It was once true that you could stay in college dorms as a summer tourist for reasonable prices. Is this still the case? I know Elderhostel was once quite popular. Has it retained that popularity, or do colleges no longer bother with this? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

I know a lot of private schools in the Midwest do-- not sure about other places. (I do have a friend who stayed at Columbia in NYC a few summers ago).
Sometimes you need to bring your own linens.

I know your post is on the US board, but there are also universities abroad that still do this (i.e. Oxford University in Dublin). We've never gone that route because it's easier for us to stay in apartments with three kids. However, we have friends who have traveled extensively abroad and frequently stay in dormitories for extended stays and love it.

According to my mother - an Elderhostel frequent traveler - Elderhostel used to use dorms but now has upscaled their accomodations and price - they use mainly hotels.

But that was always part of a tour - not as a room to rent for a night or 2

Which schools in the Midwest? Does anyone know of a Web site that features these details?

Thanks for all of your responses!

I know people who have stayed at the University of MN - Duluth and also at the University of MN - Mpls. They say it is really reasonable and they liked it but I have not done it myself. I think there are a number of Midwestern College that do this but don't know the others.

Check the website housing links of colleges and universites in the cities you are visiting. Many public and private institutions offer summer tourist housing.

Dave