MANUAL
HITTING THE OPEN ROAD
The best (accessible) destinations for a fall break road trip
// PATRICK DE OLIVEIRA
Fall break is almost here and two words should be on your mind: road trip. But the break is only four days long, which means you probably won't make it to California. So why don't you pick from one of these closer destinations and embark on this long-standing college tradition?
Austin, Texas (701 miles)
The home to the University of Texas' Longhorn is a Lawrence on steroids. Just take a look at the city's two slogans: "Live Music Capital of the World" and "Keep Austin Weird."
If it's music you're looking for, Sixth Street is the place to go. It's lined with music venues, bars and clubs. "It always gets crazy," says Emily Franke, Austin, Texas sophomore.
Getting ready for the road. Fall break is the perfect opportunity to get in the car and check out a new city with your friends.
Photo illustration by Alex Bonham-Carter
Austin is also home to a different breed of night creatures. Tons of them. If you go to the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk, you can see hoards of bats emerge from underneath the bridge to go seek food. "It takes 30 minutes for all of them to come out. It's kind of disgusting," Franke says.
If the day is sunny, go swimming at the Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. As the name says, the pool is fed by spring water, and it's a popular hangout spot. Then, grab a bite at the Alamo Drrafthouse, a movie theater that also serves food and drinks. "Sometimes they'll play something like The Karen Kate and have a couple of comedians make fun of it," Franke says.
Recommended bar: The Dizzy Rooster, 306 E. 6th St. Sure, the dance floor may be small, but isn't that what bar counters are for?
Contributed photo
Boulder, Colo. (586 miles)
If you think Lawrence lacks hippies, this lively college town is your best bet. Pearl Street Mall is full of them, together with great shops, restaurants and a busy nightlife. But be careful if you're underage; bouncers are very strict and cops are everywhere, says Nick Allen, Boulder, Colo., senior.
But Boulder offers something for everybody, Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the town is also a mecca for outdoor sports. There are several trails nearby and Estes Park is only 45 minutes away. "If you can fit a bike, bring it," Allen says. "You can bike anywhere and everywhere around Boulder." Allen also recommends a walk and picnic beside Boulder Creek.
Photo by Patrick de Oliveiza
And if you need just one more reason to go to Boulder during fall break, here it is: Jayhawks vs. Buffaloes. The football game is that Saturday, and it's sure to be worth the drive. Just don't forget to book a place to stay ASAP.
Recommended bar: West End Tavern, 926 Pearl St. This roof-top chill spot is a great place to sip on some bourbon and enjoy a vista of the rising Rocky Mountains.
Chicago, Ill. (569 miles)
Sure, Kansas City can be fun and exciting, but if you want to get a true urban feel you should head up to Chicago.
"I love walking through the city. I still stare open-mouthed at all the beautiful buildings, even though I've lived here for a year," says Barbara Alves, 2008 graduate.
You can do all the touristy things such as visit Navy Pier and the museums. But if you want something different you should walk through the Pilsen neighborhood, a largely Hispanic-American area where all the broke artists live, Alves says. "And I would definitely hit a comedy club."
The Second City, 1616 N. Wells St., has all the famous names, but The iO Theater, 3541 N. Clark St., is cheaper and in Wrigleyville, an entertainment neighborhood, so you can go party nearby after having some laughs.
If you go shopping, stay clear of Michigan Avenue. It's where all the over-priced brand-name stores are, Alves says. "Go to State Street instead. It has half of the Michigan stores except they are cheaper."
Recommended bar Kincade's, 950 W. Armitage Ave. Where all the expatriate Jayhawks hang out and a great place to catch the Kansas vs. Colorado football game.
Road tunes
No road trip is complete without a playlist, which should vary according to your destination.
Austin — Make sure it includes Spoon.
You could listen to some country - if you want to follow the stereotype. But Austin's music scene also includes bands such as Spoon, who have been an indie rock staple for more than a decade.
The legendary guitarist who inspired the likes of Jimi Hendrix is still rocking. If you want to build some familiarity with Chicago blues, Buddy Guy is the man to go with.
Chicago — Make sure it includes Buddy Guy.
If there is one style of music that defines the road trip spirit, it's bluegrass. With songs such as "If There's Still Ramblin' in the Rambler (Let Him Go)," YMSB are sure to incite your traveling spirit.
Boulder — Make sure it includes Yonder Mountain String Band.
Preparing your ride for the journey Before you hit the road be sure to check if your car is in good condition.
- Check the oil and change it if needed.
- Check tire condition and tire pressure
- Make sure all lights are working.
- Check all fluids.
- See if your wipers are in good shape in case you run into rain.
- And if your car gives you any problems on the road, call your mechanic for advice. He or she may be able to help you out by indicating someone who's close to you to have a look at your car.
Source: Jerry Corbin, Lawrence Automotive Diagnostics
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