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The Oval CSU

4.9
·52 reviews·Fort Collins, United States

The Oval at CSU is a historic, tree-lined circular campus green, perfect for strolls, study, and vibrant student life.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Vibrant student life

CrowdMedium
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The Oval CSU - Image 1

The Oval CSU

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Vibrant student life

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The Oval at CSU is a historic, tree-lined circular campus green, perfect for strolls, study, and vibrant student life.

4.9
(52 reviews)

"It is one of my very favorite places in the whole city and so peaceful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk

Take a serene stroll around the Oval, especially on weekends, for a peaceful escape.

📅 Check Event Schedules

Look for campus events like concerts or addresses to experience the Oval's lively atmosphere.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 52 reviews

Type

University

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Oval Stroll

Iconic Oval Stroll

The Oval

A picturesque, tree-lined pathway perfect for a leisurely walk, study break, or people-watching.

Student Life Hub

Student Life Hub

The Oval

Experience the heart of CSU campus life, from impromptu sports to study sessions and vibrant events.

Graduation Portraits

Graduation Portraits

The Oval

A popular spot for graduation photos, capturing memorable moments amidst beautiful campus scenery.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Campus Vibe

The Oval at CSU is a central hub for student life and campus events. Expect it to be lively, especially during academic terms. Check the CSU events calendar for concerts, addresses, and other gatherings that might impact crowd size and accessibility.

Parking & Access

Parking near the Oval can be restricted, often requiring permits during weekdays. Weekends offer more flexibility, but plan for potential walking distances. Consider campus shuttles or public transport if available.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Vibrant student life
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
During campus events
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @The Mystery Project CNN’s Kaitlyn Collins mocked after HEATED exchange with Trump in Oval Office. #trump #elonmusk #politics #republicans #democrats #breakingnews #breaking #news #update
@thehauntedside
7.9K likes • 238K views

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk

Take a serene stroll around the Oval, especially on weekends, for a peaceful escape. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedules

Look for campus events like concerts or addresses to experience the Oval's lively atmosphere. Instagram+1

Did you notice Marco Rubio’s weird expressions when Trump suapped at Caitlin Collins in the Oval Office?#fyp #foryoupage #tiktok #celebrity #actress #trump #marcorubio #kaitlancollins
@ln069137d5u
2.2K likes • 301.5K views
Elena’s CSU Graduation portraits at the Oval ✨
benbradleyphotography
0 likes • 1.2K views

🎓 Graduation Photo Spot

The Oval is a prime location for graduation portraits, offering beautiful backdrops. Instagram

🌳 Shade from Big Trees

Find ample shade under the beautiful, large trees, perfect for a relaxing break. Reddit

Don’t let your friend trick you into another apartment complex! Flats at the Oval has it all! Call our leasing staff today to learn more! #flatsattheoval #fato #livefato#csu #csuoval #fortcollins #oldtown #colorado #studenthousing #apartments #coloradostate
flatsattheoval
17 likes • 230 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk

Take a serene stroll around the Oval, especially on weekends, for a peaceful escape. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedules

Look for campus events like concerts or addresses to experience the Oval's lively atmosphere. Instagram+1

🎓 Graduation Photo Spot

The Oval is a prime location for graduation portraits, offering beautiful backdrops. Instagram

🌳 Shade from Big Trees

Find ample shade under the beautiful, large trees, perfect for a relaxing break. Reddit

🚗 Parking Considerations

Be aware of permit parking; weekends offer more free parking options. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(52 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Oval at CSU for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful mature trees, and ample green space, making it a favorite spot for relaxation and recreation. While parking can be a consideration during weekdays, the overall experience is highly positive, with many discovering its charm even after living in the area for years.

"Feels like walking down the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones. There are always different groups out there sitting, playing sports or practicing hobbies. It is one of my very favorite places in the whole city and so peaceful."

Maddy Seals

"Nice little spot to take a walk. The parking in the immediate area is by permit only, on weekends - you can park there for up to 2 hours on weekdays for free, though.

The walk around the oval is nice. We didn't see too many ppl on a Friday afternoon."

Rachel Brower

"Beautiful area ❤️❤️❤️ lived here all my life, but just discovered this ❤️"

Savannah and Lance

What People Like

Peaceful and serene
Beautiful large trees
Ample green space

What People Dislike

Weekday parking restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Oval is centrally located on the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins. You can reach it by car, public transport, or campus shuttles. Parking near the Oval is often permit-only during weekdays, so check CSU parking regulations or consider parking in designated visitor lots and walking. Reddit

Yes, CSU is served by Transfort, Fort Collins' public bus system, with several routes stopping near campus. You can then walk or take a campus shuttle to reach The Oval. Instagram

Weekday parking directly around The Oval typically requires a permit. On weekends, you can often find free parking for up to two hours. Visitor parking garages are also available on campus. Reddit

Absolutely! CSU is a very bike-friendly campus, and there are numerous bike racks available around The Oval and throughout campus. Instagram

The pathways around The Oval are generally paved and accessible. However, some grassy areas might be uneven. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Oval is an open public space on the CSU campus and does not require tickets for entry. You can visit anytime. Instagram

As an outdoor campus space, The Oval is accessible 24/7. However, campus facilities and buildings surrounding it will have their own operating hours. Instagram

There is no admission fee to walk around or relax in The Oval. It's a free public space for students and visitors. Instagram

For larger events or gatherings, you may need to contact CSU's event services to inquire about reservations and permits. Instagram

While generally open, specific areas might be temporarily closed for events or maintenance. Always be respectful of campus rules and regulations. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can stroll, relax under the trees, have a picnic, study, play casual sports, or attend campus events like concerts and addresses. It's a versatile space for many activities. Instagram+1

Yes, many students find The Oval a great place to study, especially when the weather is nice. There are benches and plenty of grassy areas. Instagram

Restrooms are available in the surrounding campus buildings, such as the Lory Student Center. Instagram

Absolutely! The Oval is a perfect spot for a picnic, with plenty of open green space. Reddit

Events range from the President's Fall Address and marching band performances to student club activities and even soccer matches. Instagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

The entire Oval is picturesque, with its iconic circular pathway, mature trees, and surrounding historic buildings. It's especially beautiful during fall foliage or spring blooms. Instagram+1

Yes, The Oval is a very popular and beautiful location for graduation photos, offering a classic campus backdrop. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most flattering light. Midday can be harsh, but the large trees provide shade. Instagram

Drone usage on university campuses is typically restricted. Check CSU's official policies regarding drone operation before flying. Instagram

During campus events, you might capture unique moments like marching band performances or student gatherings. The 'CANS Around the Oval' event is also visually interesting. Instagram+1

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