Best College Towns in America

Picturesque architecture, a rich cultural life and a good value for your money also factor into the college town equation. Whether you’re planning a campus tour or you just want to get a taste of the college life, check out our list of some of the best college towns in America.

1. Old World Charm: Oxford, Ohio

Since the town of Oxford grew up around Ohio’s Miami University, it’s naturally considered one of the best college towns. Its original boundaries—known as Mile Square—house classic brick buildings now filled with boutiques, resale shops and eateries. Tree-lined residential streets shelter expansive multi-level houses, some of which serve as housing for college students. Head to the city in early May when the Red Bricks and Roses Festival celebrates the opening of the Farmer’s Market. A parade of restored horse-drawn carriages winds through the town and the Miami campus.

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2. Heart Healthy: Corvallis, Oregon

Tucked along the banks of the Willamette River in Oregon, Corvallis ranks as one of the top college towns in America for fitness. With more than two dozen parks accessing natural areas where you can hike, bike, paddle or play, you’re never far from outdoor fun. The Willamette River Valley’s mild climate lends itself to a long growing season, something you can take advantage of at the Corvallis Farmer’s Market from January through November. Also be sure to taste the region’s world-renowned pinot noir wine. Head to the picturesque downtown riverfront to enjoy events like the Rhapsody in the Vineyard Wine Walk or the Red, White, and Blue Riverfront Festival. The area is also a hotbed for restaurants that feature farm-to-table dining, with foods originating in the six surrounding counties and the Oregon Coast.

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3. The Old West Meets the New Age: Laramie, Wyoming

Cowboy up and head to Laramie, home to the University of Wyoming. The town’s Old West flair reaches into the city’s modern age with a backdrop of rodeo, railroad and 19th century architecture. Visit downtown’s historic district where the Transcontinental Railroad first rolled into town, or catch the mid-summer rodeo at Laramie Jubilee Days. Laramie’s also known as one of the state’s hipster-friendly towns, with handcrafted beer and vegetarian fare. Best hipster hangout? Crowbar and Grill where you can get a Kingbird burger with peanut butter, banana, cheddar cheese and bacon. You can wash it down with beer priced for a college student’s budget.

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4. Life in the SLO Lane: San Luis Obispo, California

Just because San Luis Obispo—known locally as SLO—is one of California’s oldest cities doesn’t mean it’s not hip. Sure, you’ll find romantic Spanish architecture with graceful arches and thick adobe walls because the city grew up around the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in the 1700s, and there you’ll still find the town’s rich social life centering around festivals, concerts and movies. Public sculptures, mosaics and other art dot the town’s tree-lined sidewalks. The weirdest art display? Bubblegum Alley, where college students and other passers-by have deposited gum on the 15-foot walls since the 1960s. Follow hiking trails that leave right from the campus of California Polytechnic State University, or surf the waves at nearby Avila Beach.

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5. Get Your Kicks: Flagstaff, Arizona

Tucked at the base of Arizona’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak, Flagstaff’s brick historic district flanks the classic campus of Northern Arizona University. The town has always been a central hub of the region from the time the first settlers stopped along the wagon road to California to cut timber and raise cattle. You can still catch a glimpse of the city’s frontier roots in buildings such as the Museum Club, where you can partake in dime beer nights. On the modern side, Gore-Tex, Discovery Channel, United States Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station and Lowell Observatory all provide scientific jobs in the community.

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6. Fun in Mad-Town: Madison, Wisconsin

Don’t let the Wisconsin snow scare you—Madison is a four-season hub of student-friendly activity. The city lies on an isthmus between two lakes, and you’ll find three more within the city limits. Winter is time for sledding, skiing or ice skating in the city parks—Groove and Glide events add in music and a light show! When temps rise, head out on the lakes to kayak or paddleboard. Head downtown for student-friendly fare. Tuesday is free bacon night at Wando’s, and you can get free beer in a souvenir mug at Nitty Gritty’s (223 N. Frances St., Madison) on your birthday. For a morning-after cure, head for Mickies’s Dairy Bar (1511 Monroe St., Madison) and order the Scrambler—cheese and gravy smother an omelet, meat and potatoes.

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