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I was a stay-at-home mom for 27 years. At 62, I started over after moving to Greece.

A woman in a yellow top looking out onto a harbor.
Kati Gyselinck started a new life in Greece at the age of 62.
  • Kati Gyselinck reflected on her 27 years as a stay-at-home mom and wanted a change.
  • At 62, she moved solo to the Greek mainland with one suitcase, leaving everything else behind.
  • She said that downsizing and being grateful for the smaller things in life have made her happier.

This story is based on an interview with Kati Gyselinck, 65, a life coach who lives in Athens, Greece. It has been edited for length and clarity.

I arrived at Athens International Airport in October 2023 with nothing but a suitcase full of clothes.

Then I took a taxi to the Airbnb, which was supposed to be my home while I began my new life abroad. My first impressions weren’t great. The place seemed dark, and there was no balcony.

A few nights later, I got up to use the bathroom and kicked my big toe against the bed. The whole nail came off, and the pain was bad.

I wondered if I’d made a mistake

There was no way I could find a pharmacy at that time. Nor did I have anyone to call. It brought home to me the leap of faith I’d taken to move to another country.

“Did I make a mistake?” I thought. I felt sorry for myself because I was alone. I cried my eyes out for hours.

A woman walking in Greece.
Gyselinck took time to find her feet in Athens.

My departure from my house in Israel, which coincided with a divorce, wasn’t something I’d meticulously planned.

Nevertheless, I needed a new direction. My three kids were adults, leading their own lives. I’d been a homemaker for 27 years. It had reached the point where it was pretty much, “Hi Mom, Bye Mom,” as they rushed in and out of the door.

I was dedicated to being a wife and mother

Yes, raising beautiful children was an accomplishment. Yet, I couldn’t help thinking that I hadn’t gotten much to show for myself.

I’d been dedicated to the role of wife and mother since leaving my job as a mortgage consultant when my son was born.

It wasn’t as if I didn’t enjoy being with the kids. I’d waited until 34 to have my first baby, feeling so much love, and didn’t mind staying at home without a nanny.

My husband was a successful businessman, and our finances were secure. Despite that, I found it hard to no longer have my own stream of income.

A woman on a beach wearing sunglasses.
Gyselinck lives near the beach on the Athens Riviera.

The years went by, and I hit 62. Things had been building up for a while. I had a heavy feeling in my chest because I wasn’t where I wanted to be. I had material things like a big car, but I was convinced I could be happier with a lot less.

I thought about staying for a few more years, until my youngest was in her mid-20s, but by then I’d be 67 or 68. Almost on the spur of the moment, I opted for a fresh start in Athens.

I walked 6 miles a day

I’ve loved Greece ever since I went on a cruise off the coast. The people are very friendly. And it’s an easy flight from Tel Aviv. My kids can visit me within a day of travel.

Still, it took me almost a year to find my feet. The night when I hurt my toe wasn’t the only time I wondered if I’d done the right thing.

One of the issues was not finding an Airbnb that I was comfortable in. I didn’t like living with other people’s furnishings, when I was used to choosing my own.

Rather than stay home, I’d walk for hours, exploring the neighborhoods. I clocked five or six miles a day on my Apple Watch.

A woman in a white shirt holding up a glass of white wine.
Gyselinck enjoys eating out alone.

I deliberately chose a big city because, as a single woman, it seemed it would be easier to make friends. Slowly, but surely, I found people I wanted to hang out with, including a couple I met in a café.

One of the guys lived in the Athens Riviera, about 25 miles south. He knew I wasn’t 100% OK in the city, and suggested I check out some properties near him.

In December, 2024, I rented a 1,300 square foot, three-bedroom apartment, a few minutes’ walk from the shore. It wasn’t furnished, and I transformed it to my taste. I bought a compact Fiat 500.

Food is fresh here

Downsizing did me good, as I’d suspected. I had never been one to chase designer bags or anything like that, but I developed an appreciation of the simpler things.

I swam in the ocean every morning, then sat on my balcony surrounded by lemon trees, drinking an espresso. Those moments were precious to me.

One of my favorite activities is checking out the farmers market around the corner. Food is fresh here and reasonably priced. A little over two pounds of tomatoes costs less than $2.

A woman on a beach at sunset
Kati Gyselinck takes in the sunset views.

I’ve met people through people and joined a few Facebook groups. We’ll get together for drinks or a meal, and once, ravioli-making.

Last month, I hired a tutor to teach me Greek. It’s complicated because there are 10 different words for everything. I told her that I wanted to at least follow the conversation with my Greek friends.

I recently launched my life coaching business for over-55s after writing about my journey on Instagram. Women message me, asking how I did what I did.

Expand your horizons

They include divorcees, widows, or stay-at-home moms who crave some personal space. Many are afraid to travel solo or even to eat dinner alone in a restaurant.

You don’t have to make a big change. I’m not telling my clients or my followers to blow up their marriages, pack their belongings, and move to Greece.

I encourage them to expand their horizons. You might take baby steps with a weekend away on your own. It’s good to experiment. If you don’t like it, you can always come home.

Older women can cultivate and cherish themselves in whatever way they choose.

Read the original article on Business Insider

New York homeowners are suing Mamdani over the city’s pied-a-terre tax letter ‘confusion’

mamdani
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani is implementing a tax on high-end second homes in the city.
  • 3 NYC homeowners are suing Mamdani over the rollout of the pied-á-terre tax.
  • Second homes worth millions of dollars could be subject to the levy.
  • The homeowners allege that their residences were tagged in a property records release.

Three New York City homeowners are suing the Mamdani administration over the rollout of the pied-á-terre tax on multi-million dollar second homes.

Per a Department of Finance requirement, the Mamdani administration sent letters to all addresses that could potentially be a pied-á-terre based on property value and internal records in late July. Residents have until September 18 — an extended deadline — to appeal and prove their residence in the potentially taxed home. The levy would begin showing up on tax bills in 2027.

As part of a standard release of property and tax records, the DOF released a list of properties and their valuations across the city, including those that could be subject to the tax. A spokesperson for the department previously told Business Insider that it is a preliminary estimation, not an exhaustive list.

Plaintiffs Rachel O’Brien and Carmine Morano live in Staten Island, and a third plaintiff, Simon Hedley, lives in Manhattan. All alleged in the 23-page suit that their primary properties were included in the property roll, and are seeking to have the DOF take it offline as part of “emergency relief” for “petitioners and others similarly situated who received these notices.”

The complaint argues that publishing the property roll “caused mass confusion” and “facilitated, invited, and amplified unwanted scrutiny of homeowners’ personal information.”

Randy Mastro, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said in a statement sent to Business Insider that City Hall mailed “notice letters demanding that New Yorkers prove they live in their own homes, and gave them only a few weeks at the height of the summer season to do it. Thousands of people who owe nothing have been confused, exposed, and put to real expense so this administration could make a political point.”

City Hall has hired two dozen additional staffers to handle appeals and resident questions.

When asked about the pied-á-terre tax rollout at a press conference this week, Mamdani said, “the point of this is to make sure that only properties, secondary homes of non-resident New Yorkers that are worth more than $5 million, are the ones that are being subject to this tax.”

Read the original article on Business Insider

The 15 best Mediterranean restaurants in the US, according to Yelp

falafel hummus bowl
Yelp ranked the best Mediterranean restaurants in the country based on customer reviews.
  • Mediterranean restaurants are experiencing strong growth across the US.
  • Yelp identified the best Mediterranean restaurants in the country based on customer reviews.
  • The No. 1 spot in the US is found in Scottsdale, Arizona.

From creamy hummus to inventive shawarma bowls, Mediterranean cuisine continues to grow in popularity across the country.

While other cuisines within the fast-casual sector saw sales slow in 2025, Mediterranean concepts experienced significant growth, Restaurant Business reported, citing Technomic data. Brands including Cava, Nick the Greek, and the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill each saw sales increase by more than 20% in 2025.

The growing interest in Mediterranean food — which comes amid the popularity of the Mediterranean diet, routinely named as one of the healthiest ways of eating — extends beyond nationwide chains.

Yelp analyzed reviews from its elite members, who most consistently share high-quality reviews on the site, to identify the top Mediterranean restaurants across the US, with the No. 1 spot going to a restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona.

All businesses were marked open on Yelp and have a passing health score as of June 23, 2026.

Here are the 15 best Mediterranean restaurants in the US in 2026, according to Yelp.

15. Middle East Cafe in Berkeley, California
Middle East Cafe
Middle East Cafe.

What to order: Lamb shank, Gheymeh

What customers are saying: “If you’re looking for a good falafel, you have to try this place! They make it as a wrap, and it is about a foot long! Huge and simply delicious! There’s parking in the back, a great bar, and a wonderful patio area in the back! There’s a market next door where you can get great sweets and other market products! Definitely an experience, and I must try! We’ll definitely be back,” wrote Yelp user May K.

Learn more about Middle East Cafe here.

14. Barbouzard in Washington, DC
Barbouzard
Barbouzard.

What to order: Hanger steak, grilled octopus

What customers are saying: “From the moment we walked in, the service was warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The food was absolutely exceptional! Every dish was bursting with rich, authentic flavor and made with incredible attention to detail. The presentation was just as impressive as the taste, beautifully plated and thoughtfully crafted, making the entire experience feel elevated and special,” wrote Yelp user Rowan H.

Learn more about Barbouzard here.

13. Paolina in Brooklyn, New York
Paolina
Paolina.

What to order: Falafel pita, fries

What customers are saying: “This is the best falafel I’ve had. The falafel itself comes out warm and fresh, with a very crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, and when paired with all the other toppings, you get a very refreshing bite. I love the hummus, the crunchy vegetables, and the soft pita bread. Together, this creates an amazing bite and a very large sandwich,” wrote Yelp user Mark S.

Learn more about Paolina here.

12. Olive Kabab and Gyro in Fort Worth, Texas
Olive Kabab and Gyro
Olive Kabab and Gyro.

What to order: Beef shawarma plate, gyro sandwich

What customers are saying: “Was in Fort Worth on a Costco run and was craving Mediterranean food and stumbled across this place. Walking in, you could tell this place was going to be good. I ordered the Kafta Kabab plate, and it did not disappoint at all! Very tender, flavorful, big portions! I haven’t had Mediterranean this good in years since I’ve been here in Texas. Will make the drive from Denton to here for this place,” wrote Yelp user Christian N.

Learn more about Olive Kabab and Gyro here.

11. Shawarma Stop in Morrisville, North Carolina
Shawarma Stop
Shawarma Stop.

What to order: Chicken shawarma wrap, spicy muhammara chicken wrap

What customers are saying: “Quick service even though a busy lunch crowd. Plenty of seats and very clean. Most authentic and flavorful chicken shawarma wrap. The pickle added just the right amount of crisp to the wrap. Side of fries and lemonade made it perfect,” wrote Yelp user Shane C.

Learn more about Shawarma Stop here.

10. Stephanos Greek & Mediterranean Grill in Las Vegas
Stephanos Greek & Mediterranean Grill
Stephanos Greek & Mediterranean Grill.

What to order: Chicken kebab plate, chicken souvlaki wrap

What customers are saying: “Stephanos popped up as somewhere locals love. Thought I’d give them a try as they have good reviews. Happy to say this spot did not disappoint. The salmon bowl was absolutely delicious. I think it is the best bowl I have ever tried! That says a lot, as I always have bowls at different spots. They are also generous with the portion. Customer service was excellent. I asked the worker for recommendations, and he recommended the salmon bowl and said it was popular. Inside, they have a lot of tables and have AC blasting to combat the Vegas heat,” wrote Yelp user Bianca G.

Learn more about Stephanos Greek & Mediterranean Grill here.

9. Mama Mezze in New York
Mama Mezze
Mama Mezze.

What to order: Whipped feta, mushroom hummus

What customers are saying: “Mezze is such a gem. The food is incredibly fresh, full of flavor, and beautifully presented[.] Every dish tastes like it was made with real care and authentic Mediterranean touch. The fattoush was super fresh and delicious, and the crispy zucchini had the perfect crunch. The shish taouk was a standout tender, perfectly grilled, and packed with flavor. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, and the staff is genuinely friendly and attentive. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy, satisfying meal. Definitely a place I’ll be coming back to,” wrote Yelp user Karina R.

Learn more about Mama Mezze here.

8. Purslane in Milwaukee
Purslane
Purslane.

What to order: Meze trio, Ali Nazik beef kebab

What customers are saying: “Purslane might be my most favorite restaurant in the city! I’ve been for dinner a few times, and it is such a great place for girls’ dinner, date night, or bringing visitors! We recently went for the Sunday brunch, which is only available on the last Sunday of the month. You definitely don’t want to miss the breakfast sandwich. The people working there recognize me, if that tells you anything about how much I love Purslane,” wrote Yelp user McKenna S.

Learn more about Purslane here.

7. Zoya in San Diego
Zoya
Zoya.

What to order: Muhammara, chicken shawarma bowl

What customers are saying: “Zoya absolutely exceeded my expectations! Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The [mezze] platter had an amazing variety of delicious appetizers, the chicken shawarma plate was juicy, tender, and packed with authentic flavor, and the Too Hot to Handle Pizza was the perfect balance of spicy and cheesy with an incredible crust,” wrote Yelp user Sam.

Learn more about Zoya here.

6. Greens and Grill in Las Vegas
Greens and Grill
Greens and Grill.

What to order: Spicy chicken kabob, gyro plate

What customers are saying: “Always consistent, amazing food. Don’t know what to get? A combination plate never hurts. I usually do takeout, and they never forget anything. Amazing service, always hot and fresh food. Three locations conveniently placed in different parts of Vegas,” wrote Yelp user Slick M.

Learn more about Greens and Grill here.

5. Zait & Zaatar in Aliso Viejo, California
Zait & Zaatar
Zait & Zaatar.

What to order: Kafta, kabob plate

What customers are saying: “Zait & Zaatar is seriously one of my favorite Lebanese spots. The food is always so fresh, but the meat was definitely the standout for me — so juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. I also loved the fattoush salad because it was so crisp and refreshing, especially with all the grilled meat. And I have to mention the tamarind sauce because it was SO good. It had the perfect sweet and tangy flavor, and I ended up putting it on everything,” wrote Yelp user Hira R.

Learn more about Zait & Zaatar here.

4. Pidde G in Walnut Creek, California
Pidde G
Pidde G.

What to order: Turkish Delight, Lahmacun

What customers are saying: “Delightful experience at PiddeG. The meze sampler — featuring falafel and dolma — was fresh and flavorful, and the triangle baklava, with its delicate honey and pistachio layers, provided the perfect sweet finish to the meal. We’re looking forward to returning to try their signature pidde, a traditional Turkish flatbread often compared to pizza — especially the diced beef variation, which is said to be one of their most popular offerings,” wrote Yelp user Ang S.

Learn more about Pidde G here.

3. Ethos Greek Bistro in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Ethos Greek Bistro
Ethos Greek Bistro.

What to order: Greek salad, kefte

What customers are saying: “This was my first time coming to this location. The food is so good! We ordered hummus and pita, filet mignon, orzo paella, and the grilled chicken platter. Everything was delicious! The inside is a little tight at this location, with only a few tables inside. There are tables outside, but you do have to pretend that you’re not sitting in the Dollar Tree parking lot. The staff was very attentive and friendly. I will definitely return to try the lamb chops next time,” wrote Yelp user Jessie M.

Learn more about Ethos Greek Bistro here.

2. Kassi in Venice, California
Kassi
Kassi.

What to order: Whipped avocado, spanakopita quesadilla

What customers are saying: “We came here for a work event, and I was surprisingly impressed with the food here. Usually, for a place with good vibes and good views, you don’t really expect the food to be good either, but it actually was! My favorite bites were the zucchini fries, the flatbread, the chicken skewer, and the taramasalata dip. Service is really great as well; they come and check in on you often,” wrote Yelp user Kathy X.

Learn more about Kassi here.

1. Pinyon in Scottsdale, Arizona
Pinyon
Pinyon.

What to order: Yellowtail crudo, chicken skewers

What customers are saying: “We found Pinyon to be a fresh, new place. The service was exceptional, as was the food. There were four members of our party who were celebrating birthdays. Their staff was pleasant and attentive. They added to our celebration in the sweetest way,” wrote Yelp user Lynda K.

Learn more about Pinyon here.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Ellie Kemper: I’m giving my kids a less scheduled summer. It’s made me a better parent.

Ellie Kemper on Friday, December 2, 2022.
  • Ellie Kemper is mom to two kids, ages 6 and 9.
  • She’s prioritizing unstructured time and imaginative play this summer, she says.
  • Being an actress helps her connect with her kids.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Ellie Kemper, who is in partnership with Pirate’s Booty. It has been edited for length and clarity.

It’s July, but I’m realizing there’s still a lot of summer left. Sometimes I’m like, “How many months until school starts?” There are still a lot of days to fill with my kids, who are 6 and 9. I’m trying very hard to keep them off screens as much as possible this summer, because it’s very easy to slip into that.

Recently, we visited family in St. Louis, where I’m from. My parents and my brother still live there, and my kids had so much fun playing with their cousins. I loved growing up in St. Louis and spent a lot of time swimming, so I did the same with my kids. Wherever there’s a pool, we get in as quickly as possible.

My kids and I both need unstructured time

Having the gift of time is critical for any artist or creative. You need space and time to just think and imagine. That feels harder to come by once you’re a parent, and time is more limited. Still, it’s important to prioritize.

I like giving the kids plenty of unstructured time. Maybe I say that because I haven’t signed them up for too many activities this summer. But I think having unstructured time can be very good for kids.

I partnered with Pirate’s Booty this summer on Captain Bob’s Summer Quest — a collection of imaginative play ideas that are really easy to pull off. Those are the best kind of activities: ones where I can sort of set the kids up, and they can take it from there.

Imagination helps me connect with my kids

Having activities that the kids can do on their own is great, because I don’t want to play all day, every day. But in small doses, I find playing imaginative games really relaxing. It allows you to enter the world of childhood again.

I’m grateful that play is part of my job. I get to dress up and do all these imaginative things in real life. It doesn’t make me a better parent, necessarily, but it allows me to connect more easily with my kids. I’m used to using my imagination, so I can meet them in the worlds they’ve created.

Sometimes, I need to laugh at myself

Before I became a parent, I didn’t have the skill set to pause and calm down before reacting. As a parent, that’s essential. You can’t act on whatever’s happening at the moment, when someone’s having a tantrum, and someone’s whining. First, you have to get calm.

Doing that allows you to react to the ridiculousness of the situation, or even the overreaction of a kid or parent. I think that really helps. My husband is really funny, and we make each other laugh. The ability to laugh at ourselves has come in handy a lot.

For me, success means doing work that is satisfying, having good relationships with friends and family, and feeling a sense of purpose. I talk about those things with my kids — though not in such lofty terms. Instead of praising them for the end result of something they’re doing, I praise the effort and the process — because those create a sense of purpose.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Live Q&A: How a 23-year-old with no experience built a global toy company

Older man surrounded by toy brand logos
Ronnen Harary says your 20s are the best time to start a business.
  • Ronnen Harary cofounded the company that grew into the toy giant Spin Master.
  • Spin Master brands include PAW Patrol, Air Hogs, Bakugan, Etch A Sketch, Melissa & Doug, and more.
  • Tune in to our Live Q&A Monday at 1:30 p.m. ET., and drop your questions in the chat to join the conversation.

The first toy Ronnen Harary sold was a sawdust-filled head, covered with a nylon stocking, and sprinkled with grass seed. When watered, the seed grew to look like hair.

Today, the company he cofounded in 1994 has grown from selling a single product to representing some of the hottest toy brands and generating $2.1B in revenue last year.

How did he do it?

According to Harary in his new book, “No Experience Necessary,” that’s the wrong question to ask.

“If any aspiring entrepreneur out there wants to learn from and emulate my success, the important thing to know is not how I did it. What’s important is when I did it,” he writes.

“If you asked me to build Spin Master again, to do it all over from scratch, I couldn’t. Not in a million years. Even with all the capital and experience I’ve accrued, it wouldn’t be possible, because I no longer have the one thing I had then: my youth.”

Business Insider’s Sarah E. Needleman sits down with Harary on Monday at 1:30 p.m. ET to learn more about how he grew Spin Master and talk about the toy industry.

Tune in live, and drop your own questions in the chat to join the conversation.

Read the original article on Business Insider

The most beautiful college campus in every US state

New Haven, USA - May 4, 2015: Yale University campus on April 4, 2015. It is a private Ivy League research university in New Haven, Connecticut. Founded in 1701
Yale University is largely considered one of the most beautiful college campuses in the US.
  • Universities across the US feature diverse architectural styles, from Gothic to Greek Revival.
  • Some college campuses are inspired by their colleges’ histories, like Flagler College in Florida.
  • Others are designed to highlight lush natural landscapes, like Berry College in Georgia.

Summer is nearing its end, and students across the country are preparing to say goodbye to their summer jobs and pack their bags for college.

