welcoming lounges such as the First Floor Circle Lounge, which buzzes with energy and provides a perfect spot for socializing, studying, or quick meals. Beyond amenities, SCE houses important student services like the Center for Student Involvement, Wellness Center, and Commuter Resource Center, fostering a supportive community environment. Offering sweeping Chicago skyline views and versatile event spaces like the Cardinal and Fort Dearborn rooms, it also serves as a preferred venue for meetings and campus events. Open daily with extensive hours, Student Center East truly embodies the vibrant and inclusive spirit of UIC, making it a great place to connect, unwind, and enjoy campus life.
Here's what people think of UIC Student Center East
As of recent, UIC Student Center East holds a 4.5-star rating based on 766 reviews.
Reviews of UIC Student Center East highlight its essential role as a central meeting place on campus with generally high satisfaction, reflected in its 4.5-star rating from over 700 reviews. Many users praise the wide range of food options in the food court, convenient services including the bookstore and banking facilities, and the welcoming atmosphere of the lounge areas, especially the Circle Lounge. Positive feedback often mentions the vibrant student life ambiance and the building's design, which provides comfortable spaces for studying and socializing. Visitors also appreciate the variety of meeting rooms and event spaces, which cater well to different needs, making it popular for both casual and organized gatherings. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out issues such as occasional overcrowding during peak times and limited seating in some areas. A few users also note that certain food options can be pricey or inconsistent in quality. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus affirms that Student Center East remains a vital and highly valued destination for students and campus visitors alike. Its blend of functionality, community resources, and lively social spaces ensures it continues to be a cornerstone of the UIC experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Luis Aguirre
Nice place to hang out and meet with other students or simply hang out in between classes. The food court has decent options and albeit the high costs of the store items they are comparable to those in a convenience store.
ma xim
UIC Student Center East is a great place for both students and visitors. The building is modern and well-maintained, with plenty of space to relax, study, or meet with friends. The food court offers a good variety of options, from fast food to healthier meals, and the seating area is large and clean. There’s also a convenience store and a campus bookstore inside, which is very handy. Wi-Fi is reliable, and the atmosphere feels safe and student-friendly. Great location on campus with easy access to public transportation. Definitely one of the best student centers I’ve been to!
Amin
The atmosphere in this place is very positive. There is a lot of student traffic and a lot of fun and games here. There are also places to buy coffee or food. It's like a passenger terminal. People come and go, and each has a story. This. This building was built for comfort and relaxation. Here you can several furnished halls. These hall stylish with a variety of sofas, relaxation chair, sleeping chairs, musical chairs 😊 and ... . In UIC student center you can study, relax or rest. if you became hungry or thirsty, have access to Dunkin donate, Subway or etc less that 30 seconds. Comfortable and accessible. 👍 👌 💛
Enrique Perez Jr.
the restaurants here are okay. you'd be better off going to the 7-11 down halsted, honestly. dont buy anything from the store either. it's marked up a looot... 6 dollars for some gummies.
Sarthak Banga
UIC the name says it all! The best in quality and the design of the campus space is wonderful. Great learning spaces at every step in campus.
How to reach UIC Student Center East
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Why UIC Student Center East may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at UIC Student Center East with your friends?
Gathering with friends at UIC Student Center East (SCE) is an exceptional choice because it offers a vibrant, dynamic environment that perfectly balances relaxation, engagement, and convenience. Located at the heart of the University of Illinois Chicago’s East Campus, this center is more than just a typical student union; it is the 5th largest student union in the world, providing an energetic hub designed explicitly for community and connection. The inviting atmosphere, created by architectural wonders by Walter Netsch with thoughtful modern updates, includes sweeping views of the Chicago skyline, adding a scenic backdrop to your meetup. Whether you're looking to catch up over a casual meal, study together in comfortable lounges, or plan an event in one of the many meeting rooms, SCE has it all under one roof.
Beyond its function as a student center, SCE pulses with life through its comprehensive amenities—ranging from diverse dining options and an Amazon store to a convenience store and the UIC Bookstore. This makes it incredibly easy for groups to spend quality time while juggling both productivity and leisure. From informal quick lunches in its lively food court to thoughtful discussions over coffee in cozy lounges, the ambiance supports connection and engagement among friends. The center is highly accessible, equipped with functional technology, and offers multiple spaces designed to foster collaboration and relaxation. For those reasons, UIC Student Center East stands out as a premier destination to rally friends, ensuring a memorable and comfortable gathering infused with the true spirit of community.
What types of activities and amenities does UIC Student Center East offer for groups?
