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  "path": "/travel/2026/03/01/things-to-do-champaign-urbana-bloomington-ann-arbor-iowa-city-madison-columbus-college-tours",
  "publishedAt": "2026-03-01T11:30:00.000Z",
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  "textContent": "<p>For many, spring break suggests a beach break. But families with college-curious high schoolers may appreciate it as a convenient window for campus visits.</p><p>In addition to the academics and lifestyle distinctions divined on school tours, college towns themselves can be diverting vacation destinations, often home to worth-the-trip museums, unique outdoor activities, engrossing bookstores, dining scenes that rise above student standards and interesting accommodations that only a parent (as a potential future four-year visitor) may value.</p><p>Consider the following travel guide to Big 10 towns your road map to the lighter side of school shopping.</p><h3>Ann Arbor, Michigan</h3><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-730000\" name=\"image-730000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/c8e0fb6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4000x2245+0+212/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F50%2F72%2Fc4f709794149bcb1b49ff2456bdb%2Fann-arbor-umich-students-2.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b4cd330/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4000x2245+0+212/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F50%2F72%2Fc4f709794149bcb1b49ff2456bdb%2Fann-arbor-umich-students-2.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bea33fc/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4000x2245+0+212/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F50%2F72%2Fc4f709794149bcb1b49ff2456bdb%2Fann-arbor-umich-students-2.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Education International Students\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bea33fc/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4000x2245+0+212/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F50%2F72%2Fc4f709794149bcb1b49ff2456bdb%2Fann-arbor-umich-students-2.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/cb3a142/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4000x2245+0+212/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F50%2F72%2Fc4f709794149bcb1b49ff2456bdb%2Fann-arbor-umich-students-2.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bea33fc/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4000x2245+0+212/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F50%2F72%2Fc4f709794149bcb1b49ff2456bdb%2Fann-arbor-umich-students-2.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Students walk around the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, Mich.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Emily Elconin/AP Photos</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>If not for the ubiquitous <b>University of Michigan</b> swag worn by townies, you might not know you were close to campus in downtown Ann Arbor, a walking-friendly district tightly packed with restaurants, shops and music clubs. Plenty of residents accept the hour-long commute to work in Detroit as a worthwhile tradeoff to live in the artsy community.</p><p>A brick-paved quarter of downtown known as <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://kerrytown.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Kerrytown</u></a> is home to <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.zingermansdeli.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Zingerman’s Deli</u></a> (422 Detroit St.), perhaps A-squared’s greatest claim to fame after the Big House football stadium. Since 1982, the bustling shop has been dealing sandwiches (try the Georgia Reuben) as well as homemade bread, artisan cheese and international foodstuffs from single-estate olive oils to tinned fish. Across the street you’ll find the weekly <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://kerrytowndistrict.org/listing-farmersmarket\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>farmer’s market</u></a> (315 Detroit St.), loads of boutiques and the Korean hit <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://misskimannarbor.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Miss Kim</u></a> (415 N. Fifth Ave).</p><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-c00000\" name=\"image-c00000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e930e03/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5626x3157+0+296/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F79%2Fae%2Fc49e33b04f69bfda8b7f51eac882%2Fdeli-bread-box-2018.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/25c152f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5626x3157+0+296/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F79%2Fae%2Fc49e33b04f69bfda8b7f51eac882%2Fdeli-bread-box-2018.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fb1c0dd/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5626x3157+0+296/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F79%2Fae%2Fc49e33b04f69bfda8b7f51eac882%2Fdeli-bread-box-2018.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Deli_Bread Box_2018.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fb1c0dd/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5626x3157+0+296/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F79%2Fae%2Fc49e33b04f69bfda8b7f51eac882%2Fdeli-bread-box-2018.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd108/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5626x3157+0+296/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F79%2Fae%2Fc49e33b04f69bfda8b7f51eac882%2Fdeli-bread-box-2018.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fb1c0dd/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5626x3157+0+296/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F79%2Fae%2Fc49e33b04f69bfda8b7f51eac882%2Fdeli-bread-box-2018.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor is a popular stop for homemade bread, artisan cheese and gourmet foodstuffs from single-estate olive oils to tinned fish. