In my first two years at Albany, I did not know about anything outside the campus and felt as if I was always stuck trying to find something to do that was on campus only. With Summer coming to a close soon and with everyone heading back to Albany on a college student budget (this may be you!), here is a list of a few things that can be done around the University at Albany campus and off the campus during the fall semester for $15 or less.

1. Albany Devil's Student Night

Although hockey season is not for a few more months, one thing I found fun was getting a group together and going to a student night at Times Union. Tickets are $10 and transportation is free from the CDTA as long as you have your SUNY Card!

2. New York State Museum

This place is free to visit and is another quick bus trip downtown. It is a smaller museum but can give you a nice history lesson with a diverse display and a carousel on the top floor and an interesting display of recovered items from September 11th.

3. Washington Park

A beautiful park located downtown, a quick visit to this park during the fall will offer an amazing view of the leaves changing colors and as it gets closer to Christmas, a light show is offered with a few select nights to walk through for charity and the rest of the time viewing from a car. Let us not forget you can also walk the park anytime to find Pokemon with Pokemon Go!

4. Cider Belly Doughnuts

Although they are only open until three in the afternoon, I highly recommend checking this place out. One of their six flavors of fresh doughnuts can not be beat so getting there before they sell out for the day is highly recommended!

5. Lark Fest

Known as one of New York's largest one day street festivals taking place in September, Lark fest shuts down about eight streets for vendors, food, live music, and fun. Free and fun to walk around and explore with friends.

6. Madison Theater

An old school theater not far from campus. For $5 a ticket, they show a few new movies, older movies and have live performances such as bands or stand up from time to time. They are only open from Thursday-Sunday so it is perfect for weekends with no plans or wanting to do something new.

7. UAlbany Art Museum

If you did not know yet, the school has their own art museum with free admission. The exhibit changes from time to time the current theme is "Future Perfect."

8. Sporting events

Obviously as the year goes on different sports start up. The main focus of sports during the fall tends to be toward football. Tickets are free for students and home games are always on campus.

9. Albany Pine Bush Reserve

About ten minutes away from campus by car, Albany Pine Bush Reserve is a great place to explore.

10. USS Slater on the Hudson

With tours starting about every 20 to 30 minutes, you can actually walk on a piece of history. If this seems like your thing, they say it is about an hour and a half tour rain or shine.