It’s that time of year again— the temperature is dropping and I have no motivation to leave my apartment. If you’re like me and are never appropriately prepared for the cold weather, then you understand why I hibernate in the winter. This year I’m not going to let the weather ruin my fun, so I’ve put together a list of fun and college-budget friendly things to do while staying warm in the winter.

  1. Philadelphia Museum of Art

Get lost in the array of artwork shown at Philly’s own art museum. Hours of fun, plus it’s warm! Entry to the museum is free every first Sunday of the month- or $14 with student ID regularly!

2. Barcade

If you’re 21+, this is the place to go for some great entertainment. Barcade Philly offers a large variety of arcade games that are 25¢ a pop, plus there’s no cover charge! Come here hungry, because the food is cheap and they offer vegetarian options as well.

  1. Kung Fu Necktie / The Grape Room

Nothing to do on a chilly Friday night? Go support local artists by seeing a rock show at two of the coolest little venues the area has to offer. Again, gotta be 21+ to get into these places but you won’t regret going. KFNT is in south Philly, and The Grape Room is located in Manayunk. Shows range anywhere from being free to $5-$20 depending on the night, but both venues have events and prices listed on their websites.

  1. Franklin Institute

If you’re from the Philadelphia area, then you’ve most likely been to the Franklin Institute on a class fieldtrip in middle school. Let me tell you- this place is just as fun and interesting as an adult. They offer Science After Hours for 21+, or you can go during regular hours if you’re under 21. Either way, the Franklin Institute is just as cool as it was when you were a kid and it deserves another visit!

  1. Reading Terminal Market

Hungry? This place has it all. Reading Terminal Market is a public market that offers pretty much any type of food you could be hungry for. One of my go-to spots is Kamal’s Middle Eastern Specialties, home of some damn good falafel and hummus and incredibly friendly staff. Another great spot is Flying Monkey Bakery- which has vegan baked goods along with non-vegan items as well!

Whether you like the cold or not, get out there and explore the adventures Philadelphia has to offer!

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