Santa Clara University
A Jesuit university with stunning Mission Revival architecture, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Campus in full bloom
Santa Clara University
Best Time
Campus in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Jesuit university with stunning Mission Revival architecture, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere in the heart of Silicon Valley.
"A calm corner in the middle of Silicon Valley, where old missions meet palm trees and silence feels like a language."
🚗 Visitor Parking Pass
Need a visitor parking pass for car access. Security can assist and provide maps.
📸 Photography Permits
Professional photographers may need a permit to shoot on campus.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mission Revival Architecture
Throughout the campus
Admire the historic Mission Revival buildings, a hallmark of SCU's aesthetic charm and architectural beauty.
Immaculate Gardens & Grounds
Various garden areas
Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens and flower beds, offering a tranquil and picturesque experience.
The Art Museum
De Saisset Museum
Explore diverse art collections in this free museum, a cultural gem on campus (check for current accessibility).
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Campus Charm & Accessibility
Visitor Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Visitor Parking Pass
Need a visitor parking pass for car access. Security can assist and provide maps.
📸 Photography Permits
Professional photographers may need a permit to shoot on campus.
🏛️ Check Museum Hours
The art museum is free but check hours, as it may be closed due to events or seasons.
📍 Convenient Location
Just 7 minutes from San Jose Airport, making it super easy to get to.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Visitor Parking Pass
Need a visitor parking pass for car access. Security can assist and provide maps.
📸 Photography Permits
Professional photographers may need a permit to shoot on campus.
🏛️ Check Museum Hours
The art museum is free but check hours, as it may be closed due to events or seasons.
📍 Convenient Location
Just 7 minutes from San Jose Airport, making it super easy to get to.
🚶♀️ Walkable Campus
Easy to navigate on foot, with many paths and benches to enjoy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Santa Clara University's gorgeous and historic campus, highlighting its well-maintained gardens and beautiful Mission Revival architecture. The serene atmosphere and convenient location near San Jose Airport are also frequently mentioned positives. Some note a slightly formal or 'preppy' vibe and advise checking building access and museum hours.
"Santa Clara University
A really nice campus. Beautiful buildings, well maintained and very clean. It has a historic feel with plenty of architectural buildings to appreciate. We didn’t go inside any of them just walked around campus. There is an old church that may be worth a look. You can walk-on campus but to visit the campus by car you have to get a visitor parking pass either by the entry or go to the security booth. The security were very nice and will give you a map of the campus.
The campus exudes a sense of affluence, and it's evident that there's wealth here. While walking around, we came accross a teacher's meeting were all the teachers were very well dressed. They looked more like professionals in corporate attire than your typical brainy educators. The neighborhood around the campus is well-maintained and felt safe. The campus atmosphere felt friendly but also a bit preppy. Despite that, the campus is definitely worth a visit, as it's beautiful."
Agnieszka “Aki” Stepinska
"During my visit to Santa Clara University, I was impressed by its blend of modern and historic architecture, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The sense of community and academic passion among students and faculty stood out, showcasing the university's commitment to both learning and social responsibility. The campus's well-equipped facilities and serene outdoor spaces left a lasting impression of Santa Clara University's holistic approach to education."
Brian D. Lee
"Gorgeous campus, I come walking here every day. Gardens and flower beds are immaculate. Love it. There’s bathrooms by the parking lot on Lafayette as well as next to the science building. They’ve been mostly locked over Covid and distance learning. Security guards on campus are usually patrolling around, it’s well lit with emergency phones. Don’t use the vending machine by the science building, it’s been faulty for years lol. There’s a Safeway close by but you can’t bring a picnic and linger if you’re not a student. You can walk around and use the benches etc and take photos. If you use a professional photographer they’ll ask for a permit. The art museum is free and worth a visit. It’s been closed with Covid though."
Lisa Elley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Clara University is conveniently located at 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053. It's just a short 7-minute drive from the San Jose International Airport (SJC), making it very accessible for travelers.
Yes, Santa Clara University is remarkably close to San Jose International Airport (SJC), only about a 7-minute drive away. This makes it an ideal destination for those flying in.
The campus is designed to be walkable and easy to navigate on foot. Many visitors enjoy strolling through the grounds and gardens.
The neighborhood surrounding Santa Clara University is generally well-maintained and considered safe. Like any urban area, it's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting at night.
While Santa Clara University is a prominent institution, it's situated within the larger Santa Clara and San Jose metropolitan area rather than being a distinct 'college town.' However, the campus itself offers a vibrant academic atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to walk around the Santa Clara University campus is typically free. However, if you plan to drive onto campus, you will need to obtain a visitor parking pass.
While you can walk around and admire the exterior of the buildings, access to many interior spaces, including academic buildings and dorms, may be restricted for visitors. Some buildings might be closed for tours, especially outside of official university events.
Yes, the De Saisset Museum at Santa Clara University is generally free to visit. However, it's always a good idea to check their current operating hours and any potential admission policies, as these can change.
Yes, professional photographers may be required to obtain a permit to conduct photoshoots on the Santa Clara University campus.
The campus is generally accessible for walking during daylight hours. Specific building hours and museum hours will vary, so it's best to check the university's official website or contact departments directly for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mission Revival architecture, the immaculately kept gardens, and the serene outdoor spaces offer beautiful backdrops for photos. The campus's blend of historic and modern elements provides diverse photographic opportunities.
Professional photography sessions on campus may require a permit. It's advisable to inquire with the university's administration or relevant department beforehand to ensure compliance.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, most university campuses have strict regulations regarding drone usage. It's highly recommended to check the university's official policies on drone operation before attempting to fly one.
Visitors often capture the beautiful architecture, blooming flora, and the overall tranquil atmosphere of the campus. Graduation photos are also a popular subject.
The open gardens and courtyards generally offer good natural light, especially during the morning and late afternoon. The Mission Revival buildings can also provide interesting light and shadow play.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While access to academic buildings might be limited, the open areas are ample for children to enjoy. Remember that visitor parking passes are required if you're arriving by car. Consider visiting the De Saisset Museum for a dose of culture, though it's wise to check its operating hours beforehand.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The immaculately maintained gardens provide vibrant colors and natural beauty, ideal for landscape and detail photography. Look for the interplay of light and shadow on the stucco walls and the rich hues of the blooming flora. While general photography is welcome, be aware that professional shoots may require a permit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Campus Architecture and Atmosphere
The university also features beautiful gardens and flower beds that are meticulously maintained, adding to the serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors often describe the campus as a 'calm corner in the middle of Silicon Valley,' offering a peaceful escape with its blend of old-world charm and natural beauty. The overall atmosphere is often described as friendly, though some reviews note a slightly 'preppy' feel, reflecting the affluence of the institution and its surroundings.
For those interested in art, the De Saisset Museum is a notable feature, offering free admission and diverse exhibitions.
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can freely wander the paths, enjoy the benches, and take photos. If you plan to visit by car, remember that a visitor parking pass is necessary. These can be obtained at the entry or by visiting the security booth, where staff are reportedly very helpful and can provide campus maps.
While the campus is beautiful, be aware that some amenities, like the art museum, may have variable hours or be closed due to specific circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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