Not going to Mexico, Key West, or Cali for spring break this year? Yeah, me either. The current economy, combined with the fact that most of us are poor college kids, means less spring break travel this year— especially with the gas prices skyrocketing due to unrest in the Middle East. I know a lot of people who are planning on bumming around Cedar Falls, going home, or just plain working. But staying in Iowa for spring break doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your good time. There are lots of activities you and your friends can do (for cheap!), right here in the good ol’ Panther Nation.
Movie Nights: A classic, great way to have fun and spend some good quality time with friends! Grab your favorites— movies, friends, snacks, and drinks! I’m a big fan of movie nights because they also give you time to talk about what’s new with life, especially if you haven’t spent as much time with your friends lately due to midterms. Pick a theme! I’ll save myself the embarrassment of disclosing how many Harry Potter movie nights I’ve had with good friends. How about old Disney movies? Romance movies from the 80s? Worst movies ever released? You can’t go wrong! Move nights are an awesome way to relax, socialize, and create some great new memories with friends.
Pamper Yourself: Take a day (or two) to completely relax. Get some extra sleep, go to your favorite store and buy a thing (or twelve) that you’ve been wanting. Maybe splurge and get a massage, or take an hour-long bubble bath with candles. Take a walk when the weather is nice. Figure out what you love to do, that you are too busy to do during classes, and do it! This is a great way to relax and refresh yourself.
Get Fresh Air:Keep an eye on the weather. It is actually supposed to be pretty decent outside for most of Spring Break! This is the perfect time to grab some friends and go on an adventure! Iowa has lots of state and community parks you can visit. You can even fix up your bike that’s been stored away all winter and go for a ride. Get yourself out of the house and into the world! Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Travel:Okay, so maybe Spring Break hot-spots are out of the question, but this doesn’t mean you can’t find places to enjoy right here in the Midwest! Pile your friends in the car and head for a day trip to Chicago, Minneapolis, St. Louis, or other great cities! Maybe catch a show, or just hang out in a new place. These cities will be rockin’ over spring break, especially with celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day happening. Road trips with friends can be some of the best ways to reconnect!
Spring Break in the Midwest doesn’t have to be a complete snore. Whether you’re just hanging out, working, or trying to get ahead for the rest of the semester, there are lots of activities that you can do by yourself, or with friends, right outside your front door! Visit an old favorite spot, or find a new one. Just remember, you have a week off from school! Celebrate, have fun, be safe, and gear up for the rest of the semester! Summer is right around the corner.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UNI chapter.