It can be difficult to keep oneself entertained the entirety of summer especially when on a tight budget, so here are a few things I found that I find interesting or worthwhile to do while not breaking the bank. Go out and have a good summer!
1) Hiking
Ohio offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails throughout all of Ohio. All you need to fund this activity is gas in a car and lunch. Picnics are cheap ways to eat on a budget too. As far as hiking goes, you might be wondering where to go. Hocking Hills is definitely a hometown favorite. Old Man's Cave, Upper and Lower Falls are just a few that attract over 1 million people to the famous Hocking Hills. Besides Hocking Hills, Ohio offers over 39 State Parks and National Forests to hike and visit; places like Wayne National Forest and Cuyahoga Valley National Forest.
2.) Train/ Run for a 5K
This activity might not seem fun for some, but find a sport like softball, biking, running, etc. that you enjoy and find a competition to join. Not only does this keep you fit for the summer while away from the prestigious and coveted free gyms at your school, but it keeps you busy and gives you a goal to strive for. Central Ohio offers over 11 different 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons and full marathons for avid runners to join. (Visit www.ohiorunner.com for more information.) There are also over 50 different biking events in Ohio to participate in if that activity is your forte. (Visit www.ohiobikeways.net) Make a goal for the summer and work to achieve it. Not only will you feel accomplished at the end of your summer, but you also enjoyed yourself while striving toward the goal you set for yourself.
3.) Go to a baseball game.
Everyone in Ohio has heard of the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, and the Columbus Clippers. Both the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians are MLB teams, so naturally their tickets are more. However, the Columbus Clippers offer cheaper tickets than the aforementioned teams. Watching all 3 of these teams play in person is definitely on my bucket list. Ticket prices for the Reds range from $13 to $466. Obviously $500 dollar tickets are not in a broke college student's budget, but the tickets under $60 still offer a pretty good view of the diamond. You can visit sites like Stubhub and Box Office Ticket Sales to see pricing. The Clippers tickets range from $20 to $50 and you can find these prices at the same sites listed above.
4.) Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay
A fun-filled day awaits you at the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay. This is a great thing to do with a group of friends. You can start off in the morning visiting the zoo and in the afternoon go to Zoombezi Bay and cool off. Tickets for Zoombezi Bay are $33.00, however are only $29 if ordered online. Also, if you buy from Kroger or are a AAA member, you receive discounts on your ticket purchases. If Zoombezi Bay does not appeal to you, access to the zoo only costs $14 per ticket. Have fun visiting the new tiger cubs and Nora, the baby polar bear! :)
5.) Volunteer
Volunteering is a way to stay busy while also giving back to your community. You can join Big Brothers, Big Sisters, volunteer at homeless shelters, offer to help an elderly neighbor, or even be a camp counselor. Chances are you'll have fun and you also gain experience interacting with people and learning new things. This can also be used for references or resume experience for college, grad school, and future jobs. There's always something to be gained from giving your time rather than just your money or material goods.
