Visiting college campuses may seem like an odd travel destination, but we found them to be great, yet simple destinations. Obviously, your experience will depend on which campus you visit, but generally speaking, we have found that trips to college towns have some commonality that we enjoy.
First, most college towns tend to have a mix of old buildings and new facilities. A good campus can maintain its essential character while keeping things updated and clean. So, you get a blend of historic buildings, new designs, and, usually, a park-like setting.
Visit any quad in spring or fall, and you are sure to see a range of activities from students studying, to pick-up games of frisbee, catch, or something like that, and music. Surrounded by buildings from over 100 years ago, trees of equal or greater age, and the youthful energy inherent in a college campus, and you can’t help but feel uplifted.
Over the years, we’ve traveled to campuses like Michigan State, University of Iowa, University of Illinois, Colorado Mesa, Duke, Dartmouth and a few others. Step off-campus and you are in old towns that have character and history. From historic buildings, Inns, restaurants to shops, it is a great way to spend a leisurely weekend. In some cases, the schools are right in the heart of the town, in others, you walk a bit, but you’re never far.
So, next time you are looking for a quick weekend trip, and perhaps some youthful energy, consider a college town and campus.