Cost: No cost
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Members of the University community who plan to be in Washington, D.C. to witness the inauguration are invited to celebrate President Barack Obama's Second Inauguration. During the official Presidential Swearing-in Ceremony, the Inaugural Address, and the Inaugural Parade, enjoy a warm place along Pennsylvania Avenue away from the crowds, and watch the events from TV monitors.

Due to security, reservations must be made in advance.

The University of Chicago has contracted with the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. for a limited number of rooms during inauguration weekend. If you are interested in reserving a room please contact Michelle Farmer at or 202-637-7004 for additional details.

Pedestrian Access

Our building on Pennsylvania Avenue is within the secure perimeter with numerous road closures. Visitors will be able to access the building by walking from the 18th Street side of Pennsylvania Ave. The location of the closest pedestrian check point will be near the Starbucks at 1730 Penn Ave.

Bags larger than 8 inches by 6 inches by 4 inches, and any other items determined to be a potential safety hazard by the Secret Service, are prohibited. Items that individuals are prohibited from bringing into this perimeter, according to the Senate's Inaugural Site, include: Firearms and ammunition (either real or simulated); explosives of any kind (including fireworks); knives, blades, or sharp objects (of any length); mace and/or pepper spray; sticks or poles; pockets or hand tools, such as "Leatherman"; packages; backpacks; large bags; duffel bags; suitcases; thermoses; coolers; strollers; umbrellas; laser pointers; signs; posters; animals (other than service animals); alcoholic beverages; other items that may pose a threat to the security of the event as determined by and at the discretion of the security officers.