For some of America’s most fortunate students, study days will soon be filled with views of botanical gardens and glass-and-marble libraries.

Aside from being breeding grounds for US presidents, founders, and world leaders, many elite universities also boast of some of the most extravagant and breathtaking architecture in the US.

While choosing a school solely based on its looks might not be the best idea, a college campus‘s architecture and amenities can certainly shape its atmosphere and student experience.

Business Insider listed the most beautiful college campuses in each state, based on published rankings and unique architectural and historical features of each institution.

ALABAMA: Spring Hill College in Mobile
St. Joseph's Chapel in Mobile is surrounded by green palm trees.
St. Joseph’s Chapel.

Founded in 1830 by Mobile’s first Catholic bishop, Michael Portier, this Southern institution — named one of the South’s most beautiful campuses by Southern Living — was among the first Catholic colleges established in the Southeast.

Several of its buildings have been recognized and added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The 381-acre liberal arts college, enveloped by pink azaleas, features a Greek Revival home that doubles as the commencement venue; an expansive green field at the steps of the library; and the St. Joseph Chapel, where rock legend Jimmy Buffett married his first wife, Margie Washichek, in 1969, according to the college.

Oh, and did we mention there’s an 18-hole golf course on campus?

ALASKA: University of Alaska Fairbanks in Fairbanks
University of Alaska, the UAF campus in Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

The University of Alaska spans 2,250 acres, has multiple community and rural campuses across the state, and is one of the oldest universities in Alaska.

Its in-house museum, the Museum of the North, was designed by award-winning architect Joan Soranno. It was part of Architectural Digest’s 2018 “most iconic buildings in America” list and has won several national awards since its opening in 2005.

The museum’s design was inspired by Alaska’s natural surroundings and meant to evoke “images of alpine ridges, glaciers, breakup on the Yukon River and the aurora,” according to the University of Alaska.

ARIZONA: University of Arizona in Tucson
Tucson, AZ - March 10, 2026: Academic building on the campus of the University of Arizona
The University of Arizona campus in Tucson is full of desert plants and red-bricked halls.

The University of Arizona campus in Tucson is full of desert plants and red-bricked halls.

Surrounded by the beautiful Santa Catalina Mountains, the roughly 400-acre campus features rows of red-brick halls, towering palm trees lining its walkways, and a nationally recognized public garden home to many desert plants.

ARKANSAS: University of Arkansas in Fayetteville
The Old Main clock tower, the oldest building on the University of Arkansas campus, USA

Set in the Ozark foothills of Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas weaves its history into its campus design, with red-brick halls and tree-shaded walkways that span the 512-acre campus.

The school’s historic core district, which includes 15 buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Old Main building — which is the oldest and most recognizable structure on campus — was added to the register in 1970.

CALIFORNIA: University of California, Berkeley in Berkeley
Berkeley California,USA. July 25 2021: Doe Memorial Library at campus of University of California, Berkeley.
The University of California, Berkeley, is modeled after the Beaux-Arts style.

Once a 2-acre site in Oakland, UC Berkeley‘s grounds have now grown into a sprawling 178-acre campus.

In the 1860s, college administrators worked with Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect of New York City’s Central Park, to design a plan for the new campus. By 1898, as enrollment increased, a competition was held to appoint a new architect, and French architect Emile Bénard won first place.

While Bénard presented his formal Beaux-Arts vision for the new campus, he declined to serve as the supervising architect, and John Galen Howard — who finished fourth — was instead chosen to oversee the project.

COLORADO: University of Colorado Boulder in Boulder
Boulder, Colorado - July 11th, 2019: Beautiful architecture at Engineering Center building on the University of Colorado Boulder campus.

The University of Colorado Boulder‘s campus underwent a transformation between 1918 and 1939, when American architect Charles Klauder — whose other notable works include Cornell University, Penn State University, and Princeton University — was hired to revamp it, Architectural Digest reported.

Klauder added a touch of Tuscan Vernacular Revival style that came to be associated with the college and was also known as the University of Colorado style. The updated campus grounds featured multi-hued sandstone walls and red roofs.

Several other buildings were built in the Collegiate Gothic style, and traces of it can still be seen in older buildings across the campus.

CONNECTICUT: Yale University in New Haven
Yale University campus historic

Elements of traditional Collegiate Gothic and modernist styles co-exist on Yale University’s 261-acre campus. Modern structures, including architect Eero Saarinen’s Ingalls Rink and the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, stand out against the classical buildings.

Founded in 1701, Yale University is the third-oldest college in the country.

DELAWARE: University of Delaware in Newark
DuPont Hall on the campus of the University of Delaware in Newark houses the schools construction and civil engineering department

Lush manicured lawns and a mix of red-brick and Collegiate Gothic-style buildings make up much of the University of Delaware.

Established in 1743, the university is home to 21 NCAA Division I teams and 40 club sports. It also has a four-floor library — the Morris Library — stretching 6 acres and accommodating over 1,700 students.

FLORIDA: Flagler College in St. Augustine
clorida flager college

Flagler College’s 47-acre campus — recognized by Southern Living as one of the most beautiful campuses in the South — operates out of the former Spanish Renaissance-style Ponce de León Hotel.

Not only do students get to call a National Historic Landmark their classroom, but they are also only a few miles from the Atlantic Ocean, nestled in a quaint historic town full of vendors and Spanish-era relics.

