uc san diego you visit

Visiting & Tours

Discover uc san diego.

UC San Diego’s campus offers more than just salt air, sunshine and sweeping ocean views. From state-of the-art labs and research facilities to innovative spaces for exploring art and fostering creativity, it’s a destination for bold thinkers and curious minds. Come visit us and discover what it means to be a Triton. Your next big adventure could start here.

Explore our beautiful seaside campus virtually, in person or both—and see what makes UC San Diego the perfect environment to make a big impact. Discover our world-renowned public art collection, marvel at unique architecture or walk along Scripps Pier, where researchers are working to solve the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. Tours are very limited at this time.

• Office of Admissions Tours
• Stuart Collection Tours
• Scripps Institution of Oceanography Tours

GETTING TO CAMPUS

Arriving by car? Our La Jolla campus is conveniently located just off I-5. Visitors can purchase hourly parking at parking pay stations or on their mobile device.

Campus Driving Directions

PUBLIC TRANSIT

Whether you’re arriving by bus, the COASTER train or the Blue Line Trolley that connects our La Jolla campus to the local San Diego community and beyond, we’ve got you covered.

Public Transportation Information

GETTING AROUND CAMPUS

Ready to explore? You might prefer the path less traveled, but if you’re short on time, our campus maps, waypoint indicators and shuttles can help ensure you hit all the campus highlights.

• Campus Maps
• Visitor Parking
• Triton Transit
• Campus Waypoint Location Markers

As a destination for entertainment, inspiration abounds at UC San Diego. From lectures and workshops to concerts and cultural heritage events, we offer ample opportunities to expand your mind beyond the pages of a textbook.

CAMPUS EVENTS

With new and unique offerings every day, there’s something for everyone on our campus calendar.

Campus Calendar of Events

Epstein Family Amphitheater

Our state-of-the-art outdoor entertainment venue is designed with entertainers of the highest caliber in mind.

Amphitheater Events Calendar

We’ve curated a lineup of performing and media arts events to engage, energize and transform the diverse cultural life of the university and San Diego.

ArtPower Events Calendar

Student Events

Embrace your curiosity and form new connections with a full lineup of student-focused events designed to enrich your UC San Diego experience.

Student Events Calendar

Join the sea of blue and gold and cheer our Division I scholar-athletes to victory. There’s never been a more exciting time to be a Triton.

• Triton Box Office
• Game Schedule
• Sports Summer Camps

ARTS AT UC SAN DIEGO

Explore UC San Diego’s wealth of arts events, installations, screenings and more.

Life at UC San Diego

Dining on campus, places to eat at uc san diego.

From late-night eats and coffee shops to a variety of international cuisines, our campus offers dining options to suit every palate.

University Centers Dining

Boba drinks, Indian street food and Thai fusion dishes are just a few of the many offerings within our University Centers, which are home to both locally owned restaurants and well-known national chains.

UC San Diego Housing, Dining and Hospitality: Restaurants and Markets

With an exclusively vegan eatery and lounge, the largest halal-certified residential dining facility in the nation and certified kosher menu options—all with a focus on sustainability—eating on campus has never been easier.

All the Essentials

Uc san diego bookstore.

Stock up on everything from textbooks and computers to the latest Triton gear at the UC San Diego Bookstore, located in Price Center East. Visit the bookstore’s Sunshine Market for convenient grab-n-go products including snacks, groceries and home and dorm essentials.

University Centers Shops & Services

A full-service salon, a bike & skate shop, an Amazon pickup location and more: you’ll find it all here on campus.

Our Target campus store is unique and provides a curated assortment of products and services tailored to the specific needs and wants of students, staff and faculty. It even includes a CVS Pharmacy.

Work Hard, Play Hard

Take a yoga class, navigate our challenge course, learn how to surf or face off against your fellow Tritons in a game of basketball. Between our countless recreational offerings and the year-round Southern California sunshine, it’s easy to stay active both on and off campus.

La Jolla Playhouse

Our campus is home to the Tony Award-winning La Jolla Playhouse, a professional, not-for-profit venue that’s gained nationwide recognition as “the place to see what’s next on the American theatre landscape.”

Craft Center

Our reimagined 11,000 square-foot Craft Center offers classes and workshops ranging from ceramics and woodworking to culinary arts and surfboard shaping.

With study spaces, labs and access to the largest university research library system in the world, the Library is the perfect place to follow your curiosity and think outside the box.

Learn More About the Library

Experience UC San Diego

Virtually explore UC San Diego in a fully immersive 360-degree experience.

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• Search This Site All UCSD Sites Faculty/Staff Search Term

Plan Your Visit

We hope to make your visit to UC San Diego Homecoming seamless and enjoyable. See directions, parking, amenities, and more to ensure you make the most of your time with us. We're here to assist you every step of the way—start planning your visit now.

How to get to UC San Diego

Getting to UC San Diego's campus is easy! Whether you're coming from the north, east, or south, we've got you covered.

See Map and Directions

Parking and Transportation

Finding convenient and accessible parking is key to a smooth visit. Explore details on parking locations, rates, public transportation, accessibility, and any special considerations.

See Parking and Transportation Info

Accommodations

Explore nearby hotels and start planning your Homecoming visit. Welcome back to your home away from home.

See Local Accommodations

Stop by and see us sometime

You’ve done all your research and read every brochure, but the best way to find out what we’re all about is to see it for yourself.

Choose Your Tour

Triton tour.

Campus tour and admissions information session for prospective students and families.

Book Your Triton Tour --> Book Your Triton Tour

For groups of 11 or more students from schools, service clubs or Community Based Organizations.

Book Your Group Tour

Sunset Hike

Two-mile relaxed walking tour of the north end of campus, RIMAC athletic facility and bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Book Your Sunset Tour --> Book Your Sunset Tour

Explore Campus On Your Own

Virtual tour.

View 360-degree panoramas of campus and listen to audio offered in six languages!

Launch Your Virtual Tour

Self-Guided Tour

Explore central campus through our self-guided tour map.

