10 fall break ideas for the broke college student

Don’t have the funds for a big fall break adventure? No worries. We have the hook up for an awesome fall break that is wallet-friendly.

1.) Mammoth Cave National Park

If you’ve never been or haven’t been in a while, head out to Mammoth Cave National Park for the day. It’s gorgeous and best of all, it’s free. Grab your hammock and a friend, and get out into nature.

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And, if you’re willing to spend a few bucks, there are also cave tours starting at $5.

Learn more about what to do and see at Mammoth Cave.

2.) Basil Griffin Park

Located in the heart of Bowling Green, this sweet little park is home to little league baseball games, duck families and tranquility galore. Pack your fishing rod, picnic blanket, a good book and some snacks for you and the ducks. Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing, reading and making new animal friends.

See more about Basil Griffin.

3.) Auburn

Only about 15 miles southwest of Bowling Green is the charming little town of Auburn. This hidden gem is home to quaint shops, laid-back living and the hospitality you can only get in the South. Have an adventure exploring a new place while still feeling perfectly at home.

Check out Auburn.

4.) Chaney’s Dairy Barn

One of the most delightful and fun local spots is Chaney’s Dairy Barn. This farm-to-table sits just a few miles out of town on Nashville Road. Filled with some of the best  fresh, homemade ice cream you’ll ever taste and some of the kindest people you’ll ever meet, this family-friendly hangout is more than worth the trip. You’ll probably even bump into Mr. and Mrs. Chaney while you’re there.

Learn more about Chaney’s Dairy Barn.

5.) Franklin

Just about 30 minutes outside of Bowling Green is the pleasant town of Franklin. Similar to Auburn, you’ll find sweet local shops and lots of charm. Spend a day exploring and taking photographs. It’ll be just the calm, easy day you need.

More information on all there is to do in Franklin.

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6.) Jackson’s Orchard

In my opinion, Jackson’s Orchard is one of the happiest places on Earth. Head on over to the orchard and relish in all the autumnal glory. (And pick up an apple pie and some hot cider for me).

Take a look at all the fun of Jackson’s.

7.) Corvette Museum

This is another classic Bowling Green site. The Corvette Museum is one of those things you’ve got to see at least once — especially if you’re (at least for school) a resident of Bowling Green. Head on out to the museum for a tour. It’s only about $10, and you’ll be able to check that off your bucket list.

Sinkholes, shiny cars, and Kentucky pride abundant: find it here.

8.) Lost River Cave

Maybe you went with your elementary school class on a field trip or maybe you’ve just never made it there before, but you definitely need to hit up Lost River Cave. Whether you take the free route and just do some nature exploring or shell out the $17 for a boat tour through the cave, you’ll have a blast.

Adventure is out there at Lost River Cave.

9.) The Drive-In

Open Friday and Saturday nights in Franklin, the drive-in is a staple in old-school coolness. Grab some friends and some blankets, and head out to catch a double feature for an inexpensive, fun night out.

See what’s playing and find out more about the Franklin Drive-In.

10.) Shanty Hollow Lake

This low-traffic, gorgeous place is the perfect (free) getaway for the broke college student. Channel your best Henry David Thoreau and head on out.

“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.” – Thoreau’s “Walden”

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Check out more about Shanty Hollow.