New Guest Housing program offers affordable on-campus lodging for families and visitors

Ohio University is making it easier for families and guests to stay close to campus during some of the University’s busiest weekends with the launch of a new on-campus Guest Housing program.

The program, operated through OHIO Housing and Residence Life, provides limited short-term accommodations in Dougan House and True House on South Green during select specialty weekends throughout the academic year, including Family Weekend, Homecoming, Dads Weekend, Moms Weekend and Commencement weekends.

“Housing and Residence Life understands how important it is for parents, families and guests to be able to visit and spend time with their favorite Bobcats during signature weekends,” Jneanne Hacker, executive director of Housing & Residence Life, said. “By opening two of our residence halls to parents, families, and guests, we can offer overnight accommodations and access to an on-campus experience that otherwise might not be available knowing that our local hotels fill up quickly. And who knows, it might just bring some nostalgia or a walk down memory lane for those who used to call Dougan or True home.”

About On-Campus Guest Housing

The program has been designed to expand lodging options for families and guests visiting OHIO, particularly during weekends when hotels in the Athens area can fill quickly, and rates can increase. Rather than competing with local hotels, the program is intended to provide an additional option for families who want to stay close to their students and experience campus.

• Guest accommodations are available for $125 per single room, per night, or $185 per double room, per night. 
  • Double rooms are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
• To help keep costs affordable, reservations require a minimum two-night stay. 

Guests staying in Dougan or True House will experience a traditional residence hall setting rather than full hotel accommodations. 

• Rooms are furnished with a Twin XL bed, desk and chair, drawer unit, micro-fridge, closet space and air conditioning. 
• Shared community-style bathrooms serve approximately three to five guests. 

Linens, including a pillow, pillowcase, fitted sheet, flat sheet, blanket, bath towel and washcloth, will be provided. 

Food and parking amenities available

Guests can also choose to purchase meal vouchers during registration for use at participating OHIO dining locations. Meal vouchers are $11 per meal, with additional dining information provided to guests ahead of their stay. 

Parking will also be available for guests, with specialty-weekend visitors encouraged to use Lot 93 near the Golf & Tennis Center and Ping Recreation Center. 

The guest housing experience is designed to be easy and accessible. Guests check in at their assigned residence hall, where they receive their room key and building access card, and staff are available to assist guests during their stay. Express checkout options will also be available to help visitors depart campus easily and a staff member will be on call 24/7 to assist with any needs.

Registration for each specialty weekend opens approximately one month before the event, allowing families to plan their visits in advance. Those interested in staying in OHIO’s Guest Housing for Family Weekend or Homecoming can register today.

Learn more about OHIO Guest Housing and upcoming registration dates at ohio.edu/guest-housing.