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Courtesy of Zingerman’s Deli </p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-b10000\" name=\"image-b10000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ff90bcb/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5184x2909+0+273/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F81%2F96%2Fdd30d7914d75a03d34047a34eafc%2Fann-arbor-14-04-18-georgiareuben.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/94c8560/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5184x2909+0+273/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F81%2F96%2Fdd30d7914d75a03d34047a34eafc%2Fann-arbor-14-04-18-georgiareuben.JPG 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90bcf31/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5184x2909+0+273/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F81%2F96%2Fdd30d7914d75a03d34047a34eafc%2Fann-arbor-14-04-18-georgiareuben.JPG\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"ann arbor_14_04_#18_GeorgiaReuben.JPG\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90bcf31/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5184x2909+0+273/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F81%2F96%2Fdd30d7914d75a03d34047a34eafc%2Fann-arbor-14-04-18-georgiareuben.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a0227ef/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5184x2909+0+273/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F81%2F96%2Fdd30d7914d75a03d34047a34eafc%2Fann-arbor-14-04-18-georgiareuben.JPG 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90bcf31/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5184x2909+0+273/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F81%2F96%2Fdd30d7914d75a03d34047a34eafc%2Fann-arbor-14-04-18-georgiareuben.JPG\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>The Georgia Reuben at Zingerman’s Deli packs roasted turkey breast, Emmental Swiss cheese, coleslaw and house-made Russian dressing between slices of grilled rye.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Courtesy of Zingerman’s Deli</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>Performing arts are a draw here, whether you attend a <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://smtd.umich.edu/25-26-season/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>student production</u></a> from the UM’s theater department (distinguished grads include “Maybe Happy Ending” star Darren Criss) or a concert at <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://theark.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>The Ark</u></a> (316 S. Main St.). For a show by nature, head to hilly <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://mbgna.umich.edu/nichols-arboretum\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Nichols Arboretum</u></a> (1610 Washington Heights) and its renowned peony garden with more than 10,000 flowers at peak bloom, usually in May.</p><p><b>Selfie spot:</b> For Instagram fodder, duck into the ever-changing <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g29556-d17805228-Reviews-Graffiti_Alley-Ann_Arbor_Michigan.html\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Graffiti Alley</u></a> off Liberty St. next to the Michigan Theater.</p><p><b>Where to stay: </b>Between downtown and campus, the slick new <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dtwad-ac-hotel-ann-arbor-downtown/overview/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>AC Hotel Ann Arbor Downtown</u></a> (310 E. Huron St.) offers pedestrian access to both.</p><hr><p></p><h3><b>Bloomington, Indiana</b></h3><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-6d0000\" name=\"image-6d0000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/73db1ff/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7762x4356+0+409/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff9%2Fe3%2Fe82289634e95981d5df563c3024c%2Fbloomington-ap25290670673732.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/092d079/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7762x4356+0+409/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff9%2Fe3%2Fe82289634e95981d5df563c3024c%2Fbloomington-ap25290670673732.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a14595e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7762x4356+0+409/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff9%2Fe3%2Fe82289634e95981d5df563c3024c%2Fbloomington-ap25290670673732.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Indiana University-Censorship\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a14595e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7762x4356+0+409/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff9%2Fe3%2Fe82289634e95981d5df563c3024c%2Fbloomington-ap25290670673732.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/d693cea/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7762x4356+0+409/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff9%2Fe3%2Fe82289634e95981d5df563c3024c%2Fbloomington-ap25290670673732.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a14595e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7762x4356+0+409/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff9%2Fe3%2Fe82289634e95981d5df563c3024c%2Fbloomington-ap25290670673732.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Visitors stroll on the grounds of Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Darron Cummings/AP</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>College football’s reigning national champion, <b>Indiana University</b> is reveling in its new sports prowess. Jump on the bandwagon at <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://nicksenglishhut.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Nick’s English Hut</u></a> (423 E. Kirkwood Ave.) on the Kirkwood Avenue commercial thoroughfare, slinging burgers and Hoosier spirit since 1927.