Students are integral to their communities. They bring fresh ideas, drive cultural movements, and push boundaries in ways that shape society. But their surroundings, where they choose to study, play a big role in molding their experiences. America, known for its famous educational institutions, is home to thousands of historic campuses, each with its unique academic prestige and community charm. Some of these places are more than just about the campuses. They are deeply rooted in history, providing students with an environment where the past meets the future. It’s not just about student life, though. The ten historic college towns in America we’re featuring here make for great destinations for travelers and history buffs alike.
1. Cambridge, Massachusetts
Cambridge is home to both the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as well as Harvard University. Founded in 1630 by Puritan settlers, it has long been a historic and intellectual center.
Harvard University was established in 1636, and since then, it has become the oldest institution of higher learning in the US. You can see plenty of architectural landmarks on campus, such as the Memorial Hall, Widener Library, and the iconic John Harvard statue.
Cambridge is also known for its Revolutionary War sites, such as Cambridge Common. This is where General George Washington took command of the Continental Army in 1775, setting up his headquarters at what is now the Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters. The historic home also became poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s residence. It remains a key landmark today.
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Mount Auburn Cemetery, which was founded in 1831, is located near Cambridge. This is America’s first garden cemetery and a peaceful place where historical figures like writer Margaret Fuller rest.
2. Charlottesville, Virginia
The heart of Charlottesville’s identity is formed by the University of Virginia, which was established in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson. An innovative “academical concept” is what Jefferson adopted to design the university’s campus. This concept was centered around the iconic Rotunda, modeled after the Roman Pantheon. Today, the Rotunda and surrounding Lawn remain architectural highlights and are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site along with Monticello, Jefferson’s nearby estate. When you’re here, make sure to marvel at the beautiful gardens and explore the historical exhibits.
If you’re interested in visiting historical sites around Charlottesville, then the Downtown Mall should be at the top of your list. This is a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, historic architecture, and restaurants. Monticello and nearby presidential homes like James Monroe’s Highland also make for a good visit if you want to learn more about early American history.
3. Princeton, New Jersey
This charming college town is primarily known for Princeton University. The latter was founded as the College of New Jersey in 1746. Located in the heart of town, it’s surrounded by significant historical sites and lush, carefully landscaped grounds that reflect centuries-old architectural styles, from Georgian to Collegiate Gothic.
Nassau Hall is one of the most notable landmarks as it’s the oldest building on Princeton University’s campus. This hall served as a meeting place for the Continental Congress in 1783. This allowed Princeton to become the nation’s capital for a brief period. Nearby, you can find the Morven Museum & Garden. This one was once the home of Declaration signer Richard Stockton. If you want to know more about colonial life and New Jersey’s historical heritage, then it’s a must to visit this museum.
Another popular spot is Palmer Square, which features a mix of eateries, shops, and historical architecture. History and architecture enthusiasts enjoy taking guided walking tours in Princeton. These are offered by the Historical Society of Princeton, and they take you to places such as Bainbridge House and the University Chapel, where you can learn about the area’s Revolutionary War history.
4. New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven makes it to the list of the top college towns in America thanks to Yale University and Southern Connecticut State University. These two respected institutions bring academic prestige and significantly contribute to the rich cultural scene in New Haven.
Yale, the Ivy League university, was founded in 1701 and deeply influenced the character of the town with its Collegiate Gothic and Georgian architecture. The university’s cultural offerings are diverse, from Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, which houses literary treasures, to the Yale University Art Gallery, famous for its impressive art collections.
The layout of New Haven, including the historic New Haven Green, dates back to 1638. This makes it one of America’s earliest planned cities. The Green is surrounded by historic sites and regularly hosts cultural events. Apart from the campus, you can also explore East Rock Park for panoramic views. Another thing to do is visit the Grove Street Cemetery, America’s first chartered burial ground.
5. Williamsburg, Virginia
This quintessential college town was founded in 1699 as the capital of Virginia. It’s known for its orderly streets and prominent public buildings, including the Capitol and Governor’s Palace. Governor Francis Nicholson intended Williamsburg to be a center for governance, education, and culture. The city remained Old Dominion’s political hub until the capital moved to Richmond in 1780.
