Choosing the right university isn’t just about academics. It’s also about location. The University of Illinois Springfield offers a unique advantage for our students. We are home to a campus in the heart of Illinois that makes exploring some of the Midwest’s most exciting cities easy and convenient. For example, Chicago and St. Louis are just a few hours away.
Easy Travel
UIS students have multiple ways to travel to the city. It takes about three hours to travel to Chicago by car. St. Louis, less than two! If you need to do some studying along the way, you can take the Amtrak train from downtown Springfield to either location. Traveling by train also eliminates the stress of parking and city driving, making it a hassle-free way to experience a larger city.
Chicago is a bustling metropolis full of iconic landmarks and diverse cultural offerings. Curious minds can explore world-class institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. The city also boasts stunning architecture, home to famous buildings like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center. Sports fans can catch a game, whether it is baseball, basketball, football, hockey or soccer, depending on the season. Chicago is home to multiple major league teams, and the energy at a live sporting event is always unforgettable. The food scene is equally exciting, with deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and diverse international cuisine. Students can spend their free time strolling along the lakefront, visiting Millennium Park and attending major music festivals.
St. Louis offers a rich blend of history, culture, and fun. Art and history lovers can visit the renowned St. Louis Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum, while architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the iconic Gateway Arch. The city’s sports scene is alive with action, from football, hockey or baseball. Foodies can indulge in local specialties like St. Louis-style pizza, toasted ravioli, and gooey butter cake. Outdoorsy students can enjoy the city’s parks and trails, including Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country. With events like the Festival of Nations and the Whitaker Music Festival, St. Louis also offers vibrant festivals and seasonal activities to explore year-round.
A Perfect Balance
Studying at UIS means you get the best of both worlds—a nature-rich, close-knit campus community in Springfield and easy access to big-city experiences. By choosing UIS, you will not only enjoy everything Springfield has to offer but also be able to explore other major cities in the region. Our central location makes it convenient to experience the best of both small-town and big-city life. Apply today and discover all the possibilities that await you at UIS!