Memorial Belltower NC State - a tall clock tower with a sky background
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Memorial Belltower NC State

4.8
·475 reviews·Raleigh, United States

NC State's iconic Memorial Belltower, a historic military memorial and vibrant symbol of Wolfpack spirit, especially when it glows red for victories.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer students, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Memorial Belltower NC State - a tall clock tower with a sky background

Memorial Belltower NC State

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer students, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

NC State's iconic Memorial Belltower, a historic military memorial and vibrant symbol of Wolfpack spirit, especially when it glows red for victories.

4.8
(475 reviews)

"A beautiful place to visit at NC State, rich with history and campus pride."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Glow

The Belltower shines red for Wolfpack victories! Look for this crimson celebration .

🚴‍♀️ Critical Mass Rides

Join the monthly Critical Mass bike ride that starts at the Belltower .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Belltower

The Iconic Belltower

NC State University Campus

A striking architectural monument and a symbol of NC State's spirit and history.

Krispy Kreme Challenge Start Line

Krispy Kreme Challenge Start Line

Base of the Belltower

The starting point for one of NC State's most unique and delicious traditions.

Campus Scenery

Campus Scenery

Surrounding NC State University

Enjoy the beautiful landscaping, especially during autumn, with the Belltower as a backdrop.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Belltower is a central campus landmark, so expect crowds during academic year events and game days. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekends for a more serene experience. Check the NC State calendar for any special events that might impact access or crowd levels.

Access and Views

While you can't typically go up inside the Belltower, its exterior architecture is impressive. The surrounding campus offers beautiful views, especially during fall foliage. Some nearby spots, like the Aloft Hotel bar, offer unique vantage points.TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer students, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
During campus events
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, red glow
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bikes, Scooters, One-Wheels, and more-we counted a little over 200 all together at Critical Mass! 2nd Friday Monthly. Meets at the Memorial Belltower at NCSU & leaves at 7pm! I’m so happy to see this going in Raleigh again! Its a slow rolling party! ✨🎉 (the video speed here is sped up 😅) #criticalmass #raleigh #bikeride #raleighnc
@helloambear
21 likes • 1.2K views

📸 Capture the Glow

The Belltower shines red for Wolfpack victories! Look for this crimson celebration.TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Critical Mass Rides

Join the monthly Critical Mass bike ride that starts at the Belltower.TikTok

Yes this just happened! Hillsborough St. in Raleigh across from the Bell tower- it looks like it’s flooding 😬. Stay safe everyone! #raleighnc #raleighdowntown #storm #rain
@get2knowraleigh
558 likes • 22.6K views
NC State's iconic Memorial Belltower surrounded by snow. So pretty! Any Wolfpack students or alumni in the house? #ThisIsRaleigh @ncstate @liveitupraleigh #ncstateuniversity #ncstate #ncstateoncampus #northcarolinastateuniversity #RaleighNC
thisisraleigh
156 likes • 4.8K views

☕ Coffee Break Nearby

Jubala Coffee across the street is a local favorite for breakfast biscuits.Instagram

🏨 Hotel Views

Aloft Hotel offers great views of the Belltower from its bar.TikTok

🔑 Dr. Tom Stafford, retired vice chancellor for student affairs, carries on his keychain a small but powerful symbol of his decades at NC State: the key to the Memorial Belltower. To him, it’s more than metal. After leading more than a thousand tours of the military memorial, Dr. Stafford’s Belltower key is his reminder of our history, our community and those we remember.
ncstatealumni
1.5K likes • 35.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Glow

The Belltower shines red for Wolfpack victories! Look for this crimson celebration.TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Critical Mass Rides

Join the monthly Critical Mass bike ride that starts at the Belltower.TikTok

☕ Coffee Break Nearby

Jubala Coffee across the street is a local favorite for breakfast biscuits.Instagram

🏨 Hotel Views

Aloft Hotel offers great views of the Belltower from its bar.TikTok

🏃‍♂️ Krispy Kreme Challenge

Witness or participate in this iconic doughnut-eating race starting here.Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(475 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Memorial Belltower as an iconic and beautiful campus landmark, evoking feelings of nostalgia for alumni and pride for the NC State community. Its architectural presence and historical significance are frequently highlighted, with many appreciating the surrounding campus scenery and traditions like the red glow for victories. Some note the inability to access the interior, but the exterior beauty and symbolic meaning are widely celebrated.

