While many students pack their bags and head home after finals, there’s a hidden gem in sticking around: A campus staycation. That’s right, summer at UW-Whitewater is low-key one of the best-kept secrets. With fewer crowds, plenty of sunshine, and the James R. Connor University Center (UC) staying active, there’s plenty to do without ever leaving town.

Whether you’re taking summer classes, working on campus, or just soaking up the chill vibes, here’s how to turn your summer on campus into a staycation worth bragging about.

Start Your Day at the UC with a Boost

There’s nothing like a peaceful summer morning stroll across campus with a coffee in hand, and Willie’s at the UC has you covered. It’s the perfect place to grab a bagel, sip your iced latte, and ease into the day. With fewer students around, you’ll actually get your favorite seat by the window.

Reset and Recharge in the UC and Beyond

Summer is the perfect time to slow down and prioritize wellness. The Serenity Space in the UC offers a quiet spot for meditation or journaling, while campus green spaces like the UC North Mall are ideal for yoga, reading, or just soaking up some vitamin D. Not to mention, the Williams Center stays open during summer, so you can stay active and stress-free. Follow the UC on social media for the latest summer updates and event info! 

Feeling Artsy? Visit Roberta’s Art Gallery

Throughout the summer Roberta’s Art Gallery in the UC features exhibits open to the public. To learn more, visit https://www.uww.edu/uc/events_entertainment/robertas-art-gallery?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=GMB&utm_content=RAG and stop in during open hours!

Get Ahead or Catch Up in Style

If you’re taking summer courses, make the most of the study spots in the UC that don’t get nearly as used during break. The lounges offer comfy seating, Wi-Fi, and a view, ideal for reading or hopping on a Zoom call. Plus, Andersen Library and the UC both offer study rooms for group sessions or solo focus time. 

Treat Yourself with On-Campus Eats

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you can’t indulge. UW Whitewater has some delicious locations open through the summer — and rumor has it, there are often summer-exclusive food trailer menu items on select dates. It’s the little things that make summer feel sweet.

Soak Up Summer While Staying Local

Don’t forget, the UC is your launchpad to local adventure, too. Meet up with a friend, and explore the trails around campus and Whitewater. Want to keep it really simple? A sunset picnic on the UC North Mall lawn is about as good as it gets.

Buy an Inflatable Pool

Inflatable pools are a great way to bring back childhood memories and soak up the sun in a cool and relaxing way! Stores like Walmart or Target sell all kinds, types, and sizes of inflatable pools for any budget! Looking to splurge a bit to add to the fun? Buy inflatable drink holders or even games! There’s nothing like grabbing your favorite bathing suit and chilling by a pool in the comfort of your own space.

Enjoy Your Favorite Summer Drinks

Whether it’s lemonade, iced tea, or any other fun summer drinks, these are a necessity to make it feel like a summer vacation! You can search online, scroll TikTok or even Pinterest to find some fun summery drinks for adults and kids!

Play Games
Games are a great way to have some fun and get a little competitive! With more time and a lighter schedule, why not pick up a new hobby? The UC’s Warhawk Alley  isn’t just for bowling, it’s a great place to unwind with billiards, video games, and yard games that you can checkout throughout the summer. You can also get crafty with your game and make your own! For this, Pinterest is a great website to explore your creativity, and it has all sorts of ideas depending on how difficult you want your craft to be! An example could be going to the store and getting wood and making your own life-size Jenga!

At-Home Spa

Treat yourself with an at-home spa! Spas can be expensive, but you can get the same relaxation at home on a budget! What I like to do is go to the store and get face masks, go home and light a scented candle and just relax. However you like to pamper yourself, whether it is an at-home manicure and pedicure or face masks, just relax and unwind. Stores like Target or Walgreens have the best products to fit any need you have, for an inexpensive price! If you don’t feel like going to the store, Amazon is also a great option!

Explore Parks in Your Area

Summer is all about exploring the outdoors! There are so many places for you to go on an adventure. Find local state parks near Whitewater and reconnect with nature this summer with a variety of hiking trails in and around Whitewater!

The main reason to take a staycation is to relax and unwind! There are so many ways to do this, and everyone is different! You can grab a good book, take a nap, have a game night, take up a new Netflix series, or watch your favorite movies! Whatever helps you relax the most is what you should do. Turn off your phone for a while and take some time for yourself because you deserve it.