durham college campus tours

• Campus Tours

Become familiar with the many academic programs and student services Durham Tech has to offer by taking a main campus tour. Walking tours are provided by one of our students, who can offer firsthand knowledge of the college experience.

The College offers two types of tours:

All tour requests must be submitted at least two weeks before the desired tour date. Our team will respond to all requests within five business days.

Individual Tour: This one hour tour will begin at the Welcome Desk, located in the Wynn Center Student Services Building on Main Campus. Campus tours are offered by appointment between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday based on availability. During peak times of the semester, we may not be able to accommodate tour requests.

Individual Tour Request  

Group Tour: Groups have the option of choosing 1, 1-1/2, or 2-hour tours.

Group Tour Request

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Visiting Duke & Durham

*  COVID-19 Update : All visitors must comply with Duke's  COVID-19 guidelines  while on campus, including social distancing and masking where required. Visitors are also expected to monitor their health, particularly the symptoms of COVID-19, and stay home when they exhibit any symptoms, feel ill, or may have been exposed to others and need to self-isolate. For more details, please visit the  Duke United webpage . Thank you for your support.

In addition to coming to Duke to spend time with your student, we encourage you to experience the many wonderful dining, retail, and historical attractions that Durham and the surrounding Triangle area have to offer.

Below you will find details on some of these great local activities, shops, and events, in addition to many area hotel and motel chains. For more information on how to experience the sights and sounds of Durham, also be sure to  visit Discover Durham’s website .

Duke is home to some of the South's best events, local places to eat and shop, concerts, and more. Here are some of our favorites...

9th Street 9th Street is known for its variety of restaurant offerings at reasonable prices that Duke students and Durham locals frequent and enjoy. From upscale bar food to the best brunch in the city, 9th Street is the place for anyone seeking to find great local food and shops.

American Tobacco Campus www.americantobaccohistoricdistrict.com 324 Blackwell St. The American Tobacco Campus features Durham Bulls Baseball, the Durham Performing Arts Center, Music On the Lawn outdoor concerts, art exhibits, restaurants and so much more. It is also a registered historic site with roots in the American Tobacco Factory established in the 1800s.

Brightleaf Square (off of East Campus) historicbrightleaf.com 905 West Main St. Brightleaf features an eclectic mix of restaurants and shops in the historic warehouse district of downtown Durham.

The Streets at Southpoint streetsatsouthpoint.com 6910 Fayetteville Rd. At Southpoint, shoppers can explore an exquisite two story, indoor and outdoor mall with a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Duke Performances dukeperformances.duke.edu Duke Performances hosts a wide variety of events and musical performances in many Duke and Durham community venues. Selections include classical and chamber music, jazz, pop, theater, dance, comedy shows, and more.

Duke Athletics goduke.com Check out one of Duke's many nationally recognized Divison 1 athletic teams! From Coach K's Men's Basketball team inside Cameron Indoor Stadium to Kerstin Kimel's Women's Lacrosse squad, Duke features award-winning scholar-athletes. To purchase tickets,  you can go online  or call the Duke Athletic Ticket Office at 1-877-375-DUKE (3853) toll-free or (919) 681-BLUE (2583). If you live locally, you may also visit the ticket office located in the south lobby of Cameron Indoor Stadium. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more upcoming events,  visit the Events@Duke calendar . The site offers a comprehensive listing of Duke events, including lectures, conferences, performing arts, exhibitions, cultural activities and more. Users can search by date, event category, or organization/group, and can download event details to most personal calendar clients.

Durham Performing Arts Center dpacnc.com 123 Vivian St. The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) is the largest performing arts center in both North Carolina and South Carolina. From Broadway to concerts, comedy to family shows...there’s something for everyone at DPAC.

Nasher Museum of Art nasher.duke.edu 2001 Campus Dr. The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University serves as the center for the visual arts on campus. The museum promotes engagement with the visual arts among a broad community including Duke students, faculty, and staff, the greater Durham community, the Triangle region, and the national and international art community. The museum presents an ambitious schedule of exhibitions that travel to major institutions around the world, and has a growing collection of international contemporary art.

Duke Gardens gardens.duke.edu 420 Anderson St. Enjoy the natural beauty of campus with a visit to Duke Gardens. This 55-acre botanic garden is one of the top 10 public gardens in the United States. The grounds are open from 8:00 a.m. to dusk 365 days a year.

We'd love to have you on campus! But, when visiting your student on campus, it’s important to keep in mind that Duke has become, on many levels, home. Students have a degree of autonomy and range of relationships that were not part of their lives before arriving on campus. It’s important to allow your student to develop relationships, decision-making skills, and techniques for organization and time management. It’s okay to offer suggestions, but it’s also important to allow your student to experience the challenges and growth opportunities that college provides.

To help plan your visit, here are a few more helpful resources:

• Campus Maps:  https://maps.duke.edu
• Visitor Parking:  https://parking.duke.edu/visitor
• Campus Tours and Information Sessions:  https://admissions.duke.edu/setting/plantrip
• Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU):  http://rdu.com

Please note that as of July 1, 2020, Duke is a tobacco-free campus. We ask that you support our efforts and don't use any tobacco products anywhere on campus, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, and chewing tobacco. For more info:  https://healthy.duke.edu/tobaccofree/ .

Here are some addresses for key university landmarks:

Bryan Center Visitor Parking Garage: 120 Science Drive Durham, NC 27708

Duke University Chapel (West Campus): 401 Chapel Drive Durham, NC 27708

East Campus Union (Marketplace): 1324 Campus Drive Durham, NC 27708

For your convenience, we have compiled a list below of the many major hotel and motel chains represented in the Durham and Triangle area.

