Colleges And Universities In Raleigh Nc

5 Great Cities For Young Families

College Station, TX – Situated deep in the heart of Texas, College Station is best known as home to Texas A&M University. It is also known as “Research Valley” and is headquarters for the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. Perhaps because College Station is one of the most educated cities in America is why there is so much attention placed on activities for children of all ages and their families. Combined with the university’s offerings and the city’s vast number of venues for arts and culture, it is almost impossible to decide upon an activity. Between goings-on at the children’s museum, natural history museum, citywide concerts, festivals, and theater productions, there’s plenty to do all the time. Enjoying the great outdoors is a year round option thanks to the area’s mild subtropical climate. Every imaginable sports league exists here in College Station and between seasons there are 1300 acres of parkland to enjoy. Low crime, affordable housing, and a school district recognized for academic excellence round out the picture.

Madison, WI – Wisconsin’s state capital has been listed in recent years on many top ten lists, including, “Best Place to Raise a Family”, “Safest Towns in America”, and “Best Cities for the Arts”. From its impressive skyline to the four lakes that surround it, Madison is especially beautiful. Home to the University of WI-Madison, the city has a young, hip vibe. Known for being bicycle friendly, there are miles of designated bike lanes and trails. Recreational opportunities are plentiful and unique to the area. All of the alpine sports plus ice fishing are favorite winter pastimes. During the summer, people of all ages flock to the local lakes for swimming, sailing, fishing and boating. Arts and music festivals are a frequent occurrence and the city is home to the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Core, whose members ranges in age from 16 to 22. Youngsters delight in the Henry Vilas Zoo and everyone enjoys a trip to the Dane County Farmers Market, which is frequented by many organic farmers, artesianal cheese makers, and local craftspeople.

Raleigh, NC – For a big city with all the trimmings plus plenty of fresh air and wide-open spaces, look no further than Raleigh, NC. Known as “The City of Oaks” because of its tree lined streets and parks; NC’s capital city is full of family friendly neighborhoods that each have their own unique charm. As part of the Research Triangle Park area, Raleigh is home to numerous high-tech, biotech, and telecommunications giants. Due to the tremendous growth of those industries and the huge influx of young professionals, the city has worked hand in hand with educators, business leaders, and local Universities to ensure that the young population’s needs are met. The city’s focus has resulted in excellent schools and recreational facilities that are accessible for all residents. With over 8,000 acres of parkland and 54 miles of greenway, parts of Raleigh feel like a giant playground. If occasional bad weather spoils your outdoor fun, no problem! There are over 15 public venues for art, science, and history. A pedestrian friendly downtown, year round festivals and free concerts, plus special programming on the campus of NC State University will keep your young family on the go.

Chicago, IL – If the phrase, “the mean streets of Chicago” pops into your head when someone mentions the Windy City, it’s time to reexamine this mecca of the Midwest. Today’s Chicago is vibrant, young, and friendly. Excellent schools, low crime, and close-knit neighborhoods are why a steady stream of new residents come here each year. Although a fast big city pace is present, residents still take time for a buttery slice of deep dish Chicago style pizza, and a stroll around Buckingham Fountain. Kids of all ages will delight in the amazing number of possibilities Chicago holds. The city’s 552 parks and 33 sand beaches ensure plenty of space for fresh air, fun, and exercise. Boating and sailing on Lake Michigan with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop are unforgettable experiences. The educational opportunities afforded Chicagoans is outstanding and space does not permit a complete list. A few standouts are: The Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum of Natural History, and The Art Institute. Teenagers love rollerblading around the Navy Pier area or Lake Shore Drive, young ladies look forward to a visit to the American Girl complex, and who doesn’t love a visit to Chinatown? Sports loving families will have some tough choices: Cubs or White Sox? -Blackhawks or Bulls? Just think, as a new Chicagoan, you’ll have time to get in on all the fun!

Papillion, NE – Raising children in an idyllic, natural setting is entirely possible in many parts of the country. Papillion, NE is one such place. Located in eastern NE, and named third in 2009 by Money Magazine, on its list, the “Best Places to Live in America”, and cited “Best Affordable Suburb in America” in 2010 by BusinessWeek, Papillion has a lot to offer. With its close proximity to Omaha, healthy economic climate, cultural diversity, slower pace and impressive recreational venues, Papillion is an ideal location for young families. Its unique city layout reflects the style of 18th century Paris, which was frequently copied.  Parks, trails, and points of interest are connected, grid style throughout the city. From Papio Fun Park to Papio Pool and many stops in between there are endless recreational choices for children and young adults of all ages. Halleck Nature Trail, Walnut Creek and its 500-acre lake, plus a pedestrian friendly downtown area, further enhance Papillion’s quality of life. With a population close to 25,000 and the lowest crime rate in the state, there is a definite small town feeling here. Consider Papillion’s updated educational facilities and standardized test scores that are consistently above the national average, and ask yourself, “Why not Papillion?”

About the Author

Lisa Andree is a marketing professional who helps mortgage companies promote their services and products such as 203K mortgage loans and FHA mortgages online.

Shaw University | Tornado Clean Up