As the weather gets warmer, there are a lot of opportunities to get out and explore nature or just relax and enjoy the sun right here at UIS! Here are some of my favorite things to do on and near campus during the warmer months:
- Hammock near the UIS Pond
Did you know you can rent a hammock for free at TRAC? Before I purchased my own, my friends and I would rent hammocks and hang out near the pond. Sometimes, we would even camp out for the night. Relaxing near the UIS pond is the perfect opportunity to take a nap, read, write or just soak in the beauty around you. Paired with a picnic at the pond, this is one of my favorite activities.
- Read at Shakespeare’s Garden
This can be for fun or for class, but reading at Shakespeare’s Garden helps me change up my usual scenery and enjoy some vitamin D. Sometimes, I also like to write, take pictures, or do yoga all in the company of UIS’ good friend Shakespeare.
- Bike Ride
Through the StarBikes program, students can rent out a bike for up to a week at a time from TRAC. There are plenty of pathways and bike lanes around UIS and Lincoln Land to enjoy. Marine Point, a spot on the lake, is not too far away and is one of my favorite spots to bike to.
- Kayak/Canoe
Once again, one of the many items UIS students can rent from TRAC for little to no cost! If you leave from the UIS Field Station, students can rent these items for free. Other costs for renting these items are listed on the TRAC website, along with more outdoor items TRAC provides! I have been on some kayaking trips with Campus Rec and have a blast being able to explore the water right in the backyard of UIS!
- Visit Southwind Park
Southwind Park is the perfect place for taking a walk, having a picnic, fishing, flying a kite and so much more! The park is a few miles (about seven minutes driving) from UIS. Once at the park, there is a 2.5 mile concrete walking trail along with eight acres of grassy area, fishing piers, a gazebo, playgrounds, picnic shelters and sensory gardens.
- Lincoln Memorial Garden & Nature Center
Lastly, Lincoln Memorial Garden & Nature Center is another great place to go off campus. Just a 10-minute drive away, the Garden contains over 6 miles of trails through restored prairies. Filled with wildflowers, trees, and wildlife, the Lincoln Memorial Garden & Nature Center is perfect for friend hangouts, romantic dates or a hike by yourself.
