SUMMARY

  •  McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, offers a blend of historic and modern architecture, with scenic trails and waterfalls on its main campus.
  •  Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, features stunning limestone buildings and borders Lake Ontario, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment.
  •  McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, boasts commanding stone buildings inspired by 19th-century architecture, with lush greenery and views of the mountains.

Canada is a beautiful country famous for its stunning landscapes, delicious foods, historical wonders, and incredible culture. It has the longest coastline and most lakes in the world, so it’s no surprise there are tons of thrilling things to do in Canada. Besides adventures and landscapes, Canada is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful universities and campuses.

Some of these pretty universities in Canada have also earned a reputation for their academics. As such, it is no surprise that Canada is a popular choice for international students. Students in Canadian universities also get to experience all four seasons and see their college’s grounds transform with each passing month. For an immersive experience with the country’s beauty, here are the most beautiful university campuses in Canada for scenery and architecture.

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10 McMaster University

Burke Science Building at McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, Canada
Photo by GV Chana on UnsplashBurke Science Building at McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, Canada

McMaster University is one of the most beautiful colleges in Canada and is situated in the residential neighborhood of Westwade in Hamilton. The buildings offer a distinctive blend of historic and modern architecture, and the university is beautiful both inside and outside. There are many scenic trails throughout the main campus and in the surrounding areas, leading to conservation areas and waterfalls.

A hike to the wetland Cootes Paradise to see flora and fauna is a must for everyone in the area. The university is also flanked by beautiful botanical gardens and a wildlife sanctuary.

  • Location: Hamilton, Ontario

9 Queen’s University

Theological Hall building on the campus of Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Theological Hall building on the campus of Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Queen’s University is known for its peaceful environment, ideal for study and research activities. But the university is equally beautiful. It boasts stunning limestone buildings and magnificent architecture. One of the highly coveted structures here is the awe-inspiring Douglas Library.

In the fall, the leaves turn into brilliant reds and oranges, making it a striking scene against the historic buildings. The fact that Queen’s University borders Lake Ontario (one of the five great lakes, four of which can be seen from Ontario) is also appealing.

  • Location: Kingston, Ontario

Fun Fact: Queen’s University predates Canada. It was founded in 1841 through a royal charter issued by Queen Victoria.

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8 McGill University

McGill University, Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, Canada
Photo by Ehalo Travel on UnsplashMcGill University, Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, Canada

McGill University is another one of Canada’s most beautiful universities to visit and is world-famous for its world-class education and diverse community. It was established in 1821 and is conveniently located in the heart of Montreal, at the foot of Mount Royal, a perfect destination for winter activities. Even with its urban setting, it features lush greenery and offers stunning views of the mountains.The buildings, inspired by 19th-century architecture, have commanding stone walls, copper roofs, and impressive stained glass windows. The McLennan-Redpath Library Complex, Arts Building, and Faculty of Religious Studies reflect Montreal’s energy and creativity.

  • Location: Montreal, Quebec

7 Western University

Western University, Canada
Photo by Scott Webb on UnsplashThe University of Western Ontario, corporally known as Western University, exudes a great combo of traditional and modern architecture. It is famous for being one of the most beautiful colleges in Canada to visit and study at, as well as for its charming Gothic-style architecture. But there’s a lot more that adds to its beauty.

Western University is on the banks of the Thames River and has plenty of green space that allows students to connect with nature. There are many scenic pathways traversing the inviting green spaces. The environment creates ideal conditions for growth, learning, and discovery.

  • Location: London, Ontario

6 University Of Toronto

University, Toronto, ON, Canada
Photo by White.Rainforest on UnsplashToronto is Canada’s largest city, with lots of amazing things to do in summer, fall, winter, and spring (it’s perfect year-round for tourists). It is also the home to the three stunning campuses of the University of Toronto.

The main campus, George (Downtown) Campus, is one of the most beautiful university campuses in Canada; it’s dotted with buildings that show off a mix of Gothic Revival and Romanesque architecture. There are also green spaces for students to explore and enjoy their study breaks.

For nature lovers, the sprawling Mississauga campus is a bit secluded and offers a very relaxed atmosphere. It is set on 225 acres of protected green space that provides a beautiful learning background. Students from these campuses should visit the Scarborough campus to explore the scenic trails.

  • Location: Toronto, Ontario

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5 Royal Roads University

Royal Roads University, Colwood, BC, Canada
Photo by Laurent Beique on UnsplashThis university spread over 260 hectares of parkland with incredible surroundings, is home to the prestigious Hatley Castle, which was once meant to host the Royal Family. It may look familiar to many because the Hatley Castle has been featured in several films and television shows, including X-Men.

Coming to the university, there are many hiking and biking trails throughout the grounds, offering panoramic views of the Olympic Mountain Range and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Students will also find Japanese Gardens and other hidden treasures. Being part of Hatley Park, this campus is among the most beautiful Canadian universities and is the go-to destination for those seeking to study in the middle of nature’s beauty.

  • Location: Victoria, British Columbia

4 Bishop’s University

A path through Bishop's University, Sherbrooke, Canada
Photo by Tristan Gassert on UnsplashBishop’s University is one of the universities in Quebec teaching primarily in English. It is among the best universities in Canada for scenery and architecture, as it’s dotted with beautiful Gothic Revival period buildings and perfectly situated amidst forests, rivers, and farms.

Its buildings and location between St. Francis and Massawippi have earned the name “Oxford on the Massawippi”. There are many scenic and historical sites on the campus, including St. Mark’s Cathedral and McGreer Hall.

  • Location: Sherbrooke, Quebec

3 University Of British Columbia

Buildings at the University of British Columbia, Canada
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Buildings at the University of British Columbia, Canada

The University of British Columbia is on the western tip of the Point Grey Peninsula, about 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver. It is yet another institution considered to be one of the best colleges in Canada for beauty; it’s surrounded by lush forests and the ocean on one side.

Students enjoy stunning views of mountainscapes and extensive water views. During their study breaks, they can stroll the beaches, hike to the mountains, or just walk through the university. The university’s botanical garden, Nitobe Memorial Garden, is one of the most authentic and beautiful Japanese Gardens outside Japan.

  • Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

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2 Mount Royal University

Mount Royal College in Calgary, Alberta, Canada
This university combines various details to create one of the most scenic destinations for nature and outdoor enthusiasts in Canada. Besides its beautiful, modern-looking structures, it has park-like landscaping, blooming gardens, and shimmering ponds. This makes it one of the greenest spaces in the area.The outdoor amphitheater, where students and the community gather for concerts and plays, is arguably the university’ most notable feature, but there’s a lot more to see and explore. Mount Royal University is committed to being environmentally friendly, and since 2006, it has ensured all its buildings are LEED-certified.

  • Location: Calgary, Alberta

1 University Of Manitoba

University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
Photo by Jawad on Unsplash

University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada

The vibrant University of Manitoba was established in 1877, becoming the first university in western Canada. Fort Garry campus, which is the main campus, is located on U-shaped land formed by the Red River.

 

It boasts traditional and modern buildings and numerous green spaces, earning it a solid place among the prettiest universities in Canada overall. Students can walk the tree-lined walkways during their study breaks.

  • Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Link: https://www.thetravel.com/most-beautiful-universities-in-canada/#mcmaster-university