If you think university towns are for college kids only, think again. These towns often have amenities and activities that are great for travelers, without the cost and crowds of bigger cities.

For example, if you want avoid big cities like Chicago, Indianapolis or St. Louis, try Champaign-Urbana, home to the University of Illinois.

Here, you’ll find cultural attractions such as an acclaimed performing arts venue, the annual Roger Ebert Film Festival, and a 1,500-acre park.

Williamstown, Massachusetts, home to Williams College, is more than just a quaint New England town.

It’s also home to the world-famous Williamstown Theater Festival, as well as the Williams College Museum of Art.

On the West Coast, Santa Cruz is an offbeat little beach town that just happens to be the home of the University of California, Santa Cruz.

When school isn’t in session, the population is only 54,000, with tons of independent book stores and café, and easy access to the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

And, there’s an added bonus when school is out.

Many schools actually rent out dorm rooms for a fraction of the price of a hotel room.

Check out places like Hawaii Mission Academy near downtown Honolulu, which starts from $55 a night, and Gutenberg College in Eugene, Oregon, which starts from $30 a night for a single room.

Get more information with the Budget Travel section.

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