The must do's at MSU

As everyone gets settled into their dorms, works through their busy class schedule and figures out that syllabus week means a lot more homework than expected, planning what to do with your actual free time can be more of a chore than an event. So, if you’re a freshman or a first-year student at MSU with absolutely no clue how to navigate Bozeman, have no fear — here are some of the best spots to visit before your first semester comes to an end.

If you’re on a budget: 

1. The Rec Center: Visit MSU’s very own bowling and billiards area. Located in the basement of the SUB, you can easily play two or three games without spending more than $10, making it the perfect place for a fun night out. 
2. The Procrastinator Theatre: Also hiding away in the SUB, the Pro offers a wide selection of movies for under $2. MSU often finds brand new releases right out of the theatre to show, so if you don’t want to spend $12 at the Regal, you know where to go. 

If you’re a food connoisseur: 

1. Taco Montes: This is either a hit or miss for most people, but since it’s my article, I feel obligated to include one of my favorite food places. With a bunch of flavor combinations to choose from, you can get a tasty meal for fairly cheap and without having to do much commuting since it’s located right off campus on College Street.
2. Backcountry Burger Bar: Although it’s a bit more expensive than other places in town, you won’t want to miss out on this one. With everything from impossible burgers to poutine, you’re sure to find something delicious on the menu.
3. Tarantino’s Pizza: Here you can buy pizza by the slice (and they're pretty big slices). They rotate their flavors every day, so you can get something different every time you go, or even stick to the simple, albeit classic, pepperoni slice. 

If you want to work out but you don’t want to “work out”: 

1. JumpTime Bozeman: Just past Four Corners, JumpTime Bozeman is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with friends. According to the internet, you can burn up to 1,000 calories an hour on a trampoline. Plus, you can get there by bus if you don’t have a car! 
2. Spire Climbing and Fitness: If you enjoy climbing and are a little upset that the climbing gym on campus is closed this year (I know I am), try the next best option. Spire is within walking distance from campus and has around 12,000 square feet of climbing. 

If you’re the creative type: 

1. Arts On Fire: If you’re longing to scratch that creative itch, this paint-your-own-pottery place is a great place to do it. With hundreds of paint colors and pottery to choose from, the combinations are endless
2. The Emerson Center for Arts and Culture: Take a stroll through the Emerson to get a good taste of what Bozeman arts has to offer. With a rotating art exhibit and a wide variety of talent, it never fails to excite. 

Obviously, there’s plenty more to do around town - honorable mentions include Montana Ale Works (some of the best food in town), Bozeman Hot Springs (though, make sure to get there early) and the College M Trail (a classic). So what are you waiting for? Get out there and adventure!