We recommend you secure reservations off-campus. For a list of hotels that give a Columbia rate, please visit and book your reservation through the Columbia University Visitors Travel Portal.  There are other options in Manhattan and other nearby areas as well. Hotel options near the 1 subway line may be the most convenient for you to travel to the Morningside campus. 

Many families travel to campus during the move-in period and families traveling long distances often plan a vacation or stay a few days to enjoy New York City.  If travel restrictions or concerns limit your travel, we encourage you to consider planning a future trip to New York City instead. 

If you do plan to travel, check the website of a local U.S. consulate or embassy to determine if you are able to enter the U.S. You also should also check with your country of permanent residence and/or citizenship about your ability to reenter after traveling to New York City, New York. 

Due to COVID-19 concerns, the guest policy has been revised for the 2020-2021 academic year.  Go to the Housing Office’s Guest Policy for this year and each year regarding non-Columbia University guests, non-building resident guests and guest passes for the current academic year. First-year students who have been granted housing will receive instructions regarding move-in by email. 

Families traveling for commencement will receive additional information and can browse the GradZone website.

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