Old Main Arizona State University - Image 1
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Old Main Arizona State University

4.6
·491k reviews·Tempe, United States

The historic heart of ASU, Old Main is an iconic landmark offering beautiful architecture and a glimpse into campus life.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer students, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Old Main Arizona State University - Image 1

Old Main Arizona State University

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer students, easier parking

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The historic heart of ASU, Old Main is an iconic landmark offering beautiful architecture and a glimpse into campus life.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Old Main is the most iconic building on the ASU campus, a must-see for photos and experiencing the university's spirit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Cheaper Parking Options

Use the ParkMobile app for street parking on Apache Blvd – it's cheaper than garages! :car:

📸 Iconic Photo Spots

Old Main and Palm Walk are must-sees for classic ASU photos. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Old Main

Old Main

Heart of ASU Tempe Campus

Iconic historic building, a central landmark for photos and campus exploration.

Palm Walk

Palm Walk

Central Campus Pathway

A picturesque tree-lined path, perfect for a stroll and capturing the quintessential ASU vibe.

University Drive

University Drive

Campus Thoroughfare

Lined with student life, this area buzzes with activity and offers great people-watching.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Campus Crowds

ASU's Tempe campus can be bustling, especially during class changes and event days. Plan your visit to avoid peak times for a more relaxed experience. Consider weekdays outside of major holidays for fewer crowds.

Parking & Accessibility

Parking can be a challenge. Street parking on Apache Blvd is often cheaper with the ParkMobile app, offering access to key campus spots. Garages are available but can be pricier. Check campus maps beforehand.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer students, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Class changes subside
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Princess and the PHI👸🏼💕🫛 we are so excited to be on day TWO of our polish week! See you so soon MC 25✨ #alphaphi #asualphaphi #asu #asurecruitment #asu2029 #arizonastateuniversity #gogreek #gogreek
@asu.alphaphi
478.5K likes • 6.5M views

🚗 Cheaper Parking Options

Use the ParkMobile app for street parking on Apache Blvd – it's cheaper than garages! :car:

📸 Iconic Photo Spots

Old Main and Palm Walk are must-sees for classic ASU photos. :camerawithflash:

CHAT, They making it thur? #asu #arizonastate #college #campuslife #phoenix
@zmanserras
206K likes • 1.8M views
Too good AXO - - - - - #asu #arizonastateuniversity #sundevils #arizonastate #fetii #forksup #greeklife #tempe #arizona #rush #rushtok #recruitment #workweek
fetiiasu
2.7K likes • 355.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Campus Exploration

Wear comfy shoes! The campus is large and best explored on foot. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Student Life Vibe

Experience the energy on University Drive, especially during weekdays. :iphone:

Old main shooting in April is ✨stressful✨ to say the least, but thankfully it’s been calm this year 🥹 haha. #asu #asugrad2025 #asuseniorphotographer #asuseniorpictures #asuseniorpictures #arizonastateuniversity #mccphotos25
mccphotosllc
181 likes • 6.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Cheaper Parking Options

Use the ParkMobile app for street parking on Apache Blvd – it's cheaper than garages! :car:

📸 Iconic Photo Spots

Old Main and Palm Walk are must-sees for classic ASU photos. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Campus Exploration

Wear comfy shoes! The campus is large and best explored on foot. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Student Life Vibe

Experience the energy on University Drive, especially during weekdays. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Old Main at ASU to be a picturesque and historically significant landmark, perfect for photos and experiencing the campus vibe. While parking can be a hassle, affordable options exist. The campus itself is lively and offers a great atmosphere for exploration.

What People Like

Historic architecture
Iconic campus landmark
Lively student atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Campus can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Main is located at the heart of the ASU Tempe campus. If driving, utilize campus parking garages or look for street parking on Apache Blvd, which can be more affordable with the ParkMobile app. Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes serving the campus area. Reddit

Street parking on Apache Blvd is often cheaper than campus lots and garages, especially if you use the ParkMobile app or have change. This area is close to key campus landmarks like the bookstore and library. Reddit

Yes, ASU Tempe campus is well-served by public transportation, including Valley Metro bus routes. Check the Valley Metro website for specific routes and schedules that can take you close to Old Main. TikTok

Absolutely! ASU's Tempe campus is very walkable, and many visitors enjoy exploring on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the campus is quite expansive. TikTok

Old Main is a central and iconic building, making it relatively easy to find. It's a prominent landmark on campus, often visible from various points. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Old Main itself is a historic building on the ASU campus and does not require tickets for general viewing or to walk around the exterior. Access to specific offices or events within Old Main may vary. Instagram

Old Main is an accessible part of the campus. While the building's interior offices have standard business hours, the grounds and exterior are generally accessible during daylight hours. Check ASU's official website for any specific event hours. Instagram

While official campus tours may not always be available, you can explore the campus, including Old Main, independently. Some student-led groups or departments might offer specific tours. Reddit

