Although educational track record, location, and quality and value of curriculum are among the most important factors to consider when choosing a university, a visually pleasing campus can play a part in influencing your decision. After all, you’ll spend years of your daily life on and around school grounds, so it’s only natural to prefer picturesque surroundings.
Read on for details of the top 10 most beautiful college campuses in America, and find out what contributes to their aesthetic appeal.
1. Kenyon CollegeThis campus in Gambier, Ohio is celebrated for its sweeping green spaces, tall trees, and classic Gothic buildings. Especially preferred by arts and language students, it has been selected as one of the most beautiful schools in the world by a global panel of architects and designers interviewed by Forbes magazine.
2. Princeton UniversityAnother favorite of the global architect panel, Princeton has been praised for its old-world architecture. The university is also known for its man-made lake and elegant walkways.
3. Rhodes CollegeWith traditional Gothic stone construction and 100 acres of woods, this Southeastern college boasts a lush green campus in the center of Memphis’ urban sprawl. Thirteen of the university’s buildings are listed on The National Register of Historic Places.
4. Scripps CollegeMost likely to be described as “lovely,” this campus is distinguished by its Mediterranean Mission Revival architecture, southern flavor, and stunning liquid amber trees, tulips, and orange trees, all set against the scenic foothills of Southern California.
5. Loyola Marymount UniversityLoyola is famous for its clean, elegant space. Housed at the crest of a bluff overlooking Los Angeles, this 150-acre campus is a modern marvel.
6. Pepperdine UniversityWith beautiful rolling hills, an ocean view from every dorm, and the understated flair of classic Californian construction, this Malibu campus is one of the most beautiful schools you’ll find in the Southern U.S.–or anywhere else, for that matter.
7. Stanford UniversitySpanish Colonial style architecture covers this expansive campus, with over 8,000 acres of Californian foothills, walking trails, and charming residences ensconced between scenic San Jose and romantic San Francisco.
8. University of the South (Sewanee) Designed to appeal to lovers of the great outdoors, the Sewanee campus has made a commitment to sustainability that seamlessly blends nature with its Gothic architecture.
9. Yale UniversityThe Ivy League schools really know how to achieve flawless presentation, and Yale is a consummate example. One of the world’s most beautiful college campuses, it is renowned for its elaborate and dramatic Gothic structures.
10. Flagler CollegeThis St. Augustine, Florida school prides itself on its newly restored historic buildings, as well as its newer structures that mirror the old styles. The entire campus is within sight of nearby beaches and other attractions.
With so much visual inspiration, it’s no wonder that students flock to these beautiful college campuses from all over the United States. If you’re ready to get a top-notch education against a stunning backdrop, these handsome campuses are well worth a closer look.
Kelli Smith writes about colleges and universities, community colleges, online schools, and career development. She is the senior editor at www.CollegesandUniversities.org.
