We all know how easy it is to get trapped in this wonderful place we like to call the “Furman Bubble”. If you aren’t sure if you’ve ever been caught in it, here are some examples of how easy it is to get stuck without even realizing that it’s happening.
Going to see your aunt who lives 20 minutes away? Nah, that’s too far. Want to go take a trip to the mall? Nope, I’ll just shop in the bookstore. Want to go out downtown this weekend? The Uber is just too expensive, it’s easier to just stay in.
Well, I’m here to say that this is where the entrapment ends, ladies! We are surrounded by amazing places within Greenville and Travelers Rest (TR), but it can be hard to think of things to do. Never fear, I have 6 go-to tips to escape the bubble! Let the adventuring begin!
#1
Go out for ice-cream! Going out for ice cream is a great way to get off campus. It’s quick, easy, fun, and delicious. Whether you’re going downtown to Spill the Beans, or over to TR for Pink Mama’s, enjoying this simple dessert is a great way to hang out with friends or a sweet date night activity!
#2
Go out to dinner! Greenville’s restaurants are a foodie’s wet dream. There are a TON of restaurants that not only taste great but offer a cool atmosphere as well. A few of my favorite restaurants include Cantina 76, The Trappe Door, Trio, and Smoke on the Water. A lot of places in Greenville offer an experience that the Dining Hall most certainly wouldn’t, so get out and go eat some tasty food!
#3
Go study/hangout at a coffee shop! If you’re anything like me, then you also don’t like studying in the lib. One of my favorite things to do is to get away from the stress and madness that is James B. Duke Library, and bring my work to a coffee shop in either downtown Greenville or TR. Not only do you get to enjoy great coffee and yummy treats, but it can be nice to clear your mind so that you can focus. My go-to’s include Port City Java and Coffee Underground in downtown Greenville, and Leopard Forest Coffee Company in TR.
#4
Go see a movie! This one is pretty self-explanatory. A movie is the perfect way to get off campus and not have to think about life for a few hours! It’s a nice break from reality, and you get to do that while enjoying overpriced yet tasty popcorn, candy, and drinks. I know it can be tough to work into your schedule, but it’s all worth it when you get to use the student discount!
#5
Enjoy the scenery and landscapes around us! Whether it’s to see a sunrise, sunset, or anything in between, Greenville is one of the best places to do that! Furman is smack dab in the middle of beautiful downtown Greenville and the mountains outside of TR. There are so many trails and places that have incredible views that are less than an hour away such as Pretty Place or Bald Rock. On the other hand, walking around downtown Greenville is a perfect reminder of just how cool the city is. Sweater weather is the prime time for exploring — you never know what you might find!
#6
Take a bike ride courtesy of the PAC! It’s fun, easy, and best of all, free! We love that! It’s a simple process to get started — just walk into the PAC, give the person at the desk your Furman ID, sign a waiver, and then you’re free to explore! A few easy places to bike are on the Swamp Rabbit Trail into TR. There are a number of small shops, restaurants, and more!
Furman is located in such a unique place, but with all of the stress that comes from being a student here, it can be difficult to take time for yourself. With these suggestions, go out and enjoy what Greenville and TR have to offer next time you find yourself needing a break!