College is a time to learn, to grow, and to have fun!
It’s a time where people go to become more rounded and to specialize in a field of academics—opening doors for the future. But let’s be honest: homework, projects, and classes can sometimes get in the way of actually enjoying life. If you’ve been stuck in your dorm or holed up in a basement study room, here are some fun, low-lift ways to get out, connect with others, and touch grass.
Scavenger hunts
One avenue that guarantees laughs and memories: scavenger hunts. They’re flexible, easy to set up, and perfect for groups of any size. You can tailor them to your campus landmarks, a theme (homecoming week, finals de-stress, club rush), or even a class topic. Split into teams, set a time limit, and race to complete creative tasks. You could create tasks such as: “Snap a photo with the campus mascot statue,” “Recreate your favorite meme” or “Find a professor who will pose throwing a peace sign.” The best part? You get a gallery of hilarious photos at the end.
If you don’t want to build one from scratch, there are apps that streamline the whole experience. Seekr Games is one example where you can make a scavenger hunt experience. You can find a prebuilt hunt online or create your own, then host it with a QR code. Participants join instantly, the host can track progress in real time, and most tasks are photo-based. The AI validates submissions so you don’t have to—no debates over whether that’s “technically” a pine tree. It keeps things moving, fair, and super engaging for everyone.
Computer lab games
If you’ve got access to a computer lab or a common space with PCs, set up casual mini-games or nostalgia nights. Browser-based games, puzzle races, typing competitions, or co-op challenges can turn a quiet lab into a friendly arena. Rotate partners to meet new people, and throw in quick prizes like snack packs or campus swag. Some computer labs are even built for gaming, and you and your friends can find a way to have a bigger online event if you all don't have the equipment at home, plus it's just fun to be in person.
Video game tournament
Mario Kart, Smash, Rocket League, FIFA—pick your campus favorites and bracket it up. Keep the entry barrier low by offering both competitive and “just for fun” brackets. Use common rooms, lounges, or projectors for a bigger vibe.
You could even build hype with a sign-up QR code and live standings on a shared screen.
Kahoot and trivia nights
Kahoot isn’t just for class. Use it for themed trivia: campus history, pop culture, music intros, or meme knowledge. Mix in “photo round” questions or faculty fun facts.
You could mix things up by hosting it outdoors with a portable speaker and picnic blankets for a relaxed outdoors vibe. Just to make sure people are touching grass.
Food-centered socials
Food brings people together—period. Try:
Potluck by major (everyone brings a dish from their hometown)
Snack exchanges (swap favorite international snacks)
Taste tests (rank the best local pizza slice or donut)
Cook-alongs in residence hall kitchens Pair food with light activities like card games, open mic, or a tiny craft station.
Tap into campus resources
Most colleges have offices or committees that plan events—student activities, residence life, student government, cultural centers, and clubs. There’s usually something happening every week, and many of the ideas above are already supported on campus. Check your school’s event calendar, follow the student activities Instagram, or stop by their office to see how you can join, volunteer, or pitch an idea.
Speed Round Ideas
Here are additional section ideas for things you can do outside with your friends in college.
Outdoor mini-adventures
Sunrise or sunset walk to a campus overlook
Frisbee, spikeball, or pickup soccer on the quad
Photo walk: capture campus architecture or fall colors
Geocaching or campus orienteering
DIY makers and art nights
Paint-and-sip (nonalcoholic) with simple canvases
Button-making, stickers, or zine workshop
Lego build challenge or cardboard engineering
Upcycling thrifted clothes or tote bag stamping
Open-air study socials
“Silent disco” study session with headphones on the lawn
Pomodoro picnic: 25 minutes focus, 5 minutes chat/stretch
Whiteboard problem-solving circles for tough classes
Music and low-pressure performance
Open mic: poetry, comedy, acoustic sets
BYO-playlist listening party with theme (2000s, lo-fi, global hits)
Jam session room: shared instruments and simple chord sheets
Micro-volunteering and community impact
Campus clean-up bingo (fill a card, win a snack)
Notes of appreciation for dining or facilities staff
Donation drive scavenger hunt: collect specific items for a cause
Tutor pop-up: upperclassmen host review mini-sessions
Wellness and reset breaks
Guided stretch or yoga on the grass
Mindful campus walk with a simple prompt (5 things you see/hear)
Hydration and fruit stand during midterms
Sleep challenge week with tips and accountability
Speed-friending and interest mixers
5-minute conversations with prompt cards
Hobby swaps: chess, origami, rubik’s cube corner
Language exchange hour or international snack share
Film and media nights
Short film festival featuring student work
Documentary + discussion on a relevant topic
Outdoor projector movie with blankets and cocoa
Campus lore and history tour
“Mythbusting” walk: uncover legends, tunnels, or mascots
Then-and-now photo recreation at historic spots
Low-cost competitions
Paper airplane distance and accuracy contest
Mini-hackathon or design sprint (2 hours, one prompt)
Deck of cards Olympics: speed, war, spoons
Rainy day backups
Board game café pop-up in the lounge
Puzzle race tables
Cozy tea bar + letter-writing to future self
Tie-ins with your scavenger hunts
Orientation or residence hall welcome hunt
Library literacy hunt: learn resources via tasks
Career center hunt: visit stations, collect tips, snap photos
Sustainability hunt: ID recycling spots, refill stations, green initiatives
Whether you’re brand-new on campus or deep into your major, finding small, fun ways to connect can make your college years way more memorable. Get outside, try something new, and make the kind of stories you’ll laugh about for years. Now go touch that grass.