</p><p>On the liberal arts track, visit the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://artmuseum.indiana.edu/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Eskenazi Museum of Art</u></a> (1133 E. 7th St.) on campus designed by I.M. Pei, better known for his glass pyramidal addition to the Louvre, and home to works by Monet, Picasso and Pollack. For history majors, the rare books collection at the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://libraries.indiana.edu/lilly-library\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Lily Library</u></a> (1200 E. 7th St.) next door include George Washington’s letter of acceptancy of the presidency and Thomas Jefferson’s copy of the Bill of Rights.</p><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-da0000\" name=\"image-da0000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6ee42c8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4480x2514+0+2103/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F98%2F15%2F0cddce19495cbc929a40f497a03d%2Fbloomington-courtesy-of-the-eskenazi-museum-of-art-photo-by-brad-feinknopf.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/76aead5/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4480x2514+0+2103/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F98%2F15%2F0cddce19495cbc929a40f497a03d%2Fbloomington-courtesy-of-the-eskenazi-museum-of-art-photo-by-brad-feinknopf.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b86ae54/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4480x2514+0+2103/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F98%2F15%2F0cddce19495cbc929a40f497a03d%2Fbloomington-courtesy-of-the-eskenazi-museum-of-art-photo-by-brad-feinknopf.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"bloomington_Courtesy of the Eskenazi Museum of Art. Photo by Brad Feinknopf_.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b86ae54/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4480x2514+0+2103/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F98%2F15%2F0cddce19495cbc929a40f497a03d%2Fbloomington-courtesy-of-the-eskenazi-museum-of-art-photo-by-brad-feinknopf.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bb5beae/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4480x2514+0+2103/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F98%2F15%2F0cddce19495cbc929a40f497a03d%2Fbloomington-courtesy-of-the-eskenazi-museum-of-art-photo-by-brad-feinknopf.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b86ae54/2147483647/strip/true/crop/4480x2514+0+2103/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F98%2F15%2F0cddce19495cbc929a40f497a03d%2Fbloomington-courtesy-of-the-eskenazi-museum-of-art-photo-by-brad-feinknopf.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>The Eskenazi Museum of Art is home to works by Monet, Picasso and Pollack. The museum was designed by I.M. Pei.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Brad Feinknopf/Courtesy of the Eskenazi Museum of Art </p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-d40000\" name=\"image-d40000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9c32b38/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1149+0+193/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F83%2F3e%2F71a150f04a6f9fa137ed857aa502%2Fbloomington-122120484-10164369088875258-3056804116539951443-o.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ad3d863/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1149+0+193/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F83%2F3e%2F71a150f04a6f9fa137ed857aa502%2Fbloomington-122120484-10164369088875258-3056804116539951443-o.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9de7b9d/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1149+0+193/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F83%2F3e%2F71a150f04a6f9fa137ed857aa502%2Fbloomington-122120484-10164369088875258-3056804116539951443-o.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"bloomington_122120484_10164369088875258_3056804116539951443_o.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9de7b9d/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1149+0+193/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F83%2F3e%2F71a150f04a6f9fa137ed857aa502%2Fbloomington-122120484-10164369088875258-3056804116539951443-o.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/3b7b4f5/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1149+0+193/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F83%2F3e%2F71a150f04a6f9fa137ed857aa502%2Fbloomington-122120484-10164369088875258-3056804116539951443-o.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9de7b9d/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1149+0+193/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F83%2F3e%2F71a150f04a6f9fa137ed857aa502%2Fbloomington-122120484-10164369088875258-3056804116539951443-o.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>The Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, established by the Dalai Lama’s brother, is a peaceful destination for a walk in nature. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Provided</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>In the midst of the Hoosier National Forest, Bloomington is minutes from Monroe Lake, the state’s largest reservoir, and nearly 13,000 wooded acres in the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/hoosier/recreation/charles-c-deam-wilderness\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Charles C. Deam Wilderness</u></a> with 36 miles of hiking trails.</p><p><b>Meditation mecca: </b>Stroll among the stupas at the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://tmbcc.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center</u></a> (3655 S. Snoddy Rd.) established by the Dalai Lama’s brother.</p><p><b>Where to stay: </b>More than 30 college towns across the country host school-themed Graduate Hotels, part of the Hilton portfolio, including B-town. <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/indgbgu-graduate-bloomington/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Graduate by Hilton Bloomington</u></a> (210 E. Kirkwood Ave.) features a sculptural installation of red chairs referencing former basketball coach Bobby Knight’s famous furniture-tossing tantrum.