Photo of South Gateway Arch, courtesy of Purdue Marketing and Media / Dave Weigel

South Gateway Arch, courtesy of Purdue Marketing and Media / Dave Weigel

While You're Here - Campus Attractions

Purdue University is home to more than 50,000 students from all 50 states and approximately 130 countries. It consistently ranks among the top national universities and boasts one of the premier engineering programs in the nation. Notably, Purdue shares the No. 1 public university position for producing Fortune 500 CEOs.

While you're here, be sure to explore all that Purdue’s vibrant campus has to offer.

Arts and Culture

  • The two Purdue Galleries include rotating exhibits that feature regional, national, and international artists and student and faculty showcases. Read more about Purdue Galleries and view current and past exhibitions.
  • The Degas Collection at Purdue features a unique assembly of 74 posthumously cast bronze sculptures by Edgar Degas, showcasing themes of dancers, bathers and horses. This impressive exhibit, a gift valued at over $21 million, is displayed in the Purdue Memorial Union, showcasing the university’s commitment to the arts. For more information, visit the Degas Collection webpage.

Campus Landmarks

  • The Neil Armstrong statue, outside the Neil Armstrong Hall of Engineering, captures the renowned astronaut as a student in the 1950s, seated with a slide rule and books, symbolizing his academic journey. Positioned near a pathway of sculpted moon boot impressions, the statue highlights Armstrong’s legacy as the first man on the moon. For more information, visit the Purdue Arboretum Explorer webpage.
  • The Purdue Memorial Union (PMU), located at the corner of Mitch Daniels Boulevard and Grant Street, serves as a vibrant hub for Purdue University, offering spaces and services that foster community. With historical architecture and symbolic details honoring Purdue’s legacy, the PMU enriches campus life and welcomes all to enjoy its facilities, events and dining options. Learn more at the PMU website.
  • The Unfinished Block 'P' statue is a memorial honoring students who passed away before completing their time at Purdue. Located north of Stewart Center, it also symbolizes the idea that personal growth is an ongoing process. For more details, visit the Purdue Arboretum Explorer site.
  • Purdue's Bell Tower, located in the heart of campus, is a beloved landmark built to honor the original Heavilon Hall bells, which were saved after a fire. The bells ring throughout the day, marking time for students and adding a touch of music to campus life. Learn more about its history and traditions at the Purdue Arboretum Explorer webpage.
  • Located on the Purdue Mall in front of Hovde Hall, the Class of 1939 Water Sculpture, also known as the Engineering Fountain, commemorates the Class of 1939’s 50th anniversary. This 38-foot tall fountain, designed by Indiana sculptor Robert Youngman, features intricate patterns and lighting effects symbolizing the fusion of art and technology. Learn more about all of Purdue's fountains at the Purdue Arboretum Explorer webpage.
  • The Purdue Memorial Union Gateway is a prominent landmark situated at the intersection of Mitch Daniels Boulevard and Grant Street, just south of the Purdue Memorial Union. Completed in 2019, it serves as both a symbolic and physical entryway to Purdue University, celebrating the university’s commitment to innovation and progress. The gateway offers a favorite backdrop for photos among students, alumni and visitors alike​.
  • View a list and map of all campus landmarks on the Purdue Arboretum Explorer website here.

Sports

  • Ross-Ade Stadium, home to the Purdue University Boilermakers football team, offers a dynamic game-day experience with modern amenities and a capacity of over 57,000 fans. Situated on the Purdue campus, it stands as a central landmark for sports enthusiasts. Learn more about its history and features at the Purdue Sports Facilities webpage.
  • Mackey Arena, home to Purdue basketball and other major events, has been known for its loud, energetic atmosphere and historic significance since its opening in 1967. Seating more than 14,000 fans, Mackey Arena features modern amenities while maintaining a classic feel. Learn more about Mackey Arena at the Purdue Sports Facilities webpage.
  • The Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex offers a premier golfing experience on Purdue University's campus, featuring two championship courses designed by Pete Dye: the Ackerman-Allen and Kampen-Cosler. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the complex provides excellent facilities and a vibrant atmosphere for all skill levels. Explore your golfing options at the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex website.
  • Alexander Field is home to Purdue University's baseball team. This facility, known for its modern amenities and high-tech videoboard, enhances the game-day experience for athletes and fans with its lively atmosphere. Learn more about this landmark and its features at the Purdue Sports Facilities webpage.
  • The Alienware Purdue Gaming Lounge is a premier venue for esports enthusiasts at Purdue University, offering high-end gaming PCs, consoles and a dedicated broadcast studio. It provides a community space for both casual gamers and competitive players. To learn more about this exciting gaming hub, visit the Purdue esports website.

Transportation

  • The Purdue University Airport, founded in 1930 as the first university-owned airport in the U.S., serves as a vital hub for student aviation training, commercial service and research. A new terminal named after Amelia Earhart honors her legacy and celebrates Purdue’s pioneering role in aviation. Learn more at the Purdue University Airport webpage.