*JB Duke Hotel (919) 660.6400 230 Science Drive www.jbdukehotel.com On Campus

*Washington Duke Inn (919) 490.0999 3001 Cameron Boulevard (NC 751/Cameron) www.washingtondukeinn.com Distance from East Campus: 1.3 miles Across the Street from West Campus 

*The Lodge at Duke Medical Center (919) 313.2165 2306 Elba Street https://www.lodgeatdumc.com/ Distance from Campus: 0.7 miles

Aloft (919) 402.5656 345 Blackwell Street  http://www.aloftdurhamdowntown.com/ Distance from Campus: 2.4 miles 

The Durham Hotel (919) 768.8830 315 E. Chapel Hill Street thedurham.com Distance from Campus: 1.7 miles

University Inn (919) 286.4421 502 Elf Street www.universityinnduke.com Distance from Campus: 0.7 miles

21C Museum Hotel (919) 956.6700 111 North Corcoran Street http://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/durham/ Distance from Campus: 1 mile

Residence Inn Marriott (919) 680.4440 1108 West Main Street  www.marriott.com Distance from Campus: 1.3 miles (100 yards from East Campus)

Millennium Hotel (919) 383.8575 2800 Campus Walk Avenue www.millenniumhotels.com Distance from Campus: 1.3 miles

Durham Marriott at The Civic Center 1.(800) 909.8375 201 Foster Street http://marriott.com/hotels/travel/rducv-durham-marriott-at-the-civic-center/ Distance from Campus: 1.8 miles

Unscripted Hotel 1.(800) 909.8375 202 N. Corcoran Street https://www.unscriptedhotels.com   Distance from Campus: 1.8 miles

Courtyard Durham Near Duke University/Downtown (919) 309.1500 1815 Front Street marriott.com/hotels/travel/rdufs-courtyard-durham-near-duke-university-downtown/ Distance from Campus: 2.8 miles

Extended Stay America (919) 489.8444 3105 Tower Boulevard www.extendedstayhotels.com  Distance from Campus: 2.9 miles

LaQuinta Inns & Suites (919) 401.9660 4414 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd www.laquintadurhamchapelhill.com/ Distance from Campus: 3.7 miles

Quality Inn & Suites (919) 382.3388 3710 Hillsborough Road www.duke85.com Distance from Campus: 4.0 miles

Durham Hilton (919) 383.8033 3800 Hillsborough Road www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/north.../hilton-durham-near.../index.html Distance from Campus: 4.1 miles

Home2 Suites by Hilton Durham/Chapel Hill (919) 680.9000 3305 Watkins Road https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/rduhtht-home2-suites-durham-chapel-hill/ Distance from Campus: 4.9 miles  * Complimentary shuttle services to/from Duke *Ask for "Duke University" rate

Homewood Suites by Hilton Durham/Chapel Hill (919) 401.0610 3600 Mt. Moriah Road https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/rduhwhw-homewood-suites-durham-chapel-hill-i-40/ Distance from Campus: 5.2 miles  * Complimentary shuttle services to/from Duke *Ask for "Duke University" rate

Holiday Inn Express (919) 313.3244 2516 Guess Road www.hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/durham/rduhm/hoteldetail Distance from Campus: 5.2 miles

Hampton Inn (919) 471.6100 1542 North Gregson Street http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/north-carolina/hampton-inn-and-suites-durham-north-i-85-RDUNOHX/index.html Distance from Campus: 6.8 miles

Residence Inn Durham Research Triangle Park (919) 361.1266 201 Residence Inn Blvd. http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/rdudr-residence-inn-durham-research-triangle-park/ Distance from Campus: 8.6 miles

Sonesta Select Durham Research Triangle Park (919) 484.2900 301 Residence Inn Blvd https://www.sonesta.com/us/north-carolina/durham/sonesta-select-durham-research-triangle-park Distance from Campus: 8.9 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint (919) 544.6000 7007 Fayetteville Road www.durhamsouthpoint.stayhgi.com Distance from Campus: 9.3 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Durham Research Triangle Park (919) 941.6066 4620 South Miami Blvd. hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/north-carolina/hilton-garden-inn-raleigh-durham-research-triangle-park-RDUGIGI/index.html Distance from Campus: 10.5 miles

SpringHill Suites Durham Chapel Hill

5310 McFarland Dr.

Durham, NC 27707

919-403-1111

www.marriott.com/rdurl                    

(Here is also the link for Duke University Discounted Rate)

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

RDU Airport | Brier Creek

10040 Sellona St. Raleigh, NC  27617

919-246-0107

www.marriott.com/rdube

Hyatt House® Raleigh/RDU/Brier Creek

10030 Sellona Street Raleigh, NC 27617

919-405-7001 

www.HyattHouseBrierCreek.com

Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport

3931 Macaw St, Raleigh, NC 27617

919-224-1400

www.marriott.com/rduwr

Bed & Breakfasts in Durham

Duke is lucky to have many local Bed & Breakfast options for visitors to campus. If interested, learn more about the various options available at the  innsofdurham.com  and  bedandbreakfast.com . 

