These Texas college towns are top of the class.
Texas has a reputation for vast landscapes, strong cowboy culture and vibrant college towns. Home to numerous prestigious universities, the state boasts a rich history, thriving arts scenes and lively sports culture, making the college towns featured on this list the best in the Lone Star State.
Austin
Austin, the capital city of Texas, is not only the political hub of the state but also a bustling college town. Home to the University of Texas at Austin, one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the nation, Austin has a youthful, innovative vibe that has attracted countless students, artists and entrepreneurs over the years. The city’s thriving music scene, diverse eateries and countless outdoor activities make it a haven for college students and young professionals alike. Additionally, Austin’s famous Sixth Street and South Congress neighborhoods offer an array of bars, restaurants and shops, ensuring that there is always something fun to do in this bustling college town.
The city also boasts a variety of attractions that bolster its status as one of the best college towns in Texas and the country. The Texas State Capitol and the Blanton Museum of Art are just a couple of the many landmarks that showcase the rich history and vibrant arts scene of the city. Moreover, Austin’s Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun, from hiking and biking to paddleboarding and kayaking. All these features make Austin a lively and dynamic college town that is undeniably hard to beat.
College Station
Home to Texas A&M University, College Station is another college town in Texas that’s worth exploring. The city’s friendly atmosphere, strong sense of community and unwavering Aggie pride make it an ideal place for students and residents alike to lay down roots. College Station’s Northgate district is a popular destination for nightlife and entertainment, featuring a wide selection of bars, restaurants and live music venues. The city also boasts numerous parks, like the 5-acre Wolf Pen Creek Park, which hosts various events throughout the year and houses a beautiful amphitheater and miles of walking trails.
In addition to its lively social scene, College Station is also known for its commitment to academics and research. The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, located on the Texas A&M campus, is a testament to the city’s dedication to preserving history and fostering education. College Station also offers numerous opportunities for students and residents to engage with the community through volunteer work and local organizations, further strengthening the bond between the university and the city. This close-knit atmosphere makes College Station a welcoming and supportive college town for all.
San Marcos
Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is home to Texas State University. This picturesque college town in Texas is nestled along the banks of the San Marcos River, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoorsy types to enjoy tubing, kayaking, swimming and more. The city’s charming downtown area is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants and bars that cater to the ever-present student population. San Marcos is also known for its thriving arts scene, which includes galleries, studios and the annual Mermaid Festival.
In addition to its natural beauty and artistic flair, San Marcos has a rich history that contributes to its appeal as a college town. The city is home to several historical landmarks, like the LBJ Museum of San Marcos, which chronicles the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Texas State University also houses the Wittliff Collections, which feature Southwestern and Mexican photography, literature and music.
Midland
Situated in West Texas, Midland is home to both Midland College and the University of Texas Permian Basin. This Texas college town boasts a unique combination of small-town charm and big-city amenities. As a hub for the oil and gas industry, Midland offers numerous lucrative employment opportunities for recent graduates. The city is also committed to fostering arts and culture, with attractions like the Midland-Odessa Symphony & Chorale and the Museum of the Southwest. In addition, the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center, located in nearby Odessa, hosts a variety of concerts, theatrical performances and other live events throughout the year.
Midland’s warm climate and sunny weather make it an ideal location for outdoor activities. The city features several recreational areas, like the I-20 Wildlife Preserve and the Sibley Nature Center, which offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching and exploring the unique West Texas landscape. Midland’s downtown area is also undergoing revitalization, with new restaurants, bars and shops opening regularly, creating a lively atmosphere for students of all interests. With its thriving job market, commitment to the arts and beautiful natural surroundings, Midland is one of the most enticing college towns in Texas.
Fort Worth
Fort Worth is a city steeped in history and Western heritage. As the home of Texas Christian University (TCU) and Texas Wesleyan University, Fort Worth provides students with a unique and exciting college experience. The city’s world-class museums, such as the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, provide incredible inspiration for aspiring artists. Additionally, the famous Fort Worth Stockyards offer a taste of the city’s cowboy roots, with rodeos, cattle drives and Western-themed shops and restaurants.
Fort Worth’s West 7th Street district is a popular destination for college students, boasting a large selection of bars, restaurants and live entertainment venues. The city also has a thriving music scene, with places like Billy Bob’s Texas and Fort Worth Live showcasing local and national talent. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Trinity River provides a scenic backdrop for kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding, while the nearby Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. With its rich history, lively social scene and myriad cultural attractions, Fort Worth is an ideal Texas college town.
Canyon
A quaint town located in the Texas Panhandle, Canyon is home to West Texas A&M University. This charming college town has a friendly, close-knit community atmosphere with a strong focus on academics and personal growth. Canyon’s downtown square features an assortment of shops, restaurants and galleries, as well as the historic Tex Randall statue, a beloved local landmark. The city is also committed to promoting arts and culture, with institutions like the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum and the outdoor musical drama ‘TEXAS,’ which is performed in the nearby Palo Duro Canyon State Park during the summer months.
Canyon’s stellar location near the breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon makes it a haven for outdoorsy types. Students and residents can easily explore the stunning natural beauty of the canyon by hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding. The city also hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including the Fourth of July Celebration and the Canyon Chamber Chow-Down BBQ Cook-Off.
Now’s the time to find an apartment in a Texas college town
The Lone Star State houses a variety of fantastic college towns, each with its own unique character and charm. From the bustling streets of Austin and the strong sense of community in College Station to the picturesque riverbanks of San Marcos and the Western heritage of Fort Worth, there’s a college town in Texas that’s perfect for everyone. These vibrant and dynamic communities provide students and residents with a rich tapestry of cultural, recreational and educational opportunities that truly make Texas a remarkable place to call home.
