By Shanna Smith-Snyder
College students are often pinpointed for saying, “There’s nothing to do.” However, I beg to differ because it wasn’t long ago that I was sitting in a classroom! Students, if you plan on visiting Abilene this year or are currently a student in town, here are some alternative activities to keep busy:
• Coffee shops. What would students do without the quick pick-me-ups of coffee? Students love the atmosphere that Abilene’s coffee shops have to offer. One of the local favorites is the previously mentioned, Monks, in downtown. Monks offers weekly open mike nights (Thursdays from 7 to 11 p.m.), jazz nights with ACU combos (Tuesdays from 8:30 to 10 p.m.) and local art displays that change out monthly. Additional favorites include the world renowned Starbucks, The Brew.net, Tuscany’s, Mezamiz and Java City.
• The nightlife. Dancing, live music and atmosphere of many local hotspots keep students entertained when they need to take a break from studies. Whether you’re listening to a live performance at Bedford Street Restaurant and Pub, or two-stepping to the sounds of a packed concert at The Lucky Mule, there is actually quite a bit going on when the sun sets in Abilene. One of the most popular places for students to get dressed up and socialize is The Warehouse, now located at 357 Walnut St. The Warehouse makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a nightclub in NYC … or at least the metroplex!
• Seeing a flick. When Abilene’s students are looking for an escape, they pull into Abilene’s Town & Country Drive-In, located at 2902 Vogel St., which boasts two giant screens. For students on a budget, the drive-in has a great offer of two movies for the price of one! Another popular movie hot spot is the historic Paramount Theatre in downtown, where they can take in the ambiance and catch a classic.
• Getting your grub on. If you’re ever looking for a good deal on a meal, look no further than Harold’s Pit BBQ. You’ll see crowds of college students heading there after their afternoon classes. Many local restaurants offer students exceptional food at great prices. So if the line is too long at Harold’s, don’t fret, there are other great deals at Sharon’s BBQ, Bogie’s or Alley Cats — all favorites among our crowd.
• Work it out. Abilene is home to several parks that are perfect hangouts for students looking to expend pent-up energy on pickup games. Skate at Abilene’s infamous outdoor skateboard park, host friendly competition on the football field or join a baseball game at Rose Park. Gather group of friends together for a game of disc golf or Ultimate at Cal Young Park. Take your activities into the evening at Scarborough Park complete with well-lit softball fields and sand volleyball court.
• Good deals. There’s something about thrift stores that appeals to the college students of Abilene. Whether its clothes for a costume or a vintage video game system … one man’s junk can be a college student’s treasure. Well, students, you’re in luck because the ACVB produces an Antique Guide — that can direct you along your treasure hunt. Pick one up at 1101 N. 1st or print one off of our Web site at
www.abilenevisitors.com and search “Antique Guide.”