No matter whether you are new to campus or have been here for years, there is always more to discover! 

In our introductory meeting with this year's SAGE members, we asked them to share a few hidden gems on campus. (SAGE – Students Advising on Graduate Education – is the Graduate College's student advisory board.) 

Here are some of their favorites!  

Places to enjoy the outdoors

• I love walking the paths in the Arboretum on sunny days! You can also visit the Japan House. 
• I feel at home at the campus rec softball fields. 
• The Illini Grove has shady picnic spots and sand volleyball courts. 
• Running or biking through the South Campus Farms through corn, cows, and horses!  

Places to peruse collections

• The Rare Books and Manuscript Library has some amazing things in their collection and on public display. 
• The Spurlock Museum has lots of interesting exhibits, great staff, and it is very quiet! 
• Krannert Art Museum has a wonderful collection and a lovely garden including tucked away sculptures and benches.

Study spots  

• The basement in the Siebel Center for Design is an extremely cozy place to get some work done (or nap!). 
• The Campus Instructional Facility Monumental Study Steps have a beautiful view out the windows and lots of outlets. 
•  Also mentioned: any coffee shop or cafe on or close to campus with open tables.

Mysterious Bonus

There's a network of tunnels that connects the campus buildings. It's a lifesaver in the winter, and a little creepy/fun to explore. There's access in the basement of Turner Hall, and then part of the fun is seeing where you pop out in other buildings.