Life at Eastern Illinois University

Let’s be honest: college isn’t all studying (in fact, most of us would prefer if there was no studying involved). When you’re not flipping through thirty-pound textbooks, take a break and meet up with your friends at some of the great bars and restaurants near Eastern Illinois University. Where are the best places? We’re glad you asked. Check out our lineup of great restaurants and bars near EIU. And feel free to reference this list when you and your college date ask each other that infamous, dreaded question: where do you want to eat?

Best Restaurants

Roc’s Blackfront
Pagliai’s Pizza
El Rancherito
Brickhouse Bar & Grill
Smoky’s House

Best Bars:

Panther Paw
Ike’s
W B’s Pub N Grub
Mac’s Uptowner
Dirty’s

Outdoor/Recreation

If you’re a health nut, here’s some good news: Eastern Illinois University provides students with access to the campus Student Rec Center to help promote a healthy lifestyle! At the SRC students can take advantage of the many sports facilities and courts, exercise equipment, group fitness classes and more. From Ultimate Frisbee, Paintball, Lacrosse, Disc Golf, Rugby, Sunrise Yoga, and Bowling, there’s sure to be something fun for every Panther.

When you’re not in the SRC, take some time and head off campus to enjoy the beautiful views of Charleston. Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to start. With numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing ponds, and even a campground, this park is a great place to relax and take your mind off the stresses that come along with being a college student. And trust us -- there’s a lot of them!

Things To Do in Charleston, IL

Like most college campuses across the nation, sports are huge on campus, and EIU is no exception. Eastern Illinois students have a lot of Panther pride, and that’s obvious as soon as you step onto campus and see your classmates decked out in white and blue. Put on your own set of school colors and join them at the next pre-game tailgate party.

From the popular Greek Life to the Blue Crew, there are hundreds of clubs and organizations to choose from, so get involved. Hang out at the Union and play pool or go bowling. You can even catch a fashion show there, if you’re the artistic type! Speaking of the arts, head down to the Doudna and see a play, a musical performance, or an art showing.

When not on campus, try venturing through Downtown Charleston and catching shows at the Charleston Alley Theater. For the nature lovers out there, the Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to be. Lastly, there’s one place you really shouldn’t miss: Abraham Lincoln’s log cabin! You’ll definitely want to check that off your list before you graduate.

Highlights Include:

Cheer on the Panther’s football team or other sporting events
Catch a show at the Doudna or Charleston Alley Theater
Hike at the Fox Ridge State Park
Visit Abraham Lincoln’s Log Cabin