College of William & Mary
- Local Atmosphere

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William & Mary, though located in the somewhat sleepy city of Williamsburg, is profoundly collegiate and abounding with student-oriented culture. During the day, it's extremely likely that you'll see young men and women laying out on the Sunken Gardens, relaxing on the terrace, or meeting up with friends on the front porch of The Daily Grind coffee shop. It's bustling with busy students most of the time, especially when AMP (the student activities group) organizes a movie screening at Lake Matoaka or a fun concert on the Sunken Gardens. 

Just adjacent to campus is the colonial sector of Williamsburg, which becomes nothing short of whimsical during the holiday season. Besides the eerie-yet-fascinating reenactments that are always taking place along the famous Duke of Gloucester Street, there are nighttime ghost tours (a must during the Halloween season) and what seems like endless taverns where you can purchase a pitcher of ale (if you are of age) or hot, apple cider. There is also a quaint independent movie theater located at the top of the street called the Kimball Theatre, which is as beautiful as it is historic. Most other shopping stores are within walking distance, but the outlets and New Town shopping center are both accessible via the historic trolley system, which is free when you show your William & Mary ID. Though the daytime activities are plentiful, many students have issued complaints about the nightlife, which should be remedied with the installation of new restaurants open until 2 a.m. in the newly built "Tribe Square." Along with this recent addition, there's the remodeled College Delly bar, where students 21 years and older can have a truly "collegiate" experience amongst their peers.

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Local Atmosphere at College of William & Mary

tehdocdre

'14

History

3.5

B

Small Town

Williamsburg is basically a small tourist town lots of places to eat and shop with plenty of museums to visit. Its an interesting place, but if you prefer city life you will be bored.

Feb 03, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at College of William & Mary

jabracaglia

'14

Economics

3.8

B+

Williamsburg Is Interesting

Colonial Williamsburg is actually pretty awesome, and there are now a solid amount of bars literally right next to campus. I think that the amount of bars is actually doubling this year. Campus is about as safe as a college campus gets. Sports are fine and there if you want to get into them, although theyre not a huge presence on campus. Other than parties and the bars, there isnt too much to do off campus at night. Although, im not sure exactly what else you need.

Jan 30, 2012

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Local Atmosphere at College of William & Mary

mpbreidenbaugh

'15

Biology

4.6

A

Intense Academics in an Historic and Serene Environment.

The College of William and Mary is located in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, providing a serene atmosphere where one feels as if they are living in the playground of one of America's most historic niches. A calm atmosphere with the backdrop of beautifully old trees and the occasional scenic landscape acts as an escape from the intense academics. Although the surrounding area outside of campus may appear a little dull, you don't have to travel that far to reach some exciting places like Busch Gardens, or some quality shopping venues like a large outlet mall, etc.

Jan 29, 2012

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