Last week, we began to plan out summer content and chuckled thinking about Columbia feeling like an "empty nester" city when the college students go home for the summer.

City Editor David even said, “Sometimes when students leave, it can feel like Columbia moves from a city to a town.” So the question now becomes, what do you plan to do with all of your extra time + space this summer?

Here are a few ideas we have for you if you want to fall in love with Columbia all over again while the "kids" are gone.

Take up a new hobby or take a local class

Ditch the doomscrolling for a more creative or relaxing hobby like:

Portrait painting with Mark Conrardy at City Art
Make your noodles from scratch at a Dorsia Pasta Class
Book a group Mahjong class with local instructors

Read a new book

Find your next page-turner at these bookstores in Cola where you can browse titles and support small businesses. Pro tip — you may be able to park for free in Five Points when you head to All Good Books.

Eat at restaurants you haven’t been to in a while or find a new favorite

We recommend dining more in Five Points, making reservations in The Vista, and making an effort to fill in the economic revenue gaps that students leave when they go home.

City Editor Sam's picks:

Terra
Pasta Fresca
Tazza Kitchen

City Editor David's picks:

Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe
The Dragon Room
Kao Thai Cuisine

Adopt or foster a local pet

If you feel like it’s a little too quiet, you want to explore local parks or walking locations, and want to help local shelters, read our guide to local shelters + rescues, and bring home a new family member.