Roxanne Timan, Multimedia Editor
Follow her at @Roxlobster

Even though college is known to be a cesspool of Coors Light capers and Pabst Blue Ribbon parties, there is definitely a lot to do that doesn’t require alcohol to be fun. After a while, the Roost and your dorm room can get boring.

Elmhurst Public Library Makery

This is the best way to learn some new tactile hobbies and it’s close to home. The Makery opened this summer at the Elmhurst public Library, inviting any Elmhurst residents and students to create and inspire one another.

Some of the creative devices included in the Makery include a 3D printer, a laser cutter, sewing machines, cardstock cutters, and button presses. Getting crafty is a great way to start a constructive year of sobriety on an alcohol-permitted campus.

Weekend Metra Passes

Photo courtesy of Soffiah Decena

The Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown Chicago offers free admission every Tuesday.

The trains are probably irritating to hear throughout the day and night, but the Metra trains will be your best friend during the weekends. The Chicago Metra offers an eight-dollar pass every weekend, allowing for unlimited rides back and forth from Elmhurst to Ogilvie Transportation Center.

The Contemporary Art Museum downtown offers free admission on Mondays, and has an 8 dollar admission for students. Spots like Millennium park attract a lot of free music and art events, and the admission to the Lincoln Park Zoo is always free.

The York Theatre in downtown Elmhurst offers $5 movies all day every Tuesday. File Photo

York Theater

Every Tuesday, York Theater provides $5 movie tickets all day. The easy location and cheap price tag are perfect for seeing the latest movies with your friends and not breaking the bank, or your liver.

K1 Speed Go Karts

This is your definite choice for a rush without the booze. K1 Speed in Addison is a little bit outside of the Elmhurst area, but definitely worth the trip. Race your friends in their top of the line go karts and maybe even make a few bets- sounds more fun than driving home drunk.

Internet photo

K1 Speedways in Addison lets patrons race a high speeds in the indoor go kart track.

Elmhurst Art Museum

Located right across the street, the Elmhurst Art Museum is a good afternoon activity without going too far from campus. With a JayPass, admission is free, and you might be able to even see some work from alumni as well as current students at the college.