3 Florida Universities Rank As Best Party Schools In US

School is back in session in Florida, not just for kids in elementary, middle and high school, but college students as well. And with a new school year, comes a list of the best party schools in the US.

If you're a college student, or a junior or senior in high school, you might be looking for this type of information. Your parents? Not so much. 😉 How easily they forget (to mention) their wild days in school.

I went to college here in Florida and I have to say, I am a little surprised my alma mater, the University of Central Florida, didn't make the list. I don't know whether to be proud or disappointed. 😂

Among this year's list released by the folks at Niche are three Florida schools, including one VERY popular Florida university that is coming in at number two this year. In fact, my husband graduated from this school in 2005 and both of my kids aspire to attend as well. I might have to rethink the latter. 😜

To determine the best party schools, Niche conducted a student survey regarding the college party scene at each school, based on student reviews and nightlife statistics. Included in the survey were factors such as access to bars, the schools athletics grade, Greek Life grade and access to restaurants.

Coming in at number one on the 2024 list of best party schools in the US is the University of California at Santa Barbara. Florida State University in Tallahassee grabbed the number two spot and rounding out the top five were Tulane University in New Orleans, The University of Alabama and Syracuse University.

The other two schools here in Florida making the list are Florida A&M University at #21 and the University of Miami at #28.

It's no surprise the Seminoles are coming in so high on the list. They also ranked as the top school in the nation on Niche's list of best colleges for Greek Life, and entering into the 2024 football season, the team is ranked in the top 10. Go Noles! 🏈

Getting your little, and not so little ones, ready for a new school year gets expensive. It's good to know some businesses feel your pain and want to offer some relief. Here are 5 places Southwest Florida kids eat free for back to school this week.

Who doesn't like to save money on dining out? Summer is a good time to do that in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral and nearly everywhere else in Southwest Florida. Restaurants are known to have lots of specials to lure locals in during the traditionally slow time of year.

For back to school, some are offering free meals while others have half-off deals. You'll find some of both listed here. Most are for a limited time so don't wait until it's too late.

For savvy parents who like to dine out and save all year long, there are even more options. Some restaurants have kids deals on specific days of the week regardless of whether it is back to school time or not. Click here for more detials and a few helpful dining resources.

A quick word of caution. Some of these deals have stipulations and a few limitations. Be sure to read the fine print or ask in advance what the restrictions, if any, are. And when you're dining in, don't forget to tip a little extra for that freebie if it is a sit down establishment. Finally, take advantage of these free and half-off dining deals while they last.

This locally owned Naples restaurant has always focused on healthful eating. The owners also have kids, so they get it. If you purchase one entree, you'll get one free kids menu meal. This is for both lunch and dinner but dine in only. The deal runs now through September 30th so there is plenty of time to take advantage of the offer. The Local is on Pine Ridge Road

For the past 15 years Jason's Deli Eat Free promo for back to school has coincided with the tax-free school shopping weekend in Florida. However, for 2024 it has been all summer long to help families save money. The promotion runs through August. With an adult purchase and kids dine in or take out you get a free meal coupon to use for a future visit.

Wendy's is giving away a free kid's meal with the purchase of any combo meal now through September 2. Kid's Meals include either four-piece chicken nuggets, cheeseburger, or a hamburger, along with either Jr. French fries or apple slices on the side.  Here is a catch, you have to order through the Wendy's app which is free to download if you don't have it yet.