LAWRENCE — Confirming what many in the Jayhawk nation already know, a guide for parents of college-bound students has named Lawrence one of America’s best college towns.

Praising the city’s vibrant downtown, youthful attitude and crimson-capped campus, Parents & Colleges recommends families put Lawrence and the University of Kansas on their shortlists as they make college plans.

“In Lawrence, you can feel that artsy vibe practically everywhere: in public art exhibits that bring sculpture and mosaic projects to street corners throughout the city, in the Lawrence Arts Center where performing and visual arts come together under one roof, in a live music scene that’s light years ahead of what’s playing on the radio,” says the website.

The site also touts outdoor activities at Clinton Lake, the Kansas River and the city’s 50 parks, calling the choices tremendous: “No wonder this is one great college town!”

Lawrence also was included in lists of top college towns in 2010 by the American Institute for Economic Research, MSN and MSNBC.

Parents & Colleges aims to help parents and guardians of college-bound students navigate the college consideration process. The website’s content is reviewed by an advisory board made up of senior-level professionals in leadership roles on their campuses and within their organizations.

For the complete list of top college towns, go the Parents & Colleges website.