Contributor - Andrew Barnes | Lifestyle Consultant • 3/20/25

College visits are an integral part of entering adulthood. However, they can also be a logistical nightmare. How do you get from Vanderbilt to Duke? Which hotels offer a balance of proximity to campus while capturing the essence of the college town? Well, we are here to help.

GETTING STARTED: TRANSPORTATION

Regardless of your destination, college visits are the perfect time to rent a car. We know – when you think of car rentals, you probably imagine stressed-out people standing in long lines after a delayed flight. Our partners at Go Rentals have removed all the hassle. Now serving over 250 locations nationwide, they deliver the car directly to the airport and provide clear instructions on where to pick it up and how to get in. With all the paperwork handled in advance, there’s no need to wait for someone to walk you through the check-in process. When you’re done, simply drop the car off at the airport – even if you’re flying out of a different state.

Need to leave your car at the hotel and take a transfer to the airport? They’ve got you covered. Flying into a private FBO? Go Rentals has excellent agreements with many FBOs, making it easy to pick up your rental right at the plane. Having a car at your disposal gives you the freedom to visit as many schools as possible in one trip, explore the town where your child might be living, or even leave that less-than-ideal tour early!

WHERE TO STAY: PICKING THE BEST HOTEL

We all know that a great hotel is essential for any trip, and college visits are no exception. You want to choose a hotel that’s not only close to campus but also gives you a sense of the city your child may call home for the next several years. We’re here to ensure you enjoy both luxury and comfort, while meeting both of these important criteria. We’ve selected several well-known schools along with our top hotel recommendations for each. As always, we’re happy to tailor these suggestions to fit your needs, so feel free to send in your request!

STOP 1: VANDERBILT X THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL NASHVILLE

The Four Seasons Hotel Nashville is ideally located in downtown Nashville, just a 12-minute drive from Vanderbilt’s main campus. With its striking glass façade, it stands out in the city’s skyline. The hotel is only steps away from the city’s iconic music, entertainment, and sports venues, making it the perfect base no matter what you’re in town to experience. You’ll enjoy the high-quality service you expect from the Four Seasons brand, with an extra touch of renowned Southern hospitality. Choose from a variety of room types to create the perfect configuration for you and your family, ensuring maximum comfort. After a quick refresh at the spa, you can enjoy a delicious family dinner or escape to Pushing Daisies, an underground margarita bar.

Members can find our Nashville Destination Guide here.

STOP 2: BOSTON COLLEGE X THE NEWBURY BOSTON

There’s no better way to experience Boston’s Back Bay than by staying at The Newbury Hotel, an iconic landmark in the neighborhood. After a day of touring Boston College, take a leisurely walk back to your hotel in the city through the Boston Public Gardens—what the hotel fondly refers to as its 'front yard.' Once you’ve stayed in their classic park view suite, you’ll find yourself requesting the same room for every parent’s weekend and graduation trip to Boston. The Back Bay boasts an incredible culinary scene, so you’ll have no shortage of options for a celebratory dinner after choosing the right school. But you won’t need to go far—Contessa, nestled within The Newbury’s vibrant lobby, is the perfect spot. The hotel’s team will make you feel so at home, you may even find yourself considering a move to this charming neighborhood!

Members can find our Boston Destination Guide here.

STOP 3: UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS, AUSTIN X AUSTIN PROPER HOTEL

Beyond imagining your future college student as a Longhorn at The University of Texas at Austin, a weekend stay at Austin Proper Hotel will have you envisioning your child as a future Austin resident. With 238 rooms, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you and your family. The hotel is just steps away from Lady Bird Lake, the iconic Austin City Limits Music venue, and a wealth of boutiques, bars, and restaurants. While your prospective Longhorn is out exploring with other students, you can relax by the pool with a hand-crafted cocktail at the rooftop bar or treat yourself to a rejuvenating day at Verbena Spa. With four diverse dining options, you can enjoy a quick bite at La Piscina Ceviches & Fajitas or indulge in a full family dinner at The Peacock.

Members can find our Austin Destination Guide here.

STOP 4: UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA X THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL PHILADELPHIA

Whether you’re drawn to the exceptional athletics program or the rigorous academic offerings of UPenn (or even both), you’ll want a hotel just far enough from campus to unwind—and The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia is the perfect place for that. With rooms starting on the 60th floor, you’ll enjoy stunning, unobstructed views of the city. The hotel features top-tier dining options, including the renowned Jean-Georges Vongerichten and James Beard Award winner Greg Vernick, giving you a true taste of the city. With an incredible spa and an elevated infinity pool that will make you feel like you’re floating on clouds, you’ll find tranquility while your prospective student envisions their future in Philadelphia.

Members can find our Philadelphia Destination Guide here.

Now that you’ve visited all the prospective colleges on your high school senior’s list, let us help you plan the perfect relaxing getaway afterward (whether or not the kids come along is up to you!). We’re here to craft a rejuvenating escape or a fun family road trip to cap off your college visit experience. These moments can feel fleeting as you prepare to send them off on their next adventure, and we’re here to help you make the most of the time you have left. While we can’t make their college commitment decisions for them, we can ensure you make the most of your college visit journey.

Contributor — Andrew Barnes | Lifestyle Consultant

You can always find Andrew with his nose in a book and a negroni in his hand. He is determined to find the best bite of pasta in New York City.

HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT COLLEGE VISIT