Storrs is a charming rural village with rolling hills, winding roads and Colonial homes scattered on wide spreads of land. Shady country lanes, big red barns, sunny fields of wildflowers, and several nooks of shops that are the sugar and spice of the village itself.

What began as Storrs Agricultural College in 1881 became the University of Connecticut (UConn) in 1939. The University retains a sense of charm. Perhaps it's the bell-chimes, or the music at the skating rink, or maybe it's the heavenly homemade ice cream that ignites a smile when remembering life in Storrs.

There are few restaurants and shops in Storrs. Most shopping is done in Willimantic, an old mill town, known as "Thread City". Once, Willimantic ruled the cotton thread industries. Victorian mansions only hint at better days gone by.

There's a heavy reliance on the campus to provide a plethora of cultural, educational and recreational facilities to the region. And it does. Aside from museums and live performances, there are many recreational and athletic opportunities.

UConn has boundless opportunities for spectator sports. One of the hottest teams on campus is the Men's basketball team which is a perennial NCAA topdog.

Ice skating is available year-round at the Ice Forum on Stadium Road. The 53,000 square foot complex has a seating capacity of nearly 2000, a warming area, concession stand, and a gift shop.

The Natchaug State Forest in Willimantic has a 5.1-mile hiking trail that is also used for horseback riding. There are many other trails including, Dunhamtown Forest, Eagleville Preserve, and the Cooney Rock Preserve.

Canoeing on the Willimantic River is fun, too. And, swimming at the Mansfield Community Center Indoor Aquatic Center is very refreshing. A therapy pool is also available.

Storrs, home to UConn's famous homemade ice cream and dairy, is located about 14 miles from Manchester.