By: Olivia Stephani | February 28, 2022
Photo credit: Alamy
Although the weather hasn’t warmed up and thawed the snow quite yet, there are still plenty of fun activities you can do with your girlfriends to feel like those it girls. Better yet, these activities are college-budget-friendly to prove you don't have to break the bank to have fun.
First stop: Iron Gate Cafe
Photo credit: Iron Gate Cafe
This beautiful, retired gated mansion on Washington Avenue is the perfect spot to have an aesthetic brunch, with an outside seating area surrounded by a lush garden. The menu is filled with a multitude of breakfast and lunch items, including vegan-friendly and gluten-free ones for reasonable prices; the original french toast with a side is just eleven dollars. If you and your friends are looking for the perfect picture with your food for Snapchat stories, this is the place to get them.
Second stop: Albany Institute of History and Art
Photo credit: I Love NY
With an admission cost of only eight dollars for students, this museum allows individuals to observe many memorable national and regional exhibits. People can experience not only famous ornate statues and paintings, but also various pieces pertaining to Albany’s history. The museum has a gift shop to get some souvenirs for yourself, as well as a cafe if you need any refreshments. Look no further than this museum for those minimalistic model Instagram pictures for your feed.
Third stop: Washington Park
Photo credit: All Over Albany
Washington Park is the opportune place to stroll and enjoy the colorful views or sit in the grass for a small picnic with your friends. There are multiple tennis and basketball courts, an ice skating rink during the winter, the annual Tulip Festival in the spring, and, occasionally, even a farmers market. This park allows you and your friends to relax and break up the schedule with some TLC from mother nature.
Fourth stop: The Pottery Place
Photo credit: The Pottery Place
Located in Stuyvesant Plaza, the Pottery Place is where you can channel your artistic needs. No appointments are necessary and walk-ins are welcome. You only need twenty-four dollars to paint your own vase or twenty-two dollars to paint a plate. Though prices vary, basic pieces can be painted affordably. Bring your new artwork back to your dorm to show off or give it to a parent for an easy gift.
Fifth stop: Crossgates Mall
Once the day starts to wind down, it’s a good idea to walk around and browse at the mall. With over 180 stores, the Crossgates Mall has plenty of places to satiate your shopping addiction. Beyond retail shopping, the mall has a cinema to watch trending movies, or the Apex arcade to play some skeeball or bowling. After you are done shopping or playing games, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants to finish off the night…unless your night is just starting.