Ahh, summer. The sweet taste of freedom! College kids are moving home. High schoolers are out of the classroom. The weather is finally heating up. But now that you're out of school, what is there to do? Sit around and listen to your parents nag you about all the stuff that needs to be done around the house? Heck no! There's a whole city full of things to be done! Here's some ideas to get you started.

1. Get A Job!

Hey, your mom has been bugging you to get one anyways and you could definitely use the extra cash, right? Being employed is sure to take up the extra time that you're spending doing nothing

2. Travel!

Plan a road trip! Get your crew together and take a trip up to Traverse City. Or maybe if you didn't listen to my first idea and you're feeling the pain of unemployment, maybe just a quick trip over to South Haven for some beach rays.

3. Hit Up SkyZone

For just $10 you can enjoy a half hour of defying gravity! If you haven't been to a SkyZone before and you're okay with getting sweaty, it's a must. Get your tickets here and thank me later!

4. Go to the Alamo Drafthouse

Okay, this is probably the coolest movie theater ever. If you've never heard of it, the Alamo Drafthouse is a movie theater where you can enjoy your movie while enjoying dinner and a ridiculous amount of draft and bottled beer. Check out their menu and if your mouth isn't watering, I'll be rather surprised.

5. Go to a Growlers Game!

America loves baseball! How lucky are we to have our very own team here in Kalamazoo?! The home opener is May 31st, but if you can't make that one, check out their schedule and find one you can!

6. Take Summer Classes

Why not get ahead on your degree? Kalamazoo Valley Comunity College offers a range of summer classes. Take one for your major or take one just for fun! Either way, you're sure to learn lots and fill up that extra free time. Check out the classes they offer here.

7. Relax at Al Sabo

Got a hammock? Take a trip to Al Sabo and relax for a few hours. If you're not into hammocking, bring your bike or just hike the many trails and find a new appreciation for nature. Al Sabo is prettiest during the summer so I highly suggest checking it out!

8. Get Involved!

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, and here in Kalamazoo, there are many ways to do it! My personal favorite is volunteering at one of the animal shelters. Check out Animal Rescue Project or SPCA of Southwest Michigan. If animals aren't your thing, see what you can do for Loaves and Fishes. These are just a few of the many places that need your help!

9. Get Active!

Lookin for a summer body? Now's your chance! Sign up for one of the many gyms we have, or just start running! There are lots of cool places to get some steps in. If you're not into lifting weights or running, be sure to check out Climb Kalamazoo. You're sure to get a good work out there!

10. Attend an Event in Downtown Kalamazoo

One of the coolest parts of living in Kalamazoo is the plethora of festivals and events that happen over the summer. Check out the schedule here and get ready to party hard.