planning college visits east coast

12 February 2015

Suggested College Tour Itineraries

Here are some suggestions for schools to visit, grouped by region, to get you rolling. Each list includes 5-6 schools that offer a range of sizes, settings and selectivity to help imagine the possibilities.  We also suggest others worth considering and why.  

Cities currently covered include Boston, New York City, Syracuse, Washington DC, Chicago, Cleveland, San Francisco and Los Angeles.  

Click on the Continue Reading link below to see our suggestions, or try our College Tour Planner to build your own custom campus tour itinerary.

Suggested starting point

• Boston College
• Northeastern
• Boston University

These popular Boston area schools represent a good mix of size, setting and admissions selectivity.  All are easily accessed via public transportation, and given their relative proximity you can squeeze in two campus visits a day if necessary.  

For a taste of smaller schools in more rural locations, consider driving to western Massachusetts to visit Amherst , Williams , Hampshire College , Smith or UMass Amherst .  If you're interested in engineering, check out Olin , UMass Lowell and WPI , and if you're interested in entrepreneurship visit Babson .  

• Sarah Lawrence

Though we've contained the list to schools in NYC, it's easy to venture out into upstate NY, Connecticut, New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania if you're game.  If you're interested in visiting Ivy League schools, both Yale and Princeton are within relatively easy reach by car, bus or train. Cornell is four hours away, but if you head up that way you can also visit Colgate and Hamilton to give you a taste of small, medium and large schools in rural settings.  

• Syracuse University
• Ithaca College
• Hobart and William Smith

The schools on this list offer a great mix of size, setting and selectivity. If environmental science and forestry are your thing, check out SUNY ESF , and if you have time to venture to Rochester, check out the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology .

Washington DC

• American University
• George Washington
• Johns Hopkins
• University of Richmond
• University of Virginia

The schools on this list are medium to large schools in suburban and urban settings. Time permitting, consider also checking out William & Mary , Virginia Tech and Washington and Lee .  

• University of Chicago
• Northwestern
• University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign
• University of Wisconsin

These schools are all classic medium-large universities. For a smaller school experience, check out the Colleges that Change Lives in the area, such as Knox , Beloit , Wheaton , Wabash , Kalamazoo and Cornell College .  

• Case Western
• Carnegie Mellon
• University of Michigan

These schools provide a broad mix of sizes and settings. Kenyon and Oberlin exude a small school, small town feel, Ohio state and Michigan a classic Big Ten college town feel, and Case Western and Carnegie Mellon a more urban feel.

San Francisco

• UC Berkeley
• UC Santa Cruz
• University of San Francisco
• Santa Clara University

Most of the San Francisco Bay area schools tend to be larger in size, but offer great variety in terms of locale/setting. Three popular University of California campuses are within two hours: the more rural, bicycle-friendly Davis, the urban, progressive Berkeley, and the earthy-crunchy Santa Cruz.  

Los Angeles

• Claremont Colleges
• UC San Diego

These popular Southern California schools offer a good mix of size, setting and selectivity. You'll need a car to see them all, but in certain situations it's still very possible to squeeze in two campus visits a day.  The Claremont Colleges— Pomona , Claremont McKenna , Pitzer , Harvey Mudd and Scripps —are particularly interesting to visit because of their setup as a consortium with distinct campuses but shared classes.

If you're interested in STEM fields, be sure to check out Caltech and Harvey Mudd. If film or animation are your thing, check out Chapman University , Cal Arts and Loyola Marymount in addition to USC and UCLA.

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Navigating College Tours on the East Coast

March 27, 2018

Spring break is coming, and I’m sure you’re all dreaming of family vacations or taking a much need rest from your school work. However, for all you juniors out there, it’s time to start visiting colleges! We know this is a daunting task and sometimes you only have a few days to try to see as many schools as possible. With all of this in mind, we decided to create a few East Coast driving trips to help you see as many schools in any region as possible.

NORTHEASTERN LOOP:

Yale University (NYC → Yale: 2 hrs)

Connecticut College (NYC → Conn College: 2 hrs 15 mins)

Brown University (NYC → Brown: 3 hrs 30 mins)

Optional: Visit Clark University on your way to Amherst

Amherst College (NYC → Amherst: 3 hrs 15 mins)

Optional: see any of the other four colleges near Amherst College: Hampshire, Smith, Mt. Holyoke, or UMass

Trinity College (NYC → Trinity: 2 hrs 30 mins)

Wesleyan University (NYC → Wesleyan: 2 hrs 15 mins)

NYC →2:00→ Yale →0:47→ Conn College →1:00→ Brown →1:00→ Amherst →1:00→ Trinity →0:30→ Wes

BOSTON LOOP:

Wellesley College (NYC → Wellesley: 3hrs 50 mins)

Babson College (NYC → Babson: 3 hrs 50 mins)

Brandeis University (NYC → Brandeis: 3 hrs 40 mins)

Tufts University (NYC → Tufts: 4 hrs)

Harvard University (NYC → Harvard: 3 hrs 45 mins)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Boston College (NYC → Boston: 3 hrs 45 mins)

Boston University

Northeastern

Optional adds: see Bentley when you visit Brandeis & see Emerson the same day you see BU & Northeastern

NYC →2:00→ Yale →1:40→ Brown →1:15→ Wellesley →0:10→ Babson →0:20→ Brandeis →0:30→ Tufts →0:15→ Harvard →0:10→ MIT →0:15→ BC →0:15→ BU →0:10→ Northeastern

NORTHERN LOOP:

Sarah Lawrence (NYC → SLC: 1 hr)

Vassar College (NYC → Vassar: 2 hrs)

Marist College

Bard College (NYC → Bard: 2 hrs 20 mins)

Williams College (NYC → Williams: 3 hrs 30 mins)

Skidmore College (NYC → Skidmore: 3 hrs 30 mins)

(Union College)

Middlebury College (NYC → Middlebury: 5 hrs)

Optional: Head to Maine and see Bowdoin, Colby, and Bates – OR – head to Montreal, Canada and see McGill University

