Unique College Experiences Await Travelers in the U.S.
NEW YORK, USA — As fall descends upon the U.S., millions of students return to college campuses, offering travelers unique experiences often overlooked. From energetic tailgate parties to engaging step shows, American universities double as vibrant city-like hubs filled with rich culture.
Many American colleges have built distinct traditions that shape their environments. Unlike universities abroad, these institutions provide numerous public attractions, exciting visitors and locals alike. Take college football, for example. From August to January, stadiums across America buzz with enthusiastic fans cheered on by marching bands and sing-alongs.
Clarence Wardell, an alumnus from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, described the atmosphere at games: “It’s the tradition, the little quirks that each school has that are just such a part of the environment and atmosphere.” The University of Michigan boasts the largest college football stadium in the country, known as “The Big House,” capable of holding 107,000 spectators.
In Pennsylvania, Beaver Stadium hosts the Penn State Nittany Lions, where fans wear white and create a deafening roar that has been known to measure on seismic scales. Over in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Louisiana State University’s tailgating experiences involve lively pre-game cookouts, where fans come together to enjoy traditional bayou delicacies.
Moving beyond athletics, Ivy League universities such as Harvard and Princeton offer historic and cultural touchstones. Harvard, founded in 1636, is home to multiple renowned museums and libraries, while Princeton’s picturesque campus includes beautiful stone buildings and gardens.
HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) like Morehouse College in Atlanta and Tuskegee University in Alabama are crucial in educating Black leaders and fostering community. Morehouse Chapel features a renowned organ, while Tuskegee is known for its museums and historical sites.
For travelers seeking enriching cultural experiences, college campuses throughout the U.S. offer adventures that are distinctly American and provide a glimpse into diverse educational traditions.
