BY KATI RIVERA
GRAPHIC CREATED BY ALYXIUS TORRES
Moving to a new town is an adventure of its own, but finding new places to call your favorite can make the transitions easier. Current FHSU students commented on a @TigerMediaNet Instagram story sharing their favorite spots in Hays with new or veteran students who might not be sure what all the city has to offer.
Check out our definitive list of all-things Hays and get to know the town you will call home while studying at Fort Hays State University.
In Your Spare Time:
Studying at the Union/Fischli-Wills (on campus) – Whether you live on or off campus, studying at your own place isn’t always the most effective. Both Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success and the Memorial Union are open until 10 p.m. during the week. Students can find either private or shared spaces to study and get their productive juices flowing.
Studying at the Library (on campus) – After studying at Fischli, you can pop over to Forsyth Library and continue studying until midnight. Most students aren’t aware that the library has most services available until late into the evening. With three floors to choose from–the main floor for collaborative space, the top floor for more quiet and individual work, and the basement for group studying–the library offers plenty of space for last-minute students to crank their homework out before their 11:59 pm deadline.
Munsch Fitness (1104 E 22nd St) – If the Tiger Wellness Center is not your vibe, Munch Fitness might be. Personally, I find this to be gym-rat central, but that may be precisely what you are looking for. With a student membership available for a discounted price, Munsch is a popular destination for our fit friends to get a good sweat sesh in.
Hays Recreation Fitness Center (1109 Canterbury Dr) – If you want more space than the Tiger Wellness Center but are slightly intimidated by Munsch, Hays Rec. can be your happy medium. It is cheaper than Munsch but offers less equipment and features.
FHSU Dike Trail – Some people just don’t like the gym (I don’t blame you) and prefer a hot girl (or boy) walk. If you haven’t noticed, there is a slight hill near the Cunningham bridge that runs along the east side of campus; that is the dike. We strongly advise you not to stroll alone on the dike at night, but it is a great spot to get your steps in free of charge.
Big Creek waterfall – This may take some adventuring to find, but on the south part of Frontier Park, tucked in some trees and across the dike from the tennis courts, there is a small waterfall that includes stepping stones to cross over. If you are willing to wander and find it, it is a neat spot to hang out and activate your granola energy.
Frontier Park (Old Hwy 40) – Whether you are walking around or looking for outdoor activities to do, Frontier Park has a plethora of options. An 18-hole disc golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and walking/biking trails are all options at Frontier.
Dog park (1376 US-183) – If you have a pet, FHSU offers a dog park near Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex (the soccer field and baseball/softball complex). Open until 1:00 am, this is an excellent spot for your energetic puppy to make some friends and run out their energy.
Downtown shopping – Main Street has some of the cutest boutiques in town. Places like Be Made and Simply Charmed offer some cute pieces and unique FHSU Tiger merchandise. Plus, it is always nice to shop locally!
The Arc (600 Main St) – If you prefer to shop on a budget, The Arc is a thrift shop that will bring you some of the coolest clothing (and more) at the lowest price. Profit from the Arc also supports the Special Olympics, so your thrifting addiction supports a good cause.
Only in Hays:
The Bison Herd – At one point in history, the land that Hays was built on was home to millions of bison, known to be the largest herd in North America. To clarify, buffalo are native to Africa and Asia, and bison are found in North America and Europe. Hays has been home to our bison herd since 1922. In 1953 the herd was relocated to Frontier Park, where it has been maintained ever since. Ace is our full-grown bull, and Ghostbuster is the famous white bison. Periodically new calves are born into the pen and are well-loved by many Hays locals.
The stray cats – You may have noticed by now, but the FHSU campus is home to many stray cats. That’s it really. They are very friendly and love to hang around the neighborhoods near campus.
To Fill You Up:
Thirsty’s Brew Pub & Grill (2704 Vine St) – I’ve never had bad food here. The appetizers are my personal favorite (specifically the fried mushrooms). There is a decent variety of food, too, so if you are a picky eater, there is probably something you will like on the menu. There is also a trampoline on the ceiling, a fun fact.
Breathe Coffee House (703 Main St) – This locally owned coffee shop is a Hays staple. More traditional coffee than Starbucks, but it is always rewarding to support local families. The baristas there are always very kind, and their menu will definitely get you outside your comfort zone.
The Golden Q (809 Ash St) – Another major Hays stop, the Golden Q is probably one of the most known stops in town. A classic American joint with the perfect sports-bar feel. If you are over the age of 21, Q-uesday is known to have some spectacular karaoke performances.
Tiger Burger (700 Main St) – Known for its sliders and cinnamon and sugar french fries, Tiger Burger is a good option for the acquired taste buds. Some like it or hate it, but it is definitely worth trying.
Vernie