Inspiration

The Best College Towns in the U.S.

You don't need to be a college student to enjoy a good college town. In fact, these towns tend to have a concentration of dining options, museums and theaters, downtown shopping, and drinking scenes that make them perfect alternatives to big cities. (And fans of college sports already know the appeal of game-day excitement and bar specials.) Here, in no particular order, are 15 towns across the country with enough offerings to keep even townies and travelers happy. This gallery was originally published in 2014. It has been updated with new information.