View The PDF Here

What to do While you're here

Explore geisel library.

Snap a selfie in front of UC San Diego’s iconic Geisel Library, recently named one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and is among the nation’s top 25 public academic libraries.

EAT AT A DINING HALL

Treat yourself to a meal at one of our full-service eateries. Selections around campus include vegetarian, kosher and halal-friendly dining halls, as well as food to grab on the go.

Restaurants & Cafes

CHECK OUT THE BOOKSTORE

Browse bestsellers and outfit yourself like a true Triton at the UC San Diego Bookstore. Don’t forget to stop by Perks Coffee Shop on the first floor for an afternoon pick-me-up!

Visit Bookstore

SOAK IN SOME CAMPUS ART

Zigzag across campus in search of our carefully curated series of one-of-a-kind, site-specific installations from bold artists who proudly disrupt the status quo.

Directions & Parking

The Triton Tour includes a 30-minute information session and a 90-minute walking tour, so please plan to be on campus for at least two hours after you arrive. Click the link below for directions and parking details.

Get Directions

College Fairs

Get the inside scoop on what life at UC San Diego is really like and get all of your questions answered.

Prospective Student Events

Uc san diego on the road.

Discover where we’ll be attending fairs and school visits. It’s a fantastic chance to connect with us right in your neighborhood!

2024-2025 Events

Join us for events designed for prospective students and families through engaging virtual and in-person experiences. Dive into all the opportunities that await you as a Triton and see for yourself what makes our campus so special!

Discover UC San Diego Webinars

Webinar series.

For Prospective Transfer and First-Year Students

Join our webinar series to discover UC San Diego and the exciting opportunities that await you as part of our Triton community. This is the perfect chance to get all your questions answered, connect with staff and faculty, and determine if UC San Diego is the right fit for you.

Click to Register for Webinars

Oct 1, 2024 @ 3PM PT

Global Initiatives and Research

Oct 29, 2024 @ 3PM PT

Undergraduate Admissions, Financial Aid & Scholarships, Housing, Dining, Hospitality, Triton Transfer Hub

Nov 7, 2024 @ 3PM PT

Student Populations Programs and Services

Nov 21, 2024 @ 3PM PT

Triton Student Insights

Fall Showcase - Oct 5, 2024

Prospective first-year and transfer students, along with their families, are invited to explore the UC San Diego campus up close. Attend informative sessions from academic departments, engage with campus partners at our resource fair, and enjoy more exciting activities throughout the day!

Registration is now open!

Click here for more event details

MASTERING THE UC APPLICATION WEBINARS

First-year students.

Get the insights and tools you need to confidently submit your UC application. This webinar provides first-year students with a comprehensive overview of the UC application process, featuring UCOP content and led by an experienced admissions officer.

Oct 22, 2024 @ 4PM PT

Transfer Students

Get the insights and tools you need to confidently submit your UC application. This webinar provides transfer students with a comprehensive overview of the UC application process, featuring UCOP content and led by an experienced admissions officer.

Oct 23, 2024 @ 4PM PT

Personal Insight Questions

Join us to learn how to effectively tackle Personal Insight Questions on your UC application. Get expert tips and insights to make your responses compelling and enhance your application.

Nov 13, 2024 @ 4PM PT

EXCLUSIVE WEBINARS FOR TRANSFERS

Completion of transfer major preparation.

This session will guide transfer students through essential UC San Diego application resources, major requirements, and Assist.org, ensuring they’re prepared for a successful application process.

Oct 8 @ 4pm PT - Register Now

In-Service Training for Counselors

This session offers counselors essential insights and key stats about UC San Diego, empowering them to guide students confidently through the application process.

Oct 24 @ 12pm PT - Register Now

Why UC San Diego?

UC San Diego is more than just a university. Our vibrant Triton community offers unique opportunities for growth, innovation, and collaboration. This video gives you a glimpse of what makes our campus special and why it’s the perfect place for your academic journey!

Watch the Video

Stay Connected

Follow us on Instagram to stay updated on important events and highlights.

Explore UC San Diego

Publications

Check out all our campus resources and program guidebooks, tailored just for you!

YouTube Videos

Browse through our channel to get a glimpse at Triton life, learn more about our unique college system, and more!

UC San Diego YouTube

Campus Tours

Discover our beachside campus with a 60-minute guided tour, virtual tour, or a self-guided map.

Tour UC San Diego

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Q&A with the Visitors Tour Program

You don't have to take a class to learn something new at UC San Diego. Just take a tour. Every Sunday, knowledgeable adult volunteer guides offer free tours of the campus through the UC San Diego Visitors Tour program. The guides present a general overview of our 1,200-acre campus, imparting their insight about UC San Diego's history, architecture, and our mission of education, research and public service. This interview features a conversation with the program's director and three of the tour guides; keep reading and you'll probably learn something you didn't know about our university. For more information on the bus and walking tours, click here .

What is your connection to the campus — past and present?

Corlyn Vance: I came onto campus in 1972 to work at the School of Medicine as the administrator for the Associate Dean of Medical Education. It was after I retired that I got the call to create the Visitors Tour program, and now it is my job to help and support the guides. I spend my time on campus going to music concerts, art exhibits and lectures, and visiting Geisel Library. I like to see Dr. Seuss's notes and drawings, and try to figure out how his mind worked. The campus offers stimulation and continued learning, and there is always something going on.

Bob Starkey: I started at UC San Diego in 1967 when Revelle College was the only college on campus. I spent 39 years, most of my working life, as a UC San Diego employee in the Campus Planning Office. I was in a position to see many of the changes at the development stage, and as they were implemented. I was lucky enough to know many of the bright, forward-thinking and creative faculty and administrators who started the campus. I am now a member of Chancellor's Associates and we have regular events on campus. I'm also on the board for the Faculty Club so I participate in their events, and I like to remind people that the Faculty Club is open for membership to all faculty, staff and community members. I go to lectures and plays. I probably spend one or two nights a week doing something on campus. In fact, I'm on campus every day because I use the athletic facilities.

