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University · New Haven, Connecticut
Yale University
One of the oldest universities in the United States, located in New Haven since 1716, with a campus of Gothic buildings, inner courtyards, Harkness Tower and Sterling Library.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Yale University
Yale University began in 1701 as a school to train clergy in the Connecticut colony, moved to New Haven in 1716 and took the name of Elihu Yale, a merchant who made a donation in 1718. It is one of the oldest universities in the United States and blends into the city center, with no walls separating the campus from the streets.
The Old Campus, next to the New Haven Green, is the oldest courtyard, featuring Connecticut Hall, an 18th‑century brick building, and Harkness Tower, 66 meters high, with a carillon. Much of the central campus was built in the 1920s and 1930s in the Gothic style, with stone, stained glass and arches, such as Sterling Library, which resembles a cathedral.
Students live in residential colleges, each with its own courtyard, dining hall and tower. The campus also has works by modern architects, like Eero Saarinen’s skating rink and the Beinecke Library for rare books.
The visitor center, near the Green, organizes student‑led guided tours and hands out maps for those who prefer to walk on their own. The university museums are located on the campus.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour for the guided tour; two to three hours to walk the campus at a relaxed pace.
Best time
During the academic year, from September to May, when the campus is lively; autumn brings colored leaves to the courtyards. In summer the campus is quieter. Check the guided tour schedules.
How to get there
The Old Campus is next to the New Haven Green, about 2 km from Union Station, served by buses and taxis. Visitor center guided tours are usually free, with prior registration.
Tip
Take the guided tour to enter courtyards that are often closed. Combine it with the art gallery and the Beinecke Library, a few minutes’ walk away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Yale University
Can you enter Yale’s campus?
Yes, the central campus is open to pedestrians. Some residential college courtyards have restricted access and can only be seen on guided tours.
How do you take a guided tour at Yale?
Through the visitors center near the New Haven Green, which organizes student-led tours. Check times and whether registration is required.
When was Yale University founded?
In 1701, in the Connecticut colony. It moved to New Haven in 1716 and took the name Yale in 1718.