</p><hr><p></p><h3><b>Champaign/Urbana, Illinois</b></h3><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-030000\" name=\"image-030000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/c52e7da/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6044x3392+0+318/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fec%2F1a%2F8bab8ef04e5384622d79cdd380d8%2Fchampaign-uofivisas-060425-30.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/8749c68/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6044x3392+0+318/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fec%2F1a%2F8bab8ef04e5384622d79cdd380d8%2Fchampaign-uofivisas-060425-30.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aab26c1/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6044x3392+0+318/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fec%2F1a%2F8bab8ef04e5384622d79cdd380d8%2Fchampaign-uofivisas-060425-30.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Champaign_UOFIVISAS-060425_30.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aab26c1/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6044x3392+0+318/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fec%2F1a%2F8bab8ef04e5384622d79cdd380d8%2Fchampaign-uofivisas-060425-30.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/0c4a0cb/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6044x3392+0+318/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fec%2F1a%2F8bab8ef04e5384622d79cdd380d8%2Fchampaign-uofivisas-060425-30.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/aab26c1/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6044x3392+0+318/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fec%2F1a%2F8bab8ef04e5384622d79cdd380d8%2Fchampaign-uofivisas-060425-30.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>New students take a tour around the Main Quad at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2025. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Pat Nabong/Sun-Times</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>Illinois’ twin cities of Champaign and Urbana are routinely treated as one, but families checking out the <b>University of Illinois</b> will quickly distinguish between the cosmopolitan and communal sides of CU, respectively.</p><p>The larger Champaign hosts a diverse culinary scene that reflects the university’s stature as attracting one of the largest foreign student populations among public universities. In addition to Italian, Thai and Indian, there’s Zambian stews (<a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.stangocu.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Stango Cuisine</u></a>; 500 N. Walnut St.), Taiwanese chicken (<a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.goldenharboronline.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Golden Harbor</u></a>; 505 S. Neil St.) and especially strong Chinese options (starting with <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.northerncuisineuiuc.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Northern Cuisine</u></a>; 404-A E. Green St.).</p><p>In mellower Urbana, walk it off at <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.urbanaparks.org/meadowbrook-park-wandell-sculpture-garden\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Meadowbrook Park</u></a> (2808 S. Race St.), home to 80 acres of tallgrass prairie and a sculpture garden. Or puzzle it out at one of the nation’s most acclaimed escape rooms <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://cuadventures.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>CU Adventures in Time and Space</u></a> (302 N. Broadway Ave.).</p><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-a80000\" name=\"image-a80000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a034fa6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7772x4362+0+411/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F61%2F47%2F0e960a2a41fc8bc7a15172d14bcb%2Fchampaign-urbana-may14-2025-32.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2622d40/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7772x4362+0+411/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F61%2F47%2F0e960a2a41fc8bc7a15172d14bcb%2Fchampaign-urbana-may14-2025-32.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7fa0229/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7772x4362+0+411/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F61%2F47%2F0e960a2a41fc8bc7a15172d14bcb%2Fchampaign-urbana-may14-2025-32.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"champaign urbana_May14,2025-32.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7fa0229/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7772x4362+0+411/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F61%2F47%2F0e960a2a41fc8bc7a15172d14bcb%2Fchampaign-urbana-may14-2025-32.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7779b89/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7772x4362+0+411/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F61%2F47%2F0e960a2a41fc8bc7a15172d14bcb%2Fchampaign-urbana-may14-2025-32.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7fa0229/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7772x4362+0+411/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F61%2F47%2F0e960a2a41fc8bc7a15172d14bcb%2Fchampaign-urbana-may14-2025-32.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>You can pet the goats, dine and buy cheese at Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery, just a 10-minute drive from campus. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Courtesy of Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>Farm fun:</b> It’s just a 10-minute drive to the countryside where you can pet the goats, dine and buy cheese at <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.prairiefruits.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery</u></a> (4410 N. Lincoln Ave.).</p><p><b>Where to stay: </b>Parents get a library-cum-restaurant, kids get an indoor pool at the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chiulup-hotel-royer-urbana-champaign/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Hotel Royer Urbana Champaign</u></a> (210 S. Race St.).