How well do you know UCR’s campus? You are about to find out! Check out these 10 spots during your time at UCR.    

Caption: Use this map to orient yourself!

1. GradSuccess Main Office – University Office Building (UOB) 141

Why don’t you start your hunt with a visit to our office? We have drop-in hours Monday-Thursday, or you can set up an appointment with any of our staff! Click here to learn more.

Caption: While we no longer offer snacks due to Covid-19, you can still see our smiling eyes during drop-in hours!

2. Life Sciences Courtyard

Just down the hill lies a quaint courtyard near where Spieth Hall and Life Sciences intersect. Not only is this a nice place to relax or work at the tables, but it is also where we host our weekly coffee socials, outdoors and complete with social distancing! They take place every Wednesday from 3-4pm.

Caption: It's a lovely place to spend time outdoors!

3. The Barn

The Barn has recently received a full remodel and, after some closures during the pandemic, it is now open in a limited capacity! The patio and walk-up order window are now open Monday-Friday, 4pm-8pm. See menus here.

Caption: Sit back and relax!

4. Bell Tower

Not a “hidden” gem, but a gem nonetheless! The Bell Tower is an iconic member of the UCR community, and you are likely to hear it chime no matter where you are on campus.

Caption: Isn't it lovely?

5. Highlander Union Building – The HUB

Talk about options! The HUB features a variety of dining options, conference rooms, and resources.

Dining

On the first floor of the HUB you’ll find:

• Chronic Tacos (Tacos & Burritos)

• Hibachi-san (Teriyaki & Sushi)

• Panda Express (Chinese)

• The Habit (Burgers, Salads, & Sandwiches)

• Subway (Subs)

• The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Coffee & Café)

Resources

Just to name a few:

• Graduate Student Association (HUB203; conference travel & offices)

• The WELL (HUB249; free masks, sexual health & education supplies)

• R’Pantry (HUB269; free groceries for any students with food insecurity)

Caption: The HUB is certainly a campus hub!

6. Sub Station & The Getaway Cafe

You are traveling down Canyon Crest and you see the quaint Bannockburn Village. You might not think anything of it, but you should! Tucked away in that little “village” are two unique food spots on campus. First is The Sub Station, which has been around since 1972. Additionally, Getaway Cafe is UCR’s very own on-campus “sports bar” that provides a retreat from academia.

Caption: A perfect spot to hang out after a long day at work!

7. Student Recreation Center (SRC)

Our rec center is really something. Not only does it have all the great “basics” like a pool, showers and indoor track, but it also has a rock-climbing wall and ropes course! There are also many opportunities to play intramural team sports with your colleagues or other students. A reservation is no longer required, but masks are.

 

Caption: Check out all of the tennis courts! You can just barely see the enormous pool.

8. Student Health Center and the Counseling & Psychological Services Center

Many of your mental and physical health needs can be met in this one complex if you have the GSHIP insurance. You must make your appointment over the phone, but all of the information you need is on their website.  Also, download the “Student Health” app to guarantee you have your insurance card on you at all times. You can also use the app to find in-network providers.

Caption: If you walk straight from the “CLIENT” parking spots, you will find the Health Center, which offers general health and dentistry services.

9. UCR Botanical Gardens

The UCR Botanical Gardens is your on-campus hiking spot. It covers 40 hilly acres and features gardens from a variety of biomes. There are four miles of walking trails for you and you peers to explore. They also hold a plant sale every quarter and host guided Nature Walks you can book online.

Hours: MON - WED, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, Thursday & Friday, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, and two Sundays (1st & 3rd) per month, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, except for major holidays, special events, and during UCR campus closure.

Caption: This is just a tiny peek into this amazing place!

10. Picnic Hill

We end our list with a gem that is well-hidden, but no secret! It is nestled behind UOB and has a nice, maintained path up the hill that leads to a grassy hilltop with several tables. There is nothing quite like taking a break up here, and it is usually rather empty and peaceful.

Caption: It doesn’t look like much from the base of the hill, but here's the reward at the top!

That concludes our Scavenger Hunt list. See if you can visit all 10 spots!