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The Campanile, East Bay Travel Guide

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Discover The Campanile, Berkeley's iconic bell tower, offering breathtaking views and rich history at the heart of California's vibrant university scene.

The Campanile, also known as Sather Tower, is an iconic symbol of Berkeley, California. Standing tall at 307 feet, it offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area and the surrounding hills. Visitors can experience the charm of this historic landmark while enjoying stunning panoramas from its observation deck, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring the region.

A brief summary to The Campanile

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Campanile.

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.
  • Check the schedule for carillon performances, as they add a delightful musical backdrop to your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up to the observation deck; it's worth the effort for the stunning views.
  • Plan your visit on a weekday to enjoy a quieter experience, as weekends tend to attract more tourists.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around the UC Berkeley campus to fully appreciate its historic charm.

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Getting There

  • Car

    If you're driving in East Bay, head towards Berkeley. Use Interstate 80 (I-80) Northbound. Take the University Ave exit and turn left onto University Ave. Continue on University Ave until you reach the intersection with Oxford St. Turn right onto Oxford St and follow it until you reach the campus of UC Berkeley. The Campanile is located at Sather Tower within the campus. Parking is available in nearby lots, but expect to pay around $3 to $5 per hour.

  • Public Transportation (Bus)

    For those using public transportation, take the AC Transit Bus Line 51B or 72 from various points in East Bay towards Berkeley. Get off at the 'University Ave. & Oxford St.' stop. From there, walk up Oxford St towards the UC Berkeley campus. The Campanile is located inside the campus at Sather Tower. The bus fare is approximately $2.50.

  • Public Transportation (BART)

    If you're near a BART station, take the BART train to the Downtown Berkeley station. Once you arrive, exit the station and walk east on University Ave for about 15 minutes until you reach the intersection with Oxford St. Turn right onto Oxford St, and you'll find the entrance to the UC Berkeley campus. The Campanile is at Sather Tower. BART fare varies depending on your starting location but generally ranges from $2.50 to $6.

Discover more about The Campanile

The Campanile, formally known as Sather Tower, is a quintessential landmark located at the University of California, Berkeley. This impressive bell tower rises to a height of 307 feet and is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Built in the early 20th century, the Campanile is modeled after the famous Campanile di San Marco in Venice, Italy. Tourists flock to this magnificent structure not only to admire its intricate design but also to ascend to the observation deck. The panoramic views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking, providing visitors with a unique glimpse of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the majestic hills surrounding Berkeley. The climb to the top is invigorating, with several flights of stairs leading to the observation platform, where the sights are well worth the effort. The Campanile also features a carillon that plays beautiful melodies, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the area. Visitors can explore the nearby university campus, which is rich in culture and history, making it an ideal location for a day of sightseeing. Be sure to check the visiting hours, as they can vary throughout the week, and plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the best experience at this iconic attraction. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic spot to relax, the Campanile is a must-see destination in Berkeley.
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