John Meyers: I was an Ob-Gyn doctor in the late 60s when the UC San Diego School of Medicine opened. I was among the first doctors from the community to volunteer as a faculty member. After I retired from private practice and teaching in 1982, I was recruited by a friend to volunteer as a campus tour guide. Now, my wife and I are subscribers to the La Jolla Playhouse, and we've been Chancellor's Associates for the past 15 years. We were also long-time members of the "Friends of the UCSD Theatre" support group during the many years that that organization was active. I also enjoy the eating experience on campus, student dining facilities like the Bistro and the Faculty Club as well.

Jill Holmes: I'm the newest kid on the block. I got my post master's nurse practitioner certificate from UC San Diego when they had the program. After graduation, I worked at the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and helped one of the psychiatrists open the Senior Behavioral Health unit. I retired in 2001, and had a neighbor who was a tour guide and she recruited me. I'm now a member of Town and Gown, and I enjoy lectures and classes at UC San Diego Extension.

How are your tours different from the campus' student-led tours?

Bob: Student tours cover student life, classes, schedules, living quarters, student organizations, all the things the students need and want to know about. Our tours cover campus buildings and architecture and history.

John: Our tour is designed for members of the public who want to know more about the campus in general.

What are the differences between your bus and walking tours?

Bob: The walking tours take you through the heart of campus, which you can't drive through. And the bus tours give you a better feel of the entire campus, by taking you through the main campus and down to Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Corlyn: You can't cover our 1,200-acre campus in a walking tour. I think the bus tours are a great way to start because then you can figure out what you're interested in—the art gallery, the Stuart Collection, the libraries—and come back and spend more time there.

John: I think the tours are complementary. You can take the bus tour to get the big picture, and then take the walking tour and get the heart and feel of being on the campus in the midst of students and activities.

Corlyn: Also, part of my job is to update the tour guide scripts, and I do that weekly. The scripts are always changing because the campus is always changing. It shows that we're cutting-edge. We also meet with faculty regularly to discuss the salient points they want us to explain to the public as we give our tours. Next year, we're going to do more architectural tours.

Why should people take a campus tour?

Jill: To discover the aspects of the campus that aren't widely known, such as the powerhouse research that happens here, and that the campus has generated many of our local biotech companies. I love it when community members take the tours, especially when they're new to town, and they realize what a resource the campus is, and that it's so prestigious. We also have one of the greatest collections of mid-century architecture by renowned architects. We don't have the Tower of Pisa, but we have plenty to see here.

John: People should take tours to have some fun, to learn something interesting and to be adventurous. You can ride around in a comfortable 19-passenger bus while an experienced guide points out various campus features and buildings, and tells you all about UC San Diego. And the tour takes you by Scripps Institution of Oceanography, one of the oldest and largest oceanography centers in the country, and by Birch Aquarium. You'll learn about these two famous institutions—what they look like, how they relate to each other, why they're world-renowned, how they contribute to the local and global economies, and their enormous scientific contributions to San Diego, the state, the nation and the world.

What is your favorite piece of UC San Diego trivia or folklore?

John: Many contemporary UC San Diego folk are unaware of the existence of a web of underground passageways between buildings in the main campus. They are big enough to walk through. They contain utility lines and pipes, and are only accessible to selected maintenance personnel. They have been locked and inaccessible to the public for so long that only the "old timers" know about them.

Bob: Recently a student told me he heard that the Geisel Library was sinking—that the architect did not figure the weight of the books in its design. A few days later I saw my friend, Boone Hellman, the Associate Vice Chancellor of Design and Construction, and asked him about the rumor. He laughed, said he had never heard that, but that there is absolutely no truth to the story.

Jill: The Geisel library has appeared as an iconic building in a variety of ways—in movies, television series and in a Kohler plumbing commercial.

What do you like best about the campus today?

Jill: I like that it's never static; it's always changing. I've lived near four UC campuses, and there's always a crane somewhere. We have to stay on the cutting-edge, even though our state funding is decreasing.

Bob: I need to point out that 85 percent of the current and planned construction on campus is not funded by the state; it's student-funded, contract or grant funded, or funded by donors.

John: The other thing is that several years ago, when our state budget was much better and we passed various bond measures, money was allocated for construction on our campus. Current projects that you see now have been in the pipeline for a long time; it takes a number of years to translate that into contracts and building. I am also pleased with how well the natural environment has been preserved in the midst of the explosive growth of construction. And I appreciate the campus's determination to remain energy efficient, to reduce fossil fuel usage, and to construct all new buildings in accordance with the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards. The campus is exciting, creative, active and growing. It's like a beautiful plant that keeps blossoming.

Bob: I love how well the campus has responded to dramatic funding reductions while maintaining the quality of education it provides, and how well the community has assisted our efforts. We have excellent relations between the campus and the community. And I'm always impressed to see the many new start-up companies — many on the Torrey Pines mesa — which have been started by faculty, researchers and alumni from UC San Diego. I'm also impressed with the quality of research here, which I regularly read about in the paper. The Preuss School is also a great source of pride for UC San Diego, as it provides a college-prep education for first-generation students and it is nationally recognized as one of the best high schools in the country.

How has the campus changed over the last five decades?

Bob: Of course, there are the obvious things like the growth of the campus — the number of students and faculty, and the budget. But it's also how our reputation has changed. We started as a small, very great place that nobody knew about. And now I meet with international students who say everybody knows this is the place to come. We're also always at the top of various rankings. It's clear we're one of the best.

Corlyn: The faculty has always been top-notch, and I think people recognize that. But I think one of the big changes is how our local community has taken us in, accepted us, and realized what a great resource this campus is. Our teaching and research are always ahead of their time, like with the addition of the new Medical Education-Telemedicine building. And I think that adds to our reputation.

John: I think the campus is like a promising young person who has really grown and blossomed, and shown the world his or her full capabilities. Having been on the campus scene for 25-plus years, I have had the opportunity to witness the expansion of the programs, the construction of new buildings, and I've known many of the university's past and present leaders.

