Cool things to do in Columbus when you need some alone time
Sometimes the best medicine is taking time to focus on yourself
After a stressful week we usually go out to the bar with our friends or round up everyone for a movie night at someone’s apartment to unwind. Here are some things to do in Columbus when being around other people starts to feel a bit draining.
Go see a movie at Gateway
A lot of people like to give off the impression that it’s awkward to see a movie alone, but obviously they’ve never done it. There isn’t a big difference between seeing a movie with your friends and seeing a movie alone—except you don’t have to worry about someone leaning over and whispering questions every fifteen minutes. Gateway is within walking distance of Ohio State’s central campus and they have a wide variety of new blockbusters and indie flicks. Not to mention, their concession and ticket prices won’t break the bank.
Browse through a record store
Record stores are paradise to every music junkie, and if you’re looking to expand your musical knowledge they’re the best place to discover new bands. When you walk into stores like Used Kids, Records Per Minute, or Magnolia Thunderpussy there’s always music playing and there’s no pressure to buy something while you’re there. Take your time flipping through albums by your favorite band or shuffling through a bin of something different like 70’s punk.
Take a gym break
Take advantage of the RPAC or one of the other workout facilities on campus. Exercising is one of the best ways to relieve stress, and going to the gym alone helps you focus entirely on what you’re doing. Curate your own workout playlist for the gym so you can just pop in your ear buds and let the rest of the world melt away.
Go for a walk in the Short North
With a wide variety of shops and restaurants the Short North is the perfect place to go for a walk. Whether you want to do some window shopping or you’re in need of some retail therapy, there’s something for everyone. Some notable places worth checking out are Flower Child Vintage Shop, Glean, Piece of Cake, and Big Fun.
Visit the Columbus Museum of Art
Over the summer the museum hosted a collection of work by Picasso, and they’re constantly bringing new and interesting exhibits for the people of Columbus to enjoy. You can walk through the many sections of the museum in any order and at your own pace so there’s no rush.
It’s the perfect place to go when you want some peace and quiet but you don’t want to stay cooped up inside your apartment or dorm. There’s something for everyone, whether you like medieval art, contemporary pieces, or you’re new to the art scene all together. Admission is free on Sundays.
Take a trip to The Book Loft
The Book Loft is located in German Village just a short drive from the campus area. With 32 rooms of books there’s plenty to browse through. It will probably remind you of a tree house. Each room is separated by subject and occasionally you’ll find bookmarks, socks, tote bags, and tee shirts displayed on the walls.
Whether you’re looking for posters to decorate your dorm, a new book to read, a gift, or something else, you can probably find what you need at The Book Loft. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around aimlessly. Once you’ve grabbed a book there are plenty of coffee shops in the area where you can relax and start reading.
If you’re looking for a place to de-stress on your own after finals week, Columbus has plenty of options no matter what you like to do. All of these places are perfect if you’re a little strapped for cash.