The Most Charming College Town In Kentucky Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published October 16, 2023
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Few places attract as broad a group of people as college towns, and this diversity usually translates into a vibrant community. Whether you’re exploring potential schools or just interested in seeing more of the Bluegrass State, Murray should be on your road trip bucket list! Teeming with diverting shops, delicious food, artisanal beverages, and exciting activities, this local gem may be the best small college town in Kentucky.
With just under 20,000 residents, Murray perfectly balances city-sized amenities with small-town-sized personality. Murray residents are experts at making everyone feel at home. In fact, "USA Today" voted it the Friendliest Small Town in America just last year. Its reputation for hospitality is self-evident as soon as you arrive.
Known for its fabulous education programs, innovative Murray State University gives its hometown a palpable sense of energy. Visitors will love strolling through its campus, peppered with meticulously preserved historic buildings.
Just a three-minute drive away, local coffee spots like Shaffer Coffee Co. perform the important task of caffeinating Murray residents. Perhaps the density of delicious cafes in this small town is related to its reputation for friendliness.
Meander through the stunning grounds at The Doran Arboretum. You'll find this educational display garden at Pullen Farm just 10 minutes by foot from campus. Open to the public from dawn until dusk, this horticultural gem contains a butterfly garden, a short trail, and a serene pond.
Prepare to be tempted by Murray's local boutiques. Antique stores like The Wagon house boast unique treasures just waiting for the right eyes to find them!
College students may have a reputation for subsisting on ramen, but this small community takes its food seriously. The Downtown Farmers Market is open every Saturday between May and October. Peruse the offerings of local vendors for delicious seasonal ingredients!
Murray is known as the "Gateway to Kentucky Lake" and it's also a stone's throw from the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Comprising 171,280 acres, this is the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers. Gape at majestic herds of bison, learn at an 1850s working farm, and marvel at the park's planetarium.
If you’re planning an in-state trip, we at OnlyInYourState think Murray should be at the top of your list. This small college town in Kentucky is brimming with delicious food, fun activities, and loads of outdoor adventure. There’s no denying that the Bluegrass State has no shortage of charming communities, but in just one visit, friendly Murray will work its way into your heart.
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