Rated as a day trip:
When Carleton is not in session, its beautiful campus offers a perfect setting for sublime contemplation, pensive meandering, or a lively hike in the proverbial arboretum.
When the students are there, one can watch the fascinating and sometimes frenetic activity, browse in the bookstore or the excellent library, view an exhibit, or attend concerts, theater and lectures. These latter are usually open and free to all, or at a very nominal admission fee.
And all this in historic and charming Northfield, with an intact and inviting downtown, and ... oh yes ... St. Olaf is up there on the hill, too!
Pros: Distinguished school, Attractive campus, Friendly community
Cons: Too peaceful for some
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