</p><hr><p></p><h3><b>Columbus, Ohio</b></h3><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-650000\" name=\"image-650000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e80abea/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5400x3031+0+285/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F43%2F61%2Fbd5a68af4287b52f21491c1a27e3%2Fcolumbus-ohio-statehouse-in-columbus-photo-by-andy-spessard.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7cc9a5b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5400x3031+0+285/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F43%2F61%2Fbd5a68af4287b52f21491c1a27e3%2Fcolumbus-ohio-statehouse-in-columbus-photo-by-andy-spessard.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/172ed74/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5400x3031+0+285/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F43%2F61%2Fbd5a68af4287b52f21491c1a27e3%2Fcolumbus-ohio-statehouse-in-columbus-photo-by-andy-spessard.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"columbus_Ohio Statehouse in Columbus_photo by Andy Spessard.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/172ed74/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5400x3031+0+285/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F43%2F61%2Fbd5a68af4287b52f21491c1a27e3%2Fcolumbus-ohio-statehouse-in-columbus-photo-by-andy-spessard.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/3044857/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5400x3031+0+285/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F43%2F61%2Fbd5a68af4287b52f21491c1a27e3%2Fcolumbus-ohio-statehouse-in-columbus-photo-by-andy-spessard.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/172ed74/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5400x3031+0+285/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F43%2F61%2Fbd5a68af4287b52f21491c1a27e3%2Fcolumbus-ohio-statehouse-in-columbus-photo-by-andy-spessard.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>The Ohio Statehouse offers guided tours weekdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Provided</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>Columbus is home to <b>The Ohio State University</b>, but it’s also the state capital, a base for 15 Fortune 1000 companies and bigger than Cleveland and Cincinnati combined. Attractions abound.</p><p>Take STEM students to the acclaimed Center of Science and Industry known as <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://cosi.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>COSI</u></a> (333 W. Broad St.) for interactive exhibits on the science of Pixar animated films, or the robust <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.columbuszoo.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Columbus Zoo and Aquarium</u></a> (4850 W. Powell Road, Powell) once run by TV host Jack Hanna.</p><p>Five key neighborhoods stretch along busy High Street, including the gallery-and-restaurant-filled Short North Arts District. Here, fans of hometown favorite <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://jenis.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams</u></a> can visit the original stall at the 1876-vintage food hall <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://northmarket.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>North Market</u></a> (59 Spruce St.).</p><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-280000\" name=\"image-280000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/1ae6d51/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6720x3771+0+354/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F28%2F34%2F384685da46cc88816babbfc2e122%2Fcolumbus-cosi-robb-mccormick-photography-119-of-156.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6c8ec23/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6720x3771+0+354/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F28%2F34%2F384685da46cc88816babbfc2e122%2Fcolumbus-cosi-robb-mccormick-photography-119-of-156.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/1f2cbc6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6720x3771+0+354/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F28%2F34%2F384685da46cc88816babbfc2e122%2Fcolumbus-cosi-robb-mccormick-photography-119-of-156.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"COSI Mythical Creatures Exhibit \" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/1f2cbc6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6720x3771+0+354/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F28%2F34%2F384685da46cc88816babbfc2e122%2Fcolumbus-cosi-robb-mccormick-photography-119-of-156.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/5a71970/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6720x3771+0+354/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F28%2F34%2F384685da46cc88816babbfc2e122%2Fcolumbus-cosi-robb-mccormick-photography-119-of-156.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/1f2cbc6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6720x3771+0+354/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F28%2F34%2F384685da46cc88816babbfc2e122%2Fcolumbus-cosi-robb-mccormick-photography-119-of-156.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>A visitor enjoys the Mythical Creatures exhibit at the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Robb McCormick Photography</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-970000\" name=\"image-970000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e4153ad/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7898x4433+0+416/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff8%2F0f%2Fecf3f8ac4d20bef9bb86b92f3efb%2Fcolumbus-dsc-2437.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/abfd3f2/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7898x4433+0+416/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff8%2F0f%2Fecf3f8ac4d20bef9bb86b92f3efb%2Fcolumbus-dsc-2437.JPG 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bfb1574/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7898x4433+0+416/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff8%2F0f%2Fecf3f8ac4d20bef9bb86b92f3efb%2Fcolumbus-dsc-2437.JPG\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"columbus_DSC_2437.JPG\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bfb1574/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7898x4433+0+416/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff8%2F0f%2Fecf3f8ac4d20bef9bb86b92f3efb%2Fcolumbus-dsc-2437.