University of Washington Law School main building exterior

William H. Gates Hall

William H. Gates Hall Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Seattle Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

William H. Gates Hall, an architectural landmark on the University of Washington’s Seattle campus, stands as a testament to legal education, innovative design, and civic engagement. Named in honor of William H. Gates Sr.—a distinguished attorney, philanthropist, and UW alumnus—the building is more than just the home of the UW School of Law. It serves as a vibrant destination for prospective students, legal professionals, tourists, and anyone interested in Seattle’s history and culture. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting William H. Gates Hall, from hours and ticketing to accessibility, historical context, and nearby attractions (UW Law About, UW Visit Plan, Gallagher Law Library).

Historical Background and Architectural Significance

Origins and Vision

William H. Gates Hall was conceived as a unified, future-ready facility for the University of Washington School of Law, consolidating faculty, students, and resources previously dispersed across multiple campus locations. Its creation fulfilled the long-standing vision of fostering collaboration, advancing social justice, and supporting legal scholarship (UW Law About).

Design and Construction

Planning began in the late 1990s, with the project led by Mahlum Architects and Kohn Pedersen Fox. The hall’s six stories encompass 196,000 square feet of flexible, naturally lit space. Its distinctive L-shaped structure combines traditional brick veneer and modern glass curtain walls, harmonizing with the campus’s Collegiate Gothic style while introducing contemporary flair (PCAD, KPF).

The Marian Gould Gallagher Law Library, the largest public law library in the Pacific Northwest, is a centerpiece. Situated below ground and illuminated by four trapezoidal skylights, the library features extensive stacks, reading areas, and cutting-edge technology (Gallagher Law Library).

Construction commenced in 2001 and the building opened in September 2003, marking a milestone in UW’s academic landscape (Construction Details).

Funding and Philanthropy

The $82.7 million project was made possible by a combination of state funding, university resources, and private philanthropy—including a transformative $12 million gift from the Gates family, whose ongoing generosity is reflected in broader educational and social initiatives (Gates Foundation Overview).

Visiting William H. Gates Hall

Location and Access

William H. Gates Hall is located at 4293 Memorial Way Northeast, in the northeast sector of UW’s Seattle campus. The building is a short walk from Red Square, Suzzallo Library, and other campus landmarks. It is accessible via the University of Washington light rail station, multiple King County Metro bus routes, and nearby parking facilities (UW Campus Tours).

Visiting Hours

General Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (academic year)
Holidays/Special Events: Hours may vary. Always check the UW Law School website for current information.

Admission and Tickets

Entry Fee: None. Admission is free for all public areas, including the Gallagher Law Library and art installations.
Library Access: The Gallagher Law Library is open to the public for legal research by appointment (Gallagher Law Library).

Accessibility

William H. Gates Hall is fully accessible, featuring:

Ramps, elevators, and wide corridors
Accessible restrooms on each floor
Stair-free routes and designated parking
Tactile and Braille signage for visitors with visual impairments

For additional accommodations, contact the University of Washington’s Disability Resources for Students (UW Visit Plan).

Transportation and Parking

Public Transit: Served by light rail and bus routes.
Parking: Paid parking in campus lots and garages. Limited availability during peak times.
Cycling: Bike racks are available near the entrance.

Building Features and Cultural Highlights

Gallagher Law Library

The Gallagher Law Library is a premier legal research resource in the region, offering:

Extensive print and digital legal collections
Multi-level, naturally lit reading and study areas
Technology-equipped study rooms
Art displays, including contemporary Native American works (Gallagher Law Library)

Art and Cultural Installations

Monument for Law School: A 1967 Douglas Fir sculpture by Doris Chase at the northwest entrance (Gates Hall Art).
Takuji Yamashita Statue: Porcelain and glaze sculpture by Akio Takamori, honoring a Japanese immigrant and UW Law alumnus who championed civil rights (Gates Hall Art).
Additional Art: Works throughout the building reflect the law school’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Learning and Event Spaces

“Smart” classrooms, moot courtrooms, and seminar rooms with advanced audiovisual technology
Large and small event spaces for public lectures, conferences, and symposia
Student commons and lounges designed for community interaction

Events, Tours, and Visitor Experiences

Special Events and Guided Tours

Events: Public lectures, legal clinics, and symposia are regularly hosted. See the UW Law Events Calendar.
Guided Tours: Offered occasionally for prospective students and legal professionals. Contact UW Law Visitor Services to schedule a tour.
Self-Guided and Virtual Tours: Self-guided walking tours and virtual campus experiences are available.

Photography

Photography is permitted in public spaces and of art installations (non-flash, respecting privacy and posted signs). Highlights include:

The Monument for Law School at the entrance
The Takuji Yamashita statue
Naturally lit terrace and atrium spaces

Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the spacious campus.
Food and drink options are nearby at Odegaard Library and University Book Store.
Bring identification if planning to visit after hours or access restricted areas.

Nearby Seattle Historical Sites and Campus Attractions

Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture: Featuring regional and global exhibits (Burke Museum).
Henry Art Gallery: Contemporary art exhibitions and programs.
Suzzallo Library and Red Square: Iconic campus landmarks with rich architectural history.
UW Botanic Gardens & Sylvan Grove: Scenic outdoor spaces with historical features.

Combine your visit to Gates Hall with a campus walk to experience the University of Washington’s vibrant academic and cultural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for William H. Gates Hall?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Check UW Law School for updates.)

Q: Is there an entry fee or do I need tickets?
A: No, access to William H. Gates Hall is free and open to the public.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment through UW Law Visitor Services. Virtual and self-guided tours are also available.

Q: Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with full ADA compliance and accessible features throughout.

Q: Can I take photographs inside Gates Hall?
A: Non-flash photography is welcome in public areas and of art installations.

Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: Burke Museum, Henry Art Gallery, Suzzallo Library, Red Square, and UW Botanic Gardens.

Conclusion

William H. Gates Hall is more than a facility—it’s a dynamic hub for legal education, cultural enrichment, and community engagement. Its accessible design, rich art collections, and proximity to other Seattle and campus landmarks make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of academia, innovation, and history.

For the most current visiting hours, event schedules, and tour options, consult the UW Law School website and related resources. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for interactive tours and real-time updates. Whether you’re a student, professional, or traveler, Gates Hall provides a welcoming gateway to Seattle’s legal and cultural landscape.