School spirit isn’t all they have to offer, and fall is a great time to visit.

We found that magic in Athens, Baton Rouge, and Fayetteville.

The rest of the ride was filled with restaurant recommendations, zydeco music, and can’t-miss local favorites.

Athens, Georgia

That was my first introduction to the warm, welcoming, proud community of Baton Rouge, says Ivy.

Staff Photographer Robbie Caponetto returned from the photo shoot mesmerized by the citys natural beauty and gracious hospitality.

And if that’s not enough, our editors listed62 reasonswhy college is just better here.

Southern Living - Special Digital Issue: College Towns We Love

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Charlottesville, Virginia

Oxford, MS

Lucy’s Restaurant in Auburn, AL

Jackson, Mississippi

Raleigh, NC

Dreamland Bar-B-Que in Tuscaloosa, AL

5. Clemson University

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Auburn University Campus

Rollins College

Main Street (formerly Church Street) in Annapolis, Maryland, USA

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Archie Manning

Walker Hayes

Scotty McCreery

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Editor portraits