Spring semester always seems longer compared to Fall semester. Luckily, we live in a great city to go exploring and adventuring in! There is always something new to try, but it is also the perfect opportunity to do the activities that we wanted to do in the Fall, but couldn’t because of the cold weather. Here are a few ideas to help add some excitement to your spring semester and get you off campus!
Go on a hike.
The great thing about being located in the Pacific Northwest is that there is definitely no shortage of hikes in the surrounding area. If you are looking for something local, Forest Park is a great place to go. If you are looking for a little more of a challenge, hiking all the way up Multnomah Falls or Angel’s Rest are both great options. Be sure to check out UP’s Outdoor Pursuits Facebook page because they always have super cheap opportunities to explore Oregon with other students!
Visit a new coffee shop.
You really can’t go wrong with Cathedral or Arbor Lodge, but they are often super crowded on the weekends if you are looking for a place to study. Recently I’ve been to Blend Coffee Lounge on Killingsworth and Townshend’s Tea Company on Alberta. Both have great spaces to study and yummy drinks.
Picnic with friends.
There are several parks just beyond Willamette that are hidden within the neighborhood. They are great places to go get some fresh air, hang out with friends, do some homework, and have a snack! Cathedral Park is obviously always a good choice, but if you are looking for something just a few blocks away Portsmouth Park, Columbia Park and McKenna Park are all great places and you will not be disappointed.
Try a new restaurant.
I’m always amazed by all of the fun restaurants that surround our campus or are just a short bus ride away! I’m a sucker for Thai Ginger and Cha Cha Cha, but I’m excited to check out some fun restaurants in St. Johns and on Alberta. They have everything from Italian, to French, to Indian, so there is something for everyone to try and enjoy!
Hit up a concert.
We often think of the Crystal Ballroom as the home of Dance of the Decades, but it also houses various well-known artists throughout the year! The Wonder Ballroom is also a great place to check out and tickets are usually not as expensive as if you were to see someone at the Moda Center. Neither are super far away and it’s hard to resist a cheap ticket, great music, and time with friends!
Whenever you feel like you have to get off campus this semester, keep all of these ideas in mind! It’s the perfect time of year to get outside, try something new, and enjoy spending time with friends before you are apart over the summer. Happy exploring!