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Table of Contents

Tours

1. Specialized Tours

   • Campus Well-Being Map

     A collection of Pause Points that encourage rest, reflection, and connection with nature.

     Stops

     1. Zen Garden

        Located between Reavis, Watson, and Zulauf Halls, the Zen Garden offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of campus. Featuring a simple rock garden and a variety of seating, the courtyard provides a space to pause between classes or work

        Pause here. Take a breath. What helps you feel calm, centered, or at ease?

     2. Ecological Park

        Marked by a stone plaque, this quiet area near the residence halls offers a blend of history, ecology, and reflection. Often known as Eco Woods or the West Lagoon, this space was shaped by student advocacy in the early 1970s to preserve and restore natural landscapes on campus. Today, it serves as both a living study area and a peaceful retreat.

        Pause here. Take a breath. What do you notice about growth, change, or restoration in your surroundings—and yourself?

     3. “The Six Questions”

        Tucked within the natural surroundings of the Eco Woods, this unique table sculpture invites you to pause and reflect. Engraved with six thought-provoking questions inspired by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs—ranging from basic care to self-awareness—it encourages a moment of introspection in a quiet, often overlooked space. Whether you sit, think, or simply take in the environment, this spot offers an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and consider what you need most in the present moment.

        Pause here. Take a breath. Which question resonates with you the most?

     4. Kishwaukee-Kiwanis Trail

        The northeastern edge of campus is the midpoint of a 6.5‑mile paved trail along the Kishwaukee River. This scenic area adjacent to the open, rolling landscape of the North 40 provides a peaceful escape for walking, biking, and connecting with nature. The trail runs from Lions Park to Hopkins Park and links to the DeKalb‑Sycamore Path and DeKalb Nature Trail. There are several benches where you can reflect and take in the surroundings.

        Pause here. Take a breath. Just as a river flows, what helps you move forward in the direction of your dreams and goals?

     5. Montgomery Woods

        Nestled next to Montgomery Hall, this small, wooded area offers a quiet, natural space.  Here you will find a short dirt trail that winds through the trees, as well as a picnic table and path lined with solar lights. The space is great for deep breaths of forest air containing natural plant compounds that support relaxation and well-being.

        Pause here. Take a breath. As you move through this space, what helps you slow down or feel more present?

     6. Barsema Pond

        Located next to Barsema Hall, this nature area blends water, greenery, and open air to invite a sense of peace and reflection. The nearby seating and picnic tables offer a place to pause by the pond or spend time in the adjacent fields of North 40. This pond environment offers a balance of activity and stillness—inviting you to recharge in whatever way you need.

        Pause here. Take a breath. As you look out across the open sky, what helps you to thrive and flourish?

     7. Arts Courtyard

        Surrounded by mature trees and tucked beside the Music and Art Building, this courtyard offers a quiet, creative space to pause. With benches for sitting, reading, or reflecting, it’s an inviting place to take a break and recharge in a setting that blends nature and creativity.

        Pause here. Take a breath. What helps you slow down and find your rhythm?

     8. East Lagoon

        One of NIU’s most familiar and beloved outdoor spaces, the East Lagoon offers scenic views that invite both movement and stillness. Walking paths, restored prairie plantings, and open water reflect the changing sky and seasons. The outflow to the river adds gentle sounds and fountains provide a focal point. Great for observing wildlife sightings, this space is ideal for a focused walk, quiet observation, or a longer pause to breathe, reflect, and reset.

        Pause here. Take a breath. What details do you notice when you slow your pace?

     9. Davis Hall Fountains

        Located outside Davis Hall, this area is an excellent spot to study or enjoy a picnic. It offers easy access to the open lawns near Lowden Hall and walking paths to the East Lagoon. At this spot you will find a blend of activity, sunshine, and scenic campus views—making it an ideal place to recharge.

        Pause here. Take a breath. What helps restore your energy?

     10. Watson Creek

         Flowing quietly between the East and West Lagoons, Watson Creek winds through campus as a peaceful, scenic passage. Near a bridge between the science buildings, a bench offers a place to sit and take in the sounds of moving water and surrounding nature. This tucked away spot invites moments of contemplation—whether you pause on a walk or stop to reflect.

         Pause here. Take a breath. As the creek flows, what feels like it’s becoming clearer?

     11. Founders Garden Court

         Located at the lower-level entrance of Founders Memorial Library, this quiet courtyard offers a central yet peaceful place to pause on campus. With picnic tables, shaded seating, and surrounding trees, it’s an ideal spot to meet up, read, or take a break. The garden court invites you to take a moment for yourself while staying close to the heart of campus.

         Pause here. Take a breath. How can you give yourself a moment of balance before continuing your day?