With the end of the semester approaching, some students may finally have more free time available and begin looking for fun things to do with friends, family, or on their own. Fear not; Turlock proudly offers a variety of recreational activities that are sure to keep students, faculty, and staff entertained. 
Since its grand opening in 2003, the Turlock Historical Society Museum is one of the many gems found in downtown Turlock. Its wide array of pictures, artifacts, and stories give visitors a great look into the history of our town.
Ed Darrah, director of the Turlock Historical Society, works and curates at the Turlock Historical Society Museum in downtown Turlock. Here, visitors can take a stroll through the history of the city.
“It’s our way of paying back to society,” he said. “This is really neat, a lot of places don’t have one of these.”  
Another notable Turlock landmark students can find themselves spending time at in Turlock is Donnelly Park. This pet friendly park has picnic tables to sit and enjoy a meal or have a chit-chat. There is also a variety of play structures for the little ones to enjoy and sports areas to destress. A really popular spot for young people in the park is the skatepark on its southern end.
Jacob Linderman, a Turlock local, shares his love for the park he frequents. After years of skating at Donnelly Park, he enjoys its halfpipes, quarter pipes, and bowl.
“It’s close and I’m used to it,” he said. “I’ve been skating here for years now. So, I’m comfortable here, you know.”
However, with the colder weather comes more seasonal recreational opportunities. Fields of Ice, Turlock’s ice skating rink, is a special place for all ages to savor the winter season.
Fields of Ice, which will stay open through Jan. 16, is a favorite among locals for staying active during the winter break.
“It’s an activity that requires a lot of movement, focus, and balance … I recommend it if you’re trying to come with your friends, but maybe not on a first date,” said Odalis Cortes Campos (senior, Communication Studies) after her ice skating experience.
With this many options, the Stanislaus State community can easily find opportunities to explore these recreational spots on their winter break to create memories with their friends and family.