UCR Carillon Bell Tower
An iconic campus landmark at UCR, the Carillon Bell Tower delights with hourly chimes and student recitals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live student music
UCR Carillon Bell Tower
Best Time
Live student music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic campus landmark at UCR, the Carillon Bell Tower delights with hourly chimes and student recitals.
"This iconic tower is a photogenic hub on campus, often used for directions and graduation meetups."
Acoustic Nuances
Don't worry if the bells seem late; it's just acoustics! Sound takes time to reach you. :musical_note:
Photo Opportunities
The Bell Tower is a campus icon, perfect for photos and as a meeting point. 📷
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 29 reviews
Type
University
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Carillon Chimes
The Bell Tower itself
Experience the hourly chimes that echo across campus, a beloved auditory landmark.
Student Recitals
UCR Carillon Bell Tower
Catch a live performance by talented students during lunchtime recitals.
Campus Photography Spot
Surrounding UCR Campus
This iconic tower is a prime location for capturing memorable campus photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Capture the Iconic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Acoustic Nuances
Don't worry if the bells seem late; it's just acoustics! Sound takes time to reach you. :musical_note:
Photo Opportunities
The Bell Tower is a campus icon, perfect for photos and as a meeting point. 📷
Any ideas to get on top of bell tower?
Pre COVID, there was usually a carillon concert in the spring and winter. After the concert they open the bell tower for people to climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top. It looks like they stopped, but you can try emailing or calling to see if they will be resuming…
Does anyone know how to get to the top of the belltower?
I've been in the bell tower, AMA? Anyway, they don't let people just go in there. Apparently it's not safe, so they'll only open it up if you need to do work. I went up there week before last to test the emergency notification system. It was actually the campus police that…
Historical Significance
Discover the history embedded in this landmark, a central part of UCR's story. 📜
What's with the bell tower ringing nonstop?
Thought I was late to my 1 PM meeting but the bells have been going off since like 12:30 nonstop.
Tips
from all over the internet
Acoustic Nuances
Don't worry if the bells seem late; it's just acoustics! Sound takes time to reach you. :musical_note:
Photo Opportunities
The Bell Tower is a campus icon, perfect for photos and as a meeting point. 📷
Historical Significance
Discover the history embedded in this landmark, a central part of UCR's story. 📜
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the UCR Carillon Bell Tower for its historical significance and the charming hourly chimes. It's a beloved campus landmark and a popular meeting point, often highlighted in student photography. While the chimes' timing can be a quirky talking point, the overall experience is seen as a nostalgic and iconic part of the UCR campus.
"Amazing tower, a lot of history."
Diego Valdivia
"I love the bells chiming to the hour. There is weekly concert given by a student in the tower that I can't wait to check out. This is the spot that every one told us directions from."
Jess H
"Since arriving at the University of California, Riverside the summer of 2016, I immediately had a fascination with capturing and posting photos of the campus, starting with the iconic UCR Carillon Bell Tower 🏫🔔
I will share here what I've captured and shared on Instagram for the last 3 photogenic years 😍
Including, excerpts from the lunchtime Winter & Spring Carillon Recitals, typically occurring on Mondays when the quarter is in session 🔔🎶🔊"
Nicole Rae
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The UCR Carillon Bell Tower is centrally located on the University of California, Riverside campus. Visitors can typically access it by car via University Avenue and follow campus signage. Parking is available in designated visitor lots, though fees may apply. It's also accessible by public transport routes serving the university.
Yes, there are several parking structures and lots on the UCR campus. The closest options to the Bell Tower are usually the East or West Campus Parking Structures. Check the UCR Parking Services website for current rates and availability.
Absolutely! The Bell Tower is a prominent landmark and easily walkable from most campus entrances. Follow the main pathways, and you'll likely see it from a distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the UCR Carillon Bell Tower from the outside and hearing its chimes is free and open to the public. Access to the tower itself for recitals or tours may have specific schedules or require registration.
The tower is a permanent structure, so it's always visible. However, the carillon concerts and chimes occur on a schedule. Lunchtime recitals are typically on Mondays during the academic quarter.
While not always advertised, student-led tours or specific events might offer access. It's best to check the UCR campus events calendar or contact the university's music department for any scheduled opportunities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Bell Tower chimes on the hour. Be aware that due to acoustics, the sound might seem to arrive a few minutes after the actual hour.
During the academic quarter, students perform live carillon recitals, often on Mondays around lunchtime. These concerts offer a unique auditory experience of the instrument.
Yes, the Bell Tower is considered one of the most photogenic spots on the UCR campus and is frequently featured in student photos.
Many students and visitors use the Bell Tower as a central meeting point on campus due to its iconic status and central location.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photographing the tower. Midday can be harsh, but the tower's architecture is still striking.
Try shooting from the surrounding quad for a classic view, or use a drone for a unique perspective as seen in some social media content.
Drone usage on university campuses can be restricted. Always check UCR's specific drone policies before flying. Some creators have captured aerial views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit