Do the research. Find the Delaware college town that’s right for you.
Though Delaware may be the second-smallest state in the U.S., it is home to some of the most exceptional college towns in the country. With a unique blend of history, culture and academic excellence, Delaware offers students an engaging environment to pursue higher education.
In this article, we’ll explore the best college towns in Delaware, featuring Newark, Dover and Wilmington. Get ready to discover what makes these towns extraordinary places to live, learn and forge a bright future.
Home to the University of Delaware, Newark is a lively college town that combines academic excellence with a strong sense of history and community. The University of Delaware, established in 1743, is renowned for its research programs, commitment to sustainability and picturesque campus.
Downtown Newark is a bustling hub of activity, with a diverse array of restaurants, bars and shops. From the cozy atmosphere of Brew HaHa! coffee shop to the enticing flavors of Ali Baba Middle Eastern Restaurant, there’s something for every palate. The city also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Newark Food and Brew Fest and the Winterfest celebration, which foster a sense of community and showcase the town’s unique culture.
History buffs will appreciate Newark’s rich past, which can be explored at the Iron Hill Science Center and the Cooch’s Bridge historic site. For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, Newark has more than a few parks and natural areas to enjoy, like White Clay Creek State Park and many, many more.
As the capital city of Delaware, Dover offers students a unique college experience in a historical setting. The city is home to Delaware State University, Wesley College and satellite campuses of Wilmington University and the University of Delaware. Dover’s rich history and diverse educational opportunities make it an attractive destination for college students of all interests.
Downtown Dover, known as the Loockerman Street Historic District, features a variety of shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. The Schwartz Center for the Arts, located in the heart of downtown, hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays and dance recitals.
Dover’s history is on full display at the First State Heritage Park, which encompasses several historic sites. The Air Mobility Command Museum, located at the Dover Air Force Base, provides an intriguing look at the history of military aviation.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Dover and the surrounding area. Silver Lake Park and the St. Jones River Greenway provide convenient access to outdoor recreation. The nearby Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, a major stop on the Atlantic Flyway, provides a stunning natural environment for wildlife observation and photography.
The largest city in Delaware, Wilmington is home to several colleges and universities, including Wilmington University, Goldey-Beacom College and Delaware College of Art and Design. As a major metropolitan area, Wilmington offers students a cosmopolitan college experience with all of the artistic and professional opportunities that are often reserved for larger towns.
Wilmington’s revitalized downtown, known as Riverfront, features a range of shops, restaurants and attractions. The Delaware Contemporary, an art museum located along the Riverfront, showcases the work of local and regional artists. The city also hosts numerous events throughout the year, like the Riverfront Blues Festival and the Wilmington Flower Market.
The city is home to several theaters, including The Playhouse on Rodney Square and The Queen, which host a wide range of performances. Wilmington’s lively nightlife scene is comprised of a variety of bars, clubs and live music venues, ensuring that there’s always something to do after the sun goes down.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Wilmington has several parks and green spaces, none more noteworthy than the Wilmington State Parks, which provides opportunities for walking, jogging, picnicking and so much more.
As an honorable mention on our list of best college towns in Delaware, Lewes is home to the University of Delaware College of Earth, Ocean and Environment. This charming coastal town, located where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique college experience in a picturesque seaside setting.
Downtown Lewes is known for its charming architecture and historic sites. This area features a variety of shops, restaurants and galleries. The town also hosts several annual events, like the Lewes Tulip Celebration and the Lewes Historical Society Craft Fair, which showcases the town’s commitment to preserving its history and fostering a creative community for years to come
Lewes’ coastal location offers numerous opportunities for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. Cape Henlopen State Park and Delaware Seashore State Park provide beautiful settings for swimming, sunbathing and kayaking. The town also boasts several parks, which offer ample opportunities for walking, jogging and reconnecting with Mother Nature at the drop of a hat.
Settle down in a delightful Delaware college town
Delaware may be small in size, but it offers a variety of exceptional college towns, each providing a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural attractions and recreational opportunities.
Whether you’re drawn to Newark’s vibrant college atmosphere, Dover’s historic capital city charm, Wilmington’s cosmopolitan allure or Lewes’ unrivaled coastal beauty, there’s a college town in Delaware that’s perfect for you. These towns provide students with an ideal environment to thrive academically while enjoying a well-rounded college experience in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region.
Source: rent.com