Ivy League College Map
If you’re planning a trip to the Ivy League colleges, you’re in for a treat. These prestigious institutions are not only known for their academic excellence, but also for their beautiful campuses and rich history. Whether you’re a prospective student, an alum, or simply a curious traveler, there’s plenty to see and do in this part of the world.
Top Attractions
Start your journey with a visit to Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This historic campus is home to iconic landmarks such as the Widener Library, the Harvard Art Museums, and the Harvard Square. Another must-see attraction is Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. Here, you can explore the stunning Gothic architecture of buildings like the Sterling Memorial Library and the Harkness Tower.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, head to the Cornell Botanic Gardens in Ithaca, New York. This 4,000-acre garden is a tranquil oasis with more than 150 species of plants and flowers. Another hidden gem is the Princeton University Art Museum in Princeton, New Jersey, which houses a collection of more than 100,000 works of art from around the world.
Food Scene
The Ivy League colleges are located in some of the most foodie-friendly cities in the US. In Cambridge, check out the famous Legal Sea Foods for some fresh seafood, or head to the charming Harvard Square for some authentic Italian fare at Giulia. In New Haven, don’t miss out on the legendary Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, which serves up some of the best pizza in the country.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to the Ivy League colleges doesn’t have to break the bank. To save money on accommodations, consider staying in a hostel or a budget hotel. You can also save on food by checking out local markets and street vendors, or by cooking your own meals if you have access to a kitchen. Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of free attractions such as museums and parks.
Outdoor Adventures
The Ivy League colleges are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, from the rolling hills of New England to the rugged coastline of Maine. Take a hike in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, go kayaking in the Finger Lakes of New York, or explore the Acadia National Park in Maine.
Historical Landmarks
The Ivy League colleges have played a significant role in American history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. Visit the Massachusetts State House in Boston, where John F. Kennedy delivered his famous “City Upon a Hill” speech, or explore the Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Take a tour of the Boston Children’s Museum, explore the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, or go on a whale-watching excursion off the coast of Maine.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider visiting the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford, Connecticut. This stunning Victorian mansion was the home of the famous author for more than 20 years, and is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. Another off-the-beaten-path destination is the Glass Flowers exhibit at the Harvard Museum of Natural History, which features more than 4,000 intricately crafted glass models of plants.
Natural Wonders
The Ivy League colleges are located in some of the most beautiful parts of the country, with natural wonders around every corner. Visit the Niagara Falls in upstate New York, take a scenic drive along the Acadia Byway in Maine, or explore the Cape Cod National Seashore in Massachusetts.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Ivy League colleges may be known for their academic rigor, but they also have a vibrant nightlife scene. Check out the bars and clubs in Boston’s trendy Allston neighborhood, or head to Ithaca, New York, for some live music and craft beer at the famous The Haunt.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting the farmers’ markets and craft fairs in the Ivy League towns. Check out the weekly farmers’ market in New Haven, Connecticut, or explore the Ithaca Farmers Market in upstate New York, which features more than 150 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Whether you’re a beach bum or a mountain lover, the Ivy League colleges have something for everyone. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Champlain in Vermont, or go skiing in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. You can also hit the beaches of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, or explore the stunning Acadia National Park in Maine.
Cultural Immersion
The Ivy League colleges are home to some of the most diverse and vibrant communities in the US. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a performance at the Yale Repertory Theatre in New Haven, or by exploring the Chinatown neighborhood in Boston. You can also visit the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia to learn about the rich history and culture of the Jewish community.
Art and Music Scene
The Ivy League colleges are known for their world-class arts and music programs, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy these cultural offerings. Check out a concert at the Sanders Theatre in Cambridge, or explore the galleries at the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven. You can also attend the annual Ithaca Festival in upstate New York, which showcases local artists and musicians.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the Ivy League colleges is by taking a walking tour. Join a guided tour of the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, or explore the historic streets of Newport, Rhode Island, on foot. You can also take a self-guided tour of the Princeton University campus in New Jersey, which is home to some of the most stunning Gothic architecture in the country.
Architectural Marvels
The Ivy League colleges are home to some of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the US. Visit the iconic Trinity Church in Boston, which is a masterpiece of American architecture, or explore the stunning St. John’s Episcopal Church in Stamford, Connecticut, which features stunning stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. You can also visit the famous Rockefeller Chapel at the University of Chicago, which is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
Historical Sites
The Ivy League colleges have played a significant role in American history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Visit the site of the Boston Tea Party in Boston, or explore the historic town of Newport, Rhode Island, which was once a hub of the American slave trade. You can also visit the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, which is a symbol of American independence and freedom.
Biking Routes
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, the Ivy League colleges offer plenty of scenic routes to explore. Take a ride along the Charles River Bike Path in Boston, which offers stunning views of the city skyline, or explore the beautiful countryside of Vermont on the Champlain Bikeway. You can also take a scenic ride along the Delaware River in New Jersey, which offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to recharge your batteries, consider visiting one of the many wellness retreats in the Ivy League towns. Check out the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, or explore the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in Rhinebeck, New York. You can also visit the Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts, which offers a wide range of wellness programs and activities.
Adventure Sports
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, the Ivy League colleges offer plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Go white-water rafting on the Kennebec River in Maine, or take a zip-line tour of the Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts. You can also go rock climbing in the Shawangunk Mountains in New York, or explore the stunning Acadia National Park in Maine on a sea kayak tour.
With so much to see and do, the Ivy League colleges are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip and explore all that this part of the world has to offer.