Geisel Library: A Brutalist Icon of Knowledge
Explore a marvel of Brutalist architecture and a haven for book lovers at UC San Diego's iconic Geisel Library. A tribute to Dr. Seuss.
The Geisel Library at UC San Diego is a striking example of Brutalist architecture, designed by William Pereira. Named after Audrey and Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss), its unique form resembles hands holding up a stack of books and houses over 7 million volumes.
A brief summary to Geisel Library
- 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, La Jolla, California, 92093, US
- +1858-534-0134
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Take a guided tour to learn about the library's unique architecture and the collections it holds.
- Visit the Special Collections & Archives to view original Dr. Seuss materials.
- Explore the 'snake path' connecting Warren Mall to the library, featuring a garden with fruit trees.
- Check out the carillon on the roof, which plays chimes on the hour and hosts concerts at noon on weekdays.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Several bus lines serve the UC San Diego campus, including the 101, 201, 237, 30, and 41. These connect to various parts of San Diego. From the Gilman Transit Center or the UCSD Central Campus Station, it's a short walk to Geisel Library. A single ride on these buses typically costs $2.50.
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Walking
From anywhere on the UC San Diego campus, Geisel Library is easily accessible by foot, as it is located in the center of the campus. Follow Library Walk from the south, or take the 'snake path' from Warren Mall. Campus maps are available online for easy navigation.
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Driving
If driving, take Interstate 5 to the Genesee Avenue exit and follow signs to UC San Diego. Parking is available in several lots near the library, including the Hopkins and Regents lots. Parking is paid hourly via pay stations or a mobile app. Rates typically range from $2-$4 per hour. Keep in mind that parking at UCSD can be challenging, especially during peak hours.
Discover more about Geisel Library
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sun God
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Epstein Family Amphitheater
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La Jolla Project
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Salk Institute for Biological Studies
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New Scripps/Administration Building
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Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
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Mount Soledad
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Mount Soledad Memorial Park
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The Cave Store
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Sunny Jim's Sea Cave
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Tombstones memorials
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La Jolla Cove
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Lifeguard La Jolla Cove
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Soledad Mountain
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Boomer Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
Stuart Collection
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Scripps Coastal Reserve
1.2 km
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Torrey Pines City Beach
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La Jolla Trail
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Torrey Pines Gliderport
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La Jolla Shores Ln
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Mushroom Beach House
1.7 km
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Birch Aquarium
2.1 km
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La Jolla Colony Park
2.3 km
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Villa La Jolla Park
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Torrey Pines Golf Course
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UTC ICE
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La Jolla Shores Park
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Kellogg Park
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La Jolla Shores Beach
3.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Humphreys La Jolla Grill
1.4 km
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Urban Plates
1.6 km
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A.R. Valentien
2.6 km
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The Grill at Torrey Pines
2.7 km
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Seasons 52
2.8 km
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Shorehouse Kitchen
3.4 km
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Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters
3.4 km
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Shores Restaurant
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Piatti
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Shore Rider Bar
3.5 km
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Barbarella Restaurant & Bar
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Osteria Romantica
3.5 km
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Sea & Sky
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The Marine Room
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Brockton Villa
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shops at La Jolla Village
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La Jolla Village Square
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Sea Hive La Jolla
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Gift Shop
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Birch Aquarium Gift Shop
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Ocean Girl-Surf Boutique
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Lulumars Boutique
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GK Fashion House
4.7 km
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Simple Laguna
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The Shop La Jolla
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Robina
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Lissilaa Boutique
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Mila Boutique
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The International Shops
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Blue Apparel
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
West Bar
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Shooters
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Drift La Jolla
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The Wine Bar
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Raised by Wolves
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Hiatus Pool Lounge
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We Olive & Wine Bar
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La Sala Lounge
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The Whaling Bar
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The Hive La Jolla
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Hennessey's Tavern
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KnB Bistro
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Nautilus Tavern
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West End PB
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Blarney Stone Pub
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sun God Lounge
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Middle Earth Lounge
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Woo Karaoke
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The Comedy Store - La Jolla
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Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge
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The Collective
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PB Avenue
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Bert's Bar West
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Winstons Beach Club
14.9 km
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The Hole in the Wall
15.5 km
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Spin Nightclub
15.9 km
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Blue Agave Night Club
16.2 km
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Phantom Lounge and Nightclub
19.7 km
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Bloom Nightclub
19.8 km
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Parq Nightclub
19.8 km
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