Philadelphia has countless spots to pass the time, but every day it seems like choices for students after school are expensive,  indoors, or students aren’t allowed in at all. This list has great alternatives for every part of Philly.

Feed ducks at FDR park

• Feeding local wildlife in a relaxing and beautiful location is the perfect way to unwind, as FDR has tucked-away spots. Aside from sharing that food, nothing is more soothing than having a snack by the water. Visit on a weekend in Spring and Summer for the Cambodian market.

People watch at the Lemon Trail

• Whether looking across the river from the elevated gazebo or sitting by the cliffside tucked away from the forest, the Lemon Trail provides a beautiful view of Kelly Drive, the river, the regatta, and the forest on the other side. The trail also serves as great transportation from the artsy downtown to the calmer Strawberry Mansion and leads to many other outdoor spaces such as sports fields, community gardens, and even more trails.

Pick up basketball at Markward

• In Center City, price tags are being shoved in your face every which way you turn, but nestled in the city by the waterfront is a great spot to play pickup basketball. You can’t go wrong with the safe, green space to play soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, or any of the many other sports played there year-round.

Walk the bridge to Camden

• For people with better calves, a more challenging walk leads you to a whole new community built around the waterfront with museums, playgrounds, restaurants, a college campus, and a walking trail. Seeing the Philadelphia skyline from a whole new angle and breathing in the river air in a quiet area is the best way to reset after being stuck in Philadelphia.

Hike in the Wissahickon 

• If you have extended time, weaving through the Wissahickon woods leaves endless paths to explore for biking, running, and even horseback riding. With 2000 acres of land, you will find something new every time you visit. As the weather gets warmer, there is no better spot to step away from the city.

Though these locations may be unfamiliar, choosing to do something active on your next half-day will keep your pockets full and your mind clear, so I implore you to try one out.