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In Focus: Stanford Students' Top 10 Outdoor Spots on Campus

Springtime on campus brings blooming flowers, blossoming fruit trees, and breathtaking blue skies that encourage us to spend all the more time outdoors. Beyond going on walks to class or hurrying to a meal with a friend, find time outside the normal hustle and bustle to enjoy the beautiful nature around us that we often take for granted. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite outdoor spots on campus that we think are worth exploring! 

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Top 10 Outdoor Spots on Campus

  1. Kingscote Gardens: This hidden gem is located behind the Kingscote Building and across the street from Denning House near Lake Lagunita. Surrounded by an all-encompassing grove of trees, the faint chirping of frogs, and the soft babbling of a fountain, the picnic tables at Kingscote Gardens are a tranquil oasis for journaling, meditating, reading, studying, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere around you. 
  2. Stanford Dish: The Stanford Dish is located past Narnia and the Enchanted Broccoli Forest, at the intersection of Stanford Avenue and Junipero Serra Boulevard just a short drive or walk off-campus. The Dish Hike is a phenomenal way to get some exercise with friends and take in the surrounding views of the Bay Area. The Hike itself is a 3.7 mile loop which takes around an hour and forty-five minutes to complete!
  3. Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden: Located on the corner of Santa Teresa Street and Lomita Drive, this sculpture garden has 40 carved wooden posts and outdoor art pieces that were designed by ten artists from Papua New Guinea. This newly lit garden featuring a freshly paved path is a peaceful spot for a stroll featuring fantastic art pieces. 
  4. The Arizona Cactus Garden: Dedicated to Jane and Leland Stanford, the Arizona Cactus Garden is a secluded spot located on the south side of the Mausoleum that features a plethora of cacti and natural flora.  
  5. The Labyrinth Outside Windhover: Looking to take a break and quiet your mind? The Labyrinth, located  adjacent to the Windhover building, is a circular path that can help facilitate meditation and bring balance to your life. Walk the Labyrinth and experience a sense of calmness. 
  6. Lake Lagunita: The 1-mile loop around Lake Lagunita makes for a great spot for jogging, walking with friends, or even taking a meditative stroll to unwind. It’s a lovely place to catch a Stanford sunset as well!
  7. The Stanford Driving Range: A great place to blow off some steam, the Driving Range is an unmatched place to hang out with friends and enjoy the phenomenal views of campus. Get lost in the meditative aspects of golf and appreciate the fresh air!
  8. The Rodin Sculpture Garden Outside Cantor Arts Center: This beautiful garden of sculptures features a replica of Rodin’s “Gates of Hell” as well as other classic pieces such as “The Prayer,” “Large Clenched Left Hand,” and “The Thinker.” The garden is a perfect excuse to also check out the Canton Arts Center, home to over 170 Rodin pieces!
  9. The Pool at AOERC: Featuring lanes for swimming, a basketball hoop for playing a game of pickup, and a grassy area for sunbathing, the pool at Arrillaga Outdoor Education And Recreation Center is an often overlooked part of the recreation center that is a great way to spend some time outdoors while still encouraging healthy movement!
  10. Terman Fountain: While this spot may not be as hidden, it’s a classic fountain-hopping locale outside of the Thornton and Green Earth Sciences buildings that features a spacious green and a rectangular fountain. It’s an excellent location for studying, soaking up the sun, or chatting with friends.

Written by: Chase Klavon, Class of 2025 

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