10 Free Things To Do Around Kent State University

Let’s be honest, being a college student is hard, and being a broke college student is even harder. But just because your bank account is suffering doesn’t mean you have to! Here I’m going to show you just a couple of the most popular free things to do around Kent State University that’ll save your social life (and your money) this semester…and who doesn’t love free things?

1. Kent Lanes

Ladies, this one’s for you. Tuesday nights from 9 pm-1 am at Kent Lanes is Ladies’ Night! Girls bowl free (sorry boys it’ll cost you $8). So get your work done early and head out for a beginning-of-the-week celebration with all your girlfriends!

2. Fall’s River Square District

This shopping center in Cuyahoga Falls is perfect for a weekend day trip to browse their many vintage stores or take a stroll down the boardwalk to get a full view of the Cuyahoga River. They also offer boat rides and music and art festivals during the warmer months! Here’s their website if you want to check out some of their seasonal events going on right now.

3. Ledges Trail

Into the outdoors? This 2.2-mile hike offers some of the best views the Cuyahoga Valley has to offer. Walk underneath the shade of the yellow birch trees and explore inside the Ice Box Cave, where temperatures drop more than 20 degrees. But don’t forget to make a stop at the cliff overlook for the perfect photo op of the valley underneath!

Tip: Plan your visit around sunset for the most impressive view (and Instagram-worthy shot.)

4. Akron Art Museum

Okay, so it’s only free on Thursdays, but it’s a deal seriously worth taking advantage of. With tons of new exhibitions, such as “Please Touch” which is full of interactive art that you’re actually encouraged to touch and explore. Or if you’re into the quirkier side of things, the “Gross Anatomies” exhibit which features all kinds of grotesque portrayals of the human form.

5. Kent State University Fashion Museum

Not a fashion student? No problem! The KSU Fashion Museum is free to all students and features an entire timeline of style through the decades. While you’re there be sure to check out the (dis)Abled Beauty and Fashion of South Africa exhibits. Plus, the newest installation, The 1980s: An Age of Excess, includes designs from Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Givenchy!

6. Scribbles Coffee Co.

Need to unwind after a stressful day? Scribbles is the perfect cozy, hangout to sit and chill out surrounded by books and good music. Nothing but good vibes all around.

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7. Summit Art Space

This space brings together the work of local artists in the Akron area to showcase their work in one space. The Summit Space is committed to promoting the value of art in our community. The main gallery is filled with ever-changing exhibitions and fun art-related activities for the public!

8. Babb’s Run Park

Another one for all you nature lovers. This park trail and wildlife sanctuary runs along the Cuyahoga River and is open all year round, so go take advantage of this early Spring and head on out for a hike/picnic with friends!

9. Movie Night-In

There’s never anything wrong with keeping it low key and having a movie night with all your closest friends. So pick a few cult classics on Netflix, grab your coziest pjs, get the snacks out, and make it a spa night with some of these recipes for DIY facials!

10. Kentchella

On March 10, The Department of Recreational Services is putting on a late night festival full of live music performances, fashion showcases, artwork displays, and a silent disco! This free event is to bring people of all cultural backgrounds and talents together for one fun night of celebrating art and music.

They’re still taking volunteers for performers/artists so if you or anyone you know would want to showcase their talent, be sure to email thurley1@kent.edu.