At 2180 Vachel Lindsay Drive, you'll find University Hall (UHB)—the bustling academic and administrative hub of UIS. This is where students dive into engaging lectures, connect with professors, and access essential campus services.
What’s Inside?
- Classrooms where learning comes to life
- Faculty offices where you can chat with professors about assignments or career advice
- Student services to help you navigate your UIS journey
Perfectly located for easy access, UHB is where ideas spark, futures take shape, and Prairie Stars shine. Need to find a specific room? Check out the campus directory for all the details.
Whether you're here for class, a quick meeting with faculty, or just passing through—UHB is where it all happens.
Where to next: Lincoln Residence Hall and Founders Residence Hall
At the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), first-year and second-year students get to call Lincoln Residence Hall (LRH) and Founders Residence Hall (FRH) home. These halls are right in the heart of campus, keeping you close to classes, dining spots, and all the best hangout areas.
Lincoln Residence Hall (LRH)
Design: LRH is a three-story residence with five housing wings. Each suite is designed for four students, featuring two double-occupancy rooms that share a semi-private bathroom.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Fully furnished rooms with twin XL beds, desks, chairs, and dressers
- Beds can be bunked or lofted to make the most of your space
- Free laundry (yes, free!) and a lounge area in every wing
- Personal heating and cooling in each room
- A Resident Assistant (RA) in every wing for support and community building
Founders Residence Hall (FRH)
Design: Just like LRH, FRH is a three-story building with five wings, featuring four-person suites with semi-private bathrooms.
What’s Inside:
- Fully furnished rooms with flexible bed configurations
- Free laundry and lounge spaces for studying or socializing
- Individual temperature control in each room
- RA support to help make your experience smooth and fun
Both LRH and FRH are designed for more than just sleeping and studying—they’re about building friendships, finding your community, and making the most of your college experience.
Want to see it for yourself? Check out the 360 Virtual Tours of Lincoln Residence Hall and Founders Residence Hall to get a real feel for your future home at UIS!
Where to next: Pass the townhomes on the way to TRAC
Looking for modern, spacious, and community-driven living at UIS? The West Campus Townhouses might be your perfect match. Nestled in Pennyroyal, Marigold, Trillium, and Foxglove courts, these townhouses offer the perfect blend of privacy and social living, giving you the best of both worlds.
What Makes Them Great?
Spacious Layout – Each townhouse has four private bedrooms and two bathrooms, so you get your own space while still living with friends. The cathedral-style ceilings make everything feel extra open and inviting.
Fully Furnished & Ready to Go
- Private Bedrooms – Includes a twin XL bed, desk, chair, and dresser for all your study and sleep needs.
- Cozy Living Room – A sofa, lounge chairs, and side tables make it the perfect spot to relax or hang out.
- Fully Equipped Kitchen – Cook up your favorite meals with a full-size fridge, stove, dishwasher, dining table, and chairs—no meal plan required.
Next-Level Convenience
- Free laundry facilities in every court, so no need to haul laundry across campus.
- Personal heating and cooling so you can keep your space exactly how you like it.
The West Campus Townhouses offer the best balance of privacy, independence, and community living, making them a top choice for students who want more space without sacrificing campus life.
Want to see what it’s like? Check out this video tour and picture yourself living in style.
Where to next: TRAC
The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) is the go-to spot for staying active, competing, or just having fun at UIS. This 72,000-square-foot facility, which opened in Fall 2007, is packed with state-of-the-art fitness zones, sports courts, and an arena that brings the energy of Prairie Stars athletics to life.
What’s Inside?
- Massive Arena – A 23,000-square-foot space that hosts volleyball and basketball games, intramurals, and major campus events, with seating for nearly 3,000 fans.
- Three Fitness Zones – Loaded with cardio machines, free weights, and functional training equipment to help you reach your fitness goals.
- Multi-Purpose Room – Perfect for fitness classes, dance, yoga, and other recreational activities.
- Racquetball/Squash Court– For fast-paced matches with friends.
- Indoor Running Track – An elevated track where 12 laps = 1 mile—ideal for runners looking to train year-round.
- Golf Simulator – Practice your swing with a high-tech virtual golf experience.
Hours:
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Beyond sports and fitness, TRAC is a central hub for campus life, hosting major university events and offering plenty of ways to stay active. Whether you're training, competing, or just looking for a fun way to break a sweat, TRAC has something for everyone.
Want more details or interested in a membership? Call the TRAC Front Desk at (217) 206-6658 or email campusrec@uis.edu.