Chapel Hill

Sheraton Chapel Hill (919) 968.4900 1 Europa Drive http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1124 Distance from Campus: 7.6 miles

Aloft Chapel Hill (919) 932.7772 1001 South Hamilton Road https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/rducl-aloft-chapel-hill/rooms/ Distance from Campus: 7.2 miles

Residence Inn by Marriott (919) 933.4848 101 Erwin Road www.residenceinnchapelhill.com Distance from Campus: 8.5 miles

The Siena Hotel 1-800-223.7379 1505 East Franklin Street www.sienahotel.com/ Distance from Campus: 8.8 miles

Raleigh-Cary

The Umstead Hotel and Spa (919) 447.4000 100 Woodland Pond Drive www.theumstead.com Distance from Campus: 18.4 miles

Residence Inn Raleigh (919) 472.1005 www.marriott.com/rduac Distance from Campus: 12 miles

Courtyard Raleigh (919) 471.1000 www.marriott.com/rduab Distance from Campus: 12 miles

Relive Your College Days: Plan an Adventure on a North Carolina Campus

Look beyond the classroom during these college visits to plan a vacation filled with stops at gardens, galleries, sporting events and restaurants.

Experience college in a brand-new way by rediscovering these North Carolina campuses that extend invites to all. Admire the dedication to education, commitment to beauty and enthusiasm for fun as you take a trip full of nostalgia.

Colleges you'll find in this article: Davidson College | Duke University | Elon University  |  North Carolina A&T NC Central University |  NC State University  | Shaw University |  UNC Chapel Hill UNC Charlotte  | UNC Greensboro |  Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem State University  

1 Davidson College

This small liberal arts school’s buildings are woven throughout town, offering numerous opportunities for inspiration. As a National Arboretum , the setting is perfect for paths that showcase more than 3,000 trees and shrubs. Along with Mother Nature’s works of art, sculptures by artists Magdalena Abakanowicz, Auguste Rodin and Yinka Shonibare are also admired all across campus. Three galleries with a full schedule of exhibitions can be found at the Visual Arts Center. Just up the road is The Farm at Davidson , which grows produce for the college’s dining services. To caffeinate like you're preparing for an all-nighter, swing by the original Summit Coffee on Main Street; the co-owners are Davidson alumni.

2 Duke University

Any visitor to Durham can find inspiration in the unique activities found on Duke’s campus. The Sarah P. Duke Gardens draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year thanks to 55 acres of Italian-style terrace gardens, a rose garden and a koi pond topped with water lilies. For a one-of-a-kind stop, book a tour at the Duke Lemur Center , a world leader in the study, care and protection of the endangered mammals. And for sports lovers, the Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed Duke University Golf Club is recognized as one of the Southeast's best, while the Duke Basketball Museum brings the storied program to life on a daily basis.

3 Elon University

A designated botanical garden, Elon’s 656-acre campus is a nature lover’s haven. Follow the campus tree map to find 125 trees along a 1.25-mile walk through campus, visit the community garden and schedule a tour of the school’s 15-acre solar farm, part of the Environmental Center at Loy Farm . Then head downtown to The Oak House for a beverage and a bite and check out some local shops, or grab a pastry to go and picnic at the nearby Beth Schmidt Park , which has beautiful walking trails, a playground and garden. Treat yourself to a cup or cone at Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream before calling it a day. Staying the night? The Inn at Elon is the choice: All profits from the inn are dedicated to funding student scholarships.

4 North Carolina A&T

NC A&T is the nation’s largest HBCU. The university played a central role in the Civil Rights Movement when four students led a sit-in at Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro in 1960, and the location now operates as the International Civil Rights Center & Museum . After the museum tour, head to the Dudley Building on campus to see the A&T Four Monument, which honors the freshmen who led the sit-in. Visit in fall and catch a football game to see the famous Blue and Gold Marching Machine, whose high-energy performances have been getting fans on their feet for years.

5 North Carolina Central University

The NCCU campus is included in the National Register of Historic Places for good reason – it’s been a key piece of Durham history for more than 100 years. As you walk among the historic buildings throughout campus, be sure to check out a newer addition, the Centennial Chapel and Garden, built in 2010 to celebrate the university’s centennial. It’s a great place to pull out picnic supplies from Durham Co-op Market before exploring more of downtown. Start with West Parrish Street, often referred to as Black Wall Street because of its role as a hub for Black-owned businesses and economic growth in the early 1900s. Then visit the Museum of Durham History or any of the History Groves – groupings of native trees planted to honor those who shaped the community. Speaking of community, the ties are strong at the Hayti Heritage Center , which hosts events, programs and festivals.

6 North Carolina State University

NC State is the ideal mix of city and rural life. On the Centennial Campus, Lake Raleigh Woods is designated a “hallowed place,” meaning its past helps forge the future of research and education. The 96-acre forest welcomes researchers as well as bird-watchers and those looking for a peaceful stroll. Down the road from main campus is the JC Raulston Arboretum and butterfly garden, where the collection of plants has attracted about 60 species of butterflies and moths over the years. If you’re looking for a place to reunite with old friends from school, the Lonnie Poole Golf Course – the only collegiate course in the world designed by Arnold Palmer – is the perfect spot.

7 Shaw University

The first HBCU in the South and among the oldest in the nation, Shaw sits in the heart of the historic district downtown – and its ties to history remain strong, from the stunning memorial garden on campus to its multiple historic landmark buildings. Head to Estey Hall – built in 1874, it’s the oldest surviving Shaw building and the first structure built for the higher education of Black women. Because of Shaw’s central location, walk or drive from campus to many nearby favorites. Refuel Southern-style at Big Ed’s and then keep the fun going – kids of all ages love Pullen Park's amusement rides, paddle boats and swimming. Families can enjoy awesome time indoors at the nearby Marbles Kids Museum or NC Museum of Natural Sciences . If your kids are of the four-legged variety, Dorothea Dix Park has an area just for dogs (and plenty of open-air activities for humans too).

