Oberlin to me feels like a picture-perfect small town college campus-- pretty buildings, a constant influx of friendly faces, comforting coffee shops. However, coming from an urban area, a small town in Ohio comes as a huge change, one which takes some getting used to. While I can no longer hop on the subway every weekend and explore a new neighborhood, I have found that with a little effort there are quite a few unique experiences and places to scout out. Here are some of the adventures I’ve gone on when I feel like I need a little excitement or a break in my routine:
Main Street Antiques
If trinkets with a history pique your fancy, this two-level warehouse is stuffed to the gills with forgotten objects waiting to be discovered. At Main Street Antiques, twelve unique antique dealers decided to condense their collections into one large stockpile-- meaning these antiques come from all over, each with a unique backstory. Whether you are looking to stock your dorm with vintage glassware and tableware, looking for some interesting art to decorate your walls, or looking for an antique doll to haunt visitors, all of these objects are easily attainable.
Goodwill and Walmart
The Oberlin shuttles are a fantastic resource for going farther distances from campus-- with a simple sign-up form, students have access to a reliable drop-off and pick-up to experience the Ohio world outside of Oberlin. However, if I need a more low-key adventure, on a weekday even, the shuttle from Stevenson dining hall to Goodwill and Walmart offers a perfect quick adventure. As someone who never experienced Walmart until Ohio, the sheer number of objects in that store could keep me entertained for hours-- and the sheer number of objects I can obtain for such a low price is equally delightful. In a similar nature, the Oberlin Goodwill is only a few doors down from the Walmart. Hours of entertainment, a plethora of products, and low prices are a dependable source of sometimes needed excitement. As the cherry on top, the shuttle driver and fellow passengers are always up for a conversation and open to music recommendations.
(Faux) House Hunting to the Arboretum
Throughout all of the seasons, the arboretum provides a tranquil spot to walk and think. In my opinion, however, the most fun part is the walk from Oberlin’s campus to the arboretum. While I can’t top my roommate’s love for the cute houses of Oberlin-- she has a whole folder in her phone of her favorites-- I definitely feel some of that love. Each house entails unique material, color, style, and decoration. My favorite game is strolling the streets with friends, deciding what houses we would most like to live in.
Crocker Park
If a shopping spree or just some window shopping is what you need, Crocker Park provides the perfect urban shopping experience. Spread out into a little town, Crocker Park provides all the stores we know and love with some fun unique-to-Ohio boutiques. After a day of shopping, Crocker Park also comes with tasty snacks, a movie theater, an escape room, a spa, yoga studio, and even a plastic surgery clinic! In three-hour intervals of time, Crocker Park is a great adventure or treat for a Thursday or Sunday in need of some spice.