NYC →0:30→ SLC →1:15→ Vassar →0:15→ Marist →0:45→ Bard →1:40→ Williams →1:25→ Skidmore →1:50→ Middlebury →1:40→ Dartmouth

WESTERN/UPSTATE NY LOOP:

Muhlenberg College (NYC → Muhlenberg: 2 hrs)

Cornell University (NYC → Cornell: 4 hrs)

Colgate University (NYC → Colgate: 4 hrs 15 mins)

Hamilton College (NYC → Hamilton: 4 hrs 20 mins)

Optional: Head back through MA and upstate NY to see Williams, Bard, Vassar, Marist, & Sarah Lawrence College

NYC →2:00→ Muhlenberg →3:00→ Cornell →1:30→ Colgate →0:30→ Hamilton →2:00→ Skidmore →1:50→ Middlebury

PENNSYLVANIA LOOP:

Lafayette College

Lehigh University

Muhlenberg College

Optional: Drive out & see Bucknell & Dickinson – OR- go all the way to Carnegie Mellon

Villanova University

Swarthmore College (NYC → Swarthmore: 2 hrs 15 mins)

University of Pennsylvania (NYC → UPenn: 2 hrs)

NYC →1:45→ Lafayette →0:30→ Lehigh →0:30→ Muhlenberg →1:30→ Villanova →0:30→ Swarthmore →0:30→ UPenn

SOUTHERN LOOP:

Johns Hopkins

Optional: While in DC you can also see George Washington University, American University, & the Catholic University of America

Optional: Add in or trade in University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, College of WIlliam & Mary, and University of Richmond

NYC →1:30→ Princeton →1:00→ UPenn →2:00→ Johns Hopkins →1:10→ Georgetown →2:20→ UVA →3:20→ Duke

14 Tips for an Effective College Visit

Visiting a college can help a student determine if he or she wants to spend the next four years there.

Getty Images |

Finding the right fit.

For high school students in the process of researching a variety of colleges and universities , admissions professionals recommend scheduling campus visits to get a better feel for the schools. Some colleges track whether prospective students make an in-person visit and count it as "demonstrated interest," which could help admissions chances. For both students and families, campus visits are an important part of the process when choosing which college to attend. "They are very likely to show you things that you didn’t know you cared about. That’s a great first step," says Rachel Rubin, co-founder of admissions consulting company Spark Admissions. "It’s really important for families to think about what they want to know.” Here are 14 tips for how students can get the most out of college visits.

(Getty Images) |

• Start planning early.

As students get closer to the final year of high school, their schedules are filled trying to balance school and a social life – all while exploring potential college campuses. To ease the stress, students and families may want to make visits sooner, ideally before senior year. The College Board recommends spring of junior year as a good time to visit campuses for students who have already done the research on those colleges. College visits are a good use of downtime over spring break, as well. Late summer and early fall before senior year are also convenient times, the College Board website notes, adding that classes may already be in session, allowing prospective students a fuller glimpse of campus life.

• Ask questions.

A campus visit is a great chance to not only see the campus, but also to ask questions about the school and what the experience is like on campus. While some information can be found on a school's website, speaking with student ambassadors or school officials while visiting campus can provide additional important information necessary for making a smart college decision. "I think the best way to make the most of the tours is to ask a lot of good questions of the tour guide and to engage with any current students to get their opinion on life on the campus,” says Satyajit Dattagupta, chief enrollment officer and senior vice chancellor at Northeastern University in Massachusetts.

• Get student perspectives.

The largest population on any college campus is the student body. Given their collective experience, it's likely they'll have opinions to share on academics, facilities, dining services , student life and more. Talking to current students is a valuable part of vetting a college and can provide prospective students with unfiltered perspectives about the school and the student experience. "Talk to as many students as you can to get a flavor of the student population," says Liz Doe Stone, a senior private counselor for Top Tier Admissions, an admissions consulting company. "Email students from your high school who attend that school and ask to get together for coffee when you’re on campus."

• Explore college through the lens of campus media.

Student newspapers can be a valuable source of insight into what's happening at a college. But don't stop there. The College Board's campus visit checklist also recommends tuning in to the campus radio station and reading other campus publications such as literary reviews and department newsletters. This allows students to find out what issues are popular on campus, controversies happening, new programs being created, what students are excited about and trends to be aware of, Stone says. "The more that you can do ahead of time to get to know the campus culture so that you can ask good questions to current students, that’s another great way to get a more authentic sense of what’s going on or what it would be like to be a student there."

• Visit academic departments.

Along with being comfortable with the campus environment, students should explore academic departments that interest them. A great way to start can be touring facilities, sitting in on a class and meeting professors . This is a good way for students to learn about the areas where they might be spending the most time if they choose to attend school there, and it's also valuable information when comparing schools. For best results, email professors or administrators ahead of time to set up a meeting, Stone says, but even informal visits can be valuable.

• Check out other campuses nearby.

When visiting a college in person, prospective students should consider visiting other campuses nearby. Many major metro areas are home to multiple colleges, and even rural areas may have colleges that are surprisingly close together. As students plan their visits, families should take note of other options near the schools they intend to visit. "If you're going to spend some time traveling, whether it be across the state or across the country, you might as well try to maximize that and investigate other opportunities that are close and convenient," says Collin Palmer, associate vice president of enrollment management at Kent State University in Ohio.

• Learn about the local community.

While the college is the main attraction, students shouldn't overlook the surrounding community where they may live and work when off campus. Take time to discover coffee shops, restaurants and other places you might enjoy visiting frequently, and consider how the community might factor into your education aspirations, says Kent Hopkins, vice president for academic enterprise enrollment at Arizona State University and ASU Global. Determine whether the community will provide internship or externship opportunities or serve as a potential career launch pad, he says. Palmer adds that students should also consider whether they're looking for an urban or rural experience , or what size city they prefer.

• Visit a dining hall or student center.