8 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Visit the country’s first public university for a few firsts of your own. For basketball fans, Carolina Basketball Museum is a must, where names like Dean Smith and Michael Jordan might ring a bell. The Ackland Art Museum hosts a permanent collection of more than 21,000 works of art, while the Morehead Planetarium offers shows like “Carolina Skies,” a live star show that takes you on a journey through the nighttime sky. Most alumni will tell you a stroll along Franklin Street is a necessary intro to Chapel Hill life. For lunch, few things are better than a hot dog and old-fashioned soda at the legendary Sutton’s Drug Store . It’s been feeding hungry Tar Heels since 1923.

9 University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Just 15 minutes northeast of Uptown, UNC Charlotte boasts a 1,000-acre campus that’s still close to Charlotte’s vibrant NoDa, Plaza Midwood and South End neighborhoods. Start your visit with a walk through the botanical gardens , home to three different gardens with 16 collections. Over in the art department, check out three exhibition spaces in the Rowe Arts Building , which displays the work of students, faculty and visiting artists. For a good meal, students rave about Passage to India .

10 University of North Carolina at Greensboro

A stroll through this campus brings tons of visual intrigue, with architectural diversity, historic buildings and storied landmarks – like the 9-foot bronze statue of Minerva by artist James Barnhill, and The Rawk, a boulder painted and repainted with well wishes and announcements nearly every day. Speaking of art, make sure you head to Weatherspoon Art Museum in the heart of campus. Admission is free to its six galleries and sculpture courtyard, and coffee and baked goods are offered most weekdays. Find more inspiration at any of Greensboro’s outdoor oases, from the 17-acre Greensboro Arboretum to Gateway Gardens , a whimsical entryway to the city integrating elements of history, movement and play.

11 Wake Forest University

Recreate carefree college days at Davis Field by swinging under the towering trees or taking time for a picnic. For a learning opportunity, visit the only museum in North Carolina dedicated to the study of global cultures at the Museum of Anthropology . Catch up on a little botany 101 at the 134-acre Reynolda Gardens with beautiful woodlands, wetlands and a greenhouse. Don’t miss out on getting a unique souvenir at the Reynolda Village shops right next door. For your finale, enjoy a pitcher of beer at Shorty’s .

12 Winston-Salem State University

Wander through campus and admire public art sculptures, as well as massive murals by artist and North Carolina native John Biggers in the CG O’Kelly Library. The Diggs Gallery also operates as a cultural center with exhibitions and programs focused on African American and regional art (recognized by The Smithsonian as one of the nation’s best). If you’re looking for action: Every Saturday in spring and summer, Bowman Gray Stadium fills up the stands for short-track racing at NASCAR’S longest running weekly track. The whole family will love seeing multiple races at “The Madhouse.”

Shayla Martin

Shayla Martin is a Durham-based travel and food writer. She has contributed to The Wall Street Journal , New York Magazine , Atlanta Journal-Constitution , Fodors Travel and more.

Ends: 9/12/2024

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Sweepstakes, go urban hiking: reconnect with the energy of outdoor museums, parks and paths, trips that transform, where the road ends, adventure begins: feel renewed by these places to travel by ferry, pack your sandals, sneakers or boots: find hikes for all levels.

Campus Tours-Durham College - This event has already occurred

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Are you considering learning at Durham College? Come join us for an in-person tour of your future campus. Your tour guide will show you our state-of-the-art learning spaces, student spaces, support services and athletics facilities. Feel the energy...

Are you considering learning at Durham College? Come join us for an in-person tour of your future campus. Your tour guide will show you our state-of-the-art learning spaces, student spaces, support services and athletics facilities. Feel the energy of campus life and see how you belong at DC!

Upcoming Dates:

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June 15, 2024

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa ON View on Google Maps

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Virtual Visit

Welcome to your virtual visit to University College Durham, where you can experience what we offer.  

During the pandemic we were unable to welcome visitors to University College. Whilst we are now fully open and have a range of tours which can be booked, we have kept these resources for anyone interested in joining our community.

We are a Castle without borders – we hope you will join us and be part of our vibrant community.  

We are delighted to introduce you to University College Durham, known lovingly as “Castle.” Whether you are the first in your family to attend college or the next in a family legacy, we are honoured you’re considering this living learning community. Whether you are from the UK or you hail from abroad like myself, we are pleased to share some of our collegiate culture with you and excited to help you explore Castle as part of your university discernment process.

Whoever you are, whatever you hope to study – all are welcome here!  

Castle is a diverse and robust living learning community designed to enhance your university experience and impact your personal, academic and career development. We provide social activities, academic engagement, peer and staff mentoring, athletic and fine arts opportunities and wellbeing support in an enriching community environment. Our community  involves   three  smaller communities – the JCR (junior common room  - undergraduate ), MCR (middle common room  - postgraduate ) and SCR (senior common room  staff and beyond ) respectively .  Each has  elected leaders who dedicate time and talent to ensuring the strongest possible involvement opportunities and community development. The College Office Staff support these leaders and all members of Castle by providing student support, leadership training, accountability to the University Code of Conduct, emergency response and more. Finally, our dedicated Operations and Catering staffs provide the facilities, accommodations, security and dining resources that  enable all  to flourish. In other words, students and staff work collaboratively to ensure a stellar collegiate environment in which everyone can learn, grow and thrive.  