GEORGIA: Berry College in Rome
berry college in georgia

With its Gothic-style buildings across a 27,000-acre campus nestled within forests and fields and surrounded by mountains, it’s easy to confuse Berry College for an English manor in Downton Abbey.

Berry College has doubled as a filming site for movies such as “Remember the Titans” and “Sweet Home Alabama.”

HAWAII: University of Hawaii at Mānoa
university of hawaii

Located in the picturesque Mānoa Valley, the 320-acre campus of the University of Hawaii at Mānoa offers sweeping views of the volcanic rock and easy access to Waikiki Beach.

IDAHO: University of Idaho in Moscow
university of idaho

Many architectural styles are on display across the University of Idaho’s vast campus, including the Collegiate Gothic style at the administration building, designed by architect John E. Tourtellotte, who also worked on the Idaho State Capitol.

In its north wing, the building has a U-shaped, three-story, Gothic structure, at the entrance of which President Teddy Roosevelt famously gave a speech after leaving the presidency.

Other notable spaces include a 63-acre arboretum, which is home to over 2,500 different plant varieties from around the world.

ILLINOIS: Northwestern University in Evanston
northwestern university

Located near Lake Michigan in Evanston — only a short drive from Chicago — Northwestern University’s 240-acre campus features Victorian-style halls and a Neo-Gothic chapel.

INDIANA: University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame
The main building at the University of Notre Dame.
The main building with the golden dome atop at the University of Notre Dame.

The University of Notre Dame is famous for its football team and theology program, per Condé Nast Traveler, which named it one of the prettiest colleges in the US.

However, it’s also well-known for its gorgeous architecture and lush quads. Its glittering golden dome, covered in gold leaf, stands tall amid other buildings, and the Neo-Gothic Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a visual delight for visitors and students alike.

IOWA: Iowa State University in Ames
iowa state university

A campus lake, a central lawn, and a 110-foot-tall Campanile bell tower are just some of the beautiful design elements at Iowa State University’s 2,000-acre campus.

The campus is also home to one of the most Instagrammable public gardens, which, at 17 acres, includes a conservatory, a butterfly wing, and Elwood, the world’s largest concrete gnome, per the university, which stands 15 feet tall.

KANSAS: Kansas State University in Manhattan
Anderson Hall and Administration on the campus of Kansas State University.

A defining feature of K-State’s campus architecture is its extensive use of Cottonwood Limestone in several buildings, including Anderson Hall — which is also on the National Register of Historic Places — and Dickens Hall.

KENTUCKY: University of Louisville in Louisville
university of louisville

Established in 1798, the University of Louisville has three campuses: the Belknap Campus, which covers 274 acres and is the main campus; the Health Science Center; and the Shelby Campus.

Belknap Campus, based near Old Louisville, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The main campus is known for its red-bricked buildings and a bronze cast of Auguste Rodin’s famous statue, “The Thinker.”

LOUISIANA: Tulane University in New Orleans
The Tilton Memorial Hall at Tulane University was built in a neo-Romanesque architectural style.
The Tilton Memorial Hall at Tulane University was built in a neo-Romanesque architectural style.

Tulane University‘s 110-acre uptown campus, located along St. Charles Avenue, has over 80 buildings, each with distinct architectural styles.

Gibson Hall, built in the Romanesque Revival style and finished in limestone, overlooks the stunning 340-acre Audubon Park.

MAINE: Bowdoin College in Brunswick
Hubbard Hall building on Bowdoin College campus.

Founded in 1794, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, sits about 30 minutes from the Atlantic coast.

The liberal arts college’s 207-acre campus reflects classic New England architecture, with historic brick buildings, tree-lined paths, and a central quad that changes its colors with the seasons.

MARYLAND: United States Naval Academy in Annapolis
Incoming first-year students march into Bancroft Hall on June 29, 2023, after participating in their oath of office ceremony during the US Naval Academy induction day.
Incoming first-year students march into Bancroft Hall on June 29, 2023, after participating in their oath of office ceremony during the US Naval Academy induction day.

Situated between the Severn River and downtown Annapolis, this military school has a scenic waterside setting and a variety of Beaux Arts-style buildings spread across its campus.

According to Architectural Digest, the US Naval Academy is also home to what is considered the world’s largest single dormitory, Bancroft Hall, which resembles the Palace of Versailles.

MASSACHUSETTS: Harvard University in Cambridge
Harvard University Historic Building in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Harvard University is one of the oldest colleges in the US

As one of the oldest colleges in the US — founded in 1636 — Harvard University has undergone several design transformations over the years. It is also home to some historic buildings, such as Massachusetts Hall, which, according to the National Park Service, is one of the oldest surviving Harvard buildings.

Beyond the academics, one of the perks of going to school here is that you get to dine in Annenberg Hall, which looks like Hogwarts’ Great Hall, and call several Georgian red-brick buildings your classroom.

MICHIGAN: University of Michigan in Ann Arbor
Gothic Architecture at University of Michigan with American Flag

The University of Michigan has many beautiful buildings across its 3,070-acre campus.

One that stands out is the law school library, which features an arched doorway and follows a similar aesthetic to Mason Hall.

MINNESOTA: St. Olaf College in Northfield
The Old Main building.
The Old Main building.

Locally known as “The Hill,” this 300-acre campus is surrounded by woodlands and prairies.

