As a college student, it can be hard to find fun but affordable activities and places to eat and explore. But when you’re a college student in Chicago, there is no shortage of things to do. Here are just a few (of so many) places and activities to add to your bucket list to visit during your college years:

1. Lincoln Park Zoo

Because it always offers free admission, the Lincoln Park Zoo should be at the top of every Chicago college kid’s bucket list. With fun seasonal activities like Fall Fest and ZooLights, it's always a great idea to visit the zoo.

2. bopNgrill

This one may be considered on the more expensive end of “cheap,” but believe me, the portion sizes are worth the money. Go for a burger or a bop plate. Oh, and don’t forget a side of fries and some sriracha to dip them in!

3. Sweet Mandy B’s

Cupcakes that are both good and cheap are hard to find in a city like Chicago. But Sweet Mandy B’s takes the cake. Not only is it on the less expensive side for a bakery, it also has some of the best sweets. Plus, it has a very cute atmosphere to enjoy those treats!

4. Cafe Tola

If you love empanadas, you need to check out Cafe Tola. Come on a Monday to get the two for $7 empanadas deal! Don't forget to grab a cup of coffee and explore the great shops on Southport.

5. The Coffee Shop

Come to this funky little place for a great cup of coffee and your new favorite place to study. You’ll soon realize that this coffee shop needs no other name: It gives you exactly what you want out of your regular coffee shop.

6. Visit other college campuses

Whether it's making the trip to Hyde Park to see UChicago or going all the way up to Evanston to see Northwestern, this is a great way to fill your weekends. Seeing all the beautiful campuses that Chicago hosts and experiencing the areas surrounding them is a great way to not only explore more of your new city but to also appreciate all the great aspects of your own college campus.

7. Take advantage of free museum days

Look up which days the museums of Chicago offer free admission and plan ahead! Also, be sure to check out if your college offers any discounts or admission to certain museums (if you go to Loyola, you can visit the Art Institute for free any day!).

8. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Because this is a tapas bar, it can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be! Grab a couple of friends, order some paella and other good eats, and after splitting the bill, you’ll go home with a satisfied, full stomach and a slightly less full (but not empty!) wallet.

Of course, these are only a few of the many gems and deals that the beautiful city of Chicago offers. If you have a UPass, take advantage and go explore the new neighborhoods of your city, and don’t be afraid to try something new (even if it may cost you a little extra). That’s what college is all about.