# A Top College Town

**Source**: https://www.admissions.illinois.edu/visit/cu
**Parent**: https://www.admissions.illinois.edu/discover/campus-life/activities

## Get to Know Champaign-Urbana

The twin cities of Champaign and Urbana combine to form a vibrant, innovative community in which our campus is the heart. As you explore the many perks of big-city living in this affordable, micro-urban location, you'll quickly discover why we earn regular honors as a top college town.

#13\
 U.S. college town \
*(Best College Reviews)*

A Top\
 100 best place to live in America *(Livability)*

A Top\
 inclusive city for the LGBTQ+ community *(Municipal Equality Index)*

90+\
 parks & green spaces

## Where We're Located

With a total population of 128,000, C-U is located in east central Illinois, just two hours south of Chicago.

## About Town

Living local is the culture in C-U, with three distinct spaces—campustown, downtown Champaign, and downtown Urbana—to enhance your experience.

## Things to Do

Here's a list of things you can do in C-U to distract you from homework as necessary.

[Read Blog](https://blog.admissions.illinois.edu/things-to-do-in-champaign-urbana/)

## Upcoming Events

See what's happening in C-U right now, from festivals to live music to exhibits and more!

[View Calendar](https://www.experiencecu.org/events/calendar-of-events)

## Keep Exploring

Learn even more about what our amazing community has to offer you.

[Let's Go!](https://www.experiencecu.org/)