A Guide to One of America’s Prettiest Campuses

Belmont University earned a place on Architectural Digest’s (AD) coveted list of the “64 Prettiest Colleges Campuses in America,” claiming spot 11 on the list in 2024. 

AD recognized Belmont’s campus for its “pristinely kept lawn” and noted the musical fingerprint by mentioning the “gazebos where students are often found playing music.” In honor of this flattering distinguishment, here are the 10 prettiest spots on one of America’s prettiest campuses.  

Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine 

The Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine is the newest addition to Belmont’s collection of Greco-Roman inspired academic buildings. Having just opened in fall 2024, the building was designed with student learning in mind and features incredible classrooms and study spaces for its students to use.  

Jack C. Massey Center

A central location for interdisciplinary collaboration, the Jack C. Massey Center is beloved by faculty, staff and students. Featuring the Bruin Bites Cafe, open-air study spaces, the admissions center and staff offices that overlook Belmont’s main lawn, this integrated space has become a key spot for visitors and Belmont’s community alike.   

Historic Lawn 

Belmont’s rich past remains alive and well on the historic quad, with an array of cast iron gazebos, statues and picturesque landscaping. Many of these features have adorned the lawn since 1865, before the property was a women’s finishing school.  

Fisher Center for the Performing Arts 

Named in honor of Belmont President Emeritus Dr. Bob Fisher and his wife Judy, the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts is a premiere performance venue for all of Nashville to enjoy. This 150,000 square foot space features classic marble columns and overlooks the historic Belmont Boulevard, greeting theatregoers year-round with its fantastic selection of shows.

Events held at the Fisher Center include CMA Country Christmas 2023, an evening with “Braveheart” director and screenwriter Randall Wallace and DOLLY: A True Original Musical. Dolly had its world premiere at the Fisher Center in Nashville in summer 2025, featuring the life and music of Dolly Parton with both her beloved hits and new songs written for the show. Building on its success here, the musical is now headed to its Broadway debut in 2026, continuing the Fisher Center's legacy as a launching pad for major productions.

Gardens

With a vibrant rose garden and whimsical floral tapestries, Belmont’s enchanting gardenscapes deserve a mention all on their own. A leisurely stroll through the gardens and lawns feels less like a college campus and more like a dream.  

Gabhart Chapel 

The University’s first formal chapel, the Gabhart Chapel features floor-to-ceiling windows and a stained glass centerpiece over a theater-style open gallery. Natural light saturates the space during worship services led by Belmont’s University Ministries and dynamic guest speakers several times a week.  

Hitch Building 

Step inside the Hitch Building and find a space worthy of the visionary minds of students in the O’More College of Architecture and Design. Renovated by O’More College faculty, the third and fourth floors have been transformed into workspaces that encourage the free flow of creativity and provide areas to showcase student works.   

The Bell Tower 

The Bell Tower is a touchstone for all Belmont visitors, with melodic bells playing hourly and a quaint prayer chapel available to all. Located at the south end of the historic lawn, this scenic structure has become a favorite backdrop for club events and graduation photos. It is truly a landmark for students and guests alike on Belmont’s campus. 

Bear Creek

Tucked away on the upperclassman lawn, Bear Creek is a tranquil locale for students to sit beside and enjoy the rippling water as it cascades down a rolling hill. This beautiful waterway is also home to Chum Run, one of two majestic Bruin statues on campus.

Freedom Plaza Fountain 

Freedom Plaza Fountain sits at the north end of the main lawn, situated among several academic buildings. Inspired by the abundant fountain of forward thinking, hope and belonging at Belmont, this staple of Belmont’s architecture also serves as a memorial to the enslaved people who worked the Belle Mont estate before it became a school. 

Located in the thriving city of Nashville, the university offers the best of both worlds: a stunning campus and a front-row seat to one of the country’s most dynamic, thriving cities. With its beautiful lawns, ornate buildings, luscious landscapes and calming water features, it is clear how Belmont earned this place of honor on AD’s list of prettiest campuses in America in 2024.