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SIU's sports teams are a popular diversion in town and throughout the region. SIU is a member of the Missouri Valley Conference for most sports; its football team is in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (which is a separate organization, despite the similar name). The main venues, most notably SIU Arena for basketball and Saluki Stadium for football, are on campus. SIU is an NCAA Division I member, but the football team is in Division I FCS, a step below the much bigger programs in Division I FBS. However, an advantage of this is that tickets can be easier to get (and cheaper) than at higher-profile schools.
Natural history and contemporary art museum. Public metered parking from the Student Center and beside Woody Hall.
Boo Castle Park
A whimsical playground full of dragon and wizard statues. The centerpiece is the castle playground where kids can let out their imagination. The park is most appropriate for kids under 12. Port-a-potty, a drinking fountain, and vending machine. Free street parking.
A city park.