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e9d6617/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7898x4433+0+416/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff8%2F0f%2Fecf3f8ac4d20bef9bb86b92f3efb%2Fcolumbus-dsc-2437.JPG 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/bfb1574/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7898x4433+0+416/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Ff8%2F0f%2Fecf3f8ac4d20bef9bb86b92f3efb%2Fcolumbus-dsc-2437.JPG\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Fans of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams can visit the original stall at the 1876-vintage food hall North Market at 59 Spruce St.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Courtesy of North Market</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>Walk the brick-paved streets of historic German Village nearby to find the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://bookloft.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Book Loft</u></a> (631 S. Third St.), where maps navigate its 32 rooms. Some of Columbus’ hottest restaurants reside a few blocks away in the Brewery District including the Asian-American <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.cobrabarcolumbus.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Cobra</u></a> (684 S. High St.) and the fusion multi-course specialist <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.dineatagni.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Agni</u></a> (716 S. High St.).</p><p><b>Signature pie:</b> Like New York, Chicago and Detroit, Columbus has its own style of pizza: thin crust with edge-to-edge toppings cut square. Find contenders like <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://tommyspizza.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Tommy’s Pizza</u></a> (1350 W. Lane Ave.) along the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/blog/post/there-is-a-columbus-style-pizza-and-you-need-to-try-it/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>pizza trail</u></a>.</p><p><b>Where to stay:</b> Rooms at <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://thejuntohotel.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>The Junto</u></a> (77 Belle St.) hotel come with tickets to COSI, complimentary bikes and opportunities to hang with locals at a rooftop bar, coffee shop and tavern.</p><hr><p></p><h3><b>Iowa City, Iowa</b></h3><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-4f0000\" name=\"image-4f0000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/c240f01/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6505x3651+0+374/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5d%2Fc0%2F32073eec4a6798dacd083cf87051%2Fiowa-city-ap23315678810145.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/0d0752f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6505x3651+0+374/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5d%2Fc0%2F32073eec4a6798dacd083cf87051%2Fiowa-city-ap23315678810145.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/59f3f37/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6505x3651+0+374/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5d%2Fc0%2F32073eec4a6798dacd083cf87051%2Fiowa-city-ap23315678810145.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Rutgers Iowa Football\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/59f3f37/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6505x3651+0+374/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5d%2Fc0%2F32073eec4a6798dacd083cf87051%2Fiowa-city-ap23315678810145.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/225032b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6505x3651+0+374/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5d%2Fc0%2F32073eec4a6798dacd083cf87051%2Fiowa-city-ap23315678810145.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/59f3f37/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6505x3651+0+374/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5d%2Fc0%2F32073eec4a6798dacd083cf87051%2Fiowa-city-ap23315678810145.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>The University of Iowa’s historic Kinnick Stadium can hold nearly 70,000 fans. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Bryon Houlgrave/AP</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>Poetry and politics are just two of the odd bedfellows that Iowa City, home to the <b>University of Iowa,</b> embraces. Its <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.iowacityofliterature.org/lit-walk/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Literary Walk</u></a> quotes poets and authors affiliated with the masters-level Iowa Writers’ Workshop, where John Cheever taught and Jane Smiley graduated, in 89 plaques or concrete stampings.</p><p>Iowa’s presidential primary caucus draws pols to town at least every four years. Indulge your inner political junkie (or “West Wing” fan) with a trip to the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.hamburginn2.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Hamburg Inn No. 2</u></a> (214 N. Linn St.) for vintage campaign memorabilia and diner breakfasts. For farm-to-table in farm country, hold out for <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://thewebsteric.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>The Webster</u></a> (202 N. Linn St.).</p><p>Go on a geologic hunt at the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.mvr.usace.army.mil/coralvillelake/recreation/devonian-fossil-gorge/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Devonian Fossil Gorge</u></a> (2850 Prairie Du Chien Road NE) where limestone slabs reveal 375-million-year-old impressions of coral and brachiopods. Take your bikes along for the 3.5-hour drive from Chicago to find out just how rolling this prairie state is. The nonprofit <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://bikeiowacity.