East River

Along with Comstock and Yudof halls, the East River community overlooks the Mississippi River and boasts two quintessential campus landmarks: the Weisman Art Museum and Coffman Memorial Union. 

The Weisman features a collection of early 20th century and contemporary art, and an extraordinary steel facade designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry that reflects the light of each season and hour of the day. Just steps away, Coffman serves as a central station of the East Bank campus. Here, you’ll find the main University bookstore, a post office, an impressive food court, and the headquarters of numerous student groups. It’s also the place to go for free or low-cost entertainment, featuring a student lounge, game room, bowling alley, movie theater, and music club.

East River residents live a few blocks from most of the major classroom buildings, as well as the bus, shuttle, and light rail stops, Northrop Mall, and Boynton Health clinics. As this neighborhood is so central to the main campus, it’s easy to be swept up with all the campus activities happening nearby. The location also provides plenty of green space to study, play, or unwind from a long day of classes.

This part of campus is a photography hotspot, with the modern facades of Weisman and Bruininks Hall and sweeping views of the Mississippi River from either right along the banks at East River Flats Park or high above on the Washington Avenue Bridge. Also, the colorful flowers, foliage, and wide open spaces of the Mall area provide unique views with every season. In addition to the indoor amenities, the student union frequently hosts outdoor happenings on the front plaza, from fall welcome events to summer music festivals. At the south end of Coffman, a fountain terrace makes a great outdoor study space during warmer months.