Jill: We're also beginning to see distinguished alumni, Craig Venter being one of them, getting recognition. For instance, there was an article in The Wall Street Journal about who's going to be the next Steve Jobs, the next big innovator, and Craig's name was mentioned.

What is the best part of being a tour guide?

Bob: I just can't get away from the campus after spending so much time here as a staff member. I consider giving campus tours a win-win—I love to talk about the campus and I can pass on to others some of why I love it.

John: I am a teacher at heart. I love to share information. I get a lot of pleasure out of how amazed and impressed our visitors are when they discover the treasure trove of intellectual riches right here in our community. It's also fun to take groups of alumni around and see how amazed they are about what's here now that wasn't here when they were here. And what was here that they didn't even know about.

Favorite place on campus:

• John: The Price Center
• Bob: The Faculty Club
• Jill: The northwest neighborhood
• Corlyn: Geisel Library

Favorite new addition to campus:

• Corlyn: The Medical Education-Telemedicine building
• John: Me too, because I am a physician and it's a state-of-the-art teaching facility
• Bob: The Village at Torrey Pines
• Jill: The Rady School of Management and the Sulpizio Family Cardiovascular Center

Favorite UC San Diego tradition:

• John: The Watermelon Drop at Revelle College
• Corlyn: Me too
• Bob: Same, and the Sun God Festival
• Jill: Sun God

Favorite Stuart Collection piece:

• Bob: Sun God, Snake Path, Bear and Standing
• John: Sun God
• Jill: The Table
• Corlyn: Sun God

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Attend uc san diego.

Your journey is unique—whether as a first-generation student, a community college transfer, an international scholar or student veteran—and we are dedicated to your success. Dive deep into our vibrant learning community taught by award-winning faculty with an ocean backdrop.

UNDERGRADUATE

UC San Diego first-year and transfer students come from all over California and throughout the world—ready for challenge and discovery

FIRST-YEAR ADMISSIONS

TRANSFER ADMISSIONS

GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL

Work alongside world-class experts—and become one. Join our thriving community of graduate and professional scholars.

GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL ADMISSIONS

MEDICAL AND PHARMACY

Invent the future of care through the education and research opportunities offered through UC San Diego’s School of Medicine and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

SKAGGS SCHOOL OF PHARMACY

WERTHEIM SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH

LIFELONG LEARNING

Looking to prepare for college, advance your career with certificate and degree-related programs, or just seeking to enrich your personal growth? We offer a range of courses and programs to help you meet your goals.

We merge disciplines and surpass expectations, empowering students to think creatively across boundaries, resulting in unimagined discoveries.

One of the top 10 public universities in the nation for over a decade.

Among the top public universities in the nation.

In research spending by total R&D expenditures.

Among all institutions across the globe of highly cited researchers. We merge disciplines and surpass expectations, empowering students to think creatively across.

Shooting for the Stars

In a series of successful launches, most recently aboard the Axiom 3, researchers affiliated with the UC San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute have sent various types of stem cells to space aboard the International Space Station, where the unique microgravity environment offers an unparalleled view into the molecular mechanisms of cancer and aging.

FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Whether you’re a first-year, transfer, or graduate student, the UC system has one of the most generous and progressive financial aid programs in the nation. College is within your reach.

Our Thriving Student Life

There are plenty of ways to find community and have fun on campus. Watch a show at one of UC San Diego’s performance venues, participate in fitness classes, join a student organization and more.

Visiting and Tours

Discover UC San Diego

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Parent and Family Resources

UC San Diego has partnered with Bartell Hotel to offer families, students, alumni and friends reduced hotel rates at some of the finest properties in San Diego. Every time you stay at one of the Bartell Hotels’ eight distinguished properties, a percentage of the total room cost is donated to support student scholarships at UC San Diego and enhance university events.

To take advantage of these special rates and make a reservation for your family, call (800) 345-9995 or visit tritonfamilydestinations.com .

Places to Go and Things to Do

In la jolla.

• Birch Aquarium at UC San Diego
• Black's Beach
• La Jolla Cove
• La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour
• La Jolla Shores
• Soledad National Veterans Memorial
• Salk Institute for Biological Studies
• Shell Beach
• Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Explore La Jolla

In San Diego

• Balboa Park
• Coronado Island
• Gaslamp Quarter
• Little Italy
• Mission Bay and Mission Beach
• Pacific Beach
• San Diego Zoo
• Seaport Village

Parents' Helpline: (858) 534-7273

[email protected]

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Visit Campus

Visitor and patient parking.

Visitors who need daily or hourly parking can purchase  visitor permits using ParkMobile or on-site pay stations .  Contractors who must park on university property while performing services have several parking options.  Visiting UC faculty and staff who hold annual permits at their home campuses are eligible for up to five consecutive days of free parking at UC San Diego.

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UC San Diego

Sun. Sea. Surfing. Our campus at UC San Diego has plenty of obvious charms.

But you’ll also find one of the world’s leading research universities—second in the world, to be exact—and over 130 undergraduate courses across five disciplines.

San Diego puts a different spin on what it means to be a university. It’s not just about your subject, but what you choose to focus on. There are eight colleges in total, each with its own theme and educational requirements. Students get to make their own choice, and see where they fit.

There’s an impressive and award-winning faculty too, including Five Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, Fields Medal winners, Tony winners, Oscar winners...

The weather is incredible. The facilities are world-class. You’re sure to be swept away by life at UC San Diego.