Even in the present unique times, o ur goal is  still  to make sure you’ve learned everything possible to help you discern the collegiate community that feels best for you. I would encourage you to seek a place in which you not only feel comfortable, but in which you will also be challenged, stretched and supported. We believe University College Durham is just such a community, and we wish you all the best as you explore the possibilities.  

Take good care,  

Wendy   Professor Wendy Powers, PhD   Principal & Associate Vice Provost   University College | Durham University  

Living in a Castle  

Everyone wants to come to Castle :  student s , staff, schoolchildren  and  members of the public. It is a building with nearly 1000 years of history. Its history as a college is relatively recent and the proceeding 800 years saw Durham Castle’s story entwined with that of the Prince-Bishops of Durham, whose semi-regal status made them some of the most powerful and wealthy men in the country. Durham Castle was their seat of power and Palace Green the centre of their administration.  

Today Durham Castle is a Grade I Listed Building, an Accredited Museum and part of the Durham World Heritage Site. These are not just titles for Durham Castle, these are responsibilities, some of which have statutory regulations and it’s why University College is the only college with a curator. As the curator of Durham Castle it is my role to be aware of the regulations and to protect, curate and interpret and make accessible the interior and exterior historic fabric.  

This comes in many different strands. I am involved with much of the public-facing side of Durham Castle, such as the running of Castle Tours and the training of Tour Guides and volunteers who help the 30,000 yearly visitors enjoy their visit to Durham Castle. I also help the student and college community engage with the public, for example through talks and by helping Castle Community Action with large-scale family events.  

One of my main responsibilities is to care for the museum collection and advise on the historic fabric. Whether this is displaying the museum collection, monitoring the environment or being involved with large-scale projects to protect the fabric of the castle for future generations. You will probably find me at quite a few meetings for the large student events such as June Ball and certain college projects. I am also involved with direct teaching in several modules for both Durham University and other HE institutions, and indirect support using collections and historic fabric.  

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The most beautiful college in every state

• Universities across the US feature diverse architectural styles, from Gothic to Greek Revival.
• Some schools have fascinating histories that inspired their designs, like Florida's Flagler College.
• Others, like Berry College in Georgia, are surrounded by lush natural landscapes.

From botanical gardens to glass-and-marble libraries, college campuses across the US offer more than just a place to study and sleep.

Students travel from around the country — and, sometimes, the world — to attend these storied institutions, some of which date back centuries and have educated presidents, CEOs, and Pulitzer Prize winners.

While picking a school purely based on its looks isn't advised, a campus' architecture and amenities can contribute to its atmosphere and educational opportunities. Some history buffs even incorporate university tours into their itineraries when traveling the US.

We listed the most beautiful college campus in every state based on previously published rankings and official lists such as the National Registry of Historic Places, as well as by identifying historic features, one-of-a-kind architectural components, and access to breathtaking natural beauty.

ALABAMA: Spring Hill College in Mobile

Founded in 1830 by Mobile's first catholic bishop, Michael Portier, this southern institution — named one of the South's most beautiful campuses by Southern Living — was one of the first Catholic colleges established in the Southeast.

Several of its buildings have been recognized and made part of the National Register of Historic Places list.

The 381-acre liberal arts college, enveloped by pink azaleas, features a Greek Revival home that doubles as the commencement venue; an expansive green field at the steps of the library; and the St. Joseph Chapel, where rock legend Jimmy Buffett married his first wife, Margie Washichek, in 1969, according to the college.

Oh, and did we mention there's an 18-hole golf course on campus?

ALASKA: University of Alaska Fairbanks in Fairbanks

This public institution is spread over 2,250 acres, has five community and rural campuses across the state, and is one of the oldest universities in Alaska.

Its in-house museum, the Museum of the North, was designed in 2005 by award-winning architect Joan Soranno. It was part of  Architectural Digest's  2018 "most iconic buildings in America" list and has won several national awards since its opening in 2005.

The museum's design was inspired by Alaska's natural surroundings and meant to evoke "images of alpine ridges, glaciers, breakup on the Yukon River and the aurora," according to the University of Alaska .

ARIZONA: University of Arizona in Tucson

Established in 1857, the University of Arizona has since been home to many famous figures, from Kourtney Kardashian and Kristen Wiig to five-time NBA champion Steve Kerr .

Surrounded by the beautiful Santa Catalina mountains , the 380-acre campus features rows of red-bricked halls, towering palm trees lining its walkways, and a nationally recognized public garden that is home to many desert plants.

ARKANSAS: Hendrix College in Conway

Tucked away in suburban Conway, this liberal arts institution incorporates its natural surroundings into its campus architecture — think redbrick buildings, azalea-lined walkways, and old oak trees spread across the 175-acre campus.

Three of its academic buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

CALIFORNIA: University of California, Berkeley in Berkeley

Once a 2-acre site in Oakland and now a sprawling 178-acre campus, UC Berkeley 's college grounds have undergone several transformations over the years.

In 1863, upon acquiring a bigger space, college administrators worked with Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect of New York City's Central Park , to design a plan for the new campus. Then, by 1890, as enrollment increased, a competition was held to appoint a new architect, where French architect Emile Bénard won first place.

While Bénard presented his formal Beaux-Arts vision for the new campus, he declined to work as the supervising architect, and John Galen Howard — who won fourth place — was instead chosen to oversee the project.

Beyond its architectural feats, the university has produced many noteworthy figures, from Apple cofounder Steve Wozniak and actor Chris Pine to "Lizzie McGuire's" Adam Lamberg.

