Looking for something exciting to do for spring break, but not sure you have the budget?
You don't have to spend a lot in order to have fun this year! Below, we've put together the ultimate bucket list for your time off (on a budget that won't break the bank).
1. Visit a state park.
COST: FREE
As a resident of northern Illinois, there are a lot of state parks within driving distance. From Starved Rock State Park in Utica to Illinois Beach State Park in Zion and Matthiessen State Park in Utica/Oglesby, you have plenty to choose from. Go on a hike, enjoy the scenery and soak in the fresh air.
Click here to view a list of state parks in the Illinois area.
2. Ride bikes or take a walk.
COST: FREE
Spend some time outside! Taking a walk or biking around your neighborhood is not only refreshing, but it's also a great de-stresser.
3. Rent a TV series or movie from your local library.
COST: FREE (with library card)
Now's your chance to catch up on that movie or TV show you've been hearing all about! Click here to check out a list of popular TV shows. Click here to see a list of the most popular movies of the past year.
4. Get your friends together for a baseball/softball/kickball game.
COST: FREE
Spend some quality time with a group of friends or your family. Plus, sports are great exercise - and exercise is a great mood booster!
5. Get a start on your spring cleaning.
COST: FREE
It may not sound fun right away, but just think of how refreshed you'll feel once everything's put away and organized! According to this article from the Huffington Post, a clean space very well may be the key to an improved mood, decreased stress and enhanced creativity.
6. Go on a picnic.
COST: $0-$10 (depending on price of food)
Grab a few friends or family members, find your favorite blanket, make a couple of PB&Js and you're all set!
7. Get crafty.
COST: $0-$20 (depending on price of supplies)
Check out this list for craft ideas that are both easy and fun!
8. Try out a new recipe.
COST: $0-$15 (depending on price of ingredients)
Did you know that eating helathy, homecooked meals actually makes you feel better (opposed to dining at a restaurant)? Hop on Pinterest or ask a friend for a new recipe and enjoy a meal made from scratch.
9. Enjoy ice cream from a specialty shop.
COST: $2-$8 (depending on shop and size of treat)
Many speciality ice cream shops open in the spring. Stop in and treat yourself to an ice cream sundae or banana split.
10. Go to the zoo.
COST:
Lincoln Park Zoo: FREE
Brookfield Zoo: $20 (per ticket)
Revisit a childhood memory by taking a trip to the zoo!
11. Go to an "escape room."
COST: $20-$40 (per person; depending on where you go)
Take part in the latest trend! Escape rooms are a fun and unique way to bond with your friends. You start out in a locked room and are tasked with finding clues that will lead you to the key. While this is the most pricey item on our bucket list, if you're interested and can afford it, we definitely suggest you give it a try!
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