Where to next: Pass Kiwanis Stadium and head to the Student Union
Kiwanis Stadium isn’t just a soccer field—it’s a place where legends are made and fans come alive. Since 1977, this historic stadium has been the home turf for the UIS Prairie Stars soccer teams, hosting three NAIA National Tournaments and the UMBRO Senior Bowl twice. Whether it's a packed crowd cheering under the lights or a game-winning goal in the final seconds, Kiwanis Stadium delivers excitement every season.
What Makes It Special?
- Room for Over 1,500 Fans – Plenty of space to bring the energy and cheer on the Prairie Stars.
- Stadium Lighting – Night games? No problem. The field stays bright for evening matches and special events.
- Upgraded Playing Surface – A 2020 geotechnical study set the stage for a synthetic turf upgrade, ensuring better playability and fewer weather delays.
More Than Just Soccer
Kiwanis Stadium was made possible by the Springfield Kiwanis Club, whose generous support helped lay the original sod. Beyond soccer, the area also features a basketball court just north of the Sport Club Field, complete with automatic lights that turn on at dusk. Open daily from sunrise to 11 PM, it’s the perfect spot for a pickup game under the stars.
For players, fans, and the Springfield community, Kiwanis Stadium isn’t just a field—it’s a place where sports bring people together.
Where to next: The Student Union
The UIS Student Union isn’t just a building—it’s the heart of campus, where students meet, eat, study, and celebrate. Located at the south end of the quad, this bustling hub is designed to bring the UIS community together with plenty of spaces to relax, connect, and get things done.
Why You’ll Love It
- Food & Coffee Fix – Grab a meal at the Union Food Studio on the first floor or head upstairs to Starbucks for your coffee break and study fuel.
- Student Leadership Center – A space built for big ideas and student voices, featuring meeting areas, offices, and workspaces for student government and volunteer groups.
- Event Headquarters – The second-floor ballroom is a flexible event space for everything from formal banquets to campus-wide celebrations.
- Sustainability in Action – With a 25,000-square-foot green roof and a rainwater reclamation system, the LEED® Gold-certified building reflects UIS’s commitment to the environment.
Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
(Hours may change during breaks and holidays—check campus updates and social media for the latest info.)
Got questions? Want to book a space? Reach out!
- Phone: 217-206-4782
- Email: studentunion@uis.edu
At UIS, the Student Union isn’t just a place—it’s where memories are made, friendships form, and campus life thrives.
Where to next: Pass the apartments on your way to the Koi Pond
Looking for a place that feels like home but keeps you close to campus life? The East Campus Apartments at UIS offer the perfect balance of independence and community, giving students a comfortable, convenient, and connected living experience.
Where You'll Live
Nestled in a quiet yet vibrant part of campus, East Campus features four apartment complexes:
- Sunflower Court
- Larkspur Court
- Clover Court
- Bluebell Court
Apartment Options – Find Your Perfect Fit!
- Each apartment offers four private bedrooms, two bathrooms, and comes complete with a living area, kitchen, and bathroom.
Awesome Amenities
- Furnished spaces – Beds, desks, chairs, and dressers—all set up for you!
- Fully equipped kitchens – Refrigerator and stove included, so you can cook up your favorite meals.
- Free laundry – No quarters needed!
- High-speed internet – Stream, study, and stay connected.
- Outdoor spaces – Relax, hang out, or catch up with neighbors in community areas.
Family-Friendly Living
Sunflower Court is designated for students with families, offering a welcoming space for those with partners, spouses, or children. Choose from:
- One-bedroom furnished apartments
- Two-bedroom furnished or unfurnished options
How to Apply
Applying is easy! Just head to the UIS Residence Life portal to secure your spot. A $250 payment is required, which includes a $200 prepayment toward housing costs and a $50 non-refundable application fee.
More Info? We've Got You!
Visit the UIS Residence Life website or contact the Residence Life office for full details.
With spacious layouts, modern amenities, and a supportive community, the East Campus Apartments let you live your best student life—your way!
Tucked away near the Health Science Building, the UIS Koi Pond is more than just a pond—it’s a serene escape in the heart of campus! This peaceful hideaway features a beautiful waterfall and is home to 16 vibrant koi fish, generously donated by the Illinois Governor's Mansion
What Makes It Special?
- A Stunning Waterfall – The soothing sound of flowing water makes this the perfect spot to relax between classes.
- Home to Colorful Koi – These graceful fish add life and beauty to the pond, making it a favorite hangout for students and visitors.