UIC Student Center East is packed with diverse activities and amenities that make it an ideal location for group meetups. Whether your group seeks fun, productive study time, casual dining, or meeting space, the center has options tailored for all preferences. One of the highlights for casual hangouts is the 1st Floor Circle Lounge, a vibrant space where friends can relax between classes, chat, or enjoy a quick bite. Another favorite lounge is the Montgomery Ward Lounge on the second floor, perfect for groups wanting a more laid-back vibe while catching up. Beyond lounging, the center’s food court and nearby cafés, including Dunkin’ Donuts near the Pier Room, provide a variety of eating options from quick snacks to sit-down meals, satisfying different appetites and schedules.
For those who want to mix productivity with socializing, the study lounges scattered throughout the building offer quiet zones and collaborative spaces. Group study rooms equipped with microwaves and ample natural light make it easy to combine work and play seamlessly. Additionally, the center hosts the Center for Student Involvement, Commuter Resource Center, and Wellness Center, providing daily activities, workshops, and wellness programs that friends can attend together. This creates opportunities for shared experiences beyond typical meetups. Moreover, the East and West Terraces offer refreshing outdoor areas to unwind or host informal gatherings with wonderful campus views. Together, these amenities cater strongly to varied interests and encourage both relaxation and interaction within a lively yet comfortable setting.
Why is UIC Student Center East perfect for hosting meetings and events?
UIC Student Center East is exceptionally well-equipped to host meetings and events, making it a convenient and versatile option for group gatherings. It features a series of meeting rooms known as the Tower Rooms, spread over three floors, designed to accommodate different group sizes and event types. For example, the Cardinal Room is a comfortable, medium-sized space perfect for lectures, presentations, or meal-based events, characterized by inviting brick features, plenty of natural light, and an adjacent lounge area that promotes informal mingling. The Fort Dearborn Room is ideal for receptions or small social gatherings, with a unique horseshoe shape and art-filled walls, plus views overlooking peaceful terraces for breaks.
Additionally, Meeting Rooms 613 and 713 offer flexible space configurations, including settings for up to 80 people in an auditorium format or more intimate arrangements like dinners or conferences. These rooms feature large mirrors, making them suitable for varied group activities such as dance classes or workshops, with plenty of natural light to energize participants. The venue supports technology needs by providing projectors, microphones, laptops, sound systems, and guest Wi-Fi (available for a fee), with onsite technical support to ensure smooth operation during events. Catering services are also available through in-house or external catering companies, though bringing your own food is restricted. These comprehensive options make SCE a professional yet friendly space that meets the practical needs of group organizers while maintaining an inviting atmosphere for attendees.
What makes UIC Student Center East a great spot for study groups and relaxed learning?
UIC Student Center East is an excellent spot for study groups and relaxed learning because it blends quiet, focused environments with vibrant social spaces. Multiple study lounges throughout the building cater to different study styles: solo work, small group discussions, or collaborative projects. Spaces like the Circle Lounge (first floor) and the Montgomery Lounge (second floor) are popular for their lively yet studious ambiance, providing comfortable seating and access to food and drink during breaks. The Pier Room, located near Dunkin’ Donuts, offers microwaves and seating for those who want to combine meals with study sessions or need a reliable spot to recharge their devices and themselves.
For groups needing privacy and quieter areas, the Commuter Center and Inner Circle offer individual study zones that minimize distractions without isolation, creating a focused yet connected atmosphere. These areas are open throughout the center’s operating hours, encouraging flexibility for any class schedule. Natural light floods many spaces, promoting alertness and a positive mood, while the availability of outlets and ergonomically designed furniture supports stamina for extended study sessions. The combination of social and secluded areas within SCE allows study groups to shift seamlessly between focused work and collaborative interaction, making learning feel less like a task and more like a shared experience.
How does the location of UIC Student Center East add to its appeal for meetups?
The location of UIC Student Center East is a significant part of its appeal for meetups, offering convenience, accessibility, and beautiful surroundings. Situated at 750 S. Halsted Street, it lies right at the “Front Door” of UIC’s East Campus, providing a natural meeting point for students and visitors alike. Its proximity to major transportation routes, including the Jane Adams Interchange, makes it easy to reach whether you’re coming by car, bike, or public transit. Parking is available on site, further simplifying logistics for groups who drive.
The building’s design by Walter Netsch offers spectacular views of the Chicago skyline, making meetups visually special and memorable. For groups wanting a breath of fresh air, the East and West Terraces provide excellent outdoor spaces that blend natural light with urban scenery. Beyond the immediate location, the center is complemented by nearby campus facilities such as the Student Recreation Facility across the street, which adds another dimension to group gatherings by offering fitness and leisure activities close at hand. Together, these elements create a highly accessible, comfortable, and stimulating environment that encourages people to come together, spend time, and enjoy the best of what both the campus and the city have to offer.