Twenty of its buildings were designed by Edward Sövik, a well-known American architect, author, and professor on campus. Two St. Olaf College buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

MISSISSIPPI: University of Mississippi in Oxford
The Lyceum building.
The Lyceum building.

Situated in the picturesque college town of Oxford, the University of Mississippi is surrounded by towering oak trees, magnolias, and several storied buildings.

The most famous — and also the first academic building on campus — the Lyceum, was built in 1848 by architect William Nichols.

MISSOURI: Washington University in St. Louis
Brookings Hall on the Danforth Campus of Washington University.
Brookings Hall on the Danforth Campus of Washington University.

Washington University held a competition to select a firm to design its new campus when it moved to larger grounds in St. Louis in 1900, as construction on its hilltop site first began.

A design project inspired by British universities Oxford and Cambridge bagged the first prize, and the firm behind it, Cope & Stewardson, went on to turn their vision into reality — think soaring towers with classical Gothic arches and lush quads.

MONTANA: University of Montana in Missoula
The red brick Campanella building in winter.
The red brick Campanella building in winter.

The campus’s red-brick clock tower stands tall against the backdrop of Mount Sentinel, which displays a giant letter “M,” like the state’s version of the Hollywood sign. The building offers just one of the many architectural styles seen across the college campus.

NEBRASKA: Creighton University in Omaha
St. John's church at Creighton University.
St. John’s church at Creighton University.

As reported by Travel & Leisure, which named Creighton University the most beautiful college in Nebraska, elements of old and new design blend harmoniously on this campus, giving the university a distinct character.

NEVADA: University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe
The Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences.
The Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences.

You wouldn’t be the first to confuse pictures of wooden cabins on the university’s website with those of a luxury hotel chain or a serene forest home.

The university’s Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences — the said wood cabin — fits in with its natural surroundings while still standing out thanks to its intricate woodwork and masonry.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Dartmouth College in Hanover
Iconic photo of Baker-Berry Library, Dartmouth College located in Hanover, New Hampshire, USA on a mostly cloudy spring day.

Dartmouth is another college where old and new coexist. Within a 5-acre space are two of the college’s oldest buildings, Wentworth and Thornton Halls, built in the early 1800s.

On the modern front is the Hopkins Center, built in 1962 and designed by Wallace Harrison, the same architect who designed New York’s Lincoln Center and the United Nations building.

NEW JERSEY: Princeton University in Princeton
Blair Hall at Princeton University in springtime.
Blair Hall at Princeton University in springtime.

Princeton is another Ivy League university that provides academic excellence alongside stunning architecture.

The classic Collegiate Gothic style is on display in buildings across the campus, with a few modern exceptions such as Spelman Hall by I.M. Pei, Lewis Library by Frank Gehry, and the Carl Icahn Laboratory by Rafael Viñoly, Architectural Digest reported in its list of the most beautiful colleges in the US.

NEW MEXICO: St. John’s College Santa Fe in Santa Fe
santa fe new mexico college

St. John’s College is a dream destination for anyone who loves the mountains. Given its proximity to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the campus has access to several hiking trails, and nature is always at your doorstep.

NEW YORK: Colgate University in Hamilton
Colgate University Campus
Colgate University is located in Upstate New York.

Nestled in a part of nature that feels untouched, with sprawling hills, a whole forest, and a lake on campus, this upstate New York institution is one of the prettiest places in the state.

Its 575-acre campus has over 2,300 trees and 10-mile walkways that are perfect for unwinding after a long day of studying.

NORTH CAROLINA: Duke University in Durham
The Duke Chapel.
The Duke Chapel.

Duke University’s architecture holds traces of both Gothic stonework and Georgian styles within its West and East campuses. Its 210-foot-tall Duke Chapel — which is frequently booked for weddings — exudes peak Collegiate Gothic style, standing out among the 254 buildings on campus.

Other highlights on campus include the Duke Forest and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

NORTH DAKOTA: University of North Dakota in Grand Forks
The Merrifield Hall is a classic example of the collegiate Gothic style.
The Merrifield Hall is a classic example of the collegiate Gothic style.

One of the largest and oldest universities in the state, the University of North Dakota spans 521 acres. Several buildings on campus feature the Collegiate Gothic style, which features brick exteriors, stonework, and arched entrances.

The iconic Merrifield Hall reopened in 2025 after a two-year renovation.

OHIO: Kenyon College in Gambier
Old Kenyon residence hall.
Old Kenyon residence hall.

This liberal arts institution features historic buildings, stone structures, outdoor art installations, and wooden beams — all surrounded by natural forests and lush green walkways.

OKLAHOMA: Oklahoma State University in Stillwater
The Edmon Low Library Oklahoma State University.
The Edmon Low Library Oklahoma State University.

From a pond and open courtyards to brick-lined walkways, Oklahoma State University’s 1,489-acre campus has it all.

The architectural details are largely of the Neo-Georgian style, and highlights to visit across campus include the Formal Gardens, the grand staircases, and the Theta Pond.

OREGON: Lewis & Clark College in Portland
Lewis and Clark College campus

Originally known as the Albany Collegiate Institute, this private liberal arts institution relocated from Albany to Portland in 1934 and, almost a decade later, was renamed Lewis & Clark College after its namesake explorers.

The campus, set amid Douglas firs and rolling hills, exudes an old-school rustic charm. Notable historic buildings include the Frank Manor House, now the office of undergraduate admissions, and the Corbett House, designed by Italian-American architect Pietro Belluschi in 1929.

