University of Kansas Campanile
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University of Kansas Campanile

4.2
·357 reviews·Lawrence, United States

Iconic bell tower and WWII memorial on the University of Kansas campus, famous for its carillon concerts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, 10 AM - 4 PM

Visitor access available

CrowdMedium
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University of Kansas Campanile

University of Kansas Campanile

Best Time

Weekdays, 10 AM - 4 PM

Visitor access available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic bell tower and WWII memorial on the University of Kansas campus, famous for its carillon concerts.

4.2
(357 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful universities in Kansas, with a great vibe and atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Visitor Hours First

Hours vary, especially on holidays. Always check the official schedule before you go! :calendar:

Listen for the Music

Plan your visit around the carillon concerts for a truly memorable experience. :musical_score:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Campanile Bell Tower

The Campanile Bell Tower

University of Kansas Campus

A majestic bell tower and WWII memorial, offering stunning views and a rich historical presence on campus.

Instagram
Carillon Concerts

Carillon Concerts

The Campanile

Experience the enchanting melodies of the carillon, a unique auditory experience that fills the campus.

Instagram
WWII Memorial

WWII Memorial

Base of the Campanile

A solemn tribute to those who served, integrated into the iconic bell tower's design.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to the Campanile

The University of Kansas Campanile offers visitor access most days, but hours can vary. Check the official schedule, especially around holidays, to ensure you can experience the carillon concerts and explore the tower. Instagram

Experiencing the Campanile's Sound

The Campanile is renowned for its carillon concerts. Plan your visit to coincide with these performances to fully appreciate its musical offerings. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays, 10 AM - 4 PM
Why
Visitor access available
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturdays, 10 AM - 5 PM
Why
Extended weekend hours
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Carillon concerts often scheduled
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dancing our way to MC’ 23 🤸🏼‍♂️✨👸🪁 #recruitment #workweek #kappaalphatheta #KUPanhellenic #sorority #KAO #universityofkansas #KAO #thinktheta #rockchalk #PanhellenicLOVE
@kukappaalphatheta
111.1K likes • 1.7M views

Check Visitor Hours First

Hours vary, especially on holidays. Always check the official schedule before you go! Instagram :calendar:

Listen for the Music

Plan your visit around the carillon concerts for a truly memorable experience. Instagram :musical_score:

I will still make videos while in college, but I will be recovering from my surgery. 😁 #positivity #raiseawareness #tiktokforgood
@lukas.caldwell
21.6K likes • 368.8K views
Ever wondered what’s at the top? ✨🤩🔭 BTW - the Campanile is open for visitors most days of the week! Here are the typical hours of operation: * Monday-Friday: 10am - 4pm * Saturday: 10am - 5pm * Sunday: 10am - 1pm & 3 - 5pm [closed for the 2pm carillon concert] It will have different hours on the following dates: * Monday, September 1: 10am - 5pm (holiday hours) * Sunday, September 7: 10am - 1pm...
caladmissions
450 likes • 24.3K views

Capture the Architecture

The Campanile is a beautiful landmark, perfect for photos in any season. TikTok :camerawithflash:

Explore the Campus

The Campanile is a central point on a beautiful campus worth exploring. TikTok :walking:

#KU’s Campanile playing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” filled me with joy, so I captured a snip while on campus. #kualumni #universityofkansas
marydpadilla
4 likes • 60 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Visitor Hours First

Hours vary, especially on holidays. Always check the official schedule before you go! Instagram :calendar:

Listen for the Music

Plan your visit around the carillon concerts for a truly memorable experience. Instagram :musical_score:

Capture the Architecture

The Campanile is a beautiful landmark, perfect for photos in any season. TikTok :camerawithflash:

Explore the Campus

The Campanile is a central point on a beautiful campus worth exploring. TikTok :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(357 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the University of Kansas Campanile as a beautiful and iconic landmark, often highlighting its role as a WWII memorial and the enchanting carillon concerts. The campus atmosphere is frequently described as positive and vibrant, with many appreciating the university's strong sense of community and its multicultural student body. Some reviews mention issues with campus housing policies affecting current students.

"🎼 ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK, GO KU!!🏀 This is the hometown of basketball; c'mon out and watch a game at Allen Fieldhouse for the experience. We do have the loudest stadium full of Jaw hawkers! We townies are so blessed to have Kansas University right here in our backyards. This school also brings in so many multicultural people from all around the world, so you can potentially meet someone from anywhere, which is just so cool 😎!"