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Bike Iowa City</u></a> maps hundreds of miles along gravel, dirt and paved paths, including a 10-mile townie tour.</p><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-2f0000\" name=\"image-2f0000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/873acf4/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x575+0+225/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F46%2F2c118b764da3a1f27562040d5e07%2Fiowa-city-forever-22-curved-folded-1.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6169c26/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x575+0+225/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F46%2F2c118b764da3a1f27562040d5e07%2Fiowa-city-forever-22-curved-folded-1.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/8ef02af/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x575+0+225/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F46%2F2c118b764da3a1f27562040d5e07%2Fiowa-city-forever-22-curved-folded-1.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"iowa city_forever-22--curved-folded (1).jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/8ef02af/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x575+0+225/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F46%2F2c118b764da3a1f27562040d5e07%2Fiowa-city-forever-22-curved-folded-1.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/93b504f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x575+0+225/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F46%2F2c118b764da3a1f27562040d5e07%2Fiowa-city-forever-22-curved-folded-1.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/8ef02af/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x575+0+225/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F46%2F2c118b764da3a1f27562040d5e07%2Fiowa-city-forever-22-curved-folded-1.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Pay homage to the Hawkeye alum with a “Forever 22” shirt from Raygun, the cheeky, Iowa-born retailer with a location at 132 E. Washington St.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Provided</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>Caitlin Clark fever: </b>Pay homage to the Hawkeye alum with a “Forever 22” shirt from <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.raygunsite.com/collections/iowa-city\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Raygun</u></a> (132 E. Washington St.), the cheeky, Iowa-born retailer.</p><p><b>Where to stay: </b>Iowa City’s <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/cidgigu-graduate-iowa-city/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Graduate hotel</u></a> (210 S. Dubuque St.) salutes alum Gene Wilder (of the ’70s classic “Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”) in its restaurant Wilder and the Iowa Writer’s Workshop in the pencil-paneled coffee shop.</p><hr><p></p><h3><b>Madison, Wisconsin</b></h3><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-d70000\" name=\"image-d70000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b5dc61e/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5124x2876+0+2/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Ffe%2Ff3744e7b4a599d3580c4f175bd35%2Fdji-0091-20201021-large.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/81890d3/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5124x2876+0+2/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Ffe%2Ff3744e7b4a599d3580c4f175bd35%2Fdji-0091-20201021-large.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e48c3f2/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5124x2876+0+2/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Ffe%2Ff3744e7b4a599d3580c4f175bd35%2Fdji-0091-20201021-large.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"DJI_0091-20201021-Large.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e48c3f2/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5124x2876+0+2/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Ffe%2Ff3744e7b4a599d3580c4f175bd35%2Fdji-0091-20201021-large.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/229d6fb/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5124x2876+0+2/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Ffe%2Ff3744e7b4a599d3580c4f175bd35%2Fdji-0091-20201021-large.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e48c3f2/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5124x2876+0+2/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Ffe%2Ff3744e7b4a599d3580c4f175bd35%2Fdji-0091-20201021-large.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Madison, Wisc., home to the University of Wisconsin’s flagship campus and the state capital, sits on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Focal Flame Photography</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>The official bird of Madison — the state capital and home to the <b>University of Wisconsin</b> located on an isthmus between two downtown lakes — is the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.visitmadison.com/blog/stories/post/madisons-quirky-love-for-flamingos/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>plastic pink flamingo</u></a>. A sense of humor flavors Mad City whether your interests favor <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.visitmadison.com/wright-in-madison/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Frank Lloyd Wright landmarks</u></a> or a <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.visitmadison.com/blog/stories/post/cheese-curd-crawl-7-spots-to-get-your-fried-fix/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>cheese curd crawl</u></a>.</p><p>There’s more than curds, brandy Old Fashioneds and the largest farmers market in the country (the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://dcfm.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Dane County Farmers’ Market</u></a>; 3241 Garver Green) to Madison, host of the 21st season of “Top Chef.” Among delights, <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.theharveyhouse.