PENNSYLVANIA: University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia
university of pennsylvania

UPenn incorporates a variety of architectural styles, from Collegiate Gothic to more modernist projects. Several buildings on the 299-acre campus were designed by Cope and Stewardson, a firm famous for its university projects, including Princeton and Washington University in St. Louis.

Here, you’re also embedded in nature with plenty of trees peppered across the campus while still having access to the Philly skyline from Penn Park.

RHODE ISLAND: Salve Regina University in Newport
The Ochre Court, a Gilded Age mansion built for Ogden Goelet.
The Ochre Court, a Gilded Age mansion built for Ogden Goelet.

Built out of the consolidation of seven glorious Gilded Age estates, Salve Regina University’s 80-acre campus has many Instagram-worthy sights.

The most noteworthy of these is the Ochre Court, the second-largest estate in Newport after the Breakers, and it serves as the university’s administrative building.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Furman University in Greenville
The Florentine Bell Tower at Furman University.
The Florentine Bell Tower at Furman University.

The six-story Florentine Bell Tower, Asia Gardens, and numerous fountains throughout campus are just some of Furman University’s highlights.

It also hosts many hiking trails, residences overlooking the lake, and Georgian-style buildings.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Augustana University in Sioux Falls
Augustana University's main entrance.
Augustana University’s main entrance.

Tucked away in the scenic city of Sioux Falls, and previously named by Travel & Leisure as the most beautiful college in South Dakota, Augustana impresses with its administration building, manicured quads, and towering trees.

TENNESSEE: Vanderbilt University in Nashville
Kirkland Hall.
Kirkland Hall.

At Vanderbilt, you’re enveloped in nature’s arms. The college’s campus is nationally designated a Level-II accredited arboretum, home to over 200 species of trees and shrubs.

The campus also features many art sculptures and grand red-bricked facades.

But the most iconic building on campus is Kirkland Hall, a 19th-century structure that originally held all the classrooms, a chapel, and a library. It was rebuilt in 1906 after a fire and recently underwent renovations that modernized its features.

TEXAS: Southern Methodist University in Dallas
Dallas Hall at the Southern Methodist University.
Dallas Hall at the Southern Methodist University.

Founded in 1911, Southern Methodist University is five miles north of downtown Dallas and features grand buildings, manicured lawns, and the Meadows Museum, which, according to Southern Living, houses one of the “largest and most comprehensive” collections of Spanish art outside Spain.

There’s also Dallas Hall, the university’s first building, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

UTAH: University of Utah in Salt Lake City
Kingsbury Hall at University of Utah Presidents Circle at main campus in Salt Lake City, Utah UT, USA.
The University of Utah’s main campus is in Salt Lake City.

The University of Utah’s campus is so huge, spread across 1,535 acres and surrounded by the Wasatch Mountain Range, that students use shuttles to get to and from some parts.

The views change with the season, with lush green spaces in spring and summer and snow-capped mountains in winter.

VERMONT: Middlebury College in Middlebury
Le Chateau, built in 1925, now houses the Grand Salon, classrooms, French Department offices, and residential rooms for about 50 students.
Le Chateau, built in 1925, now houses the Grand Salon, classrooms, French Department offices, and residential rooms for about 50 students.

Picture cozy cottages and manors nestled between the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks — these are the scenes at Middlebury College year-round.

On the architectural front, Battell Hall and the much-older but perfectly symmetrical Painter Hall add further charm to this campus.

VIRGINIA: University of Virginia in Charlottesville
Cocke Hall at the University of Virginia.
Cocke Hall at the University of Virginia.

Designed by founding father Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia largely features buildings in the Neoclassical style.

Jefferson’s home, Monticello, is also part of the campus’s greater landscape, as is the Academical Village he designed. Monticello and the Academical Village are jointly designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

WASHINGTON: University of Washington in Seattle
The University of Washington Quad during cherry blossom season.
The University of Washington Quad during cherry blossom season.

A series of stunning Collegiate Gothic buildings line the University of Washington’s Liberal Arts Quadrangle, with cherry blossoms in the spring and snow-capped mountains in winter — it’s no wonder this campus is consistently named among the most beautiful in the country.

WEST VIRGINIA: West Virginia University in Morgantown
The old Woodburn Hall at West Virginia University in Morgantown.
The old Woodburn Hall at West Virginia University in Morgantown.

West Virginia University’s 1,892-acre Morgantown campus is home to 11 buildings that are on the National Register of Historic Places.

To get a perfect view of three of the most notable historic buildings, visitors can walk by Woodburn Circle on campus.

WISCONSIN: University of Wisconsin–Madison in Madison
Science Hall at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
Science Hall at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison‘s campus is nestled between two lakes and has an incredibly picturesque setting.

On the architectural front, some highlights include Bascom Hall, Music Hall, and Memorial Union.

WYOMING: University of Wyoming in Laramie
The University Family Sculpture and Prexy's Pasture.
The University Family Sculpture and Prexy’s Pasture.

Borrowing from the state’s rustic aesthetic, the University of Wyoming exudes an equally tasteful old-school charm.

Highlights include the sandstone Old Main building, one of the first buildings built on this residential campus, and rows of green trees surrounding it.

Editor’s note: This story was first published in May 2026 and was most recently updated in August 2026.

Read the original article on Business Insider