The college dining hall is not only a place where many students consume a majority of their meals, but it also tends to be a community hub where students congregate to study or meet for clubs. Given the likelihood that much of a student's time will be spent in the dining hall or student center, experts say students and families should plan to eat at least one meal on campus to get a sense of available food options and other amenities. "That can be a great way not only to sample the on-campus food options, but also to have informal conversations with current students in line or at a nearby table,” Stone says. Some schools have particularly tasty options , and those with dietary restrictions should get a sense of whether the school can cater to their needs.

• Explore the campus library.

Another place where students spend significant time is the campus library. Many campuses have more than one library, and there's often variety in what each library offers. Some have coffee shops and restaurants. Stone notes that some are open-stack libraries, meaning students can browse, select and check out books themselves. Others are closed-stack, meaning library staffers retrieve the books for students. Similarly, some campus libraries offer a slew of private study rooms with modern technology available to use for various projects. Prospective students should use the campus visit to make sure the school library fits their academic needs.

• Explore various virtual tour options.

Some colleges may be too far from home for students to make an initial visit. Online tools allow prospective students to take virtual tours from the comfort of their couches. Students can take self-guided virtual tours or sign up for more interactive options such as 360-degree video and virtual reality. Experts say virtual tours are good substitutes for those unable to visit in person. Some guided in-person tours may not take students to all the places they want to see, but through virtual tours students can investigate other aspects of campus. Virtual tours are especially valuable for international students, experts say.

• Ask about campus safety.

With the amount of time traditional college students spend on campus, feeling safe on school grounds is an important factor to consider when exploring colleges. Prospective students should ask tour guides about campus safety policies. In virtual campus tours, students can ask guides or the admissions office for more information. Federal law requires colleges to release information related to crime on and around campus. Families can check annual security reports to see recent incidents on campus. If anything stands out as a cause for concern, ask the school for more information on campus safety . While on campus, asking students how comfortable they feel at the school is a good way to gauge how safe students generally feel, Hopkins says.

• Get financial aid information.

Along with understanding the culture of a school and the academic options it provides, students should research financial aid opportunities at a college. A campus visit is an opportunity to do just that. Finding out the types of aid available, such as merit-based and need-based, is one of the first questions students should ask when speaking with the financial aid office, Rubin says. “Students can also bargain for more money once they’re accepted, and that’s where they really have a leg up," she says. This can also help students budget for attending that school, Hopkins says, noting that families should be aware that cost of attendance is not the sticker price. Families should factor in room and board, travel expenses for students attending away from home and any aid or income that could help offset costs.

• Ask about disability accommodations.

Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, any school that accepts federal money is legally required to provide accommodations for qualifying students with disabilities . Some do the bare minimum, but others have strong programming for students with disabilities because they have a high number of students needing services. Some charge fees for certain services, like tutoring, so experts suggest taking time on a college visit to meet with the disabilities services office to ask what’s available and at what cost. “It’s really important for students to understand to what extent they need to fight for these services and always be on top of their teachers and make sure their accommodation plan goes out to everybody at the start of each semester," Rubin says.

• Meet with clubs and organizations.

A big part of the college experience is the social component, and experts say students should make sure they attend a school where they can get involved in clubs and organizations. For example, students who are interested in joining a fraternity or sorority should check out Greek life housing and meet with the campus administrator overseeing Greek organizations. Those who enjoy sports recreationally should reach out to presidents or leaders of club sports organizations or someone who organizes intramural sports, Stone says. “I always tell students to talk to any extracurricular leaders tied into your interest,” she says. "So if you’re a violin player, speak to someone in the music department. If you love drama, talk to someone who is the head of the theater club."

Learn more about colleges.

Get more advice about how to choose a college and check out the complete rankings of the Best Colleges to find the school that's best for you. For more advice and information on selecting a college, connect with U.S. News Education on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook .

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How To Plan a College Tour Vacation

As you start going from college to college, you'll notice that most seem more alike than different. So you'll want to come with questions that will help you suss out which one is the right one for you. Some helpful questions to ask:

• Do most of the students live on campus?
• How hard is it for students to get a space in the class they're hoping to take?
• What's the teacher/student ratio? What's the average class size?
• How much of the instruction is done by actual professors, and how much by teaching assistants?
• Are there opportunities to do research? To study abroad affordably? To do an internship while in school?

Liz Marx, a counselor with Collegewise , also recommends keeping an eye out for clues to the zeitgeist of the school. "I tell my clients to look at the kiosks up around campus,” says Marx. “If they only have flyers about mime festivals and pie baking competitions, they might not appeal to a teen who’s, say, more into politics or the sciences." ( Pictured: Students at Washburn University in Topeka, KS)

On most every college application is the question: "why do you want to go to this school"? So your kid should be thinking about how they'll answer that question as they're touring. And, no surprise, the more specific they can be, the better. My daughter found that writing down answers on the spot helped. She also took notes about the oddities we encountered (like a school that brings in huge blocks of ice so that students can shape them with a torch and pick during a winter festival; or a tour guide who seemed unusually fond of fondue) to help jog her memory of which school was which. ( Pictured: Princeton University in New Jersey)

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How to Plan the Ultimate College Visit Road Trip

May 28, 2021

by Bryan Wendell

Photo by Emily Paine, Communications

When planning a road trip, your options extend for miles in every direction.

You could traverse Route 66, eating only at roadside diners along the way. You could follow the Mississippi River, stopping at historic markers as you go. You could even head straight for Cawker City, Kan., to visit the world's largest ball of twine.

But if your family's vacation planning intersects with your college search timeline, then there's only one type of road trip for you.

With a full tank of gas, the perfect playlist and a well-crafted plan, you'll have everything you need to organize the ultimate college visit road trip.

A college visit road trip, typically planned during summer vacation or spring or fall break, allows families to visit several schools in a condensed period. Unlike some road trips where spontaneity is the plan, college visit road trips work best with careful planning. That way, you'll maximize every moment and get a better feeling for the schools on your list.

Follow the steps below, and you'll be on your way.

Listen to our College Admissions Insider Podcast Episode

Step 1: finalize your list of schools.

