Is Dartmouth really as isolated as people say?
I'm starting to make my college list and I keep hearing that Dartmouth is in the 'middle of nowhere.' Can anyone who has visited or currently goes there talk about what the campus feels like and how much there actually is to do nearby?
I grew up in a big city and I'm worried I might get bored or feel stuck if there's not much around town. At the same time, I've read that people bond more closely in smaller college towns. Just trying to figure out how true those stereotypes are and if it would work for someone like me.
Would love to hear any personal experiences about the town, campus vibe, or how easy it is to get off campus when you want a change of scenery.
I grew up in a big city and I'm worried I might get bored or feel stuck if there's not much around town. At the same time, I've read that people bond more closely in smaller college towns. Just trying to figure out how true those stereotypes are and if it would work for someone like me.
Would love to hear any personal experiences about the town, campus vibe, or how easy it is to get off campus when you want a change of scenery.
4 months ago
•
68 views
Grayce Gibbs
• 4 months ago
Advisor
Dartmouth does have a reputation for being remote, and it's definitely different from city campuses. It's located in Hanover, New Hampshire, a small college town surrounded by forests and mountains. The town itself is quite charming—think classic New England with some local shops, cafes, restaurants, and a bookstore. But if you're used to a bustling city with tons of nightlife and huge shopping districts, Hanover will feel much quieter.
However, the campus is very lively. Students are usually pretty busy with classes, clubs, and campus events. There's a strong tradition of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and canoeing, given the location. The student social scene centers on campus and Greek life, but you'll find movie nights, concerts, late-night food spots, and student-organized trips. There are even opportunities to ski at Dartmouth’s own Skiway, just about a 20-minute drive from campus, or take a weekend hike on the Appalachian Trail, which passes close by.
Many students mention that the 'isolation' is a bonding factor. People tend to spend more time with friends, and there’s a real sense of community because you can't just leave for the weekend or spend all your downtime elsewhere. The college frequently brings in speakers, performers, and traveling exhibits to supplement what's in town. For example, there are regular film screenings at The Hopkins Center for the Arts, which keeps things interesting.
In terms of getting off campus, the nearest "big" cities are Lebanon, NH (about 15 minutes away) and Boston (about 2 hours by bus); New York City is around 5 hours by bus. Dartmouth runs buses and shuttles if you want to go into Boston or need an airport connection for breaks.
If you're someone who thrives on spontaneous city adventures or needs a huge variety of restaurants and shops, you might find Hanover limiting. But if you like the idea of a close-knit college community, beautiful nature, and a campus-centric lifestyle, Dartmouth could actually offer a unique and rewarding environment. Maybe it helps to visit if you can, or watch some student vlog tours online to get a more personal sense of the vibe!
However, the campus is very lively. Students are usually pretty busy with classes, clubs, and campus events. There's a strong tradition of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and canoeing, given the location. The student social scene centers on campus and Greek life, but you'll find movie nights, concerts, late-night food spots, and student-organized trips. There are even opportunities to ski at Dartmouth’s own Skiway, just about a 20-minute drive from campus, or take a weekend hike on the Appalachian Trail, which passes close by.
Many students mention that the 'isolation' is a bonding factor. People tend to spend more time with friends, and there’s a real sense of community because you can't just leave for the weekend or spend all your downtime elsewhere. The college frequently brings in speakers, performers, and traveling exhibits to supplement what's in town. For example, there are regular film screenings at The Hopkins Center for the Arts, which keeps things interesting.
In terms of getting off campus, the nearest "big" cities are Lebanon, NH (about 15 minutes away) and Boston (about 2 hours by bus); New York City is around 5 hours by bus. Dartmouth runs buses and shuttles if you want to go into Boston or need an airport connection for breaks.
If you're someone who thrives on spontaneous city adventures or needs a huge variety of restaurants and shops, you might find Hanover limiting. But if you like the idea of a close-knit college community, beautiful nature, and a campus-centric lifestyle, Dartmouth could actually offer a unique and rewarding environment. Maybe it helps to visit if you can, or watch some student vlog tours online to get a more personal sense of the vibe!
Grayce Gibbs
Denver, CO
Dartmouth College (AB); Colorado School of Mines (MS)
Experience
4 years