Today, Williamsburg is home to the College of William & Mary. This is the second-oldest college in the US. It’s also where notable figures like Thomas Jefferson studied. The Colonial Williamsburg area in the city allows you to witness preserved and reconstructed 18th-century buildings. Some of these include Bruton Parish Church and the Raleigh Tavern, a significant meeting spot during revolutionary debates.
If you love the outdoors, the Colonial Parkway provides you with scenic routes to nearby Jamestown and Yorktown. What better could you wish for than connecting with even more historic sites after exploring Williamsburg?
6. Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis has deep connections to both American history and naval tradition. It is known for the United States Naval Academy, which was founded in 1845, as well as St. John’s College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the US (founded in 1696). These institutions hold events that contribute to Annapolis’ student life and culture. These include the annual croquet match between the Naval Academy and St. John’s, bringing students and locals together.
Annapolis is obviously rich with many historic sites, such as the Maryland State House, the oldest US capitol still in legislative use. This site is famous for its role in George Washington’s resignation as Commander-in-Chief and the signing of the Treaty of Paris. The William Paca House and Garden is located nearby. This is an 18th-century mansion that offers a glimpse into colonial life with its charming architecture and gardens.
7. Berkeley, California
Known for the 1868-established University of California, Berkeley is really a vibrant college town in America that you should visit sometime. As the flagship campus of the UC system, the university has become a hub for academic excellence. It also turned into a center of progressive movements, especially during the Free Speech Movement of the 1960s.
The UC Berkeley campus in itself is worth exploring only for its iconic spots, such as the Sather Tower, known as the Campanile. You won’t be able to resist the sweeping views of the Bay Area that this spot offers. Also, another important landmark on campus is the Sproul Plaza where many historic demonstrations took place.
You’ll also enjoy exploring Berkeley’s Telegraph Avenue, which is a lively street lined with unique shops, cafes, and historic sites that capture the college town’s eclectic, activist spirit.
Visit the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA), where you can see an extensive art collection and film screenings.
8. Athens, Georgia
Founded in 1785, the University of Georgia (UGA) has largely shaped the rich history and culture of the classic college town that is Athens. UGA’s historic North Campus is known as the birthplace of public higher education in the US, and without the slightest doubt, it’s a must to explore this spot, with its grand archway, historic buildings, and picturesque green spaces.
Athens itself was named after the Greek capital in tribute to its scholarly ambitions. Over the years, the town has grown into a lively cultural hub.
Aside from its college history, Athens is also famous for its music scene, which birthed bands like R.E.M. and the B-52s. You can explore this legacy on the Athens Music History Walking Tour or by visiting the iconic Georgia Theatre and 40 Watt Club for live performances.
If art is your thing, head to the Georgia Museum of Art and Lyndon House Arts Center. You can also stroll down historic streets in Athens and see the charming shops, Southern-style eateries, and local landmarks.
9. Oxford, Mississippi
This is not only a college town, but it also deserves the title of a literary haven. Established in 1837, Oxford was named after its British counterpart in hopes of becoming a center for higher education. Needless to say, this vision came true as soon as 1848 when the University of Mississippi, “Ole Miss,” was founded. The university remains a central part of the identity of Oxford today. The campus is historic in itself, as it houses landmarks like the Lyceum and areas that are significant to the Civil Rights Movement.
The historic town square is the heart of Oxford. It features the Lafayette County Courthouse, which dates back to 1873, surrounded by local shops, cafes, and the renowned Square Books bookstore.
One place to explore is Rowan Oak. This is the home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. It now serves as a museum where you can learn about his life and work.
10. Ithaca, New York
Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is home to Cornell University as well as Ithaca College. The town boasts a mix of historic sites, academic life, and scenic attractions. It was founded in the early 1800s and quickly became a bustling center rich with landmarks such as DeWitt Park, an area that dates back to the founding of the town. Another landmark that the New York college town is famous for is the Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian zone filled with historic buildings, restaurants, and shops.
Ithaca also has plenty of natural sites that it’s famous for, such as Taughannock Falls State Park. Here, you can view one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies. Stewart Park, at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, has historic ties to the silent film industry and offers walking trails and a restored carousel. As a history lover, you can also visit the History Center in Tompkins County, which preserves local artifacts and offers self-guided tours of Ithaca’s historic districts.