There is no admission fee to walk around the ASU Tempe campus or to see Old Main from the outside. Parking fees may apply if you are driving to campus. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally permitted around Old Main for personal use. For professional or commercial photography, especially senior portraits, booking may be required. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The front facade of Old Main, with its historic architecture, is a prime photo spot. The surrounding lawn and pathways, especially Palm Walk, also offer beautiful backdrops for capturing the ASU spirit. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for Old Main. Weekday mornings can also offer fewer people for unobstructed shots. Instagram

While casual photography is fine, professional or commercial shoots, like senior portraits, may require permits or advance arrangements. It's always good to check ASU's guidelines if you're planning a dedicated photoshoot. Instagram

Both smartphones and dedicated cameras can capture great shots. The key is good lighting and framing. Many students use their phones for quick snaps and social media content. TikTok

Drone usage on university campuses is typically restricted due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check ASU's official policies regarding drone operation before attempting to fly one. TikTok

🎫 🎓 Student Life & Campus Vibe

ASU's Tempe campus has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, often described as a lively college town. It's known for its student activities, Greek life, and a strong sense of community. TikTok+1

The Memorial Union (MU) and the Sun Devil Fitness Complex are popular student hubs. University Drive also offers a lively scene with various shops and eateries. Reddit

ASU has a reputation for a lively social scene and is often mentioned in discussions about college parties and Greek life events. TikTok+1

'Fork 'em' or 'Forksup' is a common ASU cheer, representing the devil's pitchfork, a symbol of the Sun Devils mascot. It's a way for students and fans to show school spirit. TikTok

Old Main is the oldest building on the ASU campus and holds historical significance. It's a central landmark and a symbol of the university's heritage. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting ASU's Tempe campus can enjoy a pleasant exploration of Old Main and its surroundings. The campus is generally safe and offers open spaces like the lawns around Old Main for children to move around. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to make the experience more relaxed. TikTok

While Old Main itself is historic, the broader campus offers points of interest. The Memorial Union (MU) often has dining options and spaces that can accommodate families. If visiting during a special event like Homecoming, there are often family-friendly activities available. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Old Main at ASU is a photographer's dream, especially for those interested in architectural and campus photography. The historic building offers a classic backdrop, and the surrounding Palm Walk provides a beautiful, tree-lined path. Golden hour lighting can create stunning shots. Instagram+1

For senior portraits or professional shoots, be aware that ASU may have specific guidelines or require permits. Casual visitors can freely capture the essence of the campus with their phones or cameras, focusing on the iconic architecture and vibrant student life. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget-Conscious Visitors

For visitors mindful of their budget, exploring Old Main and the ASU campus is an excellent free activity. The main costs to consider are transportation and parking. Opting for street parking on Apache Blvd with the ParkMobile app or using public transport can significantly reduce expenses. TikTokReddit

Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them on campus, and enjoy the free visual experience of the historic architecture and lively campus atmosphere. The campus itself offers a rich environment for exploration without any entry fees. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Charm of Old Main

Old Main stands as the most iconic building on the Arizona State University Tempe campus. Constructed in 1894, it's the university's oldest building and a beloved landmark. Its distinctive architecture makes it a popular spot for photos and a symbol of ASU's rich history. Visitors often admire its classic facade and the surrounding green spaces, which contribute to its picturesque appeal. Instagram+1

While Old Main now houses administrative offices, its exterior remains a focal point for campus tours and student life. The building's presence evokes a sense of tradition and continuity, connecting current students and visitors to the university's past. It's a place where many students take graduation photos, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey. Instagram

Exploring the area around Old Main offers a glimpse into the heart of the ASU campus. The adjacent lawns and pathways, including the famous Palm Walk, provide a pleasant environment for a leisurely stroll. It’s a central point from which to orient yourself and begin exploring other parts of the university. TikTok

Experiencing ASU's Campus Vibe

The Arizona State University Tempe campus is known for its dynamic and energetic atmosphere. It's a large, bustling environment where student life is palpable. From the lively chatter on University Drive to the organized events on campus lawns, there's always something happening. Many students describe it as a place with a strong sense of community and school spirit. TikTok+1

Key areas like the Memorial Union (MU) and the Sun Devil Fitness Complex serve as central hubs for student activity, offering dining options, study spaces, and recreational facilities. The campus also has a significant presence of Greek life, with fraternities and sororities contributing to the social scene. TikTokReddit

Visitors can experience this vibe by simply walking through campus, observing student interactions, and perhaps catching an event. The iconic 'Fork 'em' or 'Forksup' chant is a common expression of this spirit, often heard during sporting events and campus gatherings. TikTok

Navigating Parking and Campus Access

For those visiting ASU's Tempe campus, parking is a key consideration. While several parking garages are available, they can incur significant fees. A more budget-friendly option highlighted by visitors is street parking along Apache Boulevard. Reddit

Utilizing the ParkMobile app can make street parking more convenient and potentially cheaper. This strategy allows visitors to access central campus areas, including those near Old Main, without the higher cost of garage parking. Having change on hand is also recommended for meters. Reddit

Beyond driving, ASU's campus is well-connected by public transportation, with numerous bus routes serving the area. For those who prefer to explore on foot, the campus is designed to be walkable, with comfortable shoes being a practical necessity for covering the expansive grounds. TikTok+1

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