Nestled in the picturesque town of Oxford, Ohio, Miami University offers a unique blend of rich history and vibrant campus life. Known for its stunning red-brick architecture and lush green spaces, the university provides an inviting atmosphere for both students and visitors alike.
The surrounding area boasts an array of activities and attractions that cater to sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers. Whether you’re catching a thrilling RedHawks game or exploring the charming local shops and eateries, there’s something for everyone.
In this travel guide, we’ll delve into the best ways to experience all that Miami University and the town of Oxford have to offer. From must-see landmarks to hidden gems, get ready to discover the heart of this quintessential college town.
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Key Facts about Miami University
- Address: Miami University, 501 E. High Street, Oxford, OH 45056
- Date Established: Miami University was founded in 1809 and is the second-oldest university in Ohio.
- Campus Size: The main campus in Oxford spans approximately 2,138 acres.
- Notable Alumni: Notable alumni include Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President of the United States, and Paul Ryan, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.
- Mascot: The university’s mascot is Swoop the RedHawk.
- Other Relevant Information: Miami University is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and liberal arts, consistently ranking among the top public universities for return on investment and employment rates for graduates (source: Miami University Quick Facts).
Unique and Interesting Information about Miami University Campus
- Historic Foundation: Miami University, located in Oxford, Ohio, was founded in 1809, making it one of the oldest public universities in the United States.
- Architectural Beauty: The campus is known for its beautiful Georgian-style architecture and has been recognized for its picturesque and cohesive design.
- Cradle of Coaches: Miami University is often referred to as the “Cradle of Coaches” because of its history of producing successful football coaches, including legends like Paul Brown and Woody Hayes.
- Strong Academic Reputation: The university is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the nation for its strong academic programs and commitment to undergraduate teaching.
- Global Opportunities: Miami University offers extensive study abroad programs, with opportunities in over 90 countries, encouraging students to gain global perspectives.
- Vibrant Student Life: The university boasts a vibrant student life with over 600 student organizations, including a strong Greek life presence and numerous cultural, academic, and recreational clubs.
Points of Interest on Miami University Campus
- Miami University Art Museum – 801 S Patterson Ave, Oxford, OH 45056. This museum offers a diverse collection of art and artifacts, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors.
- Pearson Hall – 700 E High St, Oxford, OH 45056. Known for its beautiful architecture, this hall is a central hub for many academic activities and events on campus.
- Western Campus – Western Dr, Oxford, OH 45056. This area is known for its picturesque landscape and historic buildings, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk or a study session.
- Hueston Woods State Park – 6301 Park Office Rd, College Corner, OH 45003. Located a short drive from campus, this park offers outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
- Oxford Community Arts Center – 10 S College Ave, Oxford, OH 45056. This center hosts a variety of cultural events, including art exhibits, theater performances, and community workshops.
- Patterson’s Café – 103 W Spring St, Oxford, OH 45056. A popular spot among students and locals alike, this café is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options.
How to Travel to Miami University Campus
- By Air:
- Fly into Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), which is approximately 50 miles from the campus.
- Fly into Dayton International Airport (DAY), which is about 60 miles from the campus.
- Shuttle services and rental cars are available from both airports to reach the campus.
- By Train:
- Amtrak services are available to Cincinnati Union Terminal, which is about 40 miles from the campus.
- From the train station, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to reach the campus.
- By Car:
- Miami University is accessible via major highways including I-75, I-70, and US-27.
- Parking is available on campus for visitors.
- Public Transportation:
- Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA) offers bus services to the campus from various locations.
- Local taxi services and ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft are also available.
- By Bus:
- Greyhound and Megabus services are available to Cincinnati and Dayton, from where you can take a shuttle or rent a car to reach the campus.
What to See
What to See on Miami University Main Campus
- Upham Hall – Located at 100 Bishop Circle, Oxford, OH 45056. This iconic building is known for its stunning architecture and serves as a central point for many academic departments.
- Armstrong Student Center – Address: 550 E Spring St, Oxford, OH 45056. A vibrant hub for student activities, dining, and events, offering a glimpse into campus life.
