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Newark holds a special place in Delaware’s story. From its early days as an important colonial trading center, this strategically located town steadily grew into a hub of industry and culture, with the later addition of a college cementing its reputation for academic pursuits. Fast-forward to today and the presence of the University of Delaware (UD) has led to Newark becoming not only the best college town in Delaware but also one of the best in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.

What exactly makes Newark a great college town? For starters, there’s a close-knit connection between local residents and students, a relationship formed by shared experiences. Now a town of over 30,000 residents, its main thoroughfares bustle with cafés, boutiques, and off-campus study spots patronized by a steady stream of students. Add the institution’s sporting events, cultural offerings, and the entrepreneurial spirit found here, and you’ve got a place that appeals to students, alumni, and travelers alike.

University of Delaware: The Early Years

The University of Delaware (UD) traces its origins to 1743 when the Reverend Francis Alison established a small academy in New London, Pennsylvania, later relocating it to Newark in 1765. Various iterations of this place of learning followed until the academy was officially chartered by the state in 1833 as Delaware College.

Its current name as the University of Delaware was eventually adopted in 1921, since when it has grown significantly, boasting a student body that surpasses 24,000 across undergraduate and graduate programs. It also consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States, with programs in chemical engineering, business, and the arts and sciences proving especially appealing choice for serious scholars.

Many of the university’s more than 200,000 alumni have gone on to make an impact in many ways across the globe, most notably former U.S. President Joe Biden, who earned both his bachelor’s and law degrees here, often returning for speaking engagements and events. His wife, Jill Biden, an educator and First Lady, also holds degrees from UD. Another alumnus is Chris Christie, the former governor of New Jersey.

Shaping Newark’s Character

From its earliest days, the University of Delaware and its predecessors have significantly shaped Newark’s fortunes, as well as its identity. What began as a small academy has grown impressively in scale, causing a ripple effect that continues to resonate in every corner of town. Economically, UD’s influence is significant, benefitting the Northeast Corridor between Boston and New York City to the tune of $4.7 billion annually. Add to this the creation of over 24,000 jobs directly linked to the university, and there’s no denying its impact on the state and the region as a whole has been extremely positive.

Beyond dollars and cents, UD’s cultural footprint is equally vital. The excitement of home games by its football team, the Fightin’ Blue Hens, sees crowds descend upon Delaware Stadium, energizing local restaurants and shops around town. The university’s music and theater programs also draw locals and visitors to concerts and º£½ÇÉçÇø-class productions, while longstanding traditions such as Homecoming unite the broader Newark community with generations of alumni who return for festivities and reunions.

Landmarks like Memorial Hall and the campus’ brick-lined walkways have also become an integral part of the town’s collective identity. Likewise, the school’s programs in science, technology, and engineering link it to local industries that benefit from cutting-edge research and a pool of skilled graduates.

Must-See Campus Landmarks

If you do plan on visiting Newark, be sure to allow the time needed to explore the UD campus (a few hours at minimum will suffice, but the longer, the better if you want to dig deep). Start at The Green, a historic open space framed by classic red-brick academic buildings. It’s a lovely gathering spot that’s especially popular for students relaxing and studying under its mature trees.

Nearby stands Memorial Hall, an iconic structure that houses a large reading room and commemorates those who served in the First º£½ÇÉçÇø War. Built in 1924, its elegant columns and attractive façade have made it a campus favorite, often used as a backdrop for graduating seniors in their caps and gowns. Another highlight is Morris Library, a large facility that provides research materials for an array of disciplines. Stepping inside, you’ll find spacious study areas, rare manuscripts, and archives that chronicle Delaware’s history and the university’s development.

The University of Delaware Botanic Gardens is also worth a stroll and features many examples of local plants and trees along with educational programs focusing on sustainable horticulture.

Things To Do In Newark

While the UD campus is central to Newark’s identity, the surrounding area has its own fair share of places to explore. A popular choice is Main Street, just a 10-minute drive from campus (or a 40-minute walk) and lined with cafés, specialty shops, and casual eateries. It’s here you’ll find Old College Gallery with its changing exhibits of art and historic artifacts relating to American culture and heritage. Speaking of art-related attractions, the Newark Arts Alliance is just a few minutes’ drive from downtown and focuses on exhibitions and workshops featuring local talent.

For outdoor enthusiasts, White Clay Creek State Park is a local treasure. Just a short drive from downtown, it provides scenic trails for walking, jogging, or mountain biking along the winding creek, after which it’s named. Picnic areas and nature programs designed to highlight local wildlife are also available. Closer to campus, the Newark Reservoir offers a pleasant loop trail that circles this sizable man-made lake and is a popular spot for locals to hang out.

For those wanting to make a weekend or mid-week getaway of their visit to Newark, several well-known hotel chains such as the Courtyard by Marriott and Embassy Suites can be found near University of Delaware facilities. For something with extra local flavor, unique properties like Artelo Hotel and The Bookhouse Hotel offer a more personal experience.

The Final Word

Newark certainly stands out as a shining example of a college town that has flourished thanks to the presence of a respected institution. The University of Delaware’s commitment to education, innovation, and community engagement has not only boosted the town’s economic fortunes, it has t also enriched its cultural landscape. What began as a modest academy has transformed into a leading public university, cementing Newark’s reputation as the best college town in Delaware in the process.