Live, Eat, Play
Campus Life
Buena Vista University is more than a place to learn—it’s your home and your community. Most of our undergraduate students live on campus in Storm Lake for all four years, choosing from a variety of living options and dining plans to fit you and your changing needs!
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Lakeside Location
From our student lounges you will enjoy the “Buena Vista” or beautiful view of campus and the lake.
Residential Campus
From our modern residence halls to apartment-style suites, we have a living experience to fit you!
Connected and Comfortable
Pierce and White Halls are connected to many campus buildings through underground walkways, keeping you warm on winter mornings.
Specialty Spaces
Study beside the fire in a student lounge, play skee-ball or foosball in the game lounge, or bake in one of many kitchens.
Living on Campus
BVU offers a variety of co-ed residential student living experiences. Residence hall living options include traditional arrangements in Grand, Pierce, and White halls, as well as wellness housing in Liberty Hall, where residents pledge to live a substance-free healthy lifestyle.
The Suites—in Constitution and Briscoe, halls—are reserved for upperclassmen and offer apartment-style quarters for six residents with a main living area and three bedrooms, each with their own bathroom.
Campus Dining
We take food seriously at BVU. Whether it's a quick breakfast before class, lunch with your friends, or a late-night study break snack, we have you covered. We have meal options to satisfy even the hungriest Beaver!
The Serve
The Food Court, also known as the Serve, is the main cafeteria which boasts a variety of foods and dining options. The menu is planned with input from BVU students!
Coffee Shop
Located next to the Library, Common Grounds offers Starbucks coffee, soups and sandwiches, as well as other grab-and-go snacks. It's the perfect place for a study break.
Cru5h Dining
From burgers to breakfast, fresh Mex to spicy wings, our on-campus restaurant offers fantastic food blasted with bold, unruly flavor. It's a memorable and craveable experience!
Meal Plans
The meal plans at BVU provide students with all-you-can-eat options. Students on the Marquis Plan may visit the Servery at any time. Smaller plans allow for up to 14 meals per week.
Learn MoreENJOY LAKE LIFE
Outdoor Recreation House
BVU students have their very own rec house right on the shores of Storm Lake. The Outdoor Recreation House is available seven days a week, and students can check out kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and other lake gear, camping and fishing supplies, lawn games, ice skates, a variety of sports equipment, and more. All equipment is free for students on campus!
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Learn more about life on campus at BVU!