COLORADO: University of Colorado Boulder in Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder 's campus underwent a transformation between 1918 and 1932 when American architect Charles Klauder — whose other notable works include Cornell University, Penn State University, and Princeton University — was hired to revamp the campus, reported Architectural Digest , which named it one of America's most beautiful college campuses.

Klauder added a touch of Tuscan Vernacular Revival style that came to be associated with the college and was also known as the University of Colorado style. The updated campus grounds featured multi-hued sandstone walls and red roofs.

Several other buildings were built in the Collegiate  Gothic style in the past , and some traces of this style can still be seen in old buildings across the campus.

In addition to its design marvels, the university is known for its affiliation with several prominent astronauts , such as Kalpana Chawla, Jim Voss, and Scott Carpenter.

CONNECTICUT: Yale University in New Haven

Elements of traditional Collegiate Gothic and modernist styles co-exist on this 261-acre campus. Modern structures, including architect Eero Saarinen's Ingalls Rink and the glass Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, stand out against the classical buildings.

Founded in 1701, Yale University is the third oldest in the country.

Since its inception, it has produced numerous prominent figures, including politicians, such as former US presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton , to actors Meryl Streep, Jodie Foster, and Lupita Nyong'o.

DELAWARE: University of Delaware in Newark

Lush manicured lawns and a mix of red-brick and Collegiate Gothic-style buildings make up much of the University of Delaware.

Established in 1743, the university is home to 21 NCAA division teams and 36 club sports. It also has a four-floor library — the Morris Library — stretching 6 acres and accommodating over 1,700 students.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden are both alums of this university.

FLORIDA: Flagler College in St. Augustine

Flagler College's 47-acre campus — recognized by Southern Living as one of the most beautiful campuses in the South — operates out of the former Spanish Renaissance-style Ponce de León Hotel .

Not only do students get to call a National Historic Landmark their classroom, but they are also only a few miles from the Atlantic Ocean.

GEORGIA: Berry College in Rome

With its Gothic-style buildings across a 27,000-acre campus nestled within forests and fields and surrounded by mountains, it's easy to confuse Berry College for an English manor in Downton Abbey .

It has been recognized as one of the most beautiful college campuses by publications including Travel & Leisure and Southern Living.

Berry College has doubled as a filming site for movies such as "Remember the Titans" and "Sweet Home Alabama."

HAWAII: University of Hawaii at Mānoa

Located in the picturesque Mānoa Valley, this 320-acre university offers sweeping views of the volcanic rock and easy access to Waikiki Beach. As of fall 2022, more than 19,000 students were enrolled in the college, which is one of the largest and oldest of the 10 University of Hawaii campuses.

The university also classifies in Division 1 in the NCAA athletics rankings.

IDAHO: University of Idaho in Moscow

Various architectural styles are on display across the University of Idaho's vast campus, including the Collegiate Gothic style visible at the administration building.

Architect John E. Tourtellotte, who also worked on the Idaho State Capitol , helped design the administration building. In its north wing, the building has a U-shaped three-story, Gothic structure, at the entrance of which President Teddy Roosevelt famously gave a speech.

Other notable spaces include a 45-acre arboretum , which is home to over 2,500 different varieties of plants from around the world.

ILLINOIS: Northwestern University in Evanston

Situated by Lake Michigan in Evanston, this 240-acre campus — only a short drive away from Chicago — features Victorian-style halls, a Neo-Gothic chapel, and even an observatory, which per the university, was home to what was once the world's largest telescope.

Meghan Markle , author and screenwriter Gillian Flynn, and " Game of Thrones " creator George R.R. Martin are just a few of the famous figures who went to school here.

INDIANA: University of Notre Dame in South Bend

The University of Notre Dame is famous for its football team and theology program, per  Condé Nast Traveler , which named it one of the prettiest colleges in the US. However, it's also well-known for its gorgeous architecture and lush quads.

Its glittering golden dome, which features gold leaf, stands tall amid other buildings, while the Neo-Gothic Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a visual delight for visitors and students alike.

IOWA: Iowa State University in Ames

A campus lake, a central lawn, and a 110-foot-tall Campanile bell tower are just some of the beautiful design elements at this 2,000-acre campus.

It's also home to the most Instagrammable public garden , which, at 17 acres, includes a conservatory, a butterfly wing, and Elwood, the world's largest concrete gnome, per the university. He stands 15 feet tall.

KANSAS: Kansas State University in Manhattan

A defining feature of K-State's campus architecture is its extensive use of Cottonwood Limestone across several buildings, such as Anderson Hall — which is also on the National Register of Historic Places — and Dickens Hall.

The university also has over 2,000 acres of green space and its own lake.

KENTUCKY: University of Louisville in Louisville

Established in 1798, the University of Louisville has three campuses: the Belknap Campus, which is almost 345 acres and is known as the main campus; the Health Science Center; and the Shelby Campus.

Belknap Campus, based in Old Louisville , was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The main campus is known for its red-bricked buildings and a cast of Auguste Rodin's famous statue, "The Thinker."

LOUISIANA: Tulane University in New Orleans

Tulane University 's 110-acre uptown campus, located along St. Charles Avenue, has 89 buildings, each with distinct architectural styles.

Gibson Hall, which was built in the Romanesque Revival style and used limestone for its surface, overlooks the stunning 350-acre Audubon Park.

MAINE: College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor

The College of the Atlantic's main campus stretches 38 acres. The college has two in-house organic farms, as well as research stations on two islands in the Gulf of Maine.

