By Paulina Fishman/AGGIE INSIDER Reporter
Are you bored on campus but don’t know where to go or what to do? Neither did I when I first moved to a new state for college. Now with three years of experience exploring places off campus, I compiled a list of inexpensive and interesting places that students can get to by public transportation from campus.
From museums, to local libraries and historic Philadelphia food markets, adventures are plentiful and closer than you think. Transportation from campus makes many trips possible.
There are two options for public transportation on campus, the DART and the SEPTA Regional Rail. The DART is a bus shuttle that provides transport around Doylestown on weekdays, and students get free rides when they show their student ID. The Lansdale/Doylestown line of the SEPTA regional rail has a stop right on campus, near the Lipinski Field at the James Work Memorial Stadium. It stretches from Doylestown to Philadelphia for under $10 each way. So, if you want ideas on things to do, here are some places, accessible by train or DART and a short walk, that you may not know about.
Bucks County Free Library: Accessible by the DART and train, this library offers free library cards to Delaware Valley University students. There are many benefits to getting a library card, since it works at 18 libraries in the Bucks County District and several branches have free tickets to museums. So, if a change of scenery when studying or doing work is needed, this is an option. There are also study rooms available to rent and a variety of books, games, toys, magazines and DVDs to borrow. There is also an art vending machine, a penny press, and a crested gecko named Gordy.
“Doylestown Library has really cute musical instruments outside,” senior zoo science major Caroline Smith said. “They are handmade and really fun to play when you are having a bad day.”
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University: Accessible by train, this museum has a variety of exhibits that interest any nature enthusiast, including me, which is why I intern there. Though it closes at the end of the month, you still have time to enjoy it. From dinosaurs to dioramas, live animals, and exhibitions that change regularly, offering a new experience every visit. It is a good spot for students looking for an educational and relaxing break from campus life. They also offer student discounts.
“One of my favorite train trips is to visit Reading Terminal Market in Philly,” Director of Student Involvement, Justin Brouse said. “It’s a food hall with a ton of amazing food vendors and shopping stalls.”
Stores tailored to specific interests: Accessible by the DART or train, there are many stores in Doylestown that are catered to things you didn’t know you wanted until you see it. The newest of the bunch is Wizarding Ways And More. It is a fantasy and macabre store with franchises like Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and Supernatural. Classic Games Revisited is a video game store that sells games and console accessories from the mid 80s to today and gaming related merchandise. Cyborg One is a pop culture store that sells comics, manga, a variety of games, anime and comic merchandise. Siren Records is a record store that sells vinyls, cds, and apparel in a variety of genres.
“My job at Busy Bee Toys,” English senior Lex Feuchter said. “It is a small business. It is also woman owned and the staff is really kind. What’s nice is it’s for all ages, there is something there for everyone.”
Lilith’s Conservatory: Accessible by DART or train, this woman owned plant store has a wide selection of rare and hard to find plants. They also sell a small selection of bioactive enclosure materials for natural reptile care.
As the semester progresses, getting off campus doesn’t need to feel intimidating or out of reach. With transportation options right on campus, taking a break from school life can be easy, affordable, and refreshing. Whether it’s studying somewhere new, shopping at a local small business, or even just taking a break from your routine, these destinations offer a reminder that there’s more to discover just a short ride away. Sometimes, all it takes to recharge is to hop on a bus or train and see where it leads.