Low on funds? Tired of sitting around your dorm staring at the ceiling? UWM hosts a number of free activities that are perfect for the cash-strapped, stir-crazy student.

Recreation Center

Located on the lower level of the Union, the Recreation Center offers several nights of free activities for students who love bowling, billiards, table tennis, video and arcade games, including Xbox.

Bowling

Spare yourself a dull evening at home and enjoy free cosmic bowling every Friday night (except for Panther Pride Nights) from 7 to 10 p.m. They have recently added brand new lighting effects.

The first Friday of every month is Panther Pride Night. This night of free bowling awards prizes for bowling a strike with a neon head pin. Bowling begins at 7 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m.

Bowling is also free for students and alumni on select Tuesday nights from 7 to 10 p.m.

You can’t strike out with an old-fashioned bowling party. Invite up to four friends for two free hours of bowling or billiards on your birthday. You must have a UWM ID and a valid driver’s license.

‘Halo 2’ Tournament

Prefer video games to ball games? The Recreation Center hosts free “Halo 2” tournaments every Friday. Be sure to sign up by 2 p.m.; games start at 3 p.m. Compete with other players for prizes.

Union Theatre’s Experimental Tuesdays

If you are in the mood for a non-mainstream movie, the Union Theatre presents experimental films every month on select Tuesdays. All films are free to the public.

Gasthaus Entertainment Series

Along with excellent food, the Gasthaus offers an Entertainment Series featuring music genres from rock to '70s funk to popular Irish songs. Gasthaus events are open to all ages and begin at 9 p.m.

8th Note Coffeehouse

If you like inexpensive drinks, an eclectic atmosphere and opportunities to listen to or present your own writing, poetry or music, visit the 8th Note. Check around the coffeehouse for information on band performances, open mike nights and poetry readings.

Union Art Gallery

The Union Art Gallery offers a variety of exhibits to pique the interest of any art lover. Check out the latest exhibit, “Hearing Aids & Other Personal Prosthetics,” which is on display until Feb. 16. The main gallery is located on the campus level, but some exhibits are also displayed in the Union Concourse and Atrium.

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