The Saint Rose Chronicle

Issue date: 5/6/09 Section: Entertainment

The Bennington Monument in Bennington, VT is less than an hour away by car.

With busy schedules and the worrisome state of the economy, it's hard for some college students to imagine a vacation in their budget. The truth is, the problems that come from lack of time and money may not be as bad as they seem for working college students.

"If you're young and you're employed, chances are this economy is not affecting you as negatively as it may be affecting others," said Jim Hadfield, Business Financial Analyst for PAR Government Corporation in Rome, New York. "In fact, it's caused prices to drop. The cost of gas has actually gone down. As far as local day trips, I would recommend them. It's a cheaper way to get the relaxation of a vacation that many people want, but are afraid to take because of money concerns."

Albany's central location provides for a number of area day trip. Whether by car or bus, anyone willing to take a short trip will find that historic sites and museums, halls of fame, special events, concerts, art galleries, sporting events, shopping and outdoor recreation opportunities are available to them - frequently for a low price tag. Many examples of cheap fun are even less than an hour away.

In the immediate Albany area, there are plenty of options for getting outside. Thatcher Park in Voorheesville has breathtaking views and intricate-but-easy hiking trails as well as picnic areas and snack bars for an afternoon break. Grafton Lakes State Park is an option on the other side of the Hudson River just a few miles outside of Troy. True to its name, this state park features a sparkling lake and includes miles of trails and picnic areas. The Grafton area has an interesting alternative to the typical nature experience: the Grafton Peace Pagoda.

"It's a Buddhist peace pagoda and facility in Grafton," said Anne Jensen, a Saint Rose sophomore who took a day trip there. "There's a huge lotus sculpture, and a 100-foot-tall Buddha statue, surrounded by marble sculptures of his life. It took my breath away. It's beautiful."

The Peace Pagoda also features a museum and nature trail for visitors to enjoy.

There are also options for those students willing to venture just a little further from. Located just 57 miles away from Albany, Lake George is a popular destination. There are plenty of places to picnic; Hearthstone Point, Lake George Beach or Lake George Battlefields State Parks are just a few. Fresh air and gorgeous scenery easy to find here.

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