Your Central Washington University Visit Starts Here
See Yourself at CWU
The best way to get to know CWU is to experience it firsthand. Walk through our beautiful Ellensburg campus, explore residence halls and academic spaces, and connect with current CWU students to hear what it’s really like to live, learn, and thrive here.
Choose Your Visit
Select a date on the calendar to explore tour times and book your visit.
Green dates indicate available tour times.
Grey dates are fully booked or may offer a waitlist option.
Please note that joining the waitlist doesn’t guarantee a spot on the tour. If the date you want is full but you’d still like to visit, email visit@cwu.edu and we’ll see what options may be available.
Si gustaría un recorrido en español, por favor use este link para seleccionar una fecha y horario que mejor le convenga: Recorrido En Español (cwu.edu)
Make the Most of Your Visit
Your CWU visit doesn’t have to end when your tour does! If you’re visiting Monday–Friday, take some time to explore campus on your own before or after your scheduled tour.
Interested in a specific major or academic program? Reach out to the department before your visit to see if you can connect with faculty, meet a department representative, or arrange an additional experience.
You can also meet with a CWU Admissions Counselor while you’re here to ask questions, get personalized guidance, learn your next steps, and even submit your application before you leave. Admissions Appointments are available Monday–Friday.
Get Ready for Your Visit
Our campus tours last about 60–75 minutes and take place mostly outdoors, so come ready to walk and explore! We recommend comfortable walking shoes and clothing that will keep you comfortable throughout your time outside.
Ellensburg weather can be unpredictable, but don’t let that stop you from visiting! In the event of snow, ice, extreme temperatures, wildfire smoke, or other unsafe conditions, we may need to adjust, cancel, or reschedule a tour. Your safety is always our priority. If weather affects your visit, we’ll contact you with updates and next steps.
TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
Best Time to Visit
Visit when classes are in session for the best feel for campus and student life.
What to Wear
Campus tours cover about one mile and take place mostly outdoors, so comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Tours may include a variety of campus pathways and surfaces.
Accessibility
CWU is committed to providing an accessible and welcoming experience for all visitors. To request a disability accommodation for your campus tour, please call 509-963-1262 in advance so we can help make arrangements for your visit.
Parking & Check-In
Allow extra time for travel and parking. We recommend checking the WSDOT website for road conditions and delays. Parking is available in lot I-15, directly in front of the Student Union & Recreation Center (SURC). Check-in is located inside SURC 139.
Weather
Ellensburg weather varies throughout the year. Check the latest forecast before heading to campus so you know what to expect.
Admissions Appointments
Visiting Monday–Friday? Schedule an Admissions Appointment to meet with an admissions counselor, ask questions, learn more about CWU, and get personalized guidance for your next steps.
Exploring Ellensburg
Make a day of your visit! Discover local attractions, restaurants, and things to do during your stay through My Ellensburg.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can join the tour?
Bring your family or support system! Guests are welcome to join the tour.
Where can I park?
Free parking permits are emailed upon registration (please print and place on your dash). Joining a Saturday tour? Parking is free on weekends, so no parking pass is required.
Can I visit the Wildcat Shop?
Absolutely! The Wildcat Shop is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Shop the latest CWU gear and show your Wildcat pride!
What does the tour include?
Tours include a walkthrough of a residence hall and two academic buildings. While you’ll get a look at our academic spaces, tours do not enter individual classrooms.
Running behind?
Please call 509-963-1262 as soon as possible if you’re running late. Depending on your arrival time, we may be able to offer a self-guided walking tour or help you join a later tour.
How do I cancel or reschedule my visit?
Give us a call at (509) 963-1262 or email visit@cwu.edu, and we’ll help you cancel your visit or find a new tour date and time.
Schedule Your Visit
Spend the Day at CWU
Wildcat Preview Day
- Fall: October 10, 2026
- Winter: February 6, 2027
- Spring: April 10, 2027
"Day in the Life" with the Douglas Honors College (DHC)
What could your life as a Douglas Honors College student look like? Experience it for yourself with a personalized “Day in the Life” visit. Join Honors College classes, tour campus, share lunch with current students, meet with the Associate Director of DHC, and explore the Living and Learning Community in Barto Hall.
See Yourself at DHC