In their latest "10 Best" series article, the writers focused on towns with populations of 50,000 or less. Their criteria for rankings included where best to spend a visit to enjoy local activities, dining and shopping options, and cultural offerings.
Murray came in fourth on the list, noting "lots of pubs and bars, casual restaurants run by local owners, and outdoor outfitters to keep everyone enjoying the local parks which offer amenities like disc golf, a skate park, and a huge soccer complex. Non-collegiate visitors love the famed Calloway County Quilt Trail."
Cape Girardeau was eighth out of ten. The articles highlighted Cape's "trails and parks, from nearby Trail of Tears State Park to the mural-filled Riverfront Park. Same goes for the varied culinary offerings found all around town."
Topping the list was Florence, Alabama, follwed by second-place Oxford, Mississippi. Last year, Oxford was number one on the list.
The complete 2025 list:
1. Florence, Alabama (University of Northern Alabama)
2. Oxford, Mississippi (Ole Miss)
3. Jacksonville, Alabama (Jacksonville State)
4. Murray, Kentucky (Murray State)
5. Clemson, South Carolina (Clemson)
6. Ruston, Louisiana (Louisiana Tech / Grambling State)
7. Saratoga Springs, New York (Empire State)
8. Cape Girardeau, Missouri (SEMO)
9. Williamsburg, Virginia (William & Mary)
10. Frostburg, Maryland (Frostburg State)
(Photos from USA Today article: Dallas Williams, Jake Reubel)
On the Net:
USA Today article
