University of California, Los Angeles
Location: 405 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles
Founded in: 1919
A stellar sports program, great academics, and an enviable location—UCLA is famous for a lot of things. Among its long list of impressive traits is having one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation. The intricate buildings are set apart from many of the other colleges in the area. The Romanesque Revival architecture style stands out from every other structure in sight.
The landscape is equally amazing—sloped lawns in front of Royce Hall are one of the most impressive areas on campus. One-third of the campus is covered in greenery, with brick-lined walkways leading to courtyards and gardens. If the architecture and natural scenery haven’t impressed you yet, the 70 pieces of artwork at the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden definitely will.
The nicest college campuses in Central California
University of the Pacific
Location: 3601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton
Founded in: 1851
The University of the Pacific—covered in towering pines and Gothic architecture—has an undeniably magical feel to it. Though its location has changed multiple times over the years, the university’s English Tudor Gothic style remains the same. The ornate Burns Tower graces the 175-acre campus as a testament to its architectural style.
As one of the nicest college campuses in California, the University of the Pacific features an abundance of greenery all over. Flowers and vegetation can be seen at every turn, including by the lovely rose gardens near the dorms.
University of California, Santa Cruz
Location: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz
Founded in: 1965
It’s no surprise that another UC university is on the list of most beautiful college campuses. UC Santa Cruz is nestled among beautiful redwood forests overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Unlike other colleges on the list, this one was designed with more of a contemporary architectural-style in mind. The stunning campus is also home to California’s most impressive modern architecture.
There’s plenty to explore across the 6,000-acre campus. A must-see here is the Porters Caves—a series of three underground chambers that house several endemic species. The campus is close to several hiking and biking trails, sandy beaches, and other spots including the on-site Porter Caves.
The most beautiful campuses in Northern California
Dominican University of California
Location: 50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael
Founded in: 1890
The Dominican University of California creates a very woodsy atmosphere for its students. With large hills and shrubs in the background, the university’s entrance is adorned with trees and gardens. The mix of Mediterranean and Victorian-style architecture make this campus unforgettable. The greenery that lines the walkways complement the gorgeous detail found throughout the area. Read any list of prettiest college campuses and you’ll find this university on all of them.