Now is the time to Stroll Through UBC

February 21, 2017

4 min read

Modern building with large glass windows lit warmly, reflecting in a calm pond with trees and a totem pole nearby at dusk.

Nothing energizes your body and stimulates your mind better than a good old fashioned stroll in the park, and a walking tour of the University of British Columbia campus promises to inspire and delight! A community unto itself, UBC is an emblem of all things Vancouver – picturesque, vibrant and a symbol of our past and vision for our future. From the lush greenery of Pacific Spirit Regional Park to the extraordinary exhibitions housed at the Museum of Anthropology, UBC has much to offer.

Exterior view of Thunderbird Stadium with large letters spelling the name above the entrance and a crosswalk leading to it.

Over the years, I have visited countless post-secondary campuses throughout Canada and the United States and in my opinion few rival the University of British Columbia. Recognized worldwide as an outstanding research school, UBC is the pride of Vancouver. Personally, the natural splendour of the campus itself stirs my imagination, and I could easily spend a day exploring the trails. I am hard-pressed to name another institution that sits nestled in a rainforest, bordered by an ocean with spectacular mountain views all within minutes of a bustling downtown core.

A large group of people wearing blue jackets and some holding umbrellas walking on a rainy day near a building with ivy on the walls.

Although the natural beauty of UBC certainly is second to none, there is a vibrancy to this prestigious campus that motivates and excites. Maybe, it’s the predominantly young and young at heart student population? Maybe, it’s the variety of amenities? Strolling along, I contemplated what made this city within a city so vibrant and such an inspiring place to learn. Galleries, museums, gardens, athletic facilities, blue whale skeletons, performance venues, public art, libraries, tranquil green spaces, beach access, hiking, and biking trails, restaurants, pubs and easy access to fast food certainly make the campus an idyllic place to tour rain or shine.

Stone building with large windows and green bushes and trees in front on a grassy lawn.

Tired after my full day of exploration, I couldn’t help but feel a little nostalgic. The architectural beauty of the Chemistry Centre, UBC’s first permanent building and now a heritage landmark reminded me of our past. In contrast, I could see cranes towering in the distance as work on the new Brock Commons Site, scheduled to open this summer continued. Touted as the tallest wood building in the world, Brock Commons serves to symbolize UBC’s reputation for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. I suppose the gateway located outside the Forestry building expresses my thoughts best, “Our future is rooted in our traditions.” Maybe, it’s time to head back to school?

Decorative archway with floral carvings and text reading Our Future Is Rooted In Our Traditions in front of a modern building with trees and bushes.

Getting There:

Located on the traditional, unceded territory of the Musqueam people, the Point Grey Campus is easily accessible by bus, car or bike. Interested in a tour? The UBC Welcome Centre offers 90 minute guided walking tours. Click here to register or sit back and enjoy a virtual tour.