Campus attractions

Nitobe Garden. Since my first year it has been my “secret” place where I destress and take mental breaks. The view is breathtaking! I have been lucky to have visited the garden during a cold spring day — half of the garden was in a winter theme ... while the other half in the sunlight looked spring themed, no snow and the other half of the lake not frozen over. It was absolutely beautiful and made my day. I challenge you to see if you can witness the same phenomenon I did!

— EMMANUEL CANTILLER

While UBC campus can be overwhelming to navigate if you are a first- (or post-pandemic second-) year student, being at a large campus has its perks with the endless number of attractions. Here are some of our top picks.

UBC BOTANICAL GARDENS

With plants and flowers from across the world, the botanical gardens are a must-visit. While the best time to visit is spring, the gardens are open year-round. In addition to the colourful variety of flowers and mini water streams sprinkled about, the garden offers a TreeWalk for visitors to explore the garden from an elevation bridge. Entry is free for UBC students. Check out the adorable and affordable nursery/store on your way out and grab a plant for your dorm. TOWER BEACH

While Wreck Beach is a popular spot which attracts crowds on a sunny day, you can also visit it’s rockier counterpart, Tower Beach. Located behind Allard Law School, you have to walk down a slightly less daunting set of stairs. It is named after the abandoned search post from World War II that’s now covered in graffiti. If you have the pleasure of taking BIOL 140, you will have to take a mandatory field trip there.

MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY (MOA)

MOA, located on NW Marine Drive, is home to a collection of art and cultural artifacts of local communities belonging to BC, with an emphasis on Indigenous culture and heritage. The museum is a wonderful place to learn more about First Nations communities in our province. NITOBE GARDENS

Did you know one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan is located right here on UBC campus? Located near the Asian Centre, Nitobe Gardens is the perfect peaceful setting to unwind on a stressful day with lush greenery, a beautiful pond, Japanese stone statues and a charming little bridge.

UNIVERSITY VILLAGE STRIP

If you are a resident of Vancouver, you know the city harbours an eclectic collection of cuisines. UBC joins in on the food network with its diverse range of restaurants located across campus. The village strip is the go-to spot for food, coffee, drinks or desserts. Starting with Brown’s Socialhouse, the street is lined with global food ranging from pizza and ramen to bubble tea from Pearl Fever and Indian food from Only U Cafe in the Village. For dessert, Rain or Shine is the best spot to snag an ice cream on a hot summer day (or, let’s be real, anytime, whether it’s rain or shine). U