Credit the universities. Without the schools, students and staff, most small towns would be Rip Van Wrinkle sleepy — nice for residents, but not rip-roaring places to visit. Put a university at its heart, and the towns transform into vital centers well worth tourist attention. Most college towns develop in similar ways and share similar structures. To feed budget-minded students, solvent professors and a population from all over the world, college towns sprout a big-city variety of low-cost, upscale and authentically ethnic restaurants. Because many students don't own cars, college towns are pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly, with businesses, entertainment facilities and shops located in one compact area. Being youth-focused, the towns sport opportunities for a variety of physical activities, often in beautiful, natural settings.
http://www.stltoday.com/travel/university-towns-offer-more-than-higher-learning/article_e5532cda-2c72-5d55-a3d6-48893226f057.html