The institute is surrounded by pink granite mountains, spruce forests, and the Atlantic Ocean .

MARYLAND: United States Naval Academy in Annapolis

Situated between the Severn River and downtown Annapolis , this military school has a scenic waterside setting and a variety of Beaux Arts-style buildings spread across its campus.

According to Architectural Digest, the university is also home to the world's largest single dormitory, the Bancroft Hall, which resembles the Palace of Versailles.

MASSACHUSETTS: Harvard University in Cambridge

As one of the oldest colleges in the US — it was founded in 1636 — Harvard University has seen several design transformations over the years. It is also home to some historic buildings, such as Massachusetts Hall, which, according to the National Park Service, is one of the oldest surviving Harvard buildings.

Beyond the academics, one of the perks of going to school here is that you get to dine in Annenberg Hall, which looks like Hogwarts' Great Hall, and call several Georgian red-brick buildings your classroom.

MICHIGAN: University of Michigan in Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan has many beautiful buildings across its 3,070-acre campus. One that stands out is the law school library, which features an arched doorway and follows a similar aesthetic to Mason Hall, one of the oldest buildings on campus.

MINNESOTA: St. Olaf College in Northfield

Locally known as "The Hill," this 300-acre campus is surrounded by woodlands and prairies.

Twenty of its buildings were designed by Edward Sövik, a well known American architect , author, and professor on campus, including the 1877 Old Main, which is one of the two of the college's buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

MISSISSIPPI: University of Mississippi in Oxford

Situated in the picturesque college town of Oxford, the University of Mississippi is surrounded by towering oak trees, magnolias, and several storied buildings. The most famous — and also the first academic building on campus — the Lyceum, was built in 1848 by architect William Nichols.

MISSOURI: Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University also held a competition to pick a firm to design its new campus when it moved to slightly bigger grounds within St. Louis in 1900, when construction on its hilltop site first began.

A design project inspired by British universities Oxford and Cambridge bagged the first prize, and the firm behind it, Cope & Stewardson, went on to turn their vision into reality — think soaring towers with classical Gothic arches and lush quads.

MONTANA: University of Montana in Missoula

The campus' red-brick clock tower stands tall against the backdrop of Mount Sentinel, which displays a giant letter "M," like the state's version of the Hollywood sign. The building offers just one of the many architectural styles seen across the college campus.

From Academy Award-winning actor J.K. Simmons and women's rights activist Jeannette Rankin to poet James Welch, the University of Montana has been home to several prominent artists before they became famous.

NEBRASKA: Creighton University in Omaha

As reported by Travel & Leisure, which named Creighton University the most beautiful college in Nebraska, elements of old and new design blend harmoniously on this campus, giving the university a distinct character.

NEVADA: University of Nevada, Reno in Lake Tahoe

You wouldn't be the first to confuse pictures of wooden cabins on the university's website with those of a luxury hotel chain or a serene forest home. The university's Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences — the said wood cabin — fits in with its natural surroundings while still standing out thanks to its intricate woodwork and masonry.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Dartmouth College in Hanover

Dartmouth is another college where old and new coexist. Within a 5-acre space are two of the institute's oldest buildings, Wentworth and Thornton Halls, built in the 1820s. On the modern front is the Hopkins Center, which was built in 1962 and designed by Wallace Harrison, the same architect who built New York's Lincoln Center and the United Nations building.

Beyond its architectural styles, the college is also well known for its numerous famous alums, including Pulitzer-winning poet Robert Frost, children's author Theodor Geisel (a.k.a. Dr. Seuss ), and historian Annette Gordon-Reed , the first Black writer to win a Pulitzer for history.

NEW JERSEY: Princeton University in Princeton

Princeton is another Ivy League university that provides academic excellence alongside stunning architecture.

The classic Collegiate Gothic style is on display in buildings across the campus, with a few modern exceptions such as Spelman Hall by I.M. Pei, Lewis Library by Frank Gehry, and the Carl Icahn Laboratory by Rafael Viñoly, Architectural Digest reported in its list of the most beautiful colleges in the US.

NEW MEXICO: St. John's College Santa Fe in Sante Fe

St. John's College is a dream destination for anyone who loves the mountains. Given its proximity to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains , the campus has several hiking trails, and nature is always at your doorstep.

NEW YORK: Colgate University in Hamilton

Nestled in a part of nature that feels untouched, with sprawling hills, a whole forest, and a lake on campus, this upstate New York institution is one of the prettiest places in the state.

Its 575-acre campus has over 2,300 trees and 10-mile walkways that are perfect for unwinding after a long day of studying.

NORTH CAROLINA: Duke University in Durham

Duke University's architecture holds traces of both Gothic stonework and Georgian styles within its West and East campuses. Its 210-foot-tall Duke Chapel — which is frequently booked for weddings — exudes peak Collegiate Gothic style, standing out among the 254 buildings on campus.

Other highlights on campus include the Duke Forest and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

Former President Richard Nixon and several former and current CEOs, from Apple's Tim Cook to Etsy's Chad Dickerson, are alums.

NORTH DAKOTA: University of North Dakota in Grand Forks

One of the largest and oldest universities in the state, the University of North Dakota is spread across 521 acres and offers over 225 accredited courses.

Several buildings on campus feature the Collegiate Gothic style, which features brick exteriors, stonework, and arched entrances.

OHIO: Kenyon College in Gambier

This liberal arts institution features buildings with historic appeal: stone structures, outdoor art installations, and wooden beams surrounded by natural forests and lush green walkways.

