Discover the Iconic Campanile: A Landmark of Berkeley
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at The Campanile, Berkeley's iconic bell tower and cultural landmark.
A brief summary to The Campanile
- Sather Tower, Berkeley, California, 94720, US
- +1510-642-5215
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
The Campanile, or Sather Tower, stands proudly in the heart of Berkeley, California, as a symbol of the University of California. With a height of 307 feet, it is one of the tallest bell towers in the United States and offers visitors a stunning panoramic view of the Bay Area, including the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline. Designed in a beautiful Italian Renaissance style, the tower features a stunning facade adorned with intricate mosaics and a beautiful clock, making it a striking landmark in the city. Visitors can climb the tower on select days, allowing them to experience the breathtaking views from the observation deck. The climb is well worth the effort, as the vistas of the surrounding hills, the campus, and the distant waters of the bay are simply unforgettable. The Campanile is not just a sightseeing spot but also a place steeped in history; it was completed in 1914 and has since become an integral part of the university's identity. Surrounding the Campanile, the campus and the nearby areas are rich in cultural experiences, from art galleries to lush green spaces perfect for picnicking. The tower also plays host to regular chime concerts, filling the air with melodious tunes that echo throughout the campus. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors, the Campanile is a must-see destination that encapsulates the spirit of Berkeley.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds and a more personal experience.
- Check the schedule for chime concerts to enjoy live music from the tower.
- Bring your camera to capture stunning views of the Bay Area from the observation deck.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up to the observation deck.
- Plan your visit around sunset for a truly magical experience with golden hues over the bay.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from the downtown area of Berkeley, head south on Shattuck Avenue. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach University Avenue. Turn left onto University Avenue and walk for another 0.4 miles until you reach Telegraph Avenue. Turn right onto Telegraph Avenue and walk for about 0.3 miles. You will see the entrance to the UC Berkeley campus on your left. Enter the campus and follow the main path (Sproul Plaza) straight until you reach the base of the Campanile. You can see Sather Tower ahead of you.
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Public Transit
From the downtown Berkeley BART station, take the AC Transit Bus 1 or 1R towards the UC Berkeley campus. Get off at the 'University & Telegraph' stop. From there, walk north on Telegraph Avenue for about 0.2 miles until you reach the entrance to the UC Berkeley campus on your left. Enter the campus and follow the main path (Sproul Plaza) straight until you reach the Campanile.
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Biking
If you have a bike, you can take the bike lane down Shattuck Avenue heading south towards University Avenue. Turn left onto University Avenue and continue until you reach Telegraph Avenue. Turn right onto Telegraph Avenue and bike for about 0.3 miles. Look for the entrance to the UC Berkeley campus on your left. Once inside, bike straight on the main path (Sproul Plaza) to reach the Campanile.
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Ride-sharing
Use a ride-sharing app to request a ride to 'Sather Tower, Berkeley, CA 94720'. The driver can drop you off at the entrance of the UC Berkeley campus on Telegraph Avenue. From there, simply walk straight along the main path (Sproul Plaza) to reach the Campanile.
Attractions Nearby to The Campanile
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South Hall
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Memorial Glade
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Sather Gate
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Founders Rock
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Mural: You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.
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Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive
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Big C
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Örly Museum of Hungarian Culture
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The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life
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downtown berkeley bart
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Aftel Archive of Curious Scents
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Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park
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Berkeley Historical Society & Museum
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The Lawrence Hall of Science
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Berkeley Rose Garden
Landmarks nearby to The Campanile
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Campanile Esplanade
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Philosophy Hall
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Doe Library
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Wheeler Hall Auditorium
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Gilman Hall
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The Faculty Club
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Senior Hall
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Hearst Memorial Mining Building
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Sproul Plaza
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Telegraph Avenue
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Sturdy the Bear Statue
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Koret Visitor Center
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Big Al's Smoke And Gifts
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Telegraph Ave Holiday Street Fair
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Kluegel House Student Housing