TIANA GALLOWAY STUBBS

"I have to say I really like that the school has such great students and faculty. I also love that they have a program for incoming faculty (not sure if for staff) for dual careers. It is hard to relocate a lot and get the lay of the land when you follow your spouse."

lharned

"One of the most beautiful universities in Kansas (yes, I know the quality of education is more important). I came here for some friends' graduation some years ago and it was packed full of people! I liked the atmosphere here."

Iona Carina

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
WWII memorial significance
Carillon concerts

What People Dislike

Housing policy changes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Campanile is located on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence, Kansas. Visitors can typically drive to campus and find parking nearby, though specific parking regulations may apply. Public transportation options might be available within Lawrence. TikTok

Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check the University of Kansas parking services website for the most current information on visitor parking lots and rates. TikTok

Yes, the Campanile is centrally located on the Mount Oread campus, making it easily accessible on foot from many academic buildings and student residences. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, visiting the exterior of the Campanile and the surrounding campus is free. However, access to climb the tower or attend specific events might require tickets or have associated fees. Instagram

The Campanile is typically open for visitors most days of the week. Standard hours are Monday-Friday: 10 am - 4 pm, Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm, and Sunday: 10 am - 1 pm & 3 pm - 5 pm. These hours can change, so checking the official schedule is recommended. Instagram

While the exterior is generally accessible, specific hours apply for interior access. It's always a good idea to check for any campus-wide events or maintenance that might affect access. Instagram

Access to the Campanile grounds is usually free. However, if there are guided tours or specific events that involve climbing the tower, there might be a fee. Instagram

🎫 🎶 Music & Performances

Carillon concerts are a highlight of the Campanile experience. While specific schedules can vary, they are often held on weekends and sometimes during weekdays. Listening to 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' has been noted as a joyful experience. Instagram

The Campanile's bells are designed to be heard across campus and beyond, especially during scheduled concerts. Instagram

While the primary performances are by carillonneurs, the campus environment often features student activities and music, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The Campanile is a picturesque landmark. Photos from various angles on campus, especially during different seasons, capture its beauty. TikTokInstagram

While specific access to the top for panoramic views might be limited or require special arrangements, the Campanile itself is a prominent feature, and its presence enhances the campus scenery. Instagram

Photography policies inside the Campanile may vary. It's best to inquire on-site or check university guidelines if you plan to take extensive photos inside. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Alumni and Returning Visitors

For alumni, the Campanile often evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and connection to their alma mater. It's a central point on campus that many remember fondly. TikTok Returning to campus, even years after graduation, can be a powerful experience, with the Campanile serving as a constant reminder of shared memories. TikTok

Many visitors, like those attending basketball games, find the campus atmosphere vibrant and welcoming. The university's reputation and the energy of events like game days contribute to a positive experience. Reddit

Photography Enthusiasts

The Campanile is a visually striking structure, making it a prime subject for photographers. Its architectural details and its presence on the scenic Mount Oread campus offer numerous photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Consider visiting during different times of day and in various seasons to capture the Campanile in diverse lighting conditions and settings. The surrounding campus also provides beautiful backdrops, from seasonal foliage to other historic buildings. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of the Campanile

The University of Kansas Campanile, officially known as the World War II Memorial Campanile, stands as a prominent landmark on the KU campus. Dedicated in 1951, it serves as a memorial to Kansans who served in World War II. Its striking architecture, designed by noted architect George M. Beal, makes it an iconic symbol of the university. Instagram

The tower houses a 53-bell carillon, which is played regularly, filling the campus with music. These performances are a significant part of the Campanile's identity and a beloved tradition for students, faculty, and alumni. The sound of the carillon is often associated with the spirit and atmosphere of the University of Kansas. Instagram

Beyond its memorial and musical functions, the Campanile is a central gathering point and a picturesque element of the campus landscape, featured in many photographs and videos showcasing KU's beauty across different seasons. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing the Carillon Music

The carillon at the University of Kansas Campanile is a unique musical instrument consisting of 53 bronze bells. These bells are played by a carillonneur using a keyboard and foot pedals, producing a rich and resonant sound that can be heard throughout the campus. Instagram

Attending a carillon concert is a must-do for visitors. The melodies, often including popular tunes like 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow,' create a joyful and memorable atmosphere. Instagram The schedule for these concerts can vary, so it's advisable to check the university's events calendar or inquire on campus for the most up-to-date performance times. Instagram

For many, the sound of the Campanile's bells is synonymous with the KU experience, evoking a sense of pride and connection to the university. It's a sensory experience that adds a distinct charm to any visit. Instagram