In The Foothills Of The Blue Ridge Mountains Sits One Of America's Best Small College Towns

When looking into a place to further one's education, choosing the right location doesn't always come down to convenience or logistics. When recruiting potential students, a place of higher education often wants to show off what its surroundings have to offer. You hopefully won't be studying all hours of every day, so it matters if the school's town adds a few perks. However, so-called "college towns" might have plenty for those not pursuing degrees.

With all that in mind, Clemson, South Carolina, often finds itself ranked as one of the best small college towns in the United States. With outdoor recreation in spades to restaurants and shopping, Clemson itself is an underrated southern city you shouldn't skip, and the university is picturesque and well worth exploring. Right by Lake Hartwell are the many components of the university's sports prowess, the perfect place to catch a Clemson Tigers baseball or football game. 

If sports isn't your thing, head to the center of campus to check out Fort Hill, a national historic landmark. The former owners of this massive 18th-century home allowed the land around it to be used for Clemson University's founding, but wanted it to be preserved and open to the public. Before visiting, don't forget to check Fort Hill's hours online as it does close for holidays and major university events.

Clemson University also supports the Hanover House, a property dating all the way back to the early 1700s. While a visit shows off what homes and items of daily life were like during the 18th century, Hanover House's surroundings steal the spotlight. The home is located at the South Carolina Botanical Garden, and visitors can take their pick from multiple gardens within nearly 300 acres of green space, including the Meditation Garden, Butterfly Garden, Hopkins Wildlife Habitat Garden, Van Blaricom Xeriscape Garden, the Children's Garden, and more. Check the calendar to see if you can visit during one of the SCBG's plant sales.

Outdoor activities continue near this under-the-radar small college town, as Clemson is located among the Blue Ridge Mountains. Less than one hour from Clemson is Sassafras Mountain, a summit along the state's border with North Carolina, which counts as South Carolina's highest peak. You can drive to the mountain's observation tower for panoramic views of rolling hills covered in greenery or put one foot in both Carolinas thanks to the border marker along the platform. Stick around until sunset to see the landscape transform under the sun's glow.

Another factor that makes Clemson one of the best college towns in the U.S. is its culinary scene. Where better to start than the swanky Rick Erwin's Clemson at Patrick Square? Rick Erwin's is renowned for its steak, seafood, and impressive wine choices. Despite having a business casual dress code, there are still things to order for less than $50 per person. If it still sounds too fancy, head to Nick & Mike Bar and Grill Clemson. Get anything from pub grub like beef sliders to one-of-a-kind southwest eggrolls at this sports bar, but remember to leave room for dessert.

Before you leave, check out Clemson's shopping opportunities. There are plenty of places selling Clemson University apparel, but keep an eye out for unique items from local boutiques. Emmaline Boutique + Gifts has trendy clothing and home goods that are perfect for college kids and other visitors. If you're planning on exploring the nature of the Blue Ridge Mountains, then Elkmont Trading Company is the place to go for outdoor clothing, camping supplies, and sporting goods.