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>The Harvey House</u></a> (644 W. Washington Ave.) from chef Joe Papach, who spent six years as sous chef at the French Laundry, elevates the classic supper club concept in the city’s former train station.</p><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-a40000\" name=\"image-a40000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/65e1bb1/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x842+0+80/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F03%2F9a%2F9b57b9ee4b9eaef12faf19fbe065%2Fmadison-harvey-house-interiors-upstairs-051.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/622137a/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x842+0+80/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F03%2F9a%2F9b57b9ee4b9eaef12faf19fbe065%2Fmadison-harvey-house-interiors-upstairs-051.jpg 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fa8143b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x842+0+80/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F03%2F9a%2F9b57b9ee4b9eaef12faf19fbe065%2Fmadison-harvey-house-interiors-upstairs-051.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"Madison_Harvey-House_Interiors_Upstairs_051.jpg\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fa8143b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x842+0+80/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F03%2F9a%2F9b57b9ee4b9eaef12faf19fbe065%2Fmadison-harvey-house-interiors-upstairs-051.jpg 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/77076ca/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x842+0+80/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F03%2F9a%2F9b57b9ee4b9eaef12faf19fbe065%2Fmadison-harvey-house-interiors-upstairs-051.jpg 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fa8143b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x842+0+80/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F03%2F9a%2F9b57b9ee4b9eaef12faf19fbe065%2Fmadison-harvey-house-interiors-upstairs-051.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>The Harvey House offers elevated supper club classics such as chicken Kiev, a chopped wedge salad and relish tray for two. </p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Courtesy of Harvey House</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><div class=\"Enhancement\" data-align-center> <div class=\"Enhancement-item\" data-crop=\"\"> <figure class=\"Figure\"><a class=\"AnchorLink\" id=\"image-450000\" name=\"image-450000\"></a> <picture data-crop=\"medium\"> <source type=\"image/webp\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2446012/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7896x4431+0+418/resize/490x275!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F3c%2Fe8%2Fb4f2e7a94db9a366470d8b004cfa%2Fmadison-ch48a7-1-1.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6d0ff83/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7896x4431+0+418/resize/980x550!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F3c%2Fe8%2Fb4f2e7a94db9a366470d8b004cfa%2Fmadison-ch48a7-1-1.JPG 2x\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <source width=\"490\" height=\"275\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/19c9f3f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7896x4431+0+418/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F3c%2Fe8%2Fb4f2e7a94db9a366470d8b004cfa%2Fmadison-ch48a7-1-1.JPG\" loading=\"lazy\" /> <img class=\"Image\" alt=\"madison_CH48A7-1 (1).JPG\" srcset=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/19c9f3f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7896x4431+0+418/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F3c%2Fe8%2Fb4f2e7a94db9a366470d8b004cfa%2Fmadison-ch48a7-1-1.JPG 1x,https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2842374/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7896x4431+0+418/resize/980x550!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F3c%2Fe8%2Fb4f2e7a94db9a366470d8b004cfa%2Fmadison-ch48a7-1-1.JPG 2x\" width=\"490\" height=\"275\" src=\"https://cst.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/19c9f3f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/7896x4431+0+418/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchorus-production-cst-web.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F3c%2Fe8%2Fb4f2e7a94db9a366470d8b004cfa%2Fmadison-ch48a7-1-1.JPG\" loading=\"lazy\" > </picture> <div class=\"Figure-content\"><figcaption class=\"Figure-caption\"><p>Bikers enjoy the path outside the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison, Wisc.</p></figcaption><span class=\"line\"></span><div class=\"Figure-credit\"><p>Sharon Vanorny</p></div></div> </figure> </div> </div><p>The League of American Bicyclists gives Madison, which has more than 240 miles of bike paths, its highest rating for bike friendliness. The Madison BCycle bike share program offers easy access to wheels that visitors can take for a two-hour spin around <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.visitmadison.com/things-to-do/outdoors-and-recreation/biking-and-hiking/top-10-trails/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Lake Monona</u></a> and past the <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.olbrich.org/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Olbrich Botanical Gardens</u></a> (3330 Atwood Ave.), which hosts the only Thai Pavilion in the country.</p><p><b>Oompah power:</b> Traditional bands play weekends downtown at the German icon <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://essen-haus.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>Essen Haus</u></a> (514 E. Wilson St.) that get both students and locals up to polka.</p><p><b>Where to stay: </b>Even the fitness center at <a class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.theedgewater.com/\" target=\"_blank\" ><u>The Edgewater</u></a> (1001 Wisconsin Pl.), a 10-minute walk from the Wisconsin State Capital, overlooks Lake Mendota.</p>",
  "title": "Your spring break guide to six Big 10 college towns in the Midwest",
  "updatedAt": "2026-03-01T11:30:16.104Z"
}