Need a break from studying but don't want to empty your wallet?
Whether you're new to Fresno or just looking for something different to do with friends, you don't have to spend a lot to have a great time.
From playing miniature golf and thrift shopping to joining campus clubs, Fresno is full of affordable ways to get off campus, make memories and enjoy college life. Here are a few of my favorite budget-friendly activities that prove you can have plenty of fun without breaking the bank.
Play Miniature Golf at Blackbeard’s
Did you know Fresno has a miniature golf course? Blackbeard’s is a fun place to bring a group of friends and find out who is the best mini golfer.
There are three 18-hole courses: Pirate, Storybook and Western. I personally recommend the Pirate course. It costs about $16 or more per person, and you can spend a couple of hours outside while hopefully sharing plenty of laughs when you reach par 10. (I’m totally not speaking from personal experience on that.)
There is also a Dutch Bros right by Blackbeard’s. All I’m saying is that a job well done on the golf course deserves a coffee or Rebel drink afterward. Nothing beats a sweet treat!
Go Thrifting
Looking for a new fit? Want to browse for décor for your dorm?
To keep myself on budget, I sometimes only purchase my favorite items that are included in the day’s sale, such as merchandise with a specific-colored tag. It makes shopping feel like a fun challenge.
Fresno has several great thrift stores. A few good places to start are Mission Thrift, Thrift Center and The Salvation Army.
FPU bonus: FPU also offers some great thrifting options. Looking for professional clothes for an interview or internship? Schedule a time with the Calling and Career Center to browse the Career Closet. I’m telling you, the blazer-and-loafer combination will always be in style. This is where I would insert a fire emoji.
You can also find casual outfits at the Community Chest in the Wellness Center.
Catch a Fresno Grizzlies Game
Know nothing about baseball? That’s okay! You only need to know the basics: Hit the ball, run the bases and cheer when everyone else cheers. Better yet, bring friends who can explain what is happening between innings.
Fresno Grizzlies games are an affordable way to have a fun evening, with ticket prices varying by game and seating area. Depending on the date, you may also find themed promotions, special events and postgame fireworks.
FPU bonus: Did you know current FPU students can attend eligible Sunbird regular-season home games for free? Bring your valid FPU student ID and cheer on teams including soccer, volleyball, basketball, track and field and more. Visit the FPU Athletics website for schedules, locations and admission information.
Visit the Fresno Art Museum
Looking for a chill activity? No, literally. When Fresno’s summer temperatures rise, the Fresno Art Museum offers an air-conditioned place to slow down and explore something new.
The museum features rotating exhibitions of artwork like paintings, photography and sculptures. Adult admission is currently $10, and parking is free.
Afterward, talk with your friends about which pieces caught your attention. Don’t skip the museum store, either! You may find tote bags, stickers, postcards and other creative souvenirs.
Spend a Day at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Lions, tigers and sloth bears? Oh my! You can find them all at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
The zoo covers 39 acres, so plan to spend several hours exploring, seeing the animals and getting in plenty of steps. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and carry a refillable water bottle, especially during Fresno’s warmer months.
Popular areas include Kingdoms of Asia, African Adventure and Sea Lion Cove. The zoo may also offer animal presentations and other activities throughout the day. Check the zoo’s website for current admission prices, parking information, showtimes and visitor policies before heading out.
To keep the day more budget-friendly, eat before you arrive or review the zoo’s current outside-food policy before packing a lunch. You and your friends could also enjoy a picnic in the nearby Roeding Park before or after your zoo visit. Who let the squirrels out?
Join an FPU Club
FPU has a great team of people who can connect you with fun opportunities and helpful resources. A few options include golf, climbing, dance and wilderness clubs. Feel free to read the current list of FPU clubs and see which one seems interesting to you.
Clubs are low-pressure ways to try something new and meet other students. In other words, you can make more friends to join you on future adventures.
College Goes by Fast
One thing I do know is that college goes by faster than you expect. I hope you don't think I'm an "unc," even though I graduated in 2022. For those who don't know, "unc" is Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang for someone who's getting old. If graduating four years ago makes me “unc,” then I’ll accept it…as long as I’m a cool unc!
Back in my day, some of my favorite memories in college weren't always the big events. They were the afternoons or moments of downtime in between classes spent trying something new, exploring Fresno with friends and making ordinary days a little more memorable.
You might be surprised which moments become the ones you remember most. Hope you have fun exploring the best little city in the USA.
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Email storyteam@fresno.edu.