- Majestic – Over 4 feet deep and holding 70,000 gallons of water, this pond is a true campus centerpiece.
The Ultimate Chill Spot
Whether you're looking for a quiet place to reflect, a scenic study break, or just a moment of zen, the UIS Koi Pond is a must-visit destination on campus. It’s one of those hidden gems that makes UIS feel like home—a place where nature, beauty, and relaxation come together.
Where to next: Health Sciences Building
At UIS, the Health and Sciences Building (HSB) isn’t just another classroom building—it’s a cutting-edge hub where future scientists, medical professionals, and innovators get hands-on experience in their fields.
Why HSB is a Must-See:
- Home to Science & Healthcare Programs – Whether you’re diving into Biology or mastering Medical Laboratory Science, this building is where students explore, experiment, and innovate.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities – With high-tech labs, lecture halls, and research spaces, HSB is designed to support groundbreaking discoveries in health and science.
- Easy to Find – Marked as Building #4 on the UIS campus map, it’s conveniently located for students and visitors alike.
- Take a Virtual Look! – Can’t visit in person? Check out the 360 Virtual Campus Tour to explore HSB and its impressive facilities.
From microscopes to medical breakthroughs, the Health and Sciences Building is where UIS students turn knowledge into action, preparing for careers that change lives.
Where to next: Legacy Campus
The Legacy Campus at UIS isn’t just a collection of buildings—it’s a vibrant hub where students, faculty, and staff connect, create, and thrive. Home to essential student services and creative spaces, this area plays a key role in supporting academic success, personal growth, and campus engagement.
What Makes the Legacy Campus Special?
- Cox Children’s Center – Established in 1970, this cherished facility provides high-quality childcare for students, faculty, and staff, ensuring little ones are learning and growing in a nurturing environment.
- WUIS Building – The university’s public radio station, where news, music, and cultural programming bring the community together.
- Student Life Building (SLB) – The go-to spot for student organizations, leadership development, and campus events.
- Business Services Building (BSB) – The behind-the-scenes powerhouse managing the university’s financial and support services.
- Human Resources Building (HRB) – The place where faculty and staff find career support, from recruitment to professional development.
- Student Affairs Building (SAB) – Focused on student success, offering resources like career guidance, counseling, and health services, and home to the UIC School of Nursing
- Visual & Performing Arts Building (VPA) – A creative playground with art studios, galleries, and performance spaces for artists and performers to shine.
Whether you're looking for student support, artistic inspiration, or ways to get involved, the Legacy Campus is a key part of the UIS experience. It’s where history meets innovation, making campus life more enriching for everyone.
Where to next: Brookens Library
Since 1976, Brookens Library has been the go-to spot for curious minds at UIS—a place where students, faculty, and staff explore, research, and connect with a world of knowledge. Whether you're diving into a research project, looking for a quiet study spot, or just in search of your next great read, Brookens has you covered!
What Makes Brookens Library Awesome?
- A Massive Collection – With nearly 800,000 books and serials, you’ll never run out of things to read, whether you're tackling coursework or just geeking out on your favorite subject.
- Digital Delights – Prefer online access? The library offers e-books, streaming media (hello, Kanopy!), and powerful research databases to fuel your studies—anytime, anywhere.
- Expert Research Help – Stuck on a project? Librarians are like academic superheroes, offering personalized research guidance for both on-campus and online students.
- Special Collections & Archives – Discover hidden gems in the university’s archives and explore unique collections that preserve the history and heritage of UIS and the region.
- Community & Events – From workshops and author talks to campus events, Brookens is more than a library—it’s a vibrant space where ideas come to life!
Whether you need a quiet study nook, a research lifeline, or just a place to escape into a good book, Brookens Library is the heart of learning at UIS—and it's waiting for you!
Where to next: Visit the Colonnade
Standing tall at the north end of the Quad, the Colonnade isn’t just a landmark—it’s a UIS icon. Built in 2005, this stunning structure blends architecture, tradition, and fun, making it a favorite spot for students, faculty, and visitors alike.
A Closer Look at the Colonnade
- Grand Design – Rising 23 feet high, the 12 towering pillars form a dramatic circle spanning 44 feet in diameter—perfect for both quiet reflection and lively celebrations.
- Dancing Fountains – With water jets soaring up to 20 feet, the fountains create a mesmerizing display that adds movement, energy, and a refreshing escape on hot days.