First-year admit stats

Applicants: 134,444

Admits:  35,984

Overall admit rate:  26.8 %

See more freshman stats

Transfer admit stats

Applicants:  22,488

Admits:  12,298

Overall admit rate:  54.7 %

See more transfer stats

Admissions contact information

UC San Diego 9500 Gilman Drive La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-2230 Office of Admissions Student Services Center, 1st Floor (858) 534-4831 TTY: (858) 822-1699 Recorded information (858) 822-5669 [email protected]  

More campus contacts

Early Childhood Education Center MC 0962, 9500 Gilman Drive (858) 246-0900 Financial Aid Office Student Services Center, 3rd Floor (858) 534-4480 [email protected] Housing [email protected]  

International Admissions Specialists (858) 534-4831 [email protected] Office for Students With Disabilities Building 202, University Center Voice: (858) 534-4382 TTY: (858) 534-9709 Registrar Student Services Center, 2nd Floor (858) 534-3150 [email protected] Residence Deputy (858) 534-3150 [email protected] Tour Information and Reservations Student Services Center, 1st Floor (858) 822-4750 [email protected] Veterans Information (858) 534-4831  [email protected]

Additional resources

• College Selection
• General Catalog
• UC San Diego Viewbook
• UC San Diego Bookstore

San Diego up close

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Plan a visit

• Visitor information
• Virtual tour

Guided Tour and Presentation

Tours are designed for prospective, current UC San Diego Students, Academic Counselors, UC San Diego faculty/ staff/administrators, and general guests. No guided tours will be offered from Sep 23 rd  - Sep 27th.

Admissions Officer presentation is included.

Completely outdoor walking tour led by current UC San Diego Campus Ambassadors.

Space is Limited

Due to COVID-19 safety protocols and staffing, space is limited.

To provide a tour experience to as many students as possible we are only able to allow 4 guests per registrant.

We will be unable to accommodate walk-on guests not included in your registration however, they are able to explore campus on their own with our Self-Guided tour .

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9 of the Most Fun Things to Do Around UC San Diego

Whether you’re enrolled or just visiting, there are plenty of fun things to do around UC San Diego.

October 17, 2022

Disclaimer:  California.com  is not receiving any type of compensation for reviewing any of the products or services mentioned in this article.

Dreaming of a better life? Waking up with the sun and to an ocean view is a world-shared dream. But that’s not all UC San Diego offers. Graduating astronauts, lectures from field professionals, and modern education are just the tip of the iceberg at UCSD. If you’re searching for a place where the beach, social life, and a better education meet, you’ve found it. Every futuristic hope and dream of a freshman lies in this place. And to top that, it's not limited to students. Whether you’re enrolled or not, there are plenty of fun things to do on campus . By the way, if you’re considering visiting the city, be sure to keep in mind those weird San Diego laws .

What to Do at UC San Diego?

1. Roaming Around the Campus

This exciting campus is a great starting point for getting to know San Diego city well. The uni has endless educational corners and is home to endless greenery. If you’re orienting the UC San Diego campus, make sure to arrange access to the Scripps Oceanography space and take surfing sessions. If you’re headed to the library, make sure you pass by the main entrance to admire that luminous architecture. On your way down, stop by to pay your respects at the memorial of Dr. Theodore Seuss. Yep, from the cartoon series. The campus’ food court has very tropical energy and if you’re making your way down there, you’ll find the college bookstore on the right. Fun fact –  this bookstore even picks up your amazon orders. Pick up a snack and a book and head down to the campus parks for a lovely picnic among the pine trees. 

If you’re taken aback by the city or thinking about a future in it, there are plenty of friendly and affordable neighborhoods to settle down in this city.

What to Do Around UC San Diego?

2. Little Italy

Location : Neighborhood in San Diego, California. If you’re craving that Western European feel, just run down to Little Italy. Among many other must-sees during your time at UC San Diego , Little Italy is that place that you wouldn’t want to miss. Walking through the shops and taking in that vibe feels like a vacation within a vacation. Definitely try out a Neapolitan pizza from the locals and get to hear all about their ancestral recipes. Later, you can have a little gelato a la Italia and walk around the waterpark. Mind the view of the massive ships at the port. If you’re feeling the heat, you can even soak your feet in the fountain. Make sure to get your photo up at the gate.

3. Ship Off to the Coronado Island

Surely visiting the beach is on your to-do list when you’re roaming around the city. Luckily, Coronado Islands falls under fun things to do at UCSD . The island is connected to San Diego with a 200 ft dramatic bridge and is only a 2-mile drive. There are plenty of things to see on the island, but once you land there make sure you hit up that white sandy beach. This beach is ranked among the best ones in… drumroll … you've guessed it! AMERICA! This beach not only has an exotic feel to it but also has an unlimited amount of sand, so you’re guaranteed a spot. After sunbathing, dive in the ocean - and freeze. What? It's the pacific ocean and also part of the fun!  When you’re done splashing around San Diego , make sure you pass by Hotel del Coronado . This mega-hotel is right across the beach and is unmissable. With the red and white colors and the old architecture, you can still taste Spanish influence . Prepare to be wooed, and stay camera-ready for that Instagram post! If you make it until sunset, enjoy the magnificent horizon glowing in flaming colors. After that, make sure you visit Centennial Park to experience the view of the beautiful skylines and the lit-up city to balance out that contrast of nature and sunset.

4. Balboa Park

Location : San Diego, CA. Another big recommendation to add to your list of UCSD's things-to-do list is Balboa Park. You can either spend a few hours at this park or a few days. The outstanding architecture will leave you awestruck. Several gardens are stationed through those gates - so pristine, that you might even call them enchanting. If you’re a lover of gardens, make sure you visit the Lily Pond Botanical Building. Also, be sure to check out the desert garden, but be careful not to prick your finger on that cactus.

As we’ve already mentioned, Balboa Park isn’t a conventional one. There’s a legitimate reason why it's an ultimate San Diego attraction . If by chance you’re into museums, there’s a wide variety of them sitting – more like towering – on those grounds. Check out many of them, since most cost a tiny fee. We recommend the San Diego Museum of Art and Museum of US & California Tower. Yes, this is all in the garden.

5. San Diego Zoo

Location : Balboa Park. In addition to being one of the most popular urban parks in the United States, this rural paradise is packed with an array of attractions - including the world-famous zoo of San Diego. If you’re attending UC San Diego , or just visiting town, be sure to dedicate some time to see this place. This zoo is a non-profit wildlife conservancy, nesting over 3,500 endangered animals and home to 700,000 exotic plants. So kids or no kids, if you’re up for being an eyewitness to endangered species and spending some time with wildlife, be sure to check this place out.

