Background

Northeastern Illinois University: A Diverse Urban University

4.1 (200)

A diverse Chicago university with a rich history, offering accessible education and a vibrant campus life in the heart of North Park.

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is a public university located in Chicago's North Park neighborhood, known for its diverse student body and commitment to providing accessible education. Founded in 1867 as a teacher training institution, NEIU has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide range of programs in the liberal arts, education, and business.

A brief summary to Northeastern Illinois University

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Northeastern Illinois University.

  • Explore the diverse cultural events on campus, including concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances.
  • Take advantage of the campus recreation facilities, such as the PE Complex, for basketball, volleyball, and other activities.
  • Visit the Ronald Williams Library, which offers computer labs, audio labs, and a café.
  • Check out the Student Union for dining options, relaxation rooms, and student organization events.
  • Attend a performance or tour the exhibits at the Salme Harju Steinberg Fine Arts Center.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

North Park Village Nature Center

North Park Village Nature Center: An Urban Oasis

Old Treaty Elm

The Old Treaty Elm: A Living Testament to History

Irish American Heritage Center

Irish American Heritage Center: A Hub of Irish Culture in Chicago

Unlock the Best of Northeastern Illinois University

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Northeastern Illinois University is accessible via public transportation. From downtown Chicago, take the Brown Line 'L' train to the Kimball station. Transfer to the #82 or #92 bus heading north on Kimball Avenue. Get off the bus at Bryn Mawr Avenue and walk two blocks west to reach the main campus. A single ride on the 'L' is $2.50, and a bus transfer is free with your Ventra card. Alternatively, a single bus ride is $2.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Ogilvie Transportation Center, a taxi or ride-share to Northeastern Illinois University will cost approximately $30-$40 and take about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are designated pick-up and drop-off locations near the main entrance of the university.

  • Driving

    If driving, the university is located at 5500 N St Louis Ave, Chicago, IL 60625. From the north or south, take I-94 (Edens Expressway) to the Peterson Avenue exit. Head east on Peterson Avenue to St. Louis Avenue, then turn north. Limited parking is available on campus. Daily parking permits cost $5 and can be purchased through the Passport Parking app. There are also EV charging stations in the NEIU Access Rd Garage. Hourly parking rates in the garage vary, but expect to pay around $2-$3 per hour.

  • Biking

    For those arriving by bike, Divvy bike-sharing stations are located near the corner of North St. Louis Avenue and West Balmoral Avenue. Bike racks are also available on campus. A Divvy day pass costs $16.50, allowing for unlimited 30-minute rides.

Discover more about Northeastern Illinois University

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU), situated in Chicago's North Park neighborhood, holds a rich history rooted in teacher education. Originally established in 1867 as a teacher training school, it has grown into a diverse and comprehensive urban university. NEIU's mission is to provide accessible and affordable education to students from all backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on serving the needs of the Chicago metropolitan area.The university's main campus is a hub of activity, featuring a mix of academic buildings, the Ronald Williams Library, and the Student Union, which is the center of campus life. The Salme Harju Steinberg Fine Arts Center is home to the Communication, Media & Theatre, and Music & Dance departments, offering a wide array of cultural events open to the public. NEIU also has multiple locations throughout Chicago, including El Centro, which focuses on serving the Latino community, and the Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies, dedicated to urban community studies.NEIU is known for its diverse student population, representing over 40 ethnic groups. The university is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. NEIU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can connect with others from different backgrounds. Campus life includes a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities, as well as recreational opportunities.

Explore the best of what Northeastern Illinois University has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Northeastern Illinois

File:Willis Tower From Lake.jpg - Wikipedia

Explore Northeastern Illinois: From the skyline of Chicago to the serene landscapes of state parks, discover the diverse attractions and rich history of this dynamic region.

Tell me more about Northeastern Illinois

Explore the Old Treaty Elm in Chicago, a historical landmark symbolizing treaties that shaped America, surrounded by serene natural beauty.

Old Treaty Elm

Discover a hidden gem in Chicago: explore diverse ecosystems and historical landmarks at North Park Village Nature Center.

North Park Village Nature Center

Select Currency