More Than Just a Pretty Sight
A UIS Symbol – The Colonnade is one of the most photographed spots on campus, serving as a backdrop for countless graduation pics, campus tours, and student memories.
Traditions & Celebrations – From outdoor concerts and campus picnics to students and kids splashing through the fountains, the Colonnade is a go-to gathering place. Students even have a tradition of running through the water, making it a rite of passage!
A Springfield Treasure – In 2010, the Colonnade’s beauty was honored when it was featured as the centerpiece of the St. Joseph’s Home Official City Ornament, cementing its status as a local landmark.
A Must-Visit Spot at UIS
Integrated seamlessly into the lush greenery of the Quad, the Colonnade isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a space that brings the UIS community together. Whether you’re looking for serenity, celebration, or just a stunning spot to hang out, the Colonnade is where UIS magic happens!
Where to next: Shakespeare Garden
Step into a world where literature and nature intertwine! The Shakespeare Garden at UIS is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat inspired by the words of the Bard himself.
A Tribute to a Literary Legend
Established in 2016 to honor the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s passing, the garden is a living celebration of his work. Nestled in Patton Park, just north of Brookens Library, this tranquil space is designed for book lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a quiet moment of inspiration.
A Stroll Through Shakespeare’s World
Botanical Storytelling – The garden is filled with plants referenced in Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets. Each species is paired with a sign featuring a quote, connecting literature with the natural world.
Meet the Bard – The heart of the garden is a life-sized bronze statue of Shakespeare, masterfully sculpted by Gary Lee Price. The Bard is seated on a bench, making the perfect spot for visitors to sit beside him and contemplate the wisdom of his words.
Serene Surroundings – A bubbling fountain, charming walkways, and shaded benches create an atmosphere perfect for reading, studying, or simply escaping into thought.
More Than Just a Garden
Whether you're a Shakespeare enthusiast, a UIS student in need of a quiet study spot, or just someone who appreciates beautiful spaces, the Shakespeare Garden invites you to pause, reflect, and perhaps even recite a sonnet or two.
Where to next: The Public Affairs Center
At UIS, the Public Affairs Center (PAC) is where academics, culture, and community collide. Completed in 1980, this dynamic space was designed as part of the university’s vision for an urban campus that blends seamlessly with the surrounding restored prairie landscapes. With no cars in sight, the campus is built for walkability, connection, and discovery.
Key Features of the PAC
Sangamon Auditorium – A Stage for the Stars
If you love live performances, the Sangamon Auditorium is the place to be! This 2,000-seat concert hall has played host to Broadway shows, concerts, comedians, and world-class performances. It’s also the home of the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, making it the cultural heartbeat of UIS.
UIS Performing Arts Center – More Than Just a Venue
Beyond the main stage, the UIS Performing Arts Center offers stunning event spaces like the 3rd Floor Atrium, Main Floor Lobby, and Lower Level Concourse. These areas bathe in natural light and provide the perfect backdrop for receptions, lectures, and special events.
A Hub for Learning & Leadership
The PAC is not just about performances—it also houses academic and administrative offices, including the College of Public Affairs and Education (CPAE). Students here are preparing to shape the future in fields like public service, education, and policy-making.
Versatile Spaces for Every Occasion
With its conference rooms and classrooms, the PAC is a bustling hub of activity. Whether you’re attending a lecture, or hosting a meeting, this building offers a space that’s both functional and inspiring.
From thought-provoking discussions to show-stopping performances, the Public Affairs Center is where UIS comes to life.
Where to next: Visit Abe
The Young Lawyer statue at UIS brings a fresh take on Abraham Lincoln—before he was president, before he was on the penny, and before he grew that iconic beard!
This larger-than-life, 6-foot-4-inch bronze statue stands proudly on the UIS quad, right between the Public Affairs Center and University Hall, not far from the Colonnade. Sculpted by George Lundeen, it captures a young, ambitious Lincoln, deep in thought as he prepares for his future as a lawyer, leader, and legend.
Installed in 2016, this tribute to Lincoln’s early days was made possible by the John N. Chester Estate Fund, which helps make the UIS campus even more inspiring. The statue is also a nod to UIS’s Center for Lincoln Studies, a hub for all things Lincoln—his life, legacy, and impact on history.
So, if you’re strolling through campus, be sure to stop by, snap a pic, and maybe soak in some of Lincoln’s wisdom. After all, he once said, "The best way to predict your future is to create it." Who knows? Maybe a little Lincoln inspiration is all you need to take your next big step!
Where to next: You’ve viewed campus!