After a long test week filled with papers, all-nighters, and one too many study sessions, the last thing my friends and I wanted to do was study this weekend. Sadly, with another treacherous week right around the corner, our plans were limited. What could we do to escape the chaotic world around us?

We mulled over ideas like watching a movie or ordering pizza, something simple to relax, yet none of these plans allowed us to escape. Finally, we realized a little adventure was all that we needed and waking up at 5 a.m. and driving down to the local lake to star-gaze was the perfect resolution. No longer were we surrounded by the looming grades or social pressures of campus. Instead, we got a moment to ourselves.

While exploring the lake we realized that our little adventures brought joy to our ordinary weeks.

There is an incredible feeling in finding something new and unique. By going out of your way and finding the little things, you find a break from reality and a time to relax. If you need some inspiration for some adventures, here’s my group of friend’s top 20 favorite getaways (and some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way):

Go Stargazing

Try to find the big dipper, give up, and stare at the other stars.

Find a new food truck

Don’t get food poisoning.

Find the local landmarks in your town

Who knew the world’s largest fiberglass fish was right down the street?

Spend the day hanging from a tree

Although be careful that you don’t fall out.

Go bowling

Use the bumpers if you need to (there’s no shame in that).

Watch the sunrise

Preferably while singing the "Circle of Life" from "The Lion King."

Watch the sunset

There must be a song about the sunset you should sing…

Eat at a restaurant you’ve never heard of before

How else do new restaurants become popular?

Go to a drive-in movie theater

Don’t forget the popcorn.

Explore a Museum without a map

Although you should take time to read about what things are so you learn something…

Go to a concert for a well-known band

Or not well known and pretend you’re their biggest fan…they’ll be flattered!

Spend a day exploring another city

My friend and I chose Brenham because the Bluebell factory is there…so I suggest a place with free ice cream samples.

Sing karaoke

Song of choice: “You Belong with Me” by Taylor Swift. Always.

Go camping

Glamping is also acceptable (I prefer a hotel and air conditioning while my friends stay outside).

Find your new favorite type of ice cream

It’s an excuse for more Bluebell right?

Take a dancing lesson

While I may not be very good, I do brag to a lot of my friends that I know how to Salsa now.

Find Nemo

This seems self explanatory (we're still working on this one).

Go ice skating

And try not to fall (although I've just learned to hold on to the rails).

Go Geocaching

It’s like a throwback version of Pokémon Go (although be careful because I’ve wound up in people’s backyards before).

Take a drive with no end destination

Just make sure you can get home…

No matter what you adventure is, sometimes a break from your routine is just what you need!