Stanford University Review

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Stanford University

Fodor's Review:

Stanford University was former California governor Leland Stanford's horse-breeding farm, and the land is still known as the Farm. Founded in 1885 and opened in 1891, the university occupies a campus designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Its unique California Mission—Romanesque sandstone buildings, joined by arcades and topped by red-tile roofs—are mixed with newer buildings in variations on Olmstead's style. The 285-foot Hoover Tower is a landmark and a tourist attraction; an elevator ($2) leads to an observation deck that provides sweeping views. Free one-hour walking tours (Serra St., opposite Hoover Tower. 650/723-2560) of the Stanford campus leave daily at 11 and 3:15 from the visitor center in the front hall of Memorial Auditorium.

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