Places to Relax on DU's Campus

Whether you are a student, professor or staff member at the University of Denver, you’re sure to feel the occasional need to shed your day-to-day pressures and find somewhere to reflect, relax and recharge. Here are a few suggestions for on-campus places to escape during a break, during lunch or if you’re simply looking to enjoy your favorite book.

Community Commons — Fourth Floor

For those who have spent a lot of time on campus since the opening of the Community Commons last January, this may seem like an obvious option. But obvious or not, the fourth floor is a great place to experience inspiring views. Enjoy the lunchtime buffet or come in the evening for some hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Once you’re equipped with snacks and a beverage, you can relax on one of several patios that provide 360-degree views and a good look at Colorado’s Front Range. After savoring the views, you can unwind beside a real grass garden that aligns with the city of Denver’s 2017 green building ordinance.

Burwell Center for Career Achievement — Respite Rooms

The Burwell Center features a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the Community Commons. Tucked away on the north end of each floor are respite rooms that allow for individuals or small groups to gather. Although located in the same corner of the building, no two rooms are the same. Each respite room has a different design and its own shape, size, window configuration and furniture layout. The scenery from each room is not bad either, offering clear views of the Ritchie Center for Sports & Wellness and the Williams Tower.

Buchtel Tower

If the view is not important to you, but finding a quiet backdrop is, Buchtel Tower might be worth checking out. One of the oldest structures on campus, the tower, which is adjacent to Graduation Green, is the only part of the Buchtel Memorial Chapel to have survived a fire in 1983. Today, inside the tower, you’ll find a table surrounded by chairs, each one marked by a different seal representing the branches of the U.S. military. On the wall next to the entrance are two plaques, one honoring the University of Denver students who died during the first World War and a second honoring all student veterans for their service to their country.

Joy Burns Center — Wine Cellar

For another truly unusual backdrop, visit the wine cellar on the first floor of the Joy Burns Center. Modeled after a Tuscan wine cellar, this location in the School of Hospitality Management allows students to learn about the evaluation and service of fine vintages. The cellar and adjacent ballroom often are used for large events that are managed by hospitality students, but when it’s not booked for an event, it offers a quiet location in a setting unlike any other on campus.

DU Hammocks

Finally, if relaxing outside is more your thing, why not try out a hammock under the shade of a tree? The Anderson Academic Commons allows individuals to check out a hammock, which can then be positioned under one of the campus’ many mature trees. It’s a relaxing way to escape the sun and enjoy the company of friends, a good book or a snack from one of the nearby campus coffee shops.