Ever wonder what goes on at Winthrop University? You may feel like you can’t step on campus if you’re not enrolled, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Between sports and the arts, Winthrop produces quality entertainment for the whole family that you can enjoy. Here are 10 ways how:
1. Relax on Campus Green
One of the most popular activities for Winthrop students is to get some fresh air and relax on the campus green. Sitting beside the DiGiorgio Student Union or “Digs”, the campus green is a big luscious grassy area in the heart of campus. On a sunny day, you’ll often catch students doing an outdoor study session, picnicking, sunbathing, or playing frisbee. If you want the perfect picture, stop by during golden hour for plenty of sunlight and gorgeous backgrounds.
2. Bike Ride Through Campus
Comporium Communications has started a new bike-share program that now includes Winthrop University. You can reserve a bike from the web and pick it up at one of the bike corrals around downtown Rock Hill and Winthrop locations: The West Center or Richardson Hall. You get 2 hours of free ride time and then you will be charged a $6 overage fee. Then you can go explore Winthrop and downtown Rock Hill.
3. Enjoy A Cultural Event
Want to learn more about other cultures, past historical events, or other people groups? Winthrop University has plenty to offer when it comes to branching out of your own comfort zone. There are a handful of events that are students only, but don't worry; most of them are free and open to the public! You view the entire calendar for Cultural Events here. Don't forget to check often; they are constantly updating and adding events!
4. Eat, Work, Play at the DiGiorgio Campus Center
Can't get your day going without a Starbucks drink? Or, maybe nothing gets your day going better than your favorite meal from Chick-Fil-A? Trying to decide between pizza or sushi for dinner? Well, Winthrop’s DiGiorgio Campus Center (or 'DIGs', as the students call it) has it all! From Starbuck’s Frappuccino’s to Chick-Fil-A sandwiches, you can enjoy all of your favorites while working. This center has numerous workstations that are completely open to the public, equipped with free WIFI and even charging stations.
5. Catch a World Class Disc Golf Championship
Did you know Winthrop is home to the Masters of Disc Golf? The US Disc Golf Championship brings in international competitors each October. It's played on one of the toughest disc golf courses in the world at Winthrop University. INNOVA Discs creates the course each year, but it is open to the public year-round.
6. Check out a Theatre and Dance Production
Love theatre, dance, and all things performing arts? You can watch Winthrop’s up-and-coming actors and dancers perform! You must purchase tickets ahead of time to see these talents. Make sure to check their calendar for future performances you won’t want to miss.
7. Winthrop University Galleries
While you’re checking out the theatre and dance department, why not check out some of the artwork created and curated by Winthrop’s finest in one of their three galleries located in Rutledge Building and McLaurin Hall. Winthrop University also hosts visiting artists and opening receptions in their galleries. Come check out the galleries on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10-5!
8. Support Winthrop University’s Athletics
Winthrop University is also known as “The Campus of Champions'' because of it’s Division 1 athletics department. Having won numerous championships in each athletic category, Winthrop’s teams are the ones to beat. You won’t want to miss seeing each one of these sports in action. Now you can even have a drink while watching the baseball and softball games. Before you go remember Winthrop athletics' new guidelines require fans to purchase tickets before games due to limited capacity.
9. Catch an Eagle Flick at Dina’s Place
If going to the movies is one of your favorite past times you won’t want to miss out on the Eagle Flicks movie series held at Dina’s Place, the state-of-the-art movie theatre located in Winthrop University’s DiGiorgio Center!
10. Take a Stroll and Enjoy The View!
On a clear and sunny day, a stroll around Winthrop University’s beautiful campus is just what you need to relax and unwind. Enjoy the campus's beautiful landscapes and fountains and discover a couple of historical landmarks while you walk along the way. You won’t want to miss out on these breathtaking sights. The Winthrop Recreational and Research Complex houses recreational facilities all set in the background of Winthrop University’s beautiful lake. Take a stroll along their one-mile-long walking trail that circles Winthrop’s beautiful lake. Or, complete their 18 hole disc golf course around Winthrop lake.
Winthrop Fun Facts
- Winthrop was founded in 1886
- WU was originally an all-girls school
- The eagle is Winthrop’s mascot & his name is Big Stuff
- WU currently has 6,109 students
- WU has 150+ student organizations
- Clemson was Winthrop’s sister school until they became co-ed institutions
- Students come from 42 states and 32 countries to attend
- Some notable people have attended Winthrop such as actresses Andie MacDowell and Shanola Hampton