6. Visiting La Jolla Town

Location : San Diego, CA. Looking for things to do near UCSD ? La Jolla is located just 9 minutes from campus, and it's an absolute requirement to visit.  The city is a coastal town with a beach. The water cove is ecologically protected and the most desirable swimming spot. Keep your taste buds tingling with some of their amazing food and witness some diverse wildlife. Diving and snorkeling are the most common things to do here - along with shopping and dining. Also, don’t forget to check out the countless sea lions who’ll most likely be busy cuddling and simply existing in their natural habitat. If you’re interested in visiting the area, be sure to check out our getaway guide to La Jolla for more things to do in the city.

7. Take a Hike, Word for Word

Name : Three Sisters Falls Trailhead, San Diego Location : Cleveland National Forest Difficulty : Moderate Distance : 4 miles Elevation : 985 feet Route type : Out and back Time : 2h 13min Dogs : Allowed on leash

If you’ve had enough of San Diego beaches , heading east you’ll find an amazing range of mountains. For a good break from college life, and to tick off one of the top things to do in San Diego , take a hike. Only a few miles away from the city and a relatively short hike, the Three Sisters' Falls awaits. This trail is fully surrounded by mountains, so get ready for incredible mountainous and valley views along the way. When you reach the last spot, you wind up at the Three Sisters hosting magical waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. At the endpoint,  don't hold back from jumping into the lake.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, what's the process for uc san diego campus tours.

Hey guys, I've been thinking about visiting UC San Diego, but I'm not sure where to start. Does anyone know how the campus tour process works? Do I have to reserve a spot, and if so, how far in advance do I need to book it?

Visiting a college campus can indeed be a great way to get a feel for the atmosphere and whether it might be the right fit for you. So, your interest in touring UC San Diego is a good move!

To answer your question, yes, you typically need to reserve a spot for a guided campus tour at UC San Diego. These tours are led by current students who can offer first-hand insights about the university environment and lifestyle.

Here's how you would generally go about scheduling a tour:

1. Visit the UC San Diego website: You can find information about campus tours under the Admissions or Visit Campus sections. Look for links or buttons that say "Schedule a Tour" or something similar.

2. Choose a tour date and time: The website usually will let you choose a date and time based on availability. Tours typically are offered multiple times per day, but their schedules can vary, especially during holidays or university break periods.

3. Register for the tour: After you've selected a date and time, you'll probably be asked to complete a registration process, which typically involves providing some basic information about yourself. Make sure to keep a copy of your registration or any confirmation email you might receive.

As for how far in advance you need to book the tour, it's usually a good idea to schedule at least a few weeks ahead, or even several months if you can, to ensure you have a spot on the date that works best for you. Some popular tour times can fill up quickly, especially during busy times such as summer or weekends.

While visiting, it might also be worthwhile to attend a general information session, if offered. These sessions are usually conducted by admissions representatives and can provide additional useful information about admissions criteria, academic programs, housing options, and student life.

Remember, if you can't make it to UC San Diego for an in-person tour, many schools now offer virtual tours, which are a great secondary option. You can check to see if UC San Diego offers this on their visit website or contact them directly for more information.

Hope this helps, and enjoy your visit to UC San Diego!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

UC San Diego Campus Visits: Share Your Tips & Recommendations

Did you recently visit UC San Diego? Share your experience with the community! Post your review in the comments below.

Some ideas for what to share:

• When did you visit?
• Where did you stay? Would you recommend it?
• Where did you eat? Did you try any local specialties?
• How did you get there? What’s the best transportation mean to get to-from the campus?
• What was the campus vibe?
• What did you think of the dorms?
• What are some must-see things in or around campus?
• How were the school facilities?
• Did you like it more or less than you thought you would? Why?
• Did anything surprise you?

We’d love to hear any tips or recommendations you can share for people planning their UCSD visit!

We visited UCSD for admissions presentation and 90 min campus tour on the Mon before Thanksgiving 2022. (UCSD’s office of admissions had been short staffed so tours were not scheduled as far out as other UC campuses. The UCSD visit was the 1st of 3 UC visits that week. We had previously visited Cal Poly SLO.)

We scheduled our visit while my kids had Thanksgiving break, but the college was still in session. Unfortunately, it was during the TA strike. We had heard from an undergraduate that his seminar that Monday was cancelled.

We stayed at the Sheraton La Jolla hotel and there is a UCSD affiliated discount.

The night before, we ate dinner at a restaurant in La Jolla Village and the morning of the tour we at breakfast at The Shops at La Jolla Village . We walked to both from our hotel, not realizing there is ample parking.

The tour was lead by 1 tour guide. We did not go inside any buildings/dorms except the Triton Center, when we checked in for the tour and admissions presentation.

Not knowing any better, I thought we could walk from the hotel to UCSD and do the tour and walk back. Unfortunately, we got totally lost on our way back to the Sheraton and ended up near the Residence Inn . This extended the day, and I think this soured my kids on UCSD as they were saying it was just too big.

This was the surprise. I thought UCSD and its residential college system would be the best fit for my S24, but UCSD dropped below the other 2 UCs and Cal Poly SLO that we had visited.

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• Finance Administration Resources
• Budget & Finance Training

UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program

Your one-stop shop for the UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program guidelines.

Financial Accounting Program now accepting applications for Spring Quarter 2024

The UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program is flexible, available right now, and at no cost to you. We encourage everyone who wants solid fundamentals in finance and accounting to take the introductory course, Financial Accounting for Non-Accountants (FAFNA) , either as a stand-alone or as part of the full program that includes additional courses.  Take the short assessment and APPLY NOW .  An application including the assessment and supervisor endorsement is due March 8, 2024 . 

Note: Funding for this program is secure through end of Spring Quarter 2024.

