SC has the most underrated college town in the US, travel report says. Here’s where and why
USC fans will hate to admit it, but the city of Clemson has a charming college atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
That’s why Clemson was named as one of the most underrated college areas to visit in the nation, according to a report from KAYAK, a travel services website, which used hotel data between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025, to find where people were heading.
It might sound a little surprising to hear that Clemson made the list, with its small-town feel, but the report found that 84% of travelers say they’d rather explore smaller cities and lesser-known destinations over major hubs.
Additionally, 63% of travelers are embracing shorter, more spontaneous getaways that don’t require weeks of planning. While it’s technically a city and not a town, Clemson and other college towns check every box.
Here’s where Clemson and the other underrated college towns are placed on KAYAK’s list:
#1 Clemson most underrated college town
Clemson took the first-place spot on the most underrated college town list, and for good reason. The reasoning the report gave for Clemson's ranking was its scenic outdoor access and a charming downtown dotted with local bars, restaurants and cafés.
With an average hotel price of $228 per night, Clemson offers a relaxed, sun-soaked escape that still has an unmistakable college feel.
#2. Davis, California
On the other side of the country, the City of Davis, California, which is located outside Sacramento, is the second most underrated college town to visit.
It’s bike culture, farmers markets and laid-back California living made Davis a premier destination for travelers, even if it’s not as popular as other areas in the state.
#3. West Lafayette, Indiana
Home to Purdue University, KAYAK said West Lafayette combines a strong academic presence with a growing food and craft beer scene, making it a surprisingly fun Midwest weekend trip.
#4. Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Chapel Hill is home to UNC-Chapel Hill, which is one of the oldest universities in the U.S., founded in 1789. Offering a unique blend of history, culture and a vibrant downtown, Chapel Hill has a little something for every type of traveler.
#5. Oxford, Mississippi
Oxford, the charming college town of the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, has a nationally recognized food scene. Four Oxford restaurants were named in the Michelin Guide’s inaugural American South selection in 2025.
The culture, restaurants and nightlife keep travelers coming.
#6. Boone, North Carolina
Boone, which has the highest elevation of any town its size east of the Mississippi River, is a walkable college town and a giant outdoor playground. Appalachian State University is located in Boone, and travelers can enjoy the hiking trails and scenic drives through the college town.
#7. Athens, Georgia
Athens is where Southern Charm meets indie spirit, according to KAYAK. The University of Georgia’s college town put American alternative rock on the map, making bands like the B-52s and R.E.M popular in the 70s and 80s.
With a downtown that fills with music almost every night, it’s a destination for travelers that will never get tiresome.
#8. Eugene, Oregon
Nestled along the Willamette River and surrounded by forests and trails, Eugene offers a more outdoorsy take on the college town experience. Home to the University of Oregon, travelers come for the breweries, thriving food scene and beautiful nature.
#9. Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor is where the University of Michigan is located. The college town delivers a mix of culture and charm, with plenty of indie bookstores, an amazing food scene and a prominent art landscape.
#10. State College, Pennsylvania
State College is home to Pennsylvania State University, also known as Penn State. It is a walkable, energetic college town filled with solid dining, local bars and cultural events that keep things interesting well beyond football season.