@Dustyfeathers I love your descriptions! Thanks for sharing! This is my favorite discussion thread given the variety of personal opinions.
We had the exact opposite opinions of Smith and Mount Holyoke. We were flying in, and really wanted to see Mount Holyoke and called and emailed prior to our trip. There were no tours available, there would be no one to give us a tour, there was no way to let them know we were visiting (should they be tracking demonstrated interest) and they seemed somewhat confused that we really wanted to see the school. Now I will say that a student saw us walking around lost and gave us a tour, including her dorms, and was so friendly! I really wanted my D to love the school, but she didn’t… at all.
Smith on the other hand arranged a tour for us, everyone in admissions was very warm and friendly and inviting. I do see what your saying about the grounds being very well groomed and country-club like, and I must confess, that is part of the appeal for me.