Top Five Cheap Summer Activities for College Students

Being a college student can be overwhelming and a lot of fun at the same time. Somewhere in between moving in and out of dorms and trying to catch up on finals, you need to find time to have some fun. Cheap summer activities for college students are great ways to unwind and enjoy some time with your friends, while staying under budget!

Here are five cheap summer activities for college students.

1. Jam On At Local Live Concerts

Instead of saving up hundreds of dollars to go see that one band you have been dying to see, go local! Going to local coffee shops, pubs and nightclubs offer a fun atmosphere and open your eyes and ears to great local talent. There are plenty of fresh and talented musicians out there in your city and it's a cheap summer college activity every time. Tickets can range from $25, $10 or even free! Check out your local newspaper for a list of gigs. There are also some great websites that offer upcoming events for local live music:

http://www.jambase.com

http://www.livemusicbaby.com

http://thrillcall.com

2. Raise Eyebrows At Art Galleries & Museums

Another great cheap summer activity is visiting art galleries and museums. They aren't just for art nerds and history majors! Going to these events not only offer wonderful insight on the world around us, but the tickets are cheap and in most cases free! Most galleries and museums hold exhibits that are temporary. If you're not into what the latest show is, check back later - you may be surprised. In college I would always drag a friend along to free opening shows to meet guys and get free food! We had a blast people watching and it gave a sense of independence doing something more "sophisticated". I've experienced shows on music, sports, science, sex and about anything you can think of - believe me, it's out there!

3. Stay Active Outside With Summer Leagues And Camping

Being outside in the summer is a fun and cheap summer activity for college students. Everyone likes being out soaking up the sun and being flirty! Check out the local resources and be adventurous. If you are more of the athletic type, see what leagues are open for basketball, softball, rugby etc. You will stay in shape and burn off all that dorm room food! For more of the nature types, go camping! You don't need fancy camping gadgets to have a good time. Bring the basic camping gear and good company. Head to the woods for toasting marshmallows and sharing spooky stories!

4. Did Someone Say Road Trip?

This was one of my favorite things to do in college. It is such an awesome cheap summer activity and creates memories for a lifetime! There are so many exciting places to drive to across America and of course you can always go above and beyond to Canada or Mexico. Having a group of 3 or 4 great friends makes for less driving time per person, more chip-in money for gas and more fun! You can visit a friend, a cool landmark, a sporting event or even shopping! If you attend college in the country, travel into the city for a day! If you and your friends are always stuck in the city, take a road trip to a lake for canoeing or a drive through the mountains. Bring your iPod with all your favorite songs and get driving!

5. Give Back By Volunteering

Well, I have to say that I love the idea of community service from a personal standpoint. But seriously, if you want to do something different and unique, give back to the community either where you live or where you attend college. You could either volunteer your time in a specific interest, such as ushering at theater or sporting events or you could help out an organization that is associated with your career path or college courses. If you are a sociology or health related major, you could volunteer at a senior nursing facility. If you enjoy being around children, volunteer at day camp or be a mentor. Giving back is rewarding, creates lifelong friends and can possibly help build life experience for your resume.