Life as a Clemson student is all about finding your own rhythm in this small, college-town community. When it comes to having fun, everyone seems to have their own way of making the most of it—whether it's through campus traditions, exploring the area, or spending time with friends. Clemson's size fosters a close-knit environment filled with opportunities to unwind and build meaningful connections. So, what exactly do CU students do for fun that is not too far from their Clemson apartment? Let's take a closer look.
Cheer on Clemson Sports
As a student at Clemson University, you will inevitably be drawn into a strong sense of pride and spirit. One of the biggest ways students at Clemson have fun is by cheering on the Tigers at athletic events. With a powerful football program, gamedays in Death Valley are a tradition unlike any other and something that is incredibly unique to Clemson. Tailgates cover every inch of campus, along with colors of orange, white, and purple. From running down the hill to yelling chant songs, football games are a great source of fun for Clemson students. Beyond football, students rally around other sports like basketball, baseball, and soccer, all of which are powerful programs as well. Meeting other passionate students in electric atmospheres like these is what makes every game a fun and unforgettable experience.
Explore Local Beauty Near Off-Campus CU Housing
Although Clemson may seem like a small college town, its local beauty is one of its biggest highlights, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Lake Hartwell, right next to campus, is a popular spot where students can kayak, fish, boat, jet ski, or simply relax by the water on sunny days. If this appeals to you, many of Clemson's off-campus housing options feature lake access. Y-Beach, also on campus, features turf fields perfect for pick-up sports like soccer, football, baseball, kickball, etc. The lake-side beach is perfect for volleyball, spikeball, and throwing a frisbee! Just across from Littlejohn Coliseum, The Dikes offer a peaceful green space atop a hill, where students love to walk, run, or catch a Clemson sunset with stunning views of the lake. For those seeking a more adventurous outing, nearby hiking trails like Table Rock State Park offer challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Downtown Clemson
Clemson University's downtown is a vibrant and charming area that serves as the heart of the town. Offering students a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, downtown Clemson has something for everyone. Popular spots during the day include Tiger Sports Shop, Tiger Graphics, Handel's Homemade Ice Cream, Chipotle, Moe's, and Sully's Steamers. Downtown is just a short walk from campus and hosts multiple Clemson apartments for students that provide the closest proximity to campus. Weekends downtown are something that every student should experience. For the students who can, bars are packed and lively with good bands or music. Popular spots include Roar, Study Hall, TD's, and Tiger Town Tavern. There are also plenty of spots for a late-night snack, such as D.P. Dough, Insomnia Cookies, Todaro Pizza, Your Pie, and much more. The close-knit feel of downtown and the vibrant number of students is what makes this place a very fun spot to be during weekends as a Clemson student.
In conclusion, life as a Clemson student is about balancing academics with the many opportunities to explore, relax, and have fun in this small but vibrant college town. Whether you're cheering on the Tigers at a thrilling game, soaking up the local beauty around Lake Hartwell and nearby trails, or spending time downtown with friends, there's always something to do. The close-knit community, combined with the wide range of activities available, makes Clemson, SC a unique and exciting place to live and study. No matter what you enjoy, there's a piece of the Clemson experience waiting for you right around the corner.