A note from Vanderbilt Parking and Commuter Services
Welcome to a new academic year at Vanderbilt! If you’re a returning student, we’re happy to have you back on campus. If you’re a first-year student or new to Vanderbilt, we’re glad you’re here.
Getting around campus looks different for every student. Some students drive to campus every day, while others park occasionally, use public transportation (WeGo), walk or combine several transportation options.
Our goal is to make it easier to understand your options and find what works best for you. Whether you already have a parking permit, are looking for parking or want to explore other ways to get around campus, here are some resources and what you need to know as we welcome a new semester.
In the meantime, welcome back, Commodores. We’re here to help you get where you’re going.
Already registered to park on campus?
If you completed student parking registration, make sure you know where your permit is valid. Parking areas across campus have different requirements based on permit type, so check your information, the campus parking maps and posted signage.
Zone 12 parking (25th Avenue Garage):
Your student parking permit provides access to the 25th Avenue Garage (Zone 12). Since the garage is shared with Vanderbilt University Medical Center, it’s important to use the designated Vanderbilt University entrance when arriving.
- Enter the garage from Highland Avenue.
- After entering the garage, turn right.
- Follow posted signage and parking instructions once inside the garage.
- Park on the third floor or above.
Using the correct entrance and parking on the designated floors will help ensure you’re parking in the area designated for Vanderbilt University permit holders.
Want a permit?
If you’re eligible for a student parking permit but don’t currently have one, check the parking portal for current availability and purchasing options.
Graduate and professional students also have the option to enroll in daily parking, which can be a flexible choice for those who don’t need to park on campus every day. Students must maintain sufficient funds in their Commodore Cash account to access daily parking garages.
VU rides WeGo for free
Vanderbilt students have access to free WeGo public transit through Vanderbilt’s WeGo benefit.
Your benefit can be used throughout the WeGo system, not just for trips to and from campus. Use WeGo to get to campus, explore Nashville, run errands, meet up with friends or get where you need to go around the city.
Learn about the Vanderbilt WeGo benefit.
Planning for visitors?
If you’re welcoming a friend or family member to campus, review the campus visitor parking information on our website before they arrive.
Ways to get around campus
Parking and public transit aren’t the only ways to get around Vanderbilt. Depending on your needs and destination, additional options are available.
Park once, then let VandyRide help you get around
Your parking space doesn’t have to be right next to your destination.
VandyRide can help you get from your parked vehicle to your campus destination, so you can park once and leave your car there while you move between classes, meetings, dining, residence halls and whatever else you’re getting into. Enhanced daytime VandyRide service connects parking areas with destinations across campus, making it easier to get around without moving your vehicle.
You can easily track the VandyRide shuttles directly from the VandySafe app.
Walk or bike your way to and around campus
Walking may be the simplest way to get where you’re going. Vanderbilt’s campus includes sidewalks and pedestrian pathways connecting classrooms, residence halls, dining locations and other campus destinations.
Explore commuting resources on our website.
Mobility Rides
Students who need accessible transportation around campus can use Mobility Rides. The service helps members of the Vanderbilt community travel between campus locations and is a joint project with Equal Opportunity and Access, Student Access and Public Safety.
Students with medical or accessibility needs must register for this service with and be approved through the Student Access Office. If you would like to access the pre-approved mobility rides, contact Student Access through the online portal or at (615) 343-9727.
Find the option that works for you
There isn’t one right way to get around Vanderbilt. Depending on your schedule, destination and needs, you might. We encourage you to explore your options, plan ahead and find the combination that works best for your schedule.
Key resources
Need help?
If you have questions about parking or getting around campus, Parking and Commuter Services is here to help. Contact our team by emailing parking@vanderbilt.edu.