When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Crown College
Why Crown College is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Crown College, located in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, is a fully accredited Christian liberal arts college with a rich heritage dating back to 1916. The college emphasizes a biblically-based, faith-integrated education that prepares students to impact the world for Christ. Positioned just 40 minutes west of the Twin Cities, Crown offers students the best of both worlds with access to a major urban area and a serene, park-like rural campus. Students can choose from a variety of on-campus, online, and graduate degree programs, all taught by professors who are followers of Christ and experts in their fields. Crown’s community is deeply committed to fostering a sense of belonging and authentic lifelong relationships among students, faculty, alumni, and staff. The campus features strong NCAA Division III athletic programs and internship opportunities, alongside summer outreach experiences globally. Its 220-acre campus environment, combined with a rigorous academic atmosphere and Christian worldview integration, make Crown College a compelling place for students to grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially with friends and peers.
Here's what people think of Crown College
As of recent, Crown College holds a 4.1-star rating based on 18 reviews.
Reviews of Crown College reflect an overall positive impression with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 18 reviews. Many reviewers appreciate the college’s strong commitment to Christian values and faith-based education, praising the supportive community atmosphere and dedicated faculty members. The campus environment and the integration of faith into everyday learning also receive favorable mentions, as does the college’s sense of belonging and safety, which score highly in student satisfaction surveys. Positive reviews often highlight the college’s balanced blend of academic rigor and spiritual growth, along with engaging campus activities and sports programs that enrich student life. On the other hand, some critical reviews point out challenges such as average ratings for academics, professors, and campus food, suggesting there is room for improvement in those areas. Additionally, some students note that the location and party scene may not appeal to everyone, reflecting a quieter, more focused campus lifestyle. Overall, despite these critiques, the reviews conclude that Crown College offers a warm, nurturing environment for students seeking an education firmly rooted in Christian principles while providing a comprehensive liberal arts experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jesse Chan
"Crown has a favorable reputation for academically-focused students." - Wikipedia After one academic year at Crown College, I now understand why. Unlike some other colleges where some "party people" hold large parties, stuck in drugs and produce insane noises all-night, it is quiet here at Crown 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Thanks to Crown's strong academic roots, I can feel a great atmosphere of learning everywhere. Crown Library is one of the few learning places on campus which opens 24/7 (official hours are 8AM-2AM but practically you can stay as long as you want). Crown's location may be secluded and you have to climb up the ladders to get here. But, I think it is actually good to keep my body fit by simply commuting between classrooms and my dorm.
Robert Wilcox
Quirky, fun college with one of the best dining halls on campus. The crown library is a great place to study between classes, and Banana Joe's has some great menu options for when you get hungry.
Namonaki Tokumei
Dope place, used to live here. Very quiet and chill. Beware the steep hill/stairs though.
Christopher Moench
MAXWELL HOUSE too turnt 3rd floor homies all the way. Unfortunately we dont know what quiet hours are so studying is a challenge.
Christopher Seay
i have lived here for 4 years so far and it's great. one more year!
How to reach Crown College
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Why Crown College may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Crown College with your friends?
Crown College offers a uniquely inviting environment perfect for bringing friends and family together to share meaningful experiences. Its close-knit community fosters a sense of belonging from the moment you arrive, making social connections effortless and genuine. With a warm, family-like culture, Crown College is not only a place of academic pursuit but also a hub of kindness and acceptance, where strangers quickly become friends. The combination of a serene, park-like rural campus in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, paired with access to nearby urban conveniences, provides an ideal blend of tranquility and activity for groups seeking a retreat that balances relaxation and engagement. Whether you’re looking for camaraderie, peaceful reflection, or active social interaction, Crown’s welcoming atmosphere invites you to immerse yourself in shared moments that strengthen bonds.
Moreover, the fact that the college’s layout concentrates nearly all facilities within one building (excluding some dorms), enhances the convenience of moving together as a group in any weather, especially during winter. Shared meals, coffee breaks, and leisure activities can seamlessly transition into group discussions and relaxation, making it a fantastic venue for meetups without logistical hassle or isolation. Friendships flourish in the dynamic spaces of Crown College, where every social setting—from the coffee shop to the student union—feels inclusive and vibrant. For groups seeking meaningful connection, spiritual growth, and enjoyable downtime, Crown College sets the perfect stage for memorable gatherings.
What activities can you do at Crown College?
At Crown College, there is a diverse array of activities designed to cater to both relaxation and recreation, making it a great spot for groups keen on shared experiences. One standout feature is the on-campus climbing wall, ideal for groups wanting an adventurous activity that challenges both physicality and trust in teamwork. It offers an excellent opportunity for friends and family to engage in healthy competition or cooperative encouragement, creating memorable moments that boost group morale and interaction.
The college also hosts intramural sports, which are perfect for larger groups interested in friendly competition. These sports leagues cultivate not only physical fitness but also foster teamwork and camaraderie through spirited games. Participating in intramurals can transform a casual meetup into an energetic and memorable event tailored to group participation and group bonding.
For those preferring more relaxed leisure, Crown College offers access to multiple pool tables where friends can engage in friendly matches, rounding out a social gathering with fun, laughter, and a bit of skill showcase. The availability of a coffee shop featuring Caribou Coffee on campus adds a cozy ambiance for chatting, planning, or simply unwinding over a warm beverage. The campus also features a restaurant-style dining option besides the traditional cafeteria, perfect for groups wanting to share a comfortable meal in a more casual, communal setting. This variety of activities—from physical pursuits to relaxed socializing—makes Crown College an ideal destination for a balanced group meetup.
