Behind the ivy-covered walls of many institutions of higher learning lurks a host of surprises for families, from paved paths for biking and in-line skating to museums, observatories and aquariums. What's more, most of these offerings are free and open to the public, even if your kids are still years away from their first dorm room.

To find out what your local campuses offer, call the public information office for a map and a roster of special events and free attractions. Here are some sites at hallowed halls around the country:

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY, EAST LANSING

Stroll through 56 tiny themed gardens at Michigan 4-H Children's Garden. Call 517-353-6692 or go to their web site.

SMITH COLLEGE, NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Kids can skip across a bridge by a waterfall on their way to an indoor rain forest in the Lyman Conservatory. Call 413-584-2700 or go to their web site.

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA, TUCSON

Wonder at the solar system and see a laser light show at the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium. Call 520-621-4515 or go to their web site.

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT, STORRS

Visit the cows, then sample ice cream made from their milk at the campus dairy bar. Call 860-486-2000 or go to their web site.

THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA

At the institution's aquarium in Waikiki (5 miles from the campus), you can visit many endangered species in a living coral reef. Call 808-923-9741 or go to their web site.

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS, LAWRENCE

At the natural history museum, see one of the world's largest skeletons of a mosasaur (a 50-foot-long seagoing reptile). Call 785-864-4540 or go to their web site.

WEB RESOURCE: For a list of colleges around the country, log on to College and University Home Pages.

INSIDE SCOOP: Bring a Frisbee or footbag, and your kids can really kick back student style on the quad. If it's open, visit the university store, and let each child pick out an inexpensive souvenir from his or her big day at college.