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Washington and Lee University

4.6
·121 reviews·Lexington, United States

A historic liberal arts university in Lexington, VA, known for its stunning architecture and serene campus.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Peaceful and serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Colonnade Buildings

Washington and Lee University

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Peaceful and serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic liberal arts university in Lexington, VA, known for its stunning architecture and serene campus.

4.6
(121 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful college campuses you’ll ever see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Car for Freshman Year?

Debate exists on bringing a car freshman year. Lexington is remote, so consider your needs.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Adjacent VMI

W&L is right next to Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Explore both!

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Quick Facts

Rating

4.6 · 121 reviews

Type

University

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Colonnade

The Colonnade

Center of Campus

Iconic Southern-style buildings with beautiful porticoes, embodying the university's historic charm.

University Chapel

University Chapel

Center of Campus

A serene and peaceful spot, often described as walking on hallowed ground.

Campus Grounds

Campus Grounds

Throughout the University

Breathtakingly beautiful campus with aged trees and historic brick architecture.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Campus Life

W&L's campus is beautiful but can feel isolated. Consider if a car is essential for your freshman year, as public transport is limited. Many students find it manageable without one, relying on campus amenities and occasional trips to nearby towns. Reddit

Understanding the Legacy

Washington and Lee University has a complex history tied to its namesakes. Visitors often note the campus's serene beauty alongside discussions about its past. Be prepared for a contemplative experience. TikTok

Best Times

When
Sunday mornings
Why
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Washington and Lee University has a checkered past! Washington and Lee University (Washington and Lee or W&L) is a private liberal arts college in Lexington, Virginia. Established in 1749 as Augusta Academy, it is among the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States. Washington and Lee’s 325-acre campus sits at the edge of Lexington and abuts the campus of the Virginia Military...
walkwithhistory
475 likes • 8.6K views

🚗 Car for Freshman Year?

Debate exists on bringing a car freshman year. Lexington is remote, so consider your needs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Adjacent VMI

W&L is right next to Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Explore both! TikTok

The Trump administration made changes to visa rules. International students at Washington and Lee University worry about their futures. “It just seems like every other thing that I want to do, there’s another bottleneck or another hurdle,” said Abid Jeem, an international student from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Check out Caroline Shimp's full story: https://rockbridgereport.academic.wlu.edu/2025/09/25/i...
rockbridgereport
53 likes • 1.6K views
Lexington, Virginia! Including clips at both Washington & Lee University and Virginia Military Institute! (they're right next to each other!) Though Lexington is surrounded by Rockbridge County, it is a separate entity and generally considered a county-equivalent. Lexington, Virginia: 2020 Population: 7,320 1920 Population: 2,870 Independent City (Not part of a county) #lexingtonva #rockbridgecoun...
county_collector
403 likes • 20.8K views

📸 Campus Photo Ops

The campus is incredibly picturesque. Perfect for photography enthusiasts. Reddit

🎶 Live Music Events

Occasionally hosts live music events, adding to the campus vibe. TikTok

Washington and Lee University #washingtonandlee #WLU #university #colleges #applyingtocollege #collegeapps #collegehacks #collegelife #collegeconsult #seniors2023
alexiswhitelam
21 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Car for Freshman Year?

Debate exists on bringing a car freshman year. Lexington is remote, so consider your needs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Adjacent VMI

W&L is right next to Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Explore both! TikTok

📸 Campus Photo Ops

The campus is incredibly picturesque. Perfect for photography enthusiasts. Reddit

🎶 Live Music Events

Occasionally hosts live music events, adding to the campus vibe. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(121 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Washington and Lee University's breathtakingly beautiful campus, highlighting its historic architecture and serene atmosphere. The dedicated faculty and talented student body are also frequently mentioned positives. Some note the town's narrow streets and the university's complex historical legacy as points of consideration.

"Just passed through while in Lexington, and it was very clear why it is considered very prestigious. It is a very pretty campus, with aged trees and bricks, many beautiful porticoes on the Southern-style buildings, and very friendly people. I enjoy the visit, and I would recommend a stop for either history fans or if you are a student looking for a university, this is a good candidate. Cheers."

Kyle Hartmann

"Here on a Sunday morning. It is so peaceful and serene...almost as if I am walking on hallowed ground. I wanted to come for perhaps my last visit to Wahington and LEE University before it and Robert E.'s legacy is completely destroyed."

Bonnie Turner

"One of the most beautiful college campuses you’ll ever see. School stands out for its faculty who are dedicated to undergraduate education and its incredibly talented student body."

Kevin Berger

What People Like

Beautiful historic campus
Serene atmosphere
Dedicated faculty

What People Dislike

Narrow town streets
Complex history

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, Virginia. The nearest major airports are Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) and Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO), both about an hour's drive away. Driving is the most common way to reach the campus, as public transportation options are limited in Lexington. Reddit

Public transportation in Lexington is very limited. Most students and visitors rely on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services for travel within and around the town. Reddit

The decision to bring a car as a freshman is a common discussion among students. While possible, many find it manageable without one due to campus amenities and limited parking. Reddit

Lexington is relatively remote. It's about a 3-hour drive from Washington D.C. and Richmond, and about 2 hours from Roanoke. Reddit

Parking availability can vary, especially during peak academic times. It's advisable to check the university's official parking regulations and visitor information before arriving. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to walk around the beautiful campus of Washington and Lee University is free and open to the public. Special events or tours may require tickets or registration. Reddit

The campus grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific buildings or facilities may have their own operating hours. Reddit

The university often offers guided tours, particularly for prospective students. It's best to check the official Washington and Lee University admissions or visitor website for current tour schedules and booking information. Reddit

There is no admission fee to simply walk around and admire the architecture and grounds of Washington and Lee University. Reddit

Yes, you can visit during academic breaks, though some facilities might have reduced hours or be closed. The campus itself remains accessible. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Campus Experience

Don't miss The Colonnade, the University Chapel, and simply strolling through the historic campus grounds. The architecture and natural beauty are highlights. TikTokReddit

While W&L is a prestigious institution, recent policy changes have raised concerns among international students regarding visa rules and future opportunities. TikTok

The campus is often described as peaceful, serene, and prestigious, with a strong sense of history. It's a beautiful place for contemplation. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Washington and Lee University and VMI are located right next to each other, making it easy to visit both campuses in one trip. TikTok

The university hosts various events, including academic lectures, cultural performances, and sometimes live music. Check their events calendar for details. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Colonnade, with its classic Southern architecture, is a prime photo spot. The University Chapel and the tree-lined pathways also offer stunning photographic opportunities. TikTokReddit

Yes, the campus is widely considered breathtaking and offers a wealth of picturesque scenes for photographers, from historic buildings to natural landscapes. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best lighting for capturing the beauty of the campus, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds. Reddit

Drone usage is typically regulated on university campuses. It's essential to check Washington and Lee's specific policies regarding drone operation before flying. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. TikTok

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