Register for an Information Session

To learn more about the program and changes in program structure, attend our Information Session on the following dates. Please click on the links to register.

• Tuesday, February 27, 2024 @ 10:00am - 11:00am
• Thursday, February 29, 2024 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00pm

Program Overview

All UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program participants must go through the application process outlined below. Links to UCSD Extension course information is provided for review purposes only -  do not register or pay for courses.

What is the UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program?

The  UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program  is a comprehensive financial accounting program that offers accounting knowledge at a basic to intermediate level.  This program is intended to establish foundational accounting knowledge that is consistent across the UC San Diego staff members who are in finance and accounting roles.  Participants will also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of electives that align with specific skills that they would like to further develop.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn how to use accounting and financial data for more effective and profitable decisions
• Learn the basics in financial accounting theory and practice
• Learn the key concepts, terms and tools associated with the financial world
• Classes are only offered to UC San Diego employees
• Taught by expert practitioners
• Practice-based learning 
• Asynchronous (Online): instructor-led curriculum with no set meeting times/pre-recorded instruction
• Synchronous (Live Online): instructor-led curriculum with set meeting times and live instruction
• Customize your learning by choosing from a variety of electives
• Provides continuing education units which may be used to meet the California State Board of Accountancy’s educational requirements

Associated Costs

The UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program is fully funded by the Chief Financial Officer and offered to the  Individual  at no cost for the following year. At the one-year mark, the program will undergo review to determine the efficacy and continuation.

To receive an Award of Completion, participants must complete or test out of the following courses:

• Financial Accounting for Non-Accountants
• Finance Management 
• Elementary Accounting I
• View the chart above for a full list and linked desription of each course

Alignment with UC San Diego Training Programs

The program serves as a complement to any UC San Diego  Budget & Finance Training  and  Research Administrator Training that is currently offered.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

UC San Diego career employees (Campus, Foundation, and Health) with fiscal responsibilities are eligible to apply to the UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program. 

Priority enrollment will be given to staff that support their department as Research Administrators and Fiscal Managers (fund managers). Any remaining seats will be filled with Business Officers and other fiscal staff. Unfortunately, contractors are not eligible at this time.

Application Process

The application process for the UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program is as follows:

• Complete the application ,   including the mandatory program assessment and required forms as referenced in the application. 
• The Financial Accounting Program will resume in Fall Quarter 2022
• Program Committee members will review applications and make final decisions about individual placement in the program based on a VC seat distribution.
• Applicants will be notified of committee decision(s) by program administrators and applicants must accept/register with UC San Diego Extension (details will be communicated to participants).

Application Forms

If you are unable to access the forms within the application process, they are listed below:

• Supervisor Endorsement Form

Andy Koudriavtsev, Finance Manager (VCMS) Isabella Bryant-Parkinson,  Director Business Tech/Ops (VCHS) Caitlin Chu, Principal Analyst (VCCFO) Irene Xavier, Business Operations Manager (VCMS) Nikki Giaquinta, Assistant Director TechPM (VCCFO) Lisa Russon, JSOE Dean's Office Divisional Business Officer (VCAA) Kyle Nakanishi, Director Business Operations (VCRA) Nirvana Navarro, Financial Analyst (VCSA) Matthew Vanderbilt, Medicine  Director Business Analytics/Fiscal Affairs (VCHS) Jake Guss, Controller (VCRMP) Susselys Virgil, Assistant Controller (VCCFO)

Attendance & Participation Guidelines

Continued Eligibility

The UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program is fully funded by the Chief Financial Officer and offered to the Individual at no cost. If a participant receives a failing grade, the staff member must re-enroll in the UCSD Extension course using personal or departmental funds. Once the staff member receives a letter grade to 'Pass' the course, the program will fund the remaining courses through the award of completion.

Completion Policy

• Student must attend and be punctual to all class sessions
• Students are expected to complete the course requirements, including the project work, in the time frame allotted
• Student must score 80% or better on final knowledge checks to pass the class
• Assignment extensions may be granted when sudden serious medical situations, compulsory military service or other extenuating circumstances beyond your control, such as family emergencies, prevent the on-time completion of course requirements
• Requests for extensions must be submitted in writing to the instructor at the mid-way check-in point for reasonable excuses  - falling behind and poor time management are not reasonable excuses
• Students may only request an extension one (1) time
• If you have fallen substantially behind and need to repeat a course, you should drop the course prior to the drop deadline and re-enroll for the next term in which the course is offered. Otherwise, your instructor will assign an appropriate final grade based on the work you complete in the course

Course Drop Policy

Drops are permitted within the first two weeks of a course.  You will need to notify BFS so that you can be added to the enrollment list for a future quarter (which one depends on availability). The fee when re-enrolling will still be covered by the university. Those dropping after two weeks will need to take the course again at their own or department’s cost.  BFS will need to be notified so that you can be added to the enrollment list for the next available quarter offering.  Exceptions to having re-enroll at personal or department cost after the two-week period may be granted on a case-by-case basis depending on the circumstances.  Please contact  [email protected]  or  [email protected]  if you have questions. 

Grading Options

• To participate in this program, accepted participants must choose a “Letter Grade” option or the "Pass/No Pass" option at checkout.  Participants may NOT choose the "Not for Credit" (NFC) option. A passing grade counts toward your earned credit hours or the required number of units for the course and achieving the award of completion for the program. To learn more about grading options, view the Grades webpage at UC San Diego Extension’s website.
• Log into   MyExtension.ucsd.edu   with your student account credentials
• Navigate to "My Courses" and select the course you would like to change
• On the right side under "Tools," select "Change Grading Option."
• In the pop-up window that appears, click "Submit."

Prerequisite Policy

You must pass the UC San Diego Financial Accounting Program Assessment with 80% or more to bypass the prerequisite course (Financial Accounting for Non-Accountants) and advance to core courses and electives.  All other course prerequisites are outlined in the Program Overview table.

