The Ultimate College Town Guide: What to Do in Your School’s City

From game-day hotspots to late-night bites, here’s your go-to list for making the most of your college town, whether you’re a freshman, senior, or just visiting.

 

Tarleton State University 

Stephenville brings small-town charm with a whole lotta purple pride. Whether you’re catching a Texans game at Memorial Stadium or grabbing dinner at the Bosque River Taphouse, this town is where western roots and college spirit collide. Looking for a night out? Twisted J Live is your go-to for music, drinks, and dancing!

 

Sam Houston State University 

Huntsville may be famous for history, but students know it as Bearkat Nation. Load up on southern bites at Farmhouse Café, wander around campus for those dreamy oak-lined walks, and dance the night away at The Jolly Fox. And don’t forget to hit up Kat Klub on campus for bowling, games, or a midweek hang with your crew, it’s a go-to for fun between classes!

 

Texas State University 

Float the San Marcos River, it’s practically a rite of passage for Bobcats. Afterward, hangout at Sewell Park or stroll The Square for boutique shopping and bar hopping. Don’t forget to grab brunch at Blue Dahlia Bistro or drinks at Chimy’s for a true San Mo experience.

 

Baylor University 

Baylor Bears know how to blend tradition with trend. Spend your morning at Magnolia for that classic Waco charm, then your afternoon cheering on the Bears at McLane Stadium and touring the Baylor campus. For eats, hit up Jake’s Texas Tea House or Common Grounds for a live music vibe. Waco’s got just the right mix of charm and college chaos.

 

Iowa State University 

Cyclone pride runs deep in Ames. Campus is gorgeous year-round and Jack Trice Stadium is the place to be on game day. Welch Avenue is your go-to strip for eats, drinks, and people-watching. Swing by Café Diem for coffee and studying, then celebrate a win at Sips with drinks and dancing. 

 

University of South Carolina 

Welcome to the heart of Gamecock Country! From tailgates at Williams-Brice to Saturday strolls at Soda City Market, Columbia knows how to keep it fun. Five Points brings the nightlife, and brunch on Devine Street is a sweet way to recover. 

 

Florida State University 

In Tally Town, it’s always a good time to throw on your garnet and gold. Whether you’re tailgating at Doak Campbell, catching golden hour at Cascades Park, walking through the stunning FSU campus, or hanging at Madison Social, there’s no shortage of ways to live your best college life in Florida’s capital.

 

Montana State University 

Start your day with a hike up the “M” Trail for beautiful scenery and a solid pre-class workout. Don’t forget to catch a game at Bobcat Stadium. After class, students love heading downtown for coffee at Wild Joe’s, browsing local shops, or grabbing dinner at Backcountry Burger Bar. Bozeman keeps things adventurous, laid-back, and full of school spirit.

 

Abilene Christian University 

ACU Wildcats love their hidden gem of a town. Grab iced coffee at Monks, then browse the downtown boutiques and murals for a study break. Looking for weekend plans? Hit up a game at Wildcat Stadium and The Mill is the perfect spot for pizza, wine, and live music under the string lights. 

 

Angelo State University 

Welcome to Ram City, where the sunsets are unreal and the spirit is high. Take a walk on the Concho Riverwalk, grab coffee and take a study break at Cold Smoke, and rally your crew at The Penny Tap House. Angelo State may be tucked away, but the college experience is front and center.

 

Texas Tech University 

The Red Raider spirit in Lubbock runs deep, especially on game days at Jones AT&T Stadium. Stop at Chimy’s for the best queso and catch a sunset over the West Texas plains. Tom’s and Blue Light are the spots to be for night life and live music. One thing’s for sure: this town bleeds scarlet and black.

 

University of Texas

ATX is the ultimate college playground, you’ve got live music, street tacos, and burnt orange everywhere you look. Hit up SoCo for murals and trendy shopping, paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake, then dance the night away on Rainey Street. Late-night tacos from Velvet Taco or a burger from Dirty Martin’s are a must after a UT win!

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