25 Beautiful West Coast Campuses You Have to See to Believe

14. University of Puget Sound – Tacoma, WA

Imagine a college plucked from a storybook and placed beneath the shadow of a majestic volcano—that’s the University of Puget Sound. Located in the historic North End of Tacoma, this liberal arts college exudes cozy elegance. Its red-brick Collegiate Gothic buildings, ivy-covered walls, and towering fir trees form a cohesive visual palette that is unmistakably Pacific Northwest. On clear days, Mount Rainier looms in the distance like a mythic guardian. UPS is deeply rooted in a culture of global curiosity, outdoor adventure, and intellectual exploration. Small class sizes foster close mentorship, while interdisciplinary programs in environmental policy, international studies, and the arts reflect a commitment to holistic learning. The campus itself feels like a small, enchanted village—with a grand library, vibrant art center, and a community that values both introspection and action. Rain or shine (and it’s usually rain), Puget Sound is a place where ideas bloom and nature is never more than a few steps away.