Being a new freshman on campus can be a difficult adjustment. You are far away from home and most likely not familiar with the area. However, there are plenty of places around campus that could make you feel right at home! Even if you don’t have a car on campus, Clemson offers resources such as Tiger Transit and CATbus for you to get around, on and off-campus. Uber and Lyft are also fun alternatives and allow you to split the fare with friends. With new freshmen scattering across campus wondering what there is to do in the surrounding areas, here are some of my personal favorite places to go on the weekends:
- Larry W. Abernathy Waterfront Park
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Located only five minutes from campus is a beautiful and scenic park that is perfect for a lunch date or hiking in a quiet wooded area. The park offers many shaded areas as well as a view of Lake Hartwell. Personally, I enjoy sitting by the lake and doing homework while soaking up the sun! Admission to the park is also free!
- Anderson Mall
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If you’ve already bought out Entourage downtown, this is your next move. The nearby mall is about twenty-five minutes from campus with cute clothing stores such as Lane Bryant, Victoria’s Secret, and American Eagle. You can find some fashionable clothes for game day or spend the day with your girlfriends.
- Glazed Pottery
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Whether you’re with girlfriends or your significant other, this place is budget-friendly and full of fun! Take the day off and create decorative pottery ranging in sizes and prices.
- Oconee Lanes
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Bowling is a great way to meet new people and have a good time! Bring your floormates, someone in your class or take your parents here for upcoming Parents Weekend. Oconee Lanes is open until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights and has a great variety of food and drink.
- Sweet Retreat Fun Center
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Located in Walhalla, about twenty minutes from campus, there’s an amusement-style park filled with thrilling activities. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this is the place for you! Here you can find go-karting, laser tag, mini-golf, an arcade, and ice cream! This is a great location for a family day or a day out with your friends. Sweet Retreat Fun Center also offers daily specials on their website, so be sure to check it out to snag a great deal!
School is stressful, so be sure to treat yourself once in a while and get to know the area!