Background

Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Explore Southern Illinois University Carbondale: A historic campus with diverse programs, research opportunities, and a strong commitment to community engagement.

4.4
A question is required

Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale, the flagship campus of the SIU system, began in 1869 as a teacher's college and has evolved into a comprehensive public research university. With a diverse student body and a commitment to community engagement, SIU offers a wide array of programs and contributes significantly to the region.

A brief summary to Southern Illinois University

Local tips

  • Take a walk around Campus Lake for a relaxing break and scenic views.
  • Visit Morris Library to explore its extensive collection, including the John Dewey collection.
  • Check out the events calendar for public lectures, performances, and exhibitions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Carbondale Amtrak Station, head north on S Illinois Ave, then turn right onto E Main St. Continue east, then turn left onto S Washington St. Walk north until you reach Lincoln Dr, where you'll find the SIU campus. This walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    JAX Mass Transit and Saluki Express Mass Transit provide bus services in Carbondale. Check the schedules for routes that stop near the SIU campus. A single ride fare is typically around $1 - $2. Exact fare information can be found on the JAX and Saluki Express websites.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and taxis are available in Carbondale. From the Carbondale Amtrak Station, a ride to SIU campus will cost approximately $8 - $12, depending on the service and time of day.

  • Driving

    From Highway 51, turn onto E Main St heading east. Then, turn left onto S Washington St and continue north until you reach the SIU campus. Visitor parking is available in various lots, including those near the Student Center and Student Services Building. A guest parking permit costs $5 per day. Metered parking is also available.

Unlock the Best of Southern Illinois University

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU) stands as a beacon of education and research in Southern Illinois. Founded in 1869 as Southern Illinois Normal University, its initial mission was to train teachers. Over the decades, SIU has grown into a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university's history is marked by significant milestones, including achieving university status in 1943 and establishing a separate campus in Edwardsville in 1957. SIU Carbondale is known for its commitment to diversity, with a significant percentage of minority students in its enrollment. The campus itself spans 1,200 acres, blending modern facilities with natural beauty, including the nearby Shawnee National Forest. SIU Carbondale offers a vibrant campus life with various facilities and landmarks, including Faner Hall, Thompson Woods, and Morris Library, which houses over 2.5 million volumes. The university's landmark clock tower is a recognizable symbol. SIU's research centers, such as the Center for Archaeological Investigations and the Coal Research Center, contribute to advancements in various fields. The university is also dedicated to community engagement, with numerous initiatives benefiting the residents of central and southern Illinois.

Popular Experiences near Southern Illinois University

Popular Hotels near Southern Illinois University

Select Currency