- King Library – Situated at 151 S Campus Ave, Oxford, OH 45056. This library is not only a resource center but also a place to appreciate modern academic facilities and historical collections.
- Miami University Art Museum – Located at 801 S Patterson Ave, Oxford, OH 45056. The museum integrates the university’s rich resources for the study and preservation of art, material culture, and natural history.
- Natural Areas Trails – Spanning over 1,000 acres with 17 miles of trails, these natural areas offer serene landscapes perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, connecting the community with nature (source: City of Oxford).
Where to Eat
- Skipper’s Pub – 121 E High St, Oxford, OH 45056
A local favorite known for its casual atmosphere and delicious pub fare. It’s a great spot to relax with friends and enjoy a variety of beers on tap. - Bagel and Deli – 119 E High St, Oxford, OH 45056
Famous for its creative and extensive menu of bagel sandwiches, this place is a must-visit for a quick and satisfying meal any time of day. - The Pickle and Pig – 77 S Main St, Oxford, OH 45056
Offering a unique blend of Southern comfort food and modern twists, this restaurant is perfect for those looking to indulge in hearty and flavorful dishes. - Paesano’s Pasta House – 308 S Campus Ave, Oxford, OH 45056
A cozy Italian restaurant that serves up classic pasta dishes and other Italian favorites, making it an ideal spot for a comforting and delicious meal. - Bob ’52 and Doris ’52 Pulley Diner – Armstrong Student Center, Miami University
Located in the heart of the student center, this 1950’s-style diner offers a nostalgic dining experience with a variety of classic American dishes available 24/7.
Where to Stay Near Miami University Campus
- The Marcum Hotel and Conference Center
Address: 951 East Withrow Street, Oxford, OH 45056
Reason: Located on the Miami University campus, The Marcum offers convenience and comfort with modern amenities and easy access to university events.
Book here - Hampton Inn Oxford/Miami University Area
Address: 375 S College Ave, Oxford, OH 45056
Reason: This hotel is just four blocks from the university, offering free breakfast, a fitness center, and an indoor pool, making it a great choice for visitors.
Book here - Best Western Sycamore Inn
Address: 6 E Sycamore St, Oxford, OH 45056
Reason: Known for its friendly service and proximity to the university, this hotel also features an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
Book here - The Elms Hotel
Address: 75 S Main St, Oxford, OH 45056
Reason: The only uptown hotel, The Elms is within walking distance to Miami University and offers a fitness facility and on-site restaurant.
Book here - Courtyard Hamilton
Address: 1 Riverfront Plaza, Hamilton, OH 45011
Reason: Located a short drive from the campus, this hotel offers picturesque views of the Great Miami River and modern amenities for a comfortable stay.
Book here
Conclusion
Miami University offers an unparalleled blend of academic excellence and vibrant campus life, making it a must-visit destination for prospective students and their families. The picturesque campus, rich history, and engaging community events ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.
To fully immerse yourself in the Miami University atmosphere, take advantage of the detailed lodging recommendations provided above. Booking your stay through these trusted options will enhance your visit, allowing you to explore all that this renowned institution has to offer.
Additional Details About Visiting Miami University Campus
- Parking: Miami University offers two parking garages and approximately 100 parking meters on campus that do not require a permit for use. For more information on parking areas, visit the Parking Areas page.
- Visitor Permits: Visitors can purchase a permit online for $5 per day. Registration requires the license plate number, make, model, and color of the vehicle. More details can be found on the Permits page.
- Visitor Center: The visitor parking spots are conveniently located on the west side of Rentschler Hall and in the parking lot opposite, on the east side of University Boulevard. For more information, visit the Visitor Parking page.
- Stadiums: Miami University is home to Yager Stadium, located at 700 Weeb Ewbank Way, Oxford, OH 45056. This stadium hosts the university’s football games and other major events.
- Campus Services Center: For all parking and transit-related inquiries, you can visit the Campus Services Center located at 034 Nellie Craig Walker Hall, 301 S. Campus Avenue, Oxford, OH 45056. More details are available on the Parking and Transportation page.
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