Continuing Education Units

The courses included in this program all have continuing education units associated with them. The Continuing Education Unit (CEU) is a uniform measure of non-credit postsecondary-level study. Employers, licensing agencies and others who require a specific number of hours of instruction for career placement or advancement generally accept this unit of measure. You earn one CEU for every 10 contact hours in a continuing education course. 

This program also provides academic units which may be used to meet the California State Board of Accountancy’s educational requirements.

Award of Completion

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, students are eligible to receive an award of completion for their participation in this program. To request your Award of Completion, contact [email protected] . 

Information Session and FAQ

Q: Why is this program being offered? A: Through forums like Town Halls, Communities of Practice, and Office Hours many of you have expressed a desire to learn general accounting, build your skill sets in excel, and better communicate with your Faculty/PI. In response to your needs and as part of our dedication to building a strong financial community, the Chief Financial Officer has agreed to fund this effort with Extension at no cost to the Individual/Department. This partnership will allow internal resources to continue evolving finance and research training programs to meet the needs of our users. Q: Why should I apply to this program? A: The UC San Diego Financial Accounting program results in an Award of Completion, and will help you gain a basic understanding of the principles of accounting in order to better interpret financial information. Courses are not Oracle specific, but are comprised of UC San Diego staff, so there will likely be discussion and examples shared that relate to UC San Diego financial business practices. These courses are relevant because Research Administrators and Fund Managers are responsible for the financial health of the funds they manage and Oracle is an accounting system. Every financial transaction such as a purchasing, travel expenses, billing, cash receipts, etc. gets recorded in the financial system which in return forms part of the financial statements for the University and your specific units. Understanding how these transactions are recorded will better prepare RA/FMs to keep track of income and expenditures, and provide PIs/MSOs/DBOs with relevant financial information which can be used to make business decisions. Q: Will this help me in my job? A: IFIS was a highly customized financial system and while UCSD centrally was always doing proper accounting and financial statements, much of that activity was done behind the scenes and not always obvious to departmental financial staff. Now with the purchase of Oracle, the system is much more of a traditional, out of the box accounting system so having some fundamental knowledge of basic accounting will help you better understand how and why your transactions are flowing through the system and how they show up in the campus' financial statements.

As an example, the way we book capital assets is different than in IFIS. Many expected to see assets posted as expenses (not assets), but the way Oracle works today is in alignment with GASB accounting principals.  Q: What if I know accounting and only need a refresher? A: In the early stages (quarters) of this program, we will prioritize the 80 seats for fund managers that want to acquire the financial background needed to perform in this new environment (complete 3-4 courses, with an award of completion). For staff that only need a refresher or only need spot training to help them perform in their roles, we will offer an alternative approach in later quarters.  Q: What happens if I don't get in to the upcoming quarter? A: Our goal is to place you in a subsequent quarter. As part of the application process, you may also indicate if a different quarter start is better aligned with your personal/professional schedule. Q: How many hours per week will this take? A: I nstruction time (includes instructor led class time or assigned asynchronous work in the form of videos, readings etc) will take at least 3 hours of work per week. An additional 2-4 hours will be needed to complete assigned work such as homework or readings. This will take about 5-7 hours of time a week to participate in the course. Q: How will we know if the program is effective? A: We will periodically offer surveys and feedback sessions to participants to make program adjustments and assess usefulness in terms of applicability to job/duties. Q: What if I already have a professional certification or CPA and still want to take a program courses? A: You may still apply for this program and d epending on the course, CEUs may be applicable towards your continuing education requirements. For more detail, please contact [email protected]. Q: What if I want to just take one course to refresh my knowledge? A:Our initial goal is to meet the fundamental needs of the first wave of students this Fall. During subsequent quarters we will be making adjustments to hopefully provide the support you need in a single course. Please fill out the application form to indicate your interest. This will help inform our future program development. Q: Will these courses be taught in the context of our new financial system? A: No, these courses will be focusing on general accounting knowledge to help you better perform within the system. Q: What if I don’t pass the course. Who will see that? A: The Program lead will see it to determine what the next steps are. They will reach out to gauge your interest in either re-enrolling with personal or departmental funds Q: What if I have already taken a course listed through Extension, can I take it again? A: Extension will address this on a case by case basis. Please indicate all the courses you’ve taken including your student ID number or the U number from Extension (as part of your academic record) in the application. If you do not remember your U number or student ID number, in the application please provide us with the email you used for the class to connect the records or contact [email protected]. Q: Will any of the courses in the program be included in the research administration training? A: No, this program is partnered with Extension and we do not intend to replicate this as part of the RA training program since it focuses more on the lifecycle of research and general duties as a RA. Q: What if I pay for an Extension course on my own? Will the content be the same? A: Yes and no. The knowledge within the fundamental courses will be similar to other courses. On the other hand, the discussion board questions will likely be customized toward UC San Diego questions because the course will have a private cohort of UC San Diego employees vs being open to the public. If you do not wish to go through this application process and take the Extension course, these courses are available for the public to take. Q: Will the cost of the textbooks be covered as well? A: Everything is fully funded. The cost of the required course textbooks are covered as well but no other additions are covered.  Q: What is the duration of the course? How long are the classes? A:  Duration of the course will depend on the # of course units and whether it is live online or self-paced. Course length may be up to 9 weeks per quarter. Class and class work may take anywhere from 2-5 hours per week. Q: Can you take more than one elective course? A:  At this time no. If it comes to be that certain elective courses are in high demand, we will look at adjusting for future quarters. Q: Should the homework be done during working hours? Will it be paid time? A: This would be a conversation to have with your supervisor to determine if that is a proper use of time (University resources) and if it is helping support the objectives of the department. A  combination of completing homework during both working hours and non-working hours is likely. Q: How long does it take for the assessment test? A: It is 20 questions long, so within about 30 min.

Q: When does my course start and end, and/or what time is the live instruction for the synchronous course? A: Once you are enrolled, you can find all course details (start and end dates, instruction time, course and section designations, your student ID number etc) at  https://myextension.ucsd.edu/ .