By: Jess Gale
If you’re staying near campus during break and don’t have big plans, don’t worry! Whether you want to stay on campus or explore the Twin Cities, there are plenty of fun, affordable things to do. Here’s how you can make the most of your time off without breaking the bank.
On-Campus Activities
- Recharge: Take a break from the busy school year by slowing down. Spend time doing devotions, reading, journaling, or just sleeping!
- Stay Active: The Erickson Center is open for workouts, basketball, or just getting some steps in on the indoor track. If the weather allows, go for a walk around campus and enjoy the sunshine. For the Erickson Center’s hours, go here.
- Movie or Game Nights: Organize a movie night in your dorm with friends! Streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ have great options for a relaxing night in. If you prefer games, check out a board game from the library or go to the STUD game room.
- Plan Ahead: If you are the type to stay ahead, this is a great time to work on projects coming up after break. You can also update your planner with all of Quad 4’s due dates.
Off-Campus Activities on a Budget
If you want to get off campus, there are plenty of cheap or free activities to do around the Twin Cities!
Budget-Friendly Coffee Shops & Restaurants
- Cahoots Coffee Bar (St. Paul): A hidden gem with cozy seating and excellent chai lattes. It is a great spot for reading or studying.
- Spyhouse Coffee (St. Paul or Minneapolis): A stylish coffee shop with good atmosphere and drinks. This is a great place to get some work done or journal.
- Nina’s Coffee Café (St. Paul): Located in the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood, this coffee shop has excellent drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
- Aroma’s Pizza (St. Paul): A great spot for affordable, delicious pizza right in the area.
- The Nook (St. Paul): If you’re craving a burger, this small, affordable joint is known for its famous Juicy Lucy burgers.
- Churchill Street (Shoreview): This timeless spot offers an aesthetic menu, from breakfast to dinner. It is slightly more expensive, but perfect for a special occasion.
“I love going to Nina’s because it’s only 15 minutes from campus and is in a beautiful, safe part of St. Paul. Nina’s has a stunning interior with plenty of tables, most of which have access to an outlet!” – Sophia Wahl, Public Relations ‘25
Nina’s Coffee Café, St. Paul MN
Local Activities
- Explore Como Park and Como Zoo (Free!): The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is completely free (though donations are appreciated). You can see animals, walk through the beautiful gardens, and enjoy the fresh air without spending a dime.
- Hike at Minnehaha Falls (Free!): If you want to get outside, Minnehaha Falls is a beautiful place to take a walk, explore trails, and take pictures of the scenic waterfall.
- Visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Free!): The Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) has thousands of amazing exhibits and is completely free to visit. It’s a great way to experience culture without spending money.
- Attend a Discount Movie Night: The Marcus Oakdale Cinema has $5 movie nights on Tuesdays, which is perfect for a budget-friendly night out with friends.
- Explore Grand Avenue and Cathedral Hill: Grand Avenue in St. Paul has unique, budget-friendly shops, restaurants, and coffee spots. It’s a great area to walk around and explore for free.
- Tour the State Capitol: If you are interested in Minnesota’s history, you can tour the capitol building for free! Monday-Friday, tours are offered every hour from 9 a.m. to 4 a.m. On Saturdays, tours are available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn about the history of the state and see the intricacies of the building.
Minnesota State Capitol
Breaks don’t have to be boring! Whether you’re staying on campus or heading into the city, there are plenty of ways to have fun without spending a lot of money. Take this time to explore new places, relax, and enjoy what our cities have to offer.