"The Fault in Our Stars" author John Green , Calvin and Hobbes creator Bill Watterson, and " The West Wing " actor Allison Janney all graduated from Kenyon College before embarking on their careers.

OKLAHOMA: Oklahoma State University in Stillwater

From a pond and open courtyards to brick-lined walkways, Oklahoma State University's 1,489-acre campus has it all.

The architectural details are largely of the Neo-Georgian style, and highlights to visit across campus include the Formal Gardens, the grand staircases, and the Theta Pond.

OREGON: Lewis & Clark College in Portland

Originally known as the Albany Collegiate Institute, this private liberal arts institution relocated to Portland in 1938 and four years later rebranded to Lewis & Clark College after its namesake explorers.

The campus, set amid Douglas firs and rolling hills, exudes an old-school rustic charm. Notable historic buildings include the Frank Manor House, now the office of undergraduate admissions, and the Corbett House, designed by Italian-American architect Pietro Belluschi in 1929.

PENNSYLVANIA: University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia

UPenn incorporates a variety of architectural styles, from Collegiate Gothic to more modernist projects. Several buildings on the 299-acre campus were designed by Cope and Stewardson, a firm famous for its university projects, including Princeton and Washington University in St. Louis.

Here, you're also embedded in nature with plenty of trees peppered across the campus while still having access to the Philly skyline from the university park.

The college has also been home to many future billionaires and artists, including Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett, designer Tory Burch, and singer John Legend.

RHODE ISLAND: Salve Regina University in Newport

Built out of the consolidation of seven glorious Gilded Age estates, Salve Regina University's 80-acre campus has many Instagram-worthy sights. The most noteworthy of these is the Ochre Court, which is the second-largest estate in town after the Breakers and serves as the university's admin building.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Furman University in Greenville

The six-story Florentine Bell Tower, Asia Gardens, and numerous fountains throughout campus are just some of the university's highlights.

It also hosts many hiking trails , residences overlooking the lake, and Georgian-style buildings.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Augustana University in Sioux Falls

Tucked away in the scenic city of Sioux Falls , and previously named by Travel & Leisure as the most beautiful college in South Dakota, Augustana impresses with its administration building, cropped quads, and towering trees.

TENNESSEE: Vanderbilt University in Nashville

At Vanderbilt , you're enveloped in nature's arms. The college's campus is a designated national arboretum, home to over 200 species of trees and shrubs.

The campus also features many art sculptures and grand red-bricked facades. But the most iconic building on campus is Kirkland Hall, a 19th-century structure that originally held all the classrooms, a chapel, and a library. It was rebuilt in 1906 following a fire and has been undergoing recent renovations to modernize its features.

TEXAS: Southern Methodist University in Dallas

Founded in 1911, Southern Methodist University is 5 miles north of downtown Dallas and features grand buildings, manicured lawns, and the Meadows Museum, which, according to Southern Living, houses the largest collection of Spanish art outside Spain.

There's also Dallas Hall, the university's first building, which is now on the National Registry of Historic Places.

UTAH: University of Utah in Salt Lake City

The University of Utah's campus is so huge, spread across 1,535 acres and surrounded by the Wasatch Mountain Range, that students use shuttles to get to and from some parts. The views change according to the season, with lush green spaces in spring and summertime and snow-capped mountains in the winter.

VERMONT: Middlebury College in Middlebury

Picture cozy cottages and manors nestled between the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks — these are the scenes at Middlebury College year-round.

On the architectural front, Battell Hall, built in 1955, and the much-older but perfectly symmetrical Painter Hall add further charm to this campus.

VIRGINIA: University of Virginia in Charlottesville

Designed by founding father Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia largely features buildings in the Neoclassical style.

Jefferson's home, Monticello — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is also part of the campus, as is the Academical Village he designed.

WASHINGTON: University of Washington in Seattle

A series of stunning Collegiate Gothic buildings line the University of Washington's Liberal Arts Quadrangle, with cherry blossoms in the spring and snow-capped mountains in winter — it's no wonder this campus is consistently named among the most beautiful in the country.

Some major talents, from academia and technology to arts and entertainment, have come out of this university, including actor Rainn Wilson, USWNT star Hope Solo, and actor Bruce Lee.

WEST VIRGINIA: West Virginia University in Morgantown

West Virginia University's 1,892-acre Morgantown campus is home to three halls that are on the National Register of Historic Places. To get a perfect view of all three, visitors can walk by Woodburn Circle on campus.

The university also boasts a great network of alums, such as actor Cheryl Hines , television presenter and comedian Steve Harvey, and Emmy Award-winning actor Conchata Ferrell from "Two and a Half Men."

WISCONSIN: University of Wisconsin–Madison in Madison

The University of Wisconsin -Madison's campus is nestled between two lakes and has an incredibly picturesque setting. On the architectural front, some highlights include Bascom Hall, Music Hall, and Memorial Union.

The university has been home to prominent personalities across industries, including designer Virgil Abloh , former vice president Dick Cheney, and actor Joan Cusack.

WYOMING: University of Wyoming in Laramie

Borrowing from the state's rustic aesthetic, the University of Wyoming exudes an equally tasteful old-school charm.

Highlights include the sandstone Old Main building, one of the first buildings built on this 10-acre campus, and rows of green trees surrounding it.

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March Break Campus Tours!

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Join us for a campus tour during March Break and see all that DC has to offer! A recruitment officer will be available during the daytime tours to answer prospective student questions.

Have any questions? Feel free to contact [email protected].

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