5 Insanely Fun College Football Towns

Tailgating, fight songs, and roaring fans… College football is practically synonymous with fall here in the U.S. But forget about watching on T.V. There’s no better way to enjoy gridiron traditions than by going on a football-centric getaway!

But gameday is only one day, so you want to make sure you pick a city with plenty of other activities, too. Not sure where to go? We’ve got you! Check out our favorite college football towns for travel inspiration.

• Ann Arbor, MI (University of Michigan)

  If you love college football and big crowds, put on your best maize and blue and go cheer on the Wolverines.

  The game itself is an amazing experience, with more than 110,000 fans packing “The Big House” (the largest stadium in the U.S.) for every game. Just be sure to bundle up, especially if you catch a game later in the season. Ann Arbor temps are downright frigid!

  Not just one of the biggest college football towns, the 5th-largest city in Michigan has plenty of culture to offer, too. Art lovers and photography enthusiasts will enjoy spending an afternoon walking through Graffiti Alley, where the colorful street art splashes across walls, buildings, and even the sidewalks. Or head over to the Michigan Theater, which showcases indie films, concerts, and live performances.

  Best College Football Town: for screaming yourself hoarse with thousands of new besties

• Austin, TX (University of Texas)

  Hook ‘em Horns! The University of Texas is home to some of the rowdiest (read: most fun) fans in football. And when you’re not at the game? Well, the Texas state capitol has more than enough for you to do.

  More than just one of the top college football towns, eclectic Austin is particularly known for its foodie scene. From brunch to barbecue, there’s something for every palate and price range.

  After hours, downtown Austin comes alive with bars, live music, and some seriously great people-watching.

  Best College Football Town: to let your foodie nature shine

• Baton Rouge, LA (Louisiana State University)

  When it comes to tasty tailgating, Baton Rouge truly stands out amongst its rival college football towns.

  Just a stone’s throw from bustling New Orleans, you’ll find the home of LSU… and its legendary tailgating. Think traditional Creole cuisine: shrimp and grits, jambalaya, and gumbo. Then top it off with free-flowing libations for the ultimate food fest!

  Spend the rest of your time in town exploring attractions such as the LSU Museum of Art, the Old State Capitol Building, and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum.

  Best College Football Town: for tailgating with a Cajun kick

• Los Angeles, CA (University of Southern California and University of California Los Angeles)

  Up for not one, but two, games? Then head over to Cali for a seriously football-packed experience.

  The Bruins (UCLA) play in the world-famous Rose Bowl, located in downtown Pasadena, while the Trojans (USC) have been playing in the LA Coliseum since it was built in 1923.

  And when football’s done? You have the City of Angels at your feet! Take in the tourist sights: Rodeo Drive if you’re feeling fancy, the Ferris wheel at the Santa Monica Pier, or just hang out at one of the city’s many beaches.

  Best College Football Town: for that laid-back SoCal appeal

• Miami, FL (University of Miami)

  A college football game, near one of the best beaches in Florida? Yes, please!

  “The U,” as it’s known to football fans, is located in Coral Gables, just south of Miami Beach. Nearby Coconut Grove is filled with cafes, restaurants, bars, and clubs—pretty much anything you can think of doing on a weekend night (or weekday, we’re not judging!).

  If you really want to get crazy, though, head over to the gorgeous Art Deco streets of vibrant South Beach for a salsa-riffic night out. The Cuban food alone is worth the visit!

  Best College Football Town: for football with a tropical flair

If you’re looking for a great fall vacay, a trip to one of our favorite college football towns is an excellent way to celebrate autumn! These popular locales have all the food, fun, and fans you need for a truly memorable experience.

And if you really want to keep your focus on the football field, ship your stuff to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. We’ll handle your luggage, so all you’ll have to do is hop off the plane and head over to the stadium. Less worries and more football!