The Majestic Campanile: Heart of Berkeley
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at The Campanile, an iconic landmark of Berkeley and the University of California.
A brief summary to The Campanile
- Sather Tower, Berkeley, California, 94720, US
- +1510-642-5215
The Campanile, officially known as Sather Tower, is a stunning bell tower located in the heart of Berkeley, California. This iconic landmark is part of the University of California, Berkeley, and stands at an impressive height of 307 feet, making it one of the tallest structures in the region. Constructed in the early 20th century, the Campanile is a prime example of Mediterranean Revival architecture and features a beautiful clock and a carillon of 61 bells that chime melodically throughout the day. Visitors are welcome to ascend the tower for panoramic views of the Bay Area, including a breathtaking vista of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and the surrounding hills. The experience of climbing to the top is both invigorating and rewarding, providing a unique perspective of this historic campus and its lush surroundings. In addition to the stunning views, the area surrounding the Campanile is a vibrant hub of activity. The nearby Sather Gate serves as a popular entrance to the university, often bustling with students and tourists alike. The gardens and pathways offer a peaceful retreat where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the campus. Guided tours are available, allowing guests to delve deeper into the history and significance of this remarkable structure, as well as its role in student life and traditions at Berkeley. Whether you're seeking a scenic viewpoint or a glimpse into academic life, the Campanile is a must-see destination that encapsulates the spirit of Berkeley.
Local tips
- Visit during the late afternoon to catch the stunning sunset views from the top.
- Check the schedule for special events or concerts held in and around the Campanile.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the tower.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs to climb to reach the observation deck.
- Take your time exploring the beautiful gardens surrounding the Campanile before or after your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Downtown Berkeley, head east on University Avenue. Continue walking for about 0.6 miles until you reach the intersection with Telegraph Avenue. Turn left onto Telegraph Avenue and walk for about 0.3 miles. You will see the entrance to the UC Berkeley campus on your right. Enter the campus and follow the signs towards Sather Tower. The Campanile is located at the top of the hill, directly in front of you as you walk through the campus.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from one of the bike-sharing stations in Downtown Berkeley. Head east on University Avenue, then turn left onto Telegraph Avenue. Once you reach the UC Berkeley campus, follow the bike paths that lead towards Sather Tower. Be aware that there may be some uphill sections, so be prepared for a bit of a workout!
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Public Transit
For those who prefer public transit, you can take the AC Transit bus lines 51A or 51B from the Downtown Berkeley BART station. Board the bus heading towards the UC Berkeley campus. Disembark at the stop at 'University Ave & Telegraph Ave'. From there, walk east towards the campus entrance. Follow the signs to Sather Tower, which is visible from most points in the area. There is a small fare for the bus, typically around $2.50 for a one-way trip.
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