By now you've probably created a list of schools that have caught your attention — perhaps because they offer your major, are in a good location or you know someone who had a positive experience there.

Now it's time to make the first cut. You'll want to identify which schools deserve a closer look through an in-person visit. Ask yourself: Am I interested enough in this school to want to spend at least two hours there — plus travel time? If the answer is yes, that's a good sign.

If you still have too many schools on your list, consider assigning each one a grade — 1 to 10 — based on your level of interest. Then determine which grade a school must receive to warrant an in-person visit. Perhaps every school with a 7 or higher makes the cut. Still too many? Raise the floor by another point and count again.

Remember that your cuts aren't permanent. You can always plan later one-off visits to schools you skipped if you think they deserve another look.

Step 2: Group Your Finalists Geographically

Whether your finalists number seven or 27, you'll want to put them all onto a map to see if any natural geographic clusters emerge.

Choose an offline or online solution based on your preference. You could plot the schools as dots on a printed map or atlas. Or you could use a free tool like Google My Maps to create a custom map you can share with family and friends.

With your finalists plotted, try to look for schools you can group together. Find the driving times between schools in a similar cluster. How long will you need to visit all the schools in that cluster? Are there any natural "pairs" of schools — perhaps two in the same city — you could visit in the same day?

Step 3: Make a Spreadsheet

Create one spreadsheet for each geographic cluster of schools.

Make one column for the school's name and another for the address of the Office of Admissions, or wherever tours begin. Make seven more columns — one for each day of the week.

Next, visit that school's Admissions page to see when tours and scheduled visits are offered. Plot that information into the columns on your spreadsheet.

Taking time to create this spreadsheet will save you time when planning your route in the next step. You'll be able to easily see whether your plan to visit School A on Friday, Schools B and C on Saturday and School D on Sunday could even work.

Step 4: Design Your Route and Plan

With all the pieces assembled, it's time to put the puzzle together. Start designing the route so you can visit as many schools as possible without doubling back or going too far out of your way.

To minimize stress and allow yourself time to explore the school and surrounding area — maybe even grabbing lunch on campus and visiting some shops downtown — try to plan one school visit per day. Two in a day is doable, but any more than that and you risk everything blurring together in your mind.

This is also the stage when you'll want to begin registering for visits and tours — even before booking hotel rooms.

While some schools welcome unannounced or walk-in visitors, many require reservations in advance — especially for experiences that have limited capacities, such as information sessions, tours and lunches with students.

You might find that school visit schedules don't align perfectly with your plan, and that's fine. For a few schools on your list, perhaps those a little lower in your rankings, you might need to plan for an unannounced visit.

That might mean you don't book an info session or campus tour but still spend an hour walking around the campus. Many schools, like Bucknell, offer self-guided tours or driving tours for this exact purpose.

One more note about planning your route: Once you've booked your campus tours, start planning other ways to get to know the town. Scout out a local lunch spot, museum or state park to get a better feel for what college life might be like in each community you visit.

Step 5: Maximize Each Stop

During your college visit road trip, make the most of each college you visit. Here are some ideas:

• Follow the school's social media accounts . A college or university's official social media channels can give you a good idea of what life on campus is like as well as the latest news. If the school has any Admissions-specific accounts, follow those, too. These can be a great way to get to know a school — plus they might alert you to any last-minute changes to campus visit offerings.
• Ask the right questions . Choose some ideas from this list of 80 questions to ask on your college tour , or come up with your own.
• Take notes . All those college visits can start to blend together — especially a few weeks after you get home. Prevent that by taking good notes, writing down things you liked and didn't like. You might even jot down some details to jog your memory later, such as what the tour guide was wearing, what you ate or something funny that happened during the tour. Many students say the best time to take these notes is right when you get in the car after the visit.
• Talk to students . Your tour guide is an expert in answering your questions and giving you a comprehensive overview of life at that school. But, in most cases, they're also getting paid to do that job. To make sure you also get an unfiltered view, ask a few students what they like and don't like about that particular college. It might be awkward to approach a stranger like that, but you'll be glad you asked.

Step 6: Remember That You’re on Vacation

In many ways, a college visit road trip is like a business trip. You're there to complete a task: find out firsthand which colleges feel right.

But just because the trip has a defined purpose doesn't mean it can't be enjoyable, too. In some families, this might be one of the last times everyone gets to take a trip together before you're off to college.

Enjoy the moments you have together. Resurrect an old driving game you used to play as a kid, like finding license plates from as many different states as you can. Schedule some days where you don't visit any schools but do some sightseeing instead. Take turns being the in-car DJ.

College is the ultimate journey, so why not plan a college visit road trip to match?

Reminders and Tips

• Take the journey with a friend . If you have a friend whose college list is similar to yours, see if your families can take the trip together. You'll have fun, be able to compare notes with your friend and could even save on lodging or gas.
• Pace yourself . Try not to overschedule or plan unrealistically. For example, if a campus tour ends at 5 p.m., you might not want to drive three hours to get to the next hotel in the city where you have a 9 a.m. tour the next day.
• Stay hydrated . You'll be outside a lot during this college road trip, so prepare like an athlete. Eat high-energy food, drink lots of water and get some rest.
• Take pictures . Just like notes can jog your memory (Step 5), pictures can have the same effect. After each visit, take a few minutes to move your favorite photos into a special album on your phone. When you get home, you'll have a complete slideshow you rewatch as needed.
• Talk to your high school counselor . Check with your high school's college counselor, if there is one. This person might have some road trip planning trips specific to your area. There's a good chance someone from your high school has planned a trip similar to the one you're about to enjoy.

We did this whole marathon road trip — two or three schools a day, all over the East Coast. A lot of the schools were more in the city, but I got to Bucknell and I thought the town was so cute.

Ashlyn Ramos ’22, a computer science major from Sammamish, Wash.

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Northeast M.D. College Tour

Northeast M.D. College Tour This Northeast College Tour highlights universities with exceptional pre-med tracks, pre-med majors and B.A./M.D. programs for high achieving students looking to pursue medical professions. The road to medical school requires immense discipline, dedication, and strategic planning. This tour includes at ivy leagues like Harvard University, private schools like Tufts University and public institutions like Rutgers University. … Continue reading Northeast M.D. College Tour

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My daughter has applied to a number of schools in Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. We live in California.

We want to tour each, and she’d like to arrange overnight visits at as many as possible, so we’re trying to work out a schedule. Most of the schools do overnights for admitted students only, and of course, we won’t know until the very beginning of April where she’s been admitted.

So I guess we go ahead and start scheduling a trip, but try to keep things as flexible as possible.

I’m just not sure how closely I can pack these school visits! I see professional tours that do two schools per day for 3 or 4 days in a row, but that doesn’t seem to give much time to appreciate the different experiences.

Is it feasible to do overnights at 3 schools, three nights in a row? Or is that too much for a prospective student to digest?

Her spring break is from Saturday April 8 until Monday April 17 (the 16th is Easter). We can stretch it afterwards, I suppose, but not too long - she has to prep for AP testing in early May.

Here’s where she’s applied:

Maine Bowdoin Bates Massachusetts: Amherst Smith Mt. Holyoke Pennsylvania Bryn Mawr Dickinson

Is it hopeless to try to do this in one long trip? Should I just give up and schedule a trip in March and one in April?

Thanks for any advice-

It makes more sense to plan the trip after you have the admissions decisions and those should start coming out in mid March. That being said, it is probably not feasible to do overnights , 3 consecutive nights in a row, and you really can’t plan them until you get the decision. For now, I would encourage your D to gather as much info on the schools as possible and come up with a pecking order. That may help to narrow things down once decisions are in.

Odds are she either won’t get into all of them, or, if she does, that she’ll be able to narrow the field so she only needs to visit some of them once she knows her options.

We were in an analogous situation last year with schools the kid was interested in on both coasts and in between, and just waited until all the decisions were in and worked it out from there. Many of the schools have information up on the timing of admitted students days/weekends, so I had all those in my calendar, and knocked them off for the no’s and then figured it out from there. (Also, a lot of them put out decisions BEFORE 4/1.)

One difference is that you can (if you have the stamina) drive amongst the listed schools, so could theoretically just purchase flights to Boston or NY now, and figure out the details later, but I might still be inclined to wait. Your needs will be different if you’re visiting 7 schools (which I don’t recommend – try to eliminate some on paper) vs. 3 schools.

Also wouldn’t necessarily recommend focusing too much on a pecking order … that can be a setup for disappointment.

First…you should check the school schedules. Many schools don’t have classes on Good Friday, and their offices will be closed that day, Saturday and definitely Easter Sunday. If that is the case…your actual days to visit schools is reduced.

In addition…it’s a bit of a schlep from Maine to Pennsylvania. I’m not sure I would try to see all of these and especially do overnights…at 7 schools in what will likely only be from from April 8 to April 13 because of the Easter holiday.

Has she not seen any of these schools or the areas yet?

Keep in mind also, many schools only allow accepted students to do overnights…so you might have to wait.

If it were me…I would wait until she is accepted…and then schedule visits to her top three choices only.

These are about 15 minutes apart and I still wouldn’t try to do them in one day…but two might work.

It’s about 3 1/2 hours to Bowdoin/Bates from there so theoretically they could happen in a week with the MA schools.

The PA schools might merit their own trip.

Or wait and see where she’s accepted but plan to fly into Boston or Hartford and reserve a rental car if you must book flights before you know.

We did 2 a day just for 3 days in a row and it was definitely too much.

A couple of things to note for the potential visit to Maine for people from California (my son is a senior at Bates). First, it’s unquestionably a PITA to get there. (Now think about your child making that trip approximately 16 times over the next four years, mostly during the worst possible weather.) Second, April is known locally as Dead Season and for good reason. We visited in late April and it was snowing during the campus tour. Anyway, the point is that it won’t be “spring” in Maine until after your daughter has to make a decision. I would also advise prioritizing class visits over overnight stays, and try to find a class where there will be some discussion happening instead of a lecture. A good seminar is eye-opening for a lot of high school students. Note that Bates didn’t use to permit class visits, but they may have changed their policy.

I agree with others that you really shouldn’t visit until she gets acceptances at this point. My kid also attends Bates, and in your shoes, should she get admitted to Maine and Mass schools, that’s a pretty easy drive. If she expects to hear from all schools in mid March to the end of March, I personally can’t see how she will find time to visit any more than three. She should visit her top three choices. If PA schools end up in the top three, I think you should consider a flight to Philly or Harrisburg from Boston.

An accepted students visit should be a whole day thing. Dickinson for one will create a customized day visit based on her interests. They did an excellent job for my D. I expect other colleges do the same. Be sure to give enough notice, a week’s notice is the minimum. There is no need to specifically attend accepted students days and if you don’t have time to do those, don’t fret. The schools want her to enroll so call the AO and discuss how to make the time work for you. My kid personally preferred the customized visit over the accepted students days. Overnights are also not essential IMO. Many students like them, and yes, they can be useful. But they aren’t necessary. Your D should talk to plenty of kids while visiting. She can ask about night life on campus.

Niche is a good site for students to get a good idea of campus culture, academics, and more. Many colleges alos have parent volunteers who will make,themselves available for questions. I talked to several parents when my D was making her decisions, I found that useful. And your D should find student volunteers who are willing to talk to prospective students so that she can narrow down her choices.

BTW, I am a three college a day person when doing initial visits. I just find it a better use of time. But probably NOT for admitted student visits, when they are thinking of their final choices. I do think most of a whole day should be spent at the final three.

Bates did permit class visits last year (and was one of the few that did OV for students who had not yet applied - but only on specific days in the fall, so that’s unlikely to be helpful for OP.)

In any case, I would wait until decisions were in hand then do my best to schedule around admitted student days. You can check dates on websites to see if any of those are falling in place with your schedule. They tend to be well-run with the idea of making as much available to you as possible so that you can make a good decision. And I know that some schools (Dickinson is one on your list) do Saturday events, often with something Friday evening, that effectively add a possible day to the schedule.

As for 3 OV in a row, yes, too much. Usually, when the schools do them, they have kids arrive Sunday afternoon, have some activities (and scheduled meetings with coaches, etc. If relevant ), then Monday morning classes and shuttle to airport on Monday afternoon. DS came home like a dish rag every time.

Fwiw, every time we visited 2 schools on one day, DS felt negative to ho-hum about the afternoon one. Could have been coincidence, but the exhaustion factor, coupled with the different energy on campus in the afternoon, really made it hard for the afternoon schools to get a fair shake.

Also remember that when you’ve been accepted, the school may be able to accommodate a “make a day” request (again, Dickinson does this) that would be impossible to do for applicants.

Lastly, I am going against the wisdom of most posters here and will suggest that you visit all of the ones where she’s been accepted unless she knows for sure she would not attend one given her options. In DS’ case, visiting with the very intentional framework of “what would it be like to come here 4 months from now and live here for 4 years?” was very different from “does this seem like a good school for me and should I apply?” And seeing so many options really crystallized what felt best. It seems like you have the time…

PA, MA, and ME is a bit of a stretch. MA and ME together is workable. You would need to allocate more days to the PA leg to make it enjoyable IMO. Otherwise the schools are all crammed together.

Too many visits, too packed, can turn a kid’s processing to mush. And sometimes, for regular visits, you can have trouble getting from the morning visit to the 2nd school, before the last tour. (So check that sort of thing.) And on a non-OV, you do not need to go to each school’s info session.

Bates is about an hour from Bowdoin. For a regular visit, you could stay in Brunswick and later get over to Bates for a day. (But the only overnight D1 did was Bates and that sealed the deal.) I will say Brunswick is a little more hopping, for an overnight (Maine’s nicely laid back.)

It doesn’t always snow so late. (They just got 2 feet, but realize New England folks know how to shovel and clear walks. And rooves, lol.) I think the bigger threat is mud season (but that’s more whine than trouble.)

For Amherst, Smith, Mt. Holyoke I would do two in one day and one on another. Stay in Northampton. It’s a very cute little town.

Monday, April 17 is Patriot’s Day (state holiday in MA and ME and Marathon Monday in Boston) - Boston colleges are often closed. Also, public school vacation is that week, so flights from Boston or Portland to CA might be crowded/booked. Don’t know about PA school schedule.

I agree with @wisteria100 Once you know the potential financials you can pare the list down to the realistic ones

OH yes, and one more thing on OV which @lookingforward reminded me of… If you are going to do one, try to do more than one if possible (although not back to back.) DS also fell in love with one school as a result of OV in the fall. When he was offered OV by accepted schools and took them, he realized that a lot of what he loved about the first school was something that was not unique to the school but to the OV experience. I agree with @Lindagaf that a day around current student can provide a pretty good read on the vibe, and that should probably be a good part of the focus for the visit.

These are all excellent schools and if they offer programs that appeal to your DD, that is unlikely to be the determinant. This is all information that can be (and probably already has been) gleaned from the websites. I feel that at this point, it is more about choosing an environment where you think you’ll be happy living and learning. For that reason, don’t rush it. She’ll want to go to some classes, eat in the dining hall, hang in the student union, and otherwise just try to get enough information to figure out if this could be “home”.

Yeah, the more I think about it, the more I think I’d counsel waiting to see what the real options are, then narrowing the field, then visiting no more than three or four.

Plus…I can’t think of anything more heartbreaking at this point…than visiting a college in March…and not getting accepted…in late March or April.

@Terramar - your child has almost the same list as mine did with the exception of the all girls schools like Smith. Though we live on the East Coast, we still had to figure out how to logistically do the trip (we live near DC). So, we figured out the northernmost school, Bowdoin, and then with the help of mapquest, figured out the order of the schools, working our way back down to DC. We only did 8 schools, two per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Of course that means that they need to be relatively close, but the schools on your list are somewhat clustered together. At the end of the day, we usually drove to the next morning’s school and had dinner in that town. We then went to bed and got up already at the school and ready for the day ahead. We didn’t make hotel reservations ahead of time, just used the hotels we had relationships with via past stays and called whichever one happened to be close by the school. We were not looking for fancy, this was not a vacation, but we were looking for clean. Being together on the road for those four days was a great experience though the schools did tend to morph together after awhile and the pace can be brutal. You need to determine ahead of time if your child has the personality for this kind of trip. Even my laid back child became fried during all the information sessions, tours and interacting with students packed into such a tight schedule. Funny, she ended up attending the one school she refused to look at on the tour - one because she had been there many times with me and second, because she did not want to “jinx” her admission chances. However, seeing the other schools did make her much more satisfied that she ultimately made the right choice.

Too much handwringing here. Northampton/Amherst MA to Bryn Mawr PA is a 4-hour drive, maybe a bit longer if you have to go through traffic. I think you could see all of the colleges in six days comfortably, and you might be able to get it down to five if necessary. (I wouldn’t focus on overnights, however.)

Day 1 – Red-eye to Boston, drive to whichever Maine college you want to see first (< 2 hours). Visit Maine #1 .

Day 2 – Visit Maine #2 , at most a 20 minute drive from Maine #1 . Drive to Northampton MA (< 3 hours).

Day 3 – Two of the MA colleges.

Day 4 – Third MA college, drive to Bryn Mawr.

Day 5 – Visit Bryn Mawr, drive to Carlisle (< 2 hours)

Day 6 – Visit Dickinson, drive to BWI, Dulles, or Philadelphia (< 2 hours, a little longer to PHL) to fly home

Of course, I agree with everyone else that by April 1 (and probably at least a week earlier than that), some of these colleges may be off the table. (Statistically, there’s a good chance you may not have to visit Amherst. You know that already.) Even if your child gets admitted to all of them, your focus will change. (It is pretty uncommon for people to pick Dickinson over Amherst or Bowdoin, unless there’s a ton of merit money on the table.) So a six-day timetable (or seven days) would not be pressured at all, and you could give each college under real consideration a full day’s attention. Which is plenty – these are not huge, sprawly campuses.

If Day one is April 8, then I would suggest you plan to see both Maine colleges that day. The admissions offices, tours and the like are NOT usually open on Sundays. You can check to see. But that might be tiring after a red eye. Any chance you could leave CA on the 7th?

Or visit both Maine colleges on the 9th and drive later in the day to Northampton.

Then you would take April 9 to drive to the Northampton area.

Visit two MA colleges on the 10th and the other on the 11th. Then drive on the 11th to Bryn Mawr.

Visit Bryn Mawr on the 12th. Then hop in the car and drive to Carlisle.

Visit Dickinson on April 13.

That would complete your trip BEFORE the Easter weekend…when again…many offices at the schools will be closed. Check to see if this is true.

But I don’t think overnights are going to be possible with this schedule…at any of the schools.

If there is one Sunday when tours may be running, it will be the Sunday in April after all of the admissions results have come out and before Easter. I bet if you are an admitted student from California, with advance planning, you can get someone to pay attention to you on that Sunday even if regularly scheduled tours aren’t running.

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Planning an East Coast Road trip with my kids this September. Would like to visit Maine, Boston, New York and Niagara Falls. Boston and New York mainly for my teenagers to visit some college campuses. Trip can be anywhere from 7-10 days. For Maine, I was thinking Bar Harbor and would love to visit Acadia National Park. Should we stop anywhere else or just head to Boston? My husband and I have done an East Coast road trip before from Vermont to Boston - to see the fall leaves.

-Suggestions on places to stop (we love nature and small town "feels")

-Routes to take

Thanks in advance!

What colleges are you tying to visit matters.

If you were to fly into Boston and return to nyc…you are looking at

1 day drive to Acadia

1 day Acadia

2 day drive to Niagara Falls

1 day falls

1 day drive to nyc

That’s 6 days. Haven’t counted time in Boston or nyc and flying days. 10 days makes this u realistic

You could fly into Boston.

3 days Boston

1 days White Mountain

2 days Acadia NP

I actually was thinking of either starting in Maine and heading south (Boston then New York)...and then end up in Niagara Falls? Or vice versa? Is that unrealistic?

Bangor International Airport is worth considering.

Niagara Falls is the outlier that makes the trip unrealistic. Drop it and stay along the Coast.

What colleges are you planning on seeing? That would determine whether or not Niagara Falls should be dropped.

Why are you heading to Boston and NYC if you favor nature and smaller towns? If not for colleges, I would skip those and travel a more direct route from Maine to upstate NY/Niagara Falls. But college stops are important in offering viable suggestions IMO.

Maybe fly into Maine, drive to Boston, train to NYC, fly to Niagara Falls/Buffalo and fly home from there, or vice versa. With 5 people planes and trains can be expensive but that's true of cars and parking so you'll need to determine what works for you. I'd work out a plan that fits first - check transportation schedules and drive times - then see if there's any time for other towns/attractions. I'd put Ogunquit and Camden ME on the list of (short) stops to consider if time permits.

My point is, depending on how many schools you plan to visit and their geographic dispersal, it simply may not be practical to take time to visit Acadia, if you only have 7-10 days total for the visit -- although a break in southern or midcoast Maine might be feasible if you will be visiting some of the colleges in Maine. Give us more details of the actual schools under consideration (or at least the precise cities/ towns where they are located) and we can help you plan a sensible fly-drive itinerary.

What colleges you are trying to visit really matters. Not only the schools for geographic location but when their tours are (if that is important)...some of the programs we have looked at only have tours one day a week. Also, most college tours are now limited to the prospective student and one or two guests...it is unlikely that you are going to be a group of five on a tour unless you have two juniors or seniors.

If NY and Acadia are important...

If Niagara Falls is important

You could fly into NY and do the NY schools and then get a car and go Ithaca (which is supposed to be cute town) to see Cornell and Ithaca college and then head to Niagara Falls, possibly stopping to check out SUNY Buffalo and some of the other cute towns on the finger lakes. Then head to Boston on 90...this is a long treck but you could stop in Rochester (University of Rochester), Syracuse for Syracuse, Amherst (Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, UMass-Amhert) and Boston for the Boston schools. If you looped back to NY to return the car you could stop at Yale in New Haven and stop in Mystic and Stonington for really cute seaport towns.

Obviously all of these could be greatly varied and you could get much better suggestions if you provided some information on what colleges you were most interested in visiting.

I would not necessarily call Ithaca a "cute town" but it is a progressive, diverse, busy and scenically set city that makes a great base for exploring the nearby stunning state parks and the eastern Finger Lakes.

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Putin taunts the West with 'first ever' visit to remote ice-covered 'frontier region' just 55 miles from the US - as Zelensky tries to drum up war support in Lithuania

• Chukotka is Russia's easternmost region, sharing a maritime border with Alaska

President Vladimir Putin  has arrived for his first-ever presidential visit to Chukotka in Russia 's Far East - just 55 miles from the US state of Alaska . 

Putin arrived in Anadyr, the local capital of the Chukotka region this morning after flying from Moscow some nine time zones away. 

Chukotka is the easternmost region of Russia, with a maritime border on the Bering Strait with Alaska.

The Russian president was met in Anadyr by a motorcade and was whisked away in a limousine amid frigid temperatures of -28C. 

It's the closest he has come to US soil since he met with President  Barack Obama in New York City in 2015.

Chukotka is so close to Alaska that Roman Abramovich - the ex-Chelsea FC owner - was reported to fly to Anchorage in Alaska for lunch when he was the governor of the region from 2001 - 2008.

Putin's visit comes at a time when US-Russian relations are at their lowest ebb in decades amid the war in Ukraine and a growing East-West divide. 

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky today landed in Lithuania as part of an unannounced trip to the Baltic states to drum up more support for the conflict. 

Global war for control of the ARCTIC: Climate change is unlocking untapped natural resources, new trade routes... and a new international conflict that RUSSIA is already winning  

The three Baltic states - all former Soviet republics which are now EU and NATO members - are among Ukraine's staunchest allies.

'Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are our reliable friends and principled partners. Today, I arrived in Vilnius before going to Tallinn and Riga,' Zelensky said on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

'Security, EU and NATO integration, cooperation on electronic warfare and drones, and further coordination of European support are all on the agenda,' he said.

The Baltic tour marks Zelensky's first official trip abroad this year.

In Lithuania, a key donor to Ukraine, Zelensky said he will hold talks with the president, prime minister and the speaker of parliament, and meet with the Ukrainian community.

The visit comes as other Kyiv allies waver on fresh aid, nearly two years into Russia's invasion.

Ukraine has come under intense Russian shelling in recent weeks, retaliating with strikes on Russia's border city of Belgorod.

Zelensky has urged allies to keep military support flowing and held in-person talks with officials from the United States, Germany and Norway last month.

But an EU aid package worth 50 billion euros ($55 billion) has been stuck in Brussels following a veto by Hungary, while the US Congress remains divided on sending additional aid to Ukraine.

Following his trip to Chukotka, Putin is expected to visit several regions in the Russian Far East to boost his re-election campaign amid the war with Ukraine, which has seen more than 300,000 Russians killed or maimed.

He is due to stand in March, seeking another six years in the Kremlin.

The only Kremlin leader ever to travel to Chukotka previously was Dmitry Medvedev in 2008.

Putin's trip sees him escape a wave of ugly protests in western Russia over hundreds of thousands of people scraping by in freezing conditions due to breakdowns in communal heating supplies.

In Elektrostal, Moscow region, desperate residents say they have had no communal heating - which Russians routinely expect the state to supply usually through piped hot water - for the entire winter so far.

'We have been without heating since [9 October],' one resident said in a video circulating on Telegram.

'It is impossible to be in our homes… We are freezing! We are freezing! We are freezing!' they said. 

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

President Joe Biden will unveil his new plan to give student loan relief to many new borrowers

President Joe Biden will announce a significant new plan next week to cancel federal student loan debt for new categories of borrowers

WASHINGTON -- President Joe Biden will announce his latest effort to broaden student loan relief next week for new categories of borrowers, according to three people familiar with the plans, nearly a year after the Supreme Court foiled his administration’s first attempt to cancel debt for millions who attended college.

Biden will detail the plan Monday in Madison, Wisconsin, where the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin is located. The actual federal regulations — outlining who would qualify to get their student loan debt reduced or eliminated — are not expected to be released then, said the people, who were granted anonymity to detail a proposal not yet made public.

Much of the specifics that Biden will discuss Monday have long been telegraphed through a negotiated rulemaking process at the Department of Education, which has worked for months to hash out the new categories of borrowers. The president announced immediately after the Supreme Court decision that Education Secretary Miguel Cardona would undertake the process because he would have the power under the Higher Education Act to waive or compromise student loan debt in specific cases.

Still, the effort seeks to make good on Biden’s promise after the Supreme Court struck down his initial plan in June, a $400 billion proposal to cancel or reduce federal student loan debt that a majority of justices said required congressional approval. Biden called that decision a “mistake” and “wrong.”

And the fresh announcement on student loan relief, a vital issue for younger voters, could help energize parts of Biden's political coalition who have become disillusioned over his job performance — people whose support the president will need to defeat presumptive Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump this year.

The plan that Biden will detail is set to expand federal student loan relief to new yet-targeted categories of borrowers through the Higher Education Act, which administration officials believe puts it on a stronger legal footing than the sweeping proposal that was killed by a 6-3 court majority last year. The planned announcement from Biden was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

“This new path is legally sound,” Biden said in June. “It’s going to take longer, but, in my view, it’s the best path that remains to providing for as many borrowers as possible with debt relief.”

Biden's latest attempt at cancellation is expected to be smaller and more targeted than his original plan, which would have canceled up to $20,000 in loans for more than 40 million borrowers. Details of the new plan have come into focus in recent months as the Education Department brought its ideas to a panel of outside negotiators with an interest in higher education, ranging from students to loan servicers.

“President Biden’s expected additional executive action will greatly reduce the burden of student loans for millions of Americans," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Friday. "There is always more work to be done to alleviate the burden of student loan debt. And we will not stop until crippling student loan debt is a thing of the past.”

Through that process, the agency laid out five categories of borrowers who would be eligible to get some or all of their federal loans canceled. The plan is focused on helping those with the greatest need for relief, including many who might otherwise never repay their loans.

Among those targeted for help are individuals whose unpaid interest has snowballed beyond the size of the original loan. The proposal would reset their balances back to the initial balance by erasing up to $10,000 or $20,000 in interest, depending on a borrower's income.

Borrowers paying down their student loans for decades would get all remaining debt erased under the department's plan. Loans used for a borrower's undergraduate education would be canceled if they had been in repayment for at least 20 years. For other types of federal loans, it's 25 years.

The plan would automatically cancel loans for those who went to for-profit college programs deemed “low-value.” Borrowers would be eligible for cancellation if, while they attended the program, the average federal student loan payment among graduates was too high compared to their average salary.

Those who are eligible for other types of cancellation but haven't applied would automatically get relief. It would apply to Public Service Loan Forgiveness and Borrower Defense to Repayment, programs that have been around for years but require infamously difficult paperwork.

Under pressure from advocates, the department also added a category for those facing “hardship.” It would offer cancellation to borrowers considered highly likely to be in default within two years. Additional borrowers would be eligible for relief under a wide-ranging definition of financial hardship.

A series of hearings to craft the rule wrapped up in February, and the draft is now under review. Before it can be finalized, the Education Department will need to issue a formal proposal and open it to a public comment period.

The latest attempt at cancellation joins other targeted initiatives, including those aimed at public service workers and low-income borrowers. Through those efforts, the Biden administration says it has canceled $144 billion in student loans for almost 4 million Americans.

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