5 American College Towns with the Best Vibes
Live in a College Town That Reflects Your Tastes
Choosing which college to go to is a big decision. While liking your prospective campus and finding a program that’s right for you are important factors, they aren’t everything. A huge part of your college experience will come from the time you spend outside of class. Where will you go to study? How will you unwind? What new activities will you pick up?
This is where your educational trip should include a slight detour because exploring off campus is just as important. College towns often have a lot to offer, and this is your opportunity to live somewhere that will enrich your education and help you grow as a person. Plus, you want it to be fun. Here are five of the best college towns in America.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
As far as small towns go, University of Michigan students can find plenty to occupy themselves on and off campus.
- Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum: Get away from the stress of dorm life by taking your books and snacks to this 300-acre garden. It has free parking and wonderful hiking trails to stay active on.
- Kerrytown: This neighborhood is home to some of the best boutique shops and dining in Ann Arbor, plus has a great weekend farmers’ market for fresh produce.
- The Creature Conservatory: Animals have a way of making us relax. When finals are freaking you out or your little brother is visiting with your parents, the animal ambassadors at the conservatory will definitely cheer everyone up.
Gainesville, Florida
If you’re a lover of animals, Gainesville is really one of the best towns to go off to college to. This medium-sized town is home to many colleges, including Santa Fe College, the University of Florida and Warrington College of Business.
- Florida Museum of Natural History: This free museum has something for everyone and, for a few bucks, you can visit the butterfly house, which is sure to ease some tension when all you seem to be doing is study.
- University of Florida Bat House: You don’t even need to leave campus to marvel at some truly amazing animals. Visit quietly at dusk and watch the bats swarm out in search of food.
- Sweetwater Wetlands Park: Get outside and get some exercise while also viewing local wildlife. Visitors often see gators, ducks, herons and storks, and the park is usually fairly quiet.
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Tempe, Arizona
Outdoor enthusiasts can really find their groove in Tempe when attending Arizona State University, especially if they love warm weather.
- Mill Avenue District: Find all the shopping, dining and nightlife you need outside of school here. It’s the perfect place to get away for a little me-time.
- Tempe Beach Park: Pack a picnic, your swimsuit and sunscreen and hike or ride your bike around this lovely park that has a lake with water activities that suit everyone.
- Big Surf Waterpark: Just because you’re in the middle of Arizona doesn’t mean there’s no water. Grab everyone for splashing fun, whether by hanging out in the world’s third-largest wave pool, learning to surf or enjoying 3,000 feet of water slides.
Atlanta, Georgia
This big city that plays home to Georgia State University, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology (among others) has no shortage of things to amuse you while off campus, and is full of amazing food and history, too. Besides a thriving nightlife and plenty of boutique and big box stores, check out these attractions:
- Georgia Aquarium: Near Centennial Olympic Park in downtown, it’s the largest aquarium in the western hemisphere with six different galleries as well as over 70 habitats housing thousands of marine species.
- Atlanta Botanical Garden: Aside from blooming flowers, the garden features outdoor sculptures, fountains, pools, a fantastic cafe, a gift shop and the opportunity to take gardening classes.
- World of Coca Cola: If you’re a fan of Coke, then head over to get an immersive education in this popular beverage, explore world-class artwork, meet the Coca Cola bear and even try flavors from around the world.
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Madison, Wisconsin
Containing the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Edgewood College and Madison Area Technical College, Madison has all the appeal of a large city with a small city feel. With outdoor activities, popular landmarks and even wonderful cultural buildings, spending the day away from school can be really rewarding.
- Wisconsin State Capitol: Architectural nuts will love this building with its marble floors, handmade furniture and large murals. The observation deck gives visitors sweeping views of the city and lakes surrounding it.
- Madison Farmers’ Market: This is the largest produce-only farmers’ market in the United States. It runs every Saturday from mid-April to early November and is a great opportunity to get out of your dorm for fresh air and fresh food.
- Chazen Museum of Art: Many different mediums are on display at this museum which has a huge permanent collection of artwork, as well as rotating special exhibits. It also has totally free admission to the main museum.
If you’re spending most of your time in your dorm, at school events and eating at on-campus establishments, you’re missing out. Settling into your new home means more than just getting to know your college campus.
The new town you’re in is your home now, too. Make sure to find all the hidden gems in the city where you can spend some time alone, with friends or with family when they visit.
Holing up in your room and staying on campus 24/7 is like never using your vacation days to get out of town.
