Whether you’re ready for it or not, spring weather is coming. While spring in Seattle may not be the hottest, no one can deny that the UW Seattle campus looks especially beautiful in the springtime. From the famous cherry blossom trees in the Quad to the Drumheller fountain finally being turned on, UW in the spring has some amazing views.
Unless you’re in your fourth year at UW, it is highly likely that this is your first spring on campus — with this being the first in-person Spring Quarter since 2019. Finally, students are able to appreciate the sights and views of UW in reality once again. If you’re looking for some great places to sit outside and study or eat lunch on campus, look no further; this list will show you the very best places to sit outside at UW.
- Sylvan Grove
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A true classic, Sylvan Grove is where every UW student is meant to begin and end their journey at the university. If you never visited because you had your orientation online, you might not know that Sylvan Grove is a beautiful hidden meadow, perfect for both picnics and as a quiet reading spot. The four columns add to the mystical aura, giving the Grove a magical feel.
- Hub Lawn
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Another classic for UW students, HUB Lawn is the ultimate place to go sit under a big tree and read, eat the lunch you just bought from the HUB, or even try out the swings! With a lawn big enough for plenty of people, this area can get pretty busy when the weather is nice, so get there early to claim a spot and you’ll be fine.
- The Quad
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Specifically during cherry blossom season, the Quad is the ultimate location to sit if you want to bask in the spring vibes of the season. When the trees are all decked out in pink flowers, sitting in the Quad can feel like you’re the main character in a feel-good romance novel. The only downside is, this is by far one of the most popular places on campus, so be sure to visit earlier in the day before rush hour if you want a semblance of peaceful solitude.
- Outside the Physics/Astronomy Buildings
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While not a popular choice, the small yard in front of the Physics/Astronomy Buildings is one of my favorite places to sit when the weather is nice. While it may not seem pretty at first, tucked in the corner behind the classroom buildings is several outdoor tables and chairs, perfect for eating a quiet lunch. Plus, you’re so high up you can see just over Portage Bay; a spectacular view on a sunny day.
You may notice that some of the more popular spots on campus have been left out. For example, I personally don’t like to sit around Drumheller fountain, just because there really isn’t anywhere to go without being bombarded by students exiting Bagley, and there’s really just too much geese poop on the ground. Regardless of my opinions though, our campus is big enough for everyone to have a spectacular spring picnic, so sit anywhere you like!