Welcome to Charleston!
Charleston, IL is just the right size for a college student who loves their campus, but also wants to get out and about. With plenty of restaurants, shopping and recreational opportunities, we know you'll love it as much as we do.
Getting to Charleston
Eastern Illinois University is located off Interstate 57, about 50 miles south of Champaign and about 40 miles north of Effingham. Once you get into Charleston, you will see Old Main (the castle), on Lincoln Avenue. Turn right (south) on Seventh Street and enter the circle drive on the east end of Old Main if you need to pick up a parking permit. (Parking permits are available in the Office of Admissions in Old Main.) Otherwise, proceed to the visitor parking lot on the west side of Seventh Street.
Parking
During our bigger events, the best place to park is the Visitor Lot or the J Lot near Lantz Arena. After signing up to attend one of our events, watch your email for specific parking instructions.
Lodging & overnight travel
Rest peacefully in one of our many hotels in the Charleston area and find your favorite restaurants in town. Keep this list handy! You might want it for Family Weekend next year!
Charleston tourism info
Have some time to spare? You’ll find that getting around Charleston is convenient and easy. We have everything from coffee shops to trails and hiking. Our campus and community work together to make the most out of our beautiful city.
I chose EIU because it reminded me a lot of home. Even though Charleston is a small town, the community makes sure all of its members are taken care of. EIU became my second home because it felt like home.
Kayla Ruth, Early Childhood Education Major, Lansing, IL