
Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower
Iconic brick bell and clock tower on the UNC Chapel Hill campus, a beloved symbol with a rich student history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic brick bell and clock tower on the UNC Chapel Hill campus, a beloved symbol with a rich student history.
"This Bell Tower stands tall on the UNC Campus there in Chapel Hill, NC. It's truly a happy place where many careers were started, and leaders were born."

📸 Great for Photos
Perfect spot for senior pictures and campus photography. Capture the iconic views!
🚶♀️ Campus Exploration
Combine with a walk around the beautiful UNC campus. Many historical spots nearby.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Observation Deck Views
Top of the tower
Ascend for panoramic views of the UNC campus and Chapel Hill. A truly iconic perspective.

Architectural Icon
UNC Chapel Hill Campus
Admire the striking brickwork and classic design of this beloved campus landmark.

Chimes and History
Base of the tower
Listen to the tower's chimes and learn about its student-centric history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Campus Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Great for Photos
Perfect spot for senior pictures and campus photography. Capture the iconic views!
🚶♀️ Campus Exploration
Combine with a walk around the beautiful UNC campus. Many historical spots nearby.
I'm an artist from Chicago who recently moved to Fuquay. My Chicago work was inspired by local landmarks and independent music venues. What beloved landmarks or venues should I check out in the Triangle area?
🎶 Listen for Chimes
Experience the tower's chimes, a unique auditory landmark of UNC.
📅 Check Access
Observation deck access can vary. Check university schedules for tours or events.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Great for Photos
Perfect spot for senior pictures and campus photography. Capture the iconic views!
🚶♀️ Campus Exploration
Combine with a walk around the beautiful UNC campus. Many historical spots nearby.
🎶 Listen for Chimes
Experience the tower's chimes, a unique auditory landmark of UNC.
📅 Check Access
Observation deck access can vary. Check university schedules for tours or events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower as an iconic and beautiful landmark on the UNC Chapel Hill campus, perfect for photos and soaking in the university atmosphere. While access to the observation deck can be limited, its architectural presence and historical significance are widely appreciated.
"Beautiful campus of UNC at Chapel Hill, with the Bell Tower as its signature👍
My daughter is staring her Ph.D program this coming fall here. May God guide her through the journey with balanced life, enjoyable experience, and fruitful outcome🤞🤞🤞"
Popeyes WG
"Nothing bad to say about this icon on the campus of UNC chapel hill. Not far from student union so we checked it out. Great photo opportunity."
The K Green Show
"This Bell Tower stands tall on the UNC Campus there in Chapel Hill, NC. Saturday, Oct 5, was UNC Home Coming . Students present and pass gathered to celebrate 🍾 the occasion. There were plenty of reunion moments among those in attendance, some new and some old. Newborns were introduced, and memories were shared of those that had passed into the arms of the Lord. It's truly a happy place where many careers were started, and leaders were born. Lord, we are grateful for what you have done, and we pray that those who follow after us will continue to lift you up in all ways as you direct their path. Stand Strong for all that read this message and know you can make it. Be blessed, be humbled, be caring, be loved 😍 ❤️! Our hearts and prayers continue for members of our community who are struggling to recover from the Helena Storm. Sending our love to all. God bless, be cool, and pass this message on. Ciao, my friends 😎!"
Harold Perry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower is located on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus. It's easily accessible by walking from the Student Union and other central campus locations. Parking is available in nearby university garages, though walking is often recommended for the best campus experience.
Chapel Hill Transit provides bus services that stop near the UNC campus. You can check their routes and schedules to find the closest stop to the Bell Tower.
While you can drive to the vicinity of the UNC campus, direct driving access to the Bell Tower itself is limited due to campus pedestrian zones. Parking garages are the best option for visitors arriving by car.
Using a campus map or a GPS app on your phone is highly recommended. The Bell Tower is a prominent landmark, so once you're on campus, it's hard to miss.
Accessing the campus grounds and viewing the exterior of the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower is generally free. Fees would typically apply only to parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to view the exterior of the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower is free. However, access to the observation deck may be restricted or require participation in specific university tours or events. It's best to check the UNC Visitor Center or relevant university department for current access policies.
The exterior of the tower is always visible. Specific hours for the observation deck, if open to the public, are not consistently published and can vary. It's advisable to inquire with UNC campus services for any scheduled public access times.
While the tower is an iconic structure, public access inside, especially to the observation deck, is often limited. Tours or special university events might offer opportunities to go inside.
Guided tours of the UNC campus sometimes include the Bell Tower area. You can check with the UNC Visitor Center or the UNC Department of History for information on available campus tours.
Typically, there is no admission fee for viewing the tower from the outside. If the observation deck is open for public access, it's usually included with general campus access or specific tour packages.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful natural light for photography. The tower is also stunning when illuminated at night.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or large-scale shoots, you may need to obtain permission from the university.
Try shooting from the front lawn for a classic view, or from different points on campus to incorporate surrounding architecture. The top of the tower offers unique aerial shots.
Drone usage on university campuses is typically heavily regulated and often prohibited without explicit permission due to safety and privacy concerns. Check UNC's drone policy before attempting to fly.
The main quad in front of the tower provides a classic perspective. For wider shots, consider areas around the Student Union or nearby academic buildings.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire its architecture, listen to its chimes, and learn about its history. If accessible, the observation deck offers great views of the UNC campus.
Accessibility to the observation deck may be limited. The grounds around the tower are generally accessible, but specific information regarding elevator access or ramps should be confirmed with UNC campus services.
A quick visit to admire the exterior might take 15-30 minutes. If you plan to explore the surrounding campus or if the observation deck is open, you could spend an hour or more.
Restrooms are available in nearby campus buildings, such as the Student Union.
It's an iconic symbol of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, often associated with student life and campus history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While direct access to the observation deck might be limited or require specific tours, the surrounding campus grounds are safe and pleasant for a stroll. Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic on the lawn near the tower, making it a relaxed outing. Remember to check for any campus events that might offer family-friendly activities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours for the best natural light, and don't miss the opportunity to photograph it at night when it's beautifully illuminated. Explore various angles from the main quad to more distant campus viewpoints to create a diverse portfolio. Be aware of any university photography regulations, especially for commercial shoots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Student's Perspective: History and Significance
The tower's architecture is a classic example of collegiate gothic style, making it a visually striking addition to the campus landscape. Its prominent location makes it a central meeting point and a beloved symbol for alumni and current students alike. Many consider it a signature element of the UNC campus, offering a sense of place and belonging.
Capturing the Icon: Photography Tips
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and flattering. Experiment with different angles; shooting from the main quad offers a classic, unobstructed view, while exploring other parts of campus can provide unique compositions that include surrounding historic buildings. Remember to check university policies if you plan on commercial or drone photography.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit