
Old Main Arizona State University
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer students, easier parking

Old Main Arizona State University
Best Time
Fewer students, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historic heart of ASU, Old Main is an iconic landmark offering beautiful architecture and a glimpse into campus life.
"Old Main is the most iconic building on the ASU campus, a must-see for photos and experiencing the university's spirit."

🚗 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Old Main
Heart of ASU Tempe Campus
Iconic historic building, a central landmark for photos and campus exploration.

Palm Walk
Central Campus Pathway
A picturesque tree-lined path, perfect for a stroll and capturing the quintessential ASU vibe.

University Drive
Campus Thoroughfare
Lined with student life, this area buzzes with activity and offers great people-watching.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Campus Crowds
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! ASU's Tempe campus is very walkable, and many visitors enjoy exploring on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the campus is quite expansive.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, photography is generally permitted around Old Main for personal use. For professional or commercial photography, especially senior portraits, booking may be required.
📸 📸 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.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for Old Main. Weekday mornings can also offer fewer people for unobstructed shots.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎓 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.
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.
ASU has a reputation for a lively social scene and is often mentioned in discussions about college parties and Greek life events.
'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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
🚶♀️ Budget-Conscious Visitors
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of Old Main
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.
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.
Experiencing ASU's Campus Vibe
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.
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.
Navigating Parking and Campus Access
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.
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.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit