In the past year, the Historic Third Ward has opened nine new restaurants and four new shopping attractions, including Anthropologie, a high-class clothing and home décor store that can only be found in the likes of Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and, now, Milwaukee.

As college students, many of us are on a tight budget. We spend the majority of our free time in winter huddled in our rooms watching movies or walking around with blank stares on our faces while the snow falls outside, trying to find something remotely entertaining. However, Daylight Savings Time has issued in, well, just that, more daylight.

The weather, little by little, starts to become milder and as our dorm rooms begin to seemingly close in on us, we have an undying urge to get out. Milwaukee has so much to offer, especially for us students. So read on and discover what you can do to bust out of your winter blues.

Milwaukee Public Museum: Now with the new attraction of Body Worlds, the Public Museum has become a great hit for students on a tight budget. With a student ID, you get $4.50 off your admission to Body Worlds, which also includes your admission to the rest of the museum. On Mondays, all Milwaukee County residents get free admission with proof of a driver’s license. You can even end your day with a relaxing and adventurous trip to the IMAX theater, located right there in the Museum building.

Historic Third Ward: The Historic Third Ward has been renovated and is now a hot spot for all ages. Nestled between Water Street and Broadway, visitors can find both shopping opportunities and a Starbucks on every corner. In the past year, the Historic Third Ward has opened nine new restaurants and four new shopping attractions, including Anthropologie, a high-class clothing and home décor store that can only be found in the likes of Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and now, Milwaukee. You also can’t forget about the Historic Third Ward’s Public Market. Full of a variety of exotic and local foods, it promises days of pure adventure.

Art Museums: The Milwaukee Art Museum, located on Lake Michigan, is a fantastic place to expand your imagination. It’ll only cost you $4, since your student ID shaves off half the general admission price. Not only is the art fascinating, but the building’s view of Milwaukee is also fantastic. You won’t want to miss the spread wings of Milwaukee’s own Calatrava masterpiece, the Brise Soleil, which serves as an entrance to the Museum. This fabulous construction was the first Santiago Calatrava building in the United States. If you’re looking for additional artistic venues, you might want to check out the Third Ward’s Katie Gingrass Gallery, located on Broadway and Buffalo Street. The Gallery is home to a collection of local artists.

Milwaukee Lakefront: Whether you and a few friends want to go for a brisk jog or simply fly a kite, don’t let the weather keep you down. The lakefront sidewalks are open year round and never stop residents from taking advantage. It is a great place to get back into your workout routine, either by busting out the roller blades, going for a run or just walking and gossiping.

Ladybug Club: This is a pretty typical club scene, where large groups get together and dance the night away. The Ladybug Club runs weekend specials, such as ladies’ night with free admission for the girls. These specials can be found on the club’s Web site. Located on North Water Street, the Ladybug Club is a great springtime destination for fun and relaxation. And just think – your precious pumps won’t get ruined by the abundance of snow and salt!

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