Tips for a low-key spring break

Published: Feb. 26, 2024

students outside at the Sink

While it may seem like everyone around you is taking exciting spring break trips, many students will have a low-key spring break. In fact, there is no right or wrong way to spend your breaks from school.

Here are a few tips to make the most of your spring break if you don’t have a vacation planned.

Staying in Boulder

Not all students travel for spring break. The residence halls will be open, allowing students who live on campus to stay. However, some campus services will be closed or have limited hours for the week. If you plan to use a campus service, like the libraries, dining halls or Recreation Center, check the hours and availability first.

Explore Boulder

It’s an excellent opportunity to explore Boulder. You have lots of options for different budgets with smaller crowds.

Try a new restaurant. Check out Boulder’s Bites on a Budget list.
Catch a show at the Boulder Theater or Fox Theatre.
Take a hike or snowshoe on one of Boulder’s many trails. Plan a picnic at Chautauqua after your hike if the weather is nice.
Visit a local museum, like the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art or Museum of Boulder.
Sign up for the Shelf Road climbing trip through Outdoor Pursuits. The trip is March 27-30 for participants who are top-rope belay certified and able to hike with a 20 pound pack up to two miles on rocky and variable terrain.

Take a day trip

Make a staycation out of your break. Colorado has many beautiful destinations within driving distance.

Go skiing. Lodging at ski resorts can get expensive, but a day trip may be within your budget. You can catch a ride to and from Eldora Ski Resort.
Visit Denver with your Buff OneCard. You can go for a few hours or make a day of it. Pick activities that match your interests, like the Denver Zoo, Meow Wolf, Botanical Gardens, Denver Museum of Nature and Science or more.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Many of the park's trails and activities are closed until early summer, but you can enjoy the park’s winter recreation activities.

Work on your resume or summer job search

While it might not sound fun, taking care of your to-do list can relieve stress and help you get ready for the end of the semester. If you have extra time during the break, you can get a head start on your summer job or internship search.

Create a Handshake profile.
Update your resume.
Check out internship opportunities.
Make a list of potential summer jobs.

Catch up on schoolwork

The end of the school year will be here soon. Use your free time to work on big projects or get a head start on studying for finals.

Review the syllabus for each class.
Make a list of project due dates and test dates.
Catch up on any late assignments.
Get a head start on reading and assignments due after the break.

Visiting home or family

Spring break can be an excellent time to go home or visit family. Whether home is close to Boulder or across the country, you can spend your break focusing on connection, relaxation and fun.

Rest and take time for self-care

Sleep in, take naps or go to bed early. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep each night to stay healthy and focused. Spring break is a great time to reset your sleep schedule.

Reconnect with friends and family

Being away from home and family can feel lonely. Use your time over break to see friends or visit with your family. Plan fun activities like a game night or special dinner.

Start your summer job search

If you are returning home for the summer, spring break allows you to start looking for summer job opportunities. You can visit or email potential employers and let them know you are looking for a summer job and the date you’ll be available to start.

Make the most of your spring break

Your spring break doesn’t have to be flashy to be fun. Sometimes simple things like spending time with family, getting a head start on school work or just resting can enhance your quality of life and give you the boost you need to finish the semester strong.

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