Small towns have a lot of char--think Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls--you know, everything you would need in a cute little town, all the stores within walking distance, a large town just a short drive down the road.

See, not all small towns are like that though. The only thing worse than living out in the country side is living in a town that was made for a population of 2,000, but, for some reason, had close to 100,000, so the city planners just plopped some random places everywhere. It’s even worse when you’re a broke teenager and have to drive everywhere because the only places you could safely walk are the gas stations that are on every corner.

This predicament has led to some pretty creative solutions for killing time though. So here are some, creative, things to do in a small town.

1. Walmart

Walmarts are not hard to find, I mean, I can think of at least three Walmarts in this county alone. But if you want to go to the mall, you have to go one county over. Walmart is a magical place, full of new opportunities.

Did you know, that when you drop a plunger on the floor from about two feet off the ground, it makes a very funny noise (just be careful--that one attracted the attention of a few employees). There are so many games you can play in Walmart without causing too much trouble.

Wander the aisles and try to find the weirdest, most disgusting food, or try on some of the moo-moos because everyone looks funny in a moo-moo. Have a quick sword fight in the toy aisle, but watch out for the children. Take silly pictures on the cameras in the electronics department. One time, we got so bored, we organized the 99 cent candy bins.

2. The Beach

If you’re lucky enough to live in a coastal city, or somewhere where the beach or lake is only a short drive (trying not to spend gas money here) it can really be a fun thing to do almost every day. If you’ve only ever gone to the beach during the day, try finding a 24-hour beach and going at night. Watch the sunrise or sunset. Become a child and build a sand castle. Learn to surf or paddle board.

3. Try Every Fast Food Joint

Some cities aren't lucky to have a unique niche café or diner, but we do have fast food chains, and lots of them. So, try every one. Maybe the McDonald’s by your house has the quickest service. Maybe you can’t go to the Taco Bell by school because everyone you know works there and, let’s be honest, you never look good when you go to Taco Bell.

4. Thrifting

Vintage clothes are back in style, baby! Most cities, no matter how big or small, have some kind of second-hand shop, whether it be a Goodwill, Salvation Army or a mom-and-pop thrift store, they are all fun. Try on some of the goofy hats and horrible sweaters. Dig through the CDs and find some music you forgot existed.

5. Have A Mini Staycation

If you and your friends are absolutely broke and can’t afford to do the one cool thing in town, get together at someone’s house and throw yourselves a mini staycation. Put all the phones away and break out the polaroid cameras instead (instant souvenirs). Binge watch old movies and binge eat popcorn like your lives depend on it. If they have a pool, throw caution to the wind and jump in with all your clothes on (or none). Enjoy the company of your good friends.

6.Get A Job

As a last resort, when you really can’t find anything else to do, you could always get a job. It’s a way to kill the time, and will supply you with the money you’ll need when you’re exploring all the fast food options.