Boston is a picturesque college town especially on the Charles River at Harvard University.
Yesterday I shared my favorite college towns part 1 with you. Read on for more of my favorite college towns across the US!
Berkeley, CA – Free speech, flower power and tie–die may forever be a part of Berkeley’s genetic makeup with remnants of the old hippie spirit on famous Telegraph Avenue, which is lined with indie bookstores and music shops, ethnic eateries, and street vendors. Once you’ve soaked up some 1960′s spirit, check out the University of California campus (which includes a botanical garden), break out your credit card at the upscale boutiques on Fourth Street or enjoy a local organic meal at one of the city’s many restaurants.
- Sure Beats the Dorm: The Claremont Club Hotel & Spa is close to the Gourmet Ghetto district with all the yummy restaurants. But what you’ll remember it for is its amazing fitness facility!
Boston, MA – There are some 80 colleges and universities within the Boston metro area, including Harvard, MIT, and Boston University. Visiting Boston is fun for all ages. The city is well known for its historic attractions along the Freedom Trail, but visitors should also make sure to check out the city’s more contemporary neighborhoods — like the South End, known for artists’ lofts and interesting boutiques, and Cambridge (actually a separate city just across the Charles River) with its indie bookstores, cafes and music clubs. If the weather’s fine, don’t miss a stroll through the Boston Public Garden or along the Charles River Esplanade.
- Sure Beats the Dorm: Need to say that you’ve slept on the grounds of Harvard (at least for a night)? Then stay at The Inn at Harvard. You may wake up smarter!
Boulder, CO - Boulder was recently rated the #1 Sports Town in America by Outside magazine, but hikers, cyclists and mountain bikers, skiers and rock climbers aren’t the only people who flock to the city. You can begin your explorations with a wander downtown on Pearl Street, a pedestrian mall. Here you’ll find yourself shoulder to shoulder with the whole range of Boulder’s population, from families and college kids to street performers. Don’t miss a stop at Boulder Book Store, a local institution. Take a break from your shopping at one of many sidewalk cafes lining the street. If you’re visiting in the summer, catch an evening concert at Chautauqua Park — which is also a great place to hike.
- Extra Credit: The Boulder Boulder is a zany Memorial Day 10K run that is so much more than a foot race.
- Sure Beats the Dorm: Stay at the historic Hotel Boulderado just one block from Pearl Street and some of Colorado’s best dining.
Have a favorite college town? Tell me about it here on the Travel Smart Blog!
If you have questions or comments for the author of the Travel Smart Blog, Nicole Hockin, please email: 
