These NC college towns rank among the best in the South. What makes them special?

Simone Jasper
·2 min read

North Carolina is home to three of the best college towns — and boasts some of the South’s most beautiful campuses, new rankings show.

Boone, Davidson and Elon all earned spots on a list of “20 small college towns worth a visit.” The rankings came from Southern Living magazine, which also named these North Carolina schools among the 43 most attractive campuses in the region:

  • Davidson College

  • Duke University in Durham

  • Elon University

  • N.C. A&T State University in Greensboro

  • Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem

Southern Living said the top schools — which weren’t listed in ranking order — were determined after the magazine turned to its editing team. It focused on 17 Southeastern states and Washington, D.C., in its search for standout places that were home to colleges.

Elon, home to Elon University, ranks among the top college towns in the South.
Elon, home to Elon University, ranks among the top college towns in the South.

“Editors prioritized places that have their own unique culture on and off campus, as well as other factors including food, outdoor activities, the spirit of game day, and a sense of community,” a magazine spokesperson told McClatchy News in an Oct. 11 email. “The locations are not only great for college students but also for long weekend destinations, especially during football season in the South.”

What makes the college towns special?

In the rankings, the individual college campuses were recognized for features that ranged from landscaping to brick facades. Meanwhile, Southern Living gave nods to the charm of several of the North Carolina towns themselves, all of which have fewer than 20,000 residents.

Boone, home to Appalachian State University and roughly 85 miles west of Winston-Salem, was recognized for a football team that has had streaks of success. Southern Living also said the town was a must-visit place due to its “sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, slew of charismatic local businesses, and picturesque downtown.”

Kidd Brewer Stadium, also called The Rock, hosts Appalachian State University football games.
Kidd Brewer Stadium, also called The Rock, hosts Appalachian State University football games.

Near Charlotte, Davidson received praise for its proximity to Lake Norman and its “pedestrian- and bike-friendly” environment.

“Stroll down the Hallmark-esque Main Street, where flower boxes and striped awnings mark local restaurants, boutiques, and shops,” the magazine wrote about the town, where Davidson College is located.

Rounding out the list of top North Carolina college towns was Elon, roughly 20 miles east of Greensboro. The town, home to Elon University, was recognized for its “bustling main street” and a location that’s convenient for shorter trips to the Triangle.

“The campus itself is a great place to explore; the 656-acre space is designated as a botanical garden,” the magazine wrote.

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