Background

Sather Gate: Gateway to UC Berkeley

Discover Sather Gate: UC Berkeley's historic gateway, a symbol of free speech and a vibrant hub of campus life.

4.6

Sather Gate, a beloved landmark at the University of California, Berkeley, marks the southern entrance to the campus and serves as a symbolic gateway to the university's vibrant academic and social life. Built in 1910, the gate is rich in history and architectural detail, making it a must-see for visitors.

A brief summary to Sather Gate

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos.
  • Take a moment to sit on the nearby benches and soak in the vibrant campus atmosphere.
  • Check out nearby attractions like the Campanile and the Botanical Garden for a full day of exploration.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Sproul Plaza, walk towards the south end; Sather Gate will be directly ahead, marking the entrance to the central campus. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Downtown Berkeley BART station, walk east on Center Street, then turn right onto Shattuck Avenue. Turn left onto Bancroft Way and continue east until you reach Telegraph Avenue. Sather Gate will be on your left, at the intersection of Bancroft Way and Telegraph Avenue. AC Transit buses also stop near the intersection of Bancroft Way and Telegraph Avenue. A single ride on AC Transit costs approximately $2.50.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the UC Berkeley campus. The MLK Student Union Garage on Bancroft Way and the Lower Hearst Structure on Hearst Avenue are convenient options. Parking rates typically range from $22 to $35 per day. From the parking garages, follow the walking directions to Sather Gate.

Unlock the Best of Sather Gate

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sather Gate

Sather Gate, located on the southern edge of the UC Berkeley campus, stands as a grand portal and a symbol of the university's rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Donated by Jane K. Sather in memory of her husband, Peder Sather, a trustee of the College of California, the gate was completed in 1910 and designed by John Galen Howard in the Classical Revival Beaux-Arts style. Originally serving as the formal southern entrance to the campus, Sather Gate is now a central meeting point and a popular spot for students, faculty, and tourists alike. The gate is adorned with intricate architectural details, including panels of bas-relief figures sculpted by Professor Earl Cummings. These panels, depicting nude men and women representing various academic disciplines, were initially removed due to controversy but were later reinstalled in 1979 following student petitions. Sather Gate has also played a significant role in the university's history, serving as a backdrop for many protests during the Free Speech Movement in the 1960s. Today, it remains a gathering place for political activity and a symbol of free expression. Visitors can stroll through the gate, admire its architecture, and soak in the lively campus atmosphere. Nearby attractions include Sproul Plaza, the Campanile, and various museums and gardens, making Sather Gate an ideal starting point for exploring the UC Berkeley campus.

Popular Experiences near Sather Gate

Popular Hotels near Sather Gate

Select Currency