U of I locations: Moscow, the main campus

From the moment you step onto campus, you’ll see why University of Idaho is celebrated as the most beautiful college in the state. Charming green spaces, walkable paths, iconic buildings and inviting plazas create an atmosphere that’s stunning and approachable. Don’t be surprised if a Vandal greets you with a smile and wave, especially along the historic Hello Walk. This tree-lined path steeped in U of I tradition, is more than just a sidewalk —it’s a reflection of the university. Its name comes from a former president who made it his daily mission to greet everyone he passed on his way to work.

Our community extends beyond campus. Moscow is a tight-knit town of about 25,000 people, full of community activities, events and businesses that welcome college students. You’ll find incredible opportunities for recreation and exploration in the surrounding area, too. Wondering how to pronounce Moscow? It rhymes with “let’s go.”

Want to see it for yourself? Plan your campus visit today. 

Whether you live in the residence halls, a fraternity or sorority or off-campus, you’ll be minutes away from your classes and places to study or play.

There’s always something to do: grab a snack in the Idaho Student Union Building, check out a book from the University of Idaho Library’s more than two million holdings, take in the beauty of nature in the Arboretum and Botanical Garden, watch a play in the Hartung Theater or a game in the ICCU Arena, take a fitness class in the Student Recreation Center, catch a Vandal Entertainment-sponsored concert and so much more.

Venture only a few minutes off campus and you’ll be in downtown Moscow. It’s no wonder Seattle Magazine called it “a college town with a soul that shines through year-round.” The calendar is packed with festivals, cultural events and community gatherings like the award-winning farmers market on Main Street.

No matter what you like to do, you’ll find an activity that fits your lifestyle. Experience a local art gallery or theater production, dance to a live band at a street fair or a local coffee shop, dress in period garb for the Moscow Renaissance Fair or enter a local 5K run or bike race. Volunteer opportunities abound with local nonprofits that support the arts, sustainability, youth and children, the LGBTQ community, health care and more.

And did we mention food? You’ll find a huge co-op with natural and organic options, cozy pubs and coffee shops with Pacific Northwest vibes, locally owned restaurants with cuisines from around the world and funky hole-in-the-wall spots for affordable college-town snacks.

See the City of Moscow website for even more experiences.

Moscow sits in the heart of the Palouse, a one-of-a-kind landscape of rolling hills and scenic vistas. We’re surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers, all full of opportunities for adventure, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing or just taking in a gorgeous sunset. You’ll experience all four seasons in North Idaho, too — so bring your sunscreen for a late-summer rafting trip and your parka for skiing, snowboarding or ice skating in the winter.

Gain outdoor skills and connect with other adventurous students through the U of I Outdoor Program. Want to take your own excursion? Rent equipment through the Outdoor Rental Center.