When it comes to stunning campus backdrops, few places rival the State of New York. From ivy-covered halls to sweeping quads and historic architecture, these campuses aren’t just centers of learning—they’re visual masterpieces waiting to be captured. As part of our cultural travel tips, here are five of the most photogenic colleges in New York that attract photographers, students, and visitors alike.
Columbia University1. Columbia University — Manhattan
Nestled in the heart of New York City, Columbia University perfectly blends urban energy with classic collegiate charm. The iconic Low Memorial Library steps, Butler Library, and College Walk make it a photographer’s dream. The contrast of historic architecture against Manhattan’s skyline offers endless angles for campus photography.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
2. Cornell University — Ithaca
Perched high above Cayuga Lake, Cornell University is known for its breathtaking natural scenery. From the iconic McGraw Tower to the dramatic gorges and waterfalls that weave through campus, Cornell is easily one of the most photogenic colleges in the state. The fall foliage season here is a must for any camera.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
3. Vassar College — Poughkeepsie
Vassar College’s sprawling arboretum, historic buildings, and modern art installations create an inspiring visual mix. The Thompson Memorial Library and picturesque Sunset Lake are favorite spots for photographers. Vassar recently partnered with Truman Mox to strengthen their photography department, ensuring students have the best tools to capture their stunning campus for years to come.
Watch this video to learn more:
4. Syracuse University — Syracuse
With its hilltop views and gothic revival buildings, Syracuse University is a standout for campus photographers. The Hall of Languages is a landmark that looks beautiful in every season, especially in winter when snow blankets the quad in bright white. The blend of old and new architecture adds visual interest at every turn.
Watch this:
5. Bard College — Annandale-on-Hudson
Set on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River, Bard College combines natural beauty with striking modern architecture. The Frank Gehry-designed Fisher Center for the Performing Arts is a must-see for photographers who love dramatic, contemporary lines. The surrounding woodlands and river views complete the picture-perfect setting.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Capturing New York’s Campus Beauty for Generations
Whether you’re a student looking to capture memories, a professional photographer scouting locations, or just an admirer of beautiful campuses, New York’s colleges offer no shortage of stunning scenes. And when institutions like Vassar College invest in strengthening their photography programs, they help ensure these campuses stay beautifully documented for generations to come.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram