To reduce stress from the last two weeks of the semester, there are exciting spring activities for students and locals to partake in. Ohio University has great hangout spots, and the city of Athens has several events to enjoy.
Hammocking
There are plenty of trees around campus to tie a hammock; however, there is a designated spot for hammocking on campus at OU’s Paw Print Park. Located behind Nelson Commons, the park has metal poles that can accommodate as many as 56 hammocks.
Hammocking is perfect for warmer days with blooming nature. Light swaying with a book in hand, music playing and friends to chat with sounds like a perfect spring evening. This is a perfect activity to nap during these stressful weeks.
Strouds Run State Park
Students and locals visit the lake at Strouds Run State Park as the weather gets warmer. Swimsuits, Spikeball and sand volleyball make appearances, too. The 700-foot sand beach is great for friends to enjoy the sun and water.
The beach at Strouds offers a great place to tan before the summer. People can test out their summer beach outfits at Strouds to see what works for mobility, tanning and fashion.
That is not all Strouds has to offer; the state park also has spots for picnicking, hiking and camping. These are all cheap options to spend time with friends. With more planning and interest, Strouds also welcomes hunting in designated areas and during designated times, and fishing with proper licensure.
Planning a visit to Strouds is inexpensive and great for friends and family as nature blooms.
Moonlight Paddle on the Hocking River
Strouds isn’t the only place to enjoy nature. Hocking Hills State Park has trails, camping spots and more to enjoy. On May 1, a limited event is taking place at Hocking Hills, welcoming guests to enjoy a nighttime paddle.
The event is hosted by Adventure Pro Outdoors River Trips and is their first moonlight paddle event. Glow sticks are encouraged, and only 40 spots are available. The event is posted on Facebook for more information.
Nelsonville Music Festival
This summer, the Nelsonville Music Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary. Tickets are now available for the festival from June 18 to 20.
The festival’s 20th anniversary is sure to be an exciting year to attend. With musical guests, Geese, Marcus King Band, Hannah Cohen and more, with a lineup of over 40 artists.
It takes place at Snow Fork Event Center and has activities for the whole family with food, camping, artisan vendors and music, of course.
Courts and Sports
OU has plenty of spaces on campus where students can grab a blanket and lie out on any of the Greens or play a sport at respected courts. A sand volleyball court is available on South Green, and students play Spikeball throughout campus.
Ohio University’s Ping Recreation Center has over 20 pickleball and tennis courts available for students and more to reserve.
Even if you don’t play pickleball or tennis, picking it up and enjoying the warm weather is much better than being cooped up in the gym.
Court Street
Of course, a walk down Court Street is a great way to spend time. There are numerous unique shops, bars and restaurants available to peek inside or spend an evening in.
Thrift stores like CGi and Athens Underground are the perfect place for vintage lovers. Seeing what students and locals donated is always an exciting opportunity to step into Athens history and get cheap OU merch.
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