University of Southern California
Kicking off our Garden Grove college tour is the one and only University of Southern California. This prestigious private research university in Los Angeles has earned a reputation as one of the nation’s leading institutions for academics and campus life. While USC’s acceptance rate hovers around a mere 16%, any motivated high schooler would be lucky to call this sunny urban oasis their home for four years. From the acclaimed USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance to the cutting-edge programs at the Viterbi School of Engineering, USC offers endless opportunities across its 19 schools and colleges. The university boasts an energetic community vibe with a club for every interest and a packed calendar of campus traditions like the wild revelry of “Conquest” tailgating before football games. It’s no wonder USC frequently tops rankings for best college life!
Address: 3551 Trousdale Pkwy, Los Angeles, CA 90089
Phone: (213) 740-2311
University of California, Los Angeles
Just 13 miles away from USC’s University Park campus is another West Coast heavyweight – UCLA. This public research university is well known for its prestige in academics and athletics as the flagship campus of the University of California system. Awelch span of highly ranked graduate programs make UCLA an excellent choice for students pursuing advanced degrees in esteemed fields like medicine, engineering, education and law. While UCLA’s academics are undoubtedly impressive, the true college experience here is shaped by the iconic campus lifestyle. Students seeking the quintessential “SoCal vibe” need look no further than UCLA’s stunning Westwood grounds full of lush green spaces, architectural marvels like the famed Janss Steps, and of course a passionate sports culture. Few things epitomize collegiate life better than cheering on the Bruins in the hallowed Rose Bowl.
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90095
Phone: (310) 825-4321
University of California, Irvine
We’re leaving the LA metro for our next college visit in sunny Orange County. The University of California, Irvine takes pride in its status as one of the “Public Ivies” that delivers an elite education with a public school price tag. Spread across a sprawling 1,500 acre suburban campus, UCI offers its 30,000 students the tranquil atmosphere and park-like setting to embrace the full college experience. UC Irvine combines research innovation with a passionate community atmosphere. The campus features lively residential halls, hundreds of clubs and student organizations, and of course the spirited sports fanbase that comes with being an Anteater. When your students need a break from hitting the books, UTC offers recreation like the scenic UCI Arboretum botanical garden and access to some of SoCal’s most famous beaches just a short drive away.
Address: Irvine, CA 92697
Phone: (949) 824-5011
California State University, Long Beach
Here’s a local favorite for Long Beach natives – Cal State Long Beach! As one of the largest universities in the California State system, CSULB delivers an exceptional education through 8 colleges spanning across 109 degree programs. This public university has built a reputation for excellent STEM offerings as well as its decorated athletic teams, the Beach. Step onto CSULB’s beautiful 322-acre park-like campus and you’ll instantly understand the appeal that draws over 37,000 students annually. This tight-knit community offers a classic college feel with modern amenities, like state-of-the-art residence halls, dining options galore, and indoor/outdoor event spaces buzzing with activities. With its close proximity to downtown Long Beach and the Pacific coast, Cal State Long Beach is perfectly situated for those seeking an energetic SoCal lifestyle.
Address: 1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840
Phone: (562) 985-4111
Orange County College
For students interested in a more intimate two-year college experience, look no further than Orange County College in nearby Costa Mesa. OCC combines an affordable education that easily transfers to 4-year universities with an active campus community for local commuters. This highly ranked community college offers robust programs for popular transfer majors and career training in growing industries. Sure, a community college may not boast the shiny amenities of a major university, but that’s no reason to overlook the value and advantages OCC provides. Here students can enjoy small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and personalized learning environments that can give them a major head start towards a bachelor’s degree down the road. From an outstanding honors program to a vibrant student life complete with clubs and athletics, this Costa Mesa gem proves community colleges can be the perfect higher ed fit.
Address: 2701 Fairview Rd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: (714) 432-5072
Chapman University
Your college tour continues in the City of Orange at the one and only Chapman University. This private institution has transformed itself into a rising star for undergraduate education in recent decades. Chapman’s unique blend of liberal arts traditions with modern innovation creates an intellectually engaging atmosphere across its 11 academic colleges and schools. But you don’t need to take our word for it – the proof is in Chapman’s steadily climbing national ranks and 98% alumni satisfaction rate. The residential campus itself channels quintessential California charm from its Spanish Colonial architecture to the sunny courtyards and manicured gardens. Students embrace Chapman’s communal, close-knit culture through over 150 clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, and beloved school traditions like the famous Undie Run. With all the West Coast collegiate allure packaged in one convenient Orange locale, it’s easy to see the appeal that draws so many bright young minds to this thriving university.
Address: 1 University Dr, Orange, CA 92866
Phone: (714) 997-6815
California State University, Fullerton
Let’s take it back to the expansive California State University system with our next campus stop – Cal State Fullerton. As a leading Hispanic-Serving Institution, CSUF takes pride in fostering diversity and an accessible pathway to education. Students here will find the ideal blend of affordability and opportunity through Fullerton’s comprehensive academic offerings and abundant campus resources. Located just 25 miles from downtown LA, Cal State Fullerton embraces a bustling community atmosphere. This vibrant commuter campus houses a plethora of student clubs, cultural organizations, modern facilities, and a pervasive school spirit backing its 13 national championship teams. Hands-on learning also takes a front seat at CSUF through initiatives like one of the nation’s largest paid internship programs helping students gain invaluable real-world experience.
Address: 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92831
Phone: (657) 278-2011
Start Planning Your Campus Tours in Garden Grove!
Now that you have the lay of the land, it’s time to start scheduling your group campus tours around Garden Grove. Whether your pupils are aiming for a big-name program at a prestigious research university or seeking a more affordable community college experience, this area has no shortage of quality higher education options to explore. Remember, the key to a successful college tour is keeping your whole group together through it all. Don’t risk having students get lost or separated by public transit delays. With a private charter bus from Party Bus Garden Grove, you can transport your entire crew directly between each university visit. We’ll provide a spacious motorcoach with all the amenities to keep everyone comfortable, engaged, and stoked for their campus adventure. Reserve your bus today by calling 323-380-3987!