"A visit to the Memorial Belltower always brings a feeling of reflection for the sacrifices others made for the freedoms we have today. As a proud alumni of NC State, the Belltower also brings back memories as my time as a student. Go Pack!"

Jeff Cockman

"Beautiful place to visit at NC State. It is very open and has the history right of the Belltower located on site. The flowers and landscape around the tower is beautiful. Take a nice walk around NC State and see the Belltower."

Lettie C

"When entering part of NC State you are welcomed by the Memorial Bell Tower. The tower is worth a stop to stand back and appreciate the architecture of the campus monument. The tower marks the entrance to part of the Campus. You are able to walk around and enjoy a nice green tree lined campus. You cannot go up in the tower."

Perks Advisor

What People Like

Iconic campus landmark
Symbol of NC State pride
Beautiful architecture

What People Dislike

Cannot go inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Memorial Belltower is centrally located on the NC State University campus in Raleigh, NC. It's easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot if you're already on campus. Parking is available in nearby garages, though it can be busy during peak times.TikTok

Yes, several GoRaleigh bus routes serve Hillsborough Street, which is directly across from the Belltower. Check the GoRaleigh schedule for routes and times that best suit your travel plans.

Absolutely! The Belltower is a popular meeting point for bike rides, including the monthly Critical Mass event.TikTok Bike racks are available around campus.

The closest parking decks are typically the Dan Allen Deck and the Coliseum Deck. Be aware that parking fees apply, and availability can be limited during university events or peak hours.

NC State University campuses are generally accessible. Sidewalks and pathways around the Belltower are paved, and accessible parking is available in nearby garages.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Memorial Belltower is an outdoor landmark on the NC State campus and is free to visit. You can walk around the grounds and admire its architecture anytime.

Generally, you cannot go inside the Belltower. While there are historical accounts of tours,Reddit public access to the interior is usually restricted. The main appeal is its exterior and symbolic significance.

As an outdoor campus landmark, the Belltower grounds are accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience and safety.

The Belltower is a focal point for many campus events, including the Krispy Kreme Challenge Instagram+1 and as a starting point for Critical Mass rides.TikTok Keep an eye on NC State's event calendar.

No, exploring the NC State University campus, including the area around the Memorial Belltower, is free of charge.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the architecture, take photos, enjoy the surrounding campus greenery, and learn about its history. It's also a popular spot for student gatherings and events.TikTokInstagram

The Belltower is a military memorial honoring alumni who served in World War I. It's a symbol of remembrance, campus pride, and a central gathering point for NC State.Instagram+1

The Belltower famously glows red to celebrate NC State Wolfpack athletic victories.TikTok It's a vibrant display of school spirit.

While public access inside is limited, historical tours may occasionally be offered by the university or alumni associations.Reddit It's best to check with NC State's visitor services for current tour availability.

Capture it from different angles, especially during golden hour or when it's lit up red. The surrounding campus offers lovely framing opportunities, particularly with fall foliage.TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Hillsborough Street, directly across from the Belltower, has numerous dining options. Jubala Coffee is a popular spot for breakfast,Instagram and Lobera Tacos & Tequila offers Mexican classics.TikTok

You'll find a variety of cuisines, including American, Mexican, coffee shops, and casual eateries catering to students and visitors.

The bar at the Aloft Raleigh hotel, located across Hillsborough Street, offers a great view of the Belltower.TikTokInstagram

Hillsborough Street offers several casual dining spots and cafes with affordable lunch specials, such as Lobera Tacos & Tequila.TikTok

While there aren't designated picnic areas directly at the Belltower, the surrounding campus has green spaces where you could enjoy a picnic.

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Also, consider photographing it at night when it's illuminated, or when it glows red for victories.TikTok

From Hillsborough Street for a classic view,TikTok from within the campus grounds, or from higher vantage points like the Aloft Hotel bar.TikTok Capture it with seasonal foliage.Instagram

Drone usage on university campuses is typically restricted. Check NC State's official policies regarding drone operation before attempting to fly one.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of students and campus activities.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire structure and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or shots from a distance. A tripod is helpful for low-light or night photography.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Memorial Belltower area is a pleasant spot for families to explore on the NC State campus. While kids can't go inside the tower, they'll enjoy seeing the impressive structure and learning about its history as a memorial.Instagram The surrounding campus offers open green spaces perfect for a stroll or a picnic. Consider timing your visit with a campus event or a bike ride starting from the Belltower TikTok for added excitement. Nearby Hillsborough Street also offers family-friendly dining options.TikTok

🎓 Alumni and Students

For NC State alumni and current students, the Memorial Belltower is a deeply nostalgic landmark. It's a place to reminisce about student days, celebrate academic achievements, and feel connected to the Wolfpack spirit. Witnessing the tower glow red after a victory TikTok or participating in traditions like the Krispy Kreme Challenge Instagram+1 are quintessential NC State experiences. The tower also holds historical significance as a military memorial.Instagram

📸 Photographers and Instagrammers

The Memorial Belltower offers fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture its Gothic Revival architecture against the sky, especially during the golden hours for dramatic lighting.TikTok Don't miss the chance to photograph it when it glows red for Wolfpack wins.TikTok The surrounding campus, particularly during autumn with its vibrant foliage,Instagram provides beautiful framing. For unique shots, consider the views from the Aloft Hotel bar.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Symbolism of the Memorial Belltower

The Memorial Belltower at NC State University stands as a significant landmark, not just for its architecture but for its deep historical roots. Originally dedicated in 1928, it serves as a military memorial honoring NC State students and alumni who served in World War I.Instagram Its design, inspired by the Campanile at the University of California, Berkeley, features a striking Gothic Revival style that has become synonymous with the university's identity.

The Belltower is more than just a monument; it's a symbol of remembrance, pride, and community for the Wolfpack. It's a central gathering point for students, faculty, and alumni, witnessing countless campus traditions and celebrations. The iconic red glow it emits after NC State athletic victories is a powerful visual representation of school spirit.TikTok Even a retired vice chancellor cherishes a key to the tower as a reminder of its enduring significance.Instagram

While public access inside the tower is limited, its presence on campus is a constant reminder of the university's history and the sacrifices made by its community members. Its enduring presence makes it a beloved icon for generations of Wolfpack alumni and a point of interest for visitors exploring the NC State campus.Reddit

Campus Traditions Centered Around the Belltower

The Memorial Belltower is the heart of several cherished NC State traditions, drawing students and the wider community together. Perhaps the most famous is the Krispy Kreme Challenge, an annual event where thousands of participants race from the Belltower to a downtown Krispy Kreme, consume a dozen doughnuts, and race back – all within an hour.Instagram+1 This unique event, born from a student dare, highlights the playful and spirited nature of the NC State community.

Beyond the Krispy Kreme Challenge, the Belltower serves as a popular meeting point for campus events and social gatherings. It's a common starting point for the monthly Critical Mass bike rides, transforming the area into a lively hub of activity.TikTok The tower's ability to glow red after Wolfpack victories further solidifies its role as a symbol of shared triumph and collective spirit.TikTok

These traditions, centered around the iconic Belltower, foster a strong sense of belonging and shared identity among NC State students and alumni. They transform the landmark from a static monument into a dynamic stage for memorable experiences and enduring school spirit.

Experiencing the Belltower and Surrounding Area

Visiting the Memorial Belltower offers a chance to appreciate its imposing architecture and the serene campus environment it inhabits. While you can't typically ascend the tower itself, the surrounding NC State University campus provides a beautiful backdrop for exploration. Take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained grounds, especially during autumn when the fall foliage adds a vibrant splash of color.Instagram

For those looking for unique perspectives, the Aloft Raleigh hotel, situated directly across Hillsborough Street, offers a notable vantage point. Its bar provides a great view of the Belltower, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.TikTokInstagram Nearby, Hillsborough Street itself is a bustling corridor filled with dining and shopping options, including highly-rated spots like Jubala Coffee for breakfast Instagram and Lobera Tacos & Tequila for Mexican fare.TikTok

Whether you're an alumnus revisiting cherished memories or a first-time visitor soaking in the campus atmosphere, the Memorial Belltower and its surroundings offer a rich experience. It’s a place to reflect on history, celebrate traditions, and enjoy the vibrant energy of NC State.

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