Students take the steps behind Coffman Student Union down toward the Mississippi River

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. While the location is convenient, both Comstock and Yudof are relatively quiet places to live, with plenty of green space to study, play, or unwind from a long day of classes.

Campus Highlights

Skateboarder outside the Weisman Art Museum

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.

Housing Options

View of the Comstock entrance with yellow flower plantings.
Comstock
A community with a dining hall and six floors of rooms for 553 first-year residents.
View of Yudof from the East River Road
Yudof
An apartment community with six floors of units for 507 first-year and returning residents.
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