The campus of one of the country's most prestigious research universities spreads over 1,200 acres of coastal canyons and eucalyptus groves, where students and faculty jog, bike, and Rollerblade to class. If you're interested in contemporary art, check out the Stuart Collection of Sculpture—15 thought-provoking, site-specific works by artists such as Nam June Paik, William Wegman, Niki de St. Phalle, Jenny Holzer, and others arrayed around the campus. UCSD's Price Center has a well-stocked, two-level bookstore—the largest in San Diego—and a good coffeehouse, Espresso Roma. Look for the postmodern Geisel Library (named for longtime La Jolla residents Theodor "Dr. Seuss" Geisel and his wife, Audrey), which resembles an upside-down triangle. For campus culture, political views, vegan dishes, and live music, head to the Che Café located in building 161, painted in bright murals. Bring quarters for the parking meters, or cash or a credit card for the parking structures, since free parking is only available on weekends.
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