Why is Crown College perfect for a group meetup?
Crown College is especially well-suited for group meetups because of its intimate size, thoughtful campus design, and inclusive community culture. Unlike larger universities where groups can easily feel dispersed, Crown’s smaller student population allows groups to operate with ease and familiarity throughout the campus. Everything necessary for daily living and social activities—including classrooms, dining facilities, coffee shop, chapel, library, and student union—is centralized in one main building, with only a few dorms located separately. This layout streamlines the logistics of group outings and spontaneous gatherings, creating a low-stress environment where mobility and accessibility are prioritized.
The welcoming spirit at Crown College further enhances the experience of being part of a group. Students regularly express how kindness and a familial sense of community shape life on campus, which means your group will find it easy to integrate and feel at home. Hosting a group meetup here is not just about the spaces available but also about the atmosphere—one that encourages openness, interaction, and the development of shared spiritual and social experiences. Whether your group is focused on academic discussions, faith-based activities, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Crown College offers a nurturing environment that fosters connection and growth.
In addition to the physical and cultural advantages, Crown’s extensive array of on-campus resources—such as study groups, leadership opportunities, and chapel events—provide multiple ways for groups to engage meaningfully with the campus community and each other. These features make Crown College more than a venue; it’s a place where group members can build enduring memories and deepen their relationships in a supportive and dynamic setting.
What makes the community at Crown College welcoming for groups?
The community at Crown College is noted for being exceptionally welcoming, creating an environment where groups quickly feel included and valued. From the moment new visitors or students arrive, existing community members are eager to lend a helping hand, whether it's helping with moving boxes or inviting newcomers into their circles. This proactive friendliness ensures that groups don’t feel like outsiders but are embraced as part of a larger family, which is particularly comforting when hosting people who might be unfamiliar with the area or with each other.
The diversity present on campus, including students from around the globe such as Africa, Hong Kong, China, and the Dominican Republic, adds a rich cultural element to group experiences. Groups have the opportunity to learn about different perspectives and stories, broadening their horizons and fostering deeper appreciation for diversity within a small community setting. This cultural tapestry is complemented by the shared focus on faith and spiritual growth at Crown, providing a spiritual common ground for many groups drawn to the college’s mission.
Smaller student body sizes mean groups can also benefit from more personal interactions with faculty and staff, who are known for being kind and supportive. This accessibility contributes to a nurturing environment where group members can seek guidance, engage in meaningful conversations, and receive encouragement beyond the classroom. The community’s emphasis on spiritual, mental, and social well-being creates a holistic support system that greatly enhances group meetups, making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued.
How does Crown College balance academics and social life for groups?
Crown College successfully balances a rigorous academic environment with abundant social opportunities, making it ideal for groups who want both intellectual stimulation and recreational engagement. With smaller class sizes, students and visitors experience meaningful academic connections that encourage collaboration and deep discussions—perfect for study groups or educational meetups looking for substance alongside social interaction.
At the same time, the campus provides numerous amenities and activities that encourage downtime and relaxation. From the student union to the coffee shop, pools, climbing wall, and intramural sports, there is no shortage of ways for groups to unwind or enjoy active pursuits together. This balance ensures that meetups can be both productive and fun, appealing to groups that want to blend learning with leisure seamlessly.
Additionally, the college’s strong spiritual culture offers group members avenues for reflection, prayer, and community worship, tying together educational goals with personal growth. Chapels and faith-based events on campus foster a sense of unity, enabling groups to find shared meaning and purpose beyond social and academic engagement. Ultimately, Crown College’s environment supports a well-rounded experience that respects and nurtures the full spectrum of group needs—academic, spiritual, and social.
What logistical features make Crown College convenient for hosting groups?
Crown College’s campus design contributes greatly to the convenience and ease of hosting groups. The compact main building brings together nearly all essential facilities — classrooms, dining areas, chapel, library, computer labs, coffee shop, and student union — under one roof. This layout reduces travel time between activities and eliminates the hassle of moving between multiple buildings, which is especially beneficial for groups coordinating several members or events.
Furthermore, the college offers easy access to services such as mail facilities and dining options that cater to different preferences, including a traditional cafeteria and a restaurant-style venue. This variety allows groups to customize their mealtime arrangements with ease according to tastes and schedules. The on-campus coffee shop provides a casual meeting point ideal for informal gatherings or planning sessions, making it simple for groups to stay connected throughout the day.
The rural setting of the 220-acre campus also means that groups can enjoy peaceful outdoor areas for picnics, walks, or informal games, while still being close enough to access amenities of the nearby major city. Winter accessibility is improved by having the core facilities indoors and close together, which helps keep gatherings comfortable and uninterrupted regardless of weather. Lastly, the college's commitment to safety and community support adds an extra layer of assurance for group event organizers and participants, ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for all.
By providing an empathetic, spiritually nurturing environment combined with convenient facilities and a variety of engaging activities, Crown College stands out as an exceptional venue for rallying with your friends or family. Whether you seek adventure, reflection, study, or simple togetherness, it offers an unmatched space where meaningful connections and memorable experiences come naturally.