Brains, Bricks & Big Apple Vibes – Why Columbia University Is a Must-See in NYC

📘Brains, Bricks & Big Apple Vibes – Why Columbia University Is a Must-See in NYC (Even If You’re Not a Student)

June 24, 2025•3 min read

Alright, let’s talk about one of New York’s most iconic brainy playgrounds—Columbia University. Nestled in the heart of Morningside Heights, this Ivy League legend isn’t just a top-tier school—it’s a whole vibe. Whether you're into stunning architecture, rich history, intellectual buzz, or just need a scenic spot to chill while soaking up some collegiate energy, Columbia’s your go-to. This place has been around since 1754, which means it’s older than the U.S. itself (mind blown), and today, it’s still going strong with thousands of students from all over the world doing genius-level things while sipping overpriced coffee. Wanna walk through a place where Barack Obama, Alexander Hamilton, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg once strolled? Yeah—Columbia’s that place.

📚 So, What’s the Big Deal About Columbia?

  • 🏛️ Historic Vibes for Days – The Low Memorial Library, even though it’s no longer a library, is one of NYC’s most majestic buildings—it looks like something straight outta Rome.

  • 🧠 Next-Level Smart Crowd – Columbia is consistently ranked in the top 5 universities in the U.S. and top 20 globally. If someone’s wearing a hoodie here, they’re probably a future Nobel Prize winner.

  • 🎓 Massive Student Life – Over 30,000 students, loads of campus orgs, and regular events that are open to the public like panels, performances, and cultural nights.

  • 📖 Butler Library – Yeah, you can’t go inside unless you’re a student, but even from the outside, this building screams academic hustle.

☕ Fuel Your Brain (or Just Your Body)

  • Joe Coffee Company (550 W 120th St) – Right on campus, perfect for grabbing a latte and people-watching.

  • Hungarian Pastry Shop (1030 Amsterdam Ave) – This spot is iconic. Old-school charm, strong coffee, and a pastry menu that’ll have you posting on IG before your first bite.

  • Shake Shack (2957 Broadway) – Just down the street. Because yes, even Ivy Leaguers need crinkle fries.

🌳 Take a Break in the Best Way

  • Morningside Park – Right next to campus, it’s a chill green space with waterfalls, walking trails, and local vibes. Great for decompressing between stops if you’re exploring the area.

  • Riverside Park – A few blocks away, runs along the Hudson River, perfect for a peaceful stroll or bike ride with skyline views.

🚇 Subway & Street Smarts
Columbia’s campus is right off the 116th St – Columbia University station (1 Train), so it’s super accessible. That makes it perfect not only for students but also tourists, locals, or curious wanderers who wanna catch that Ivy League air.

🎬 Fun Fact You’ll Wanna Drop Later
Scenes from Spider-Man, Ghostbusters, The Mirror Has Two Faces, and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 were filmed right on Columbia’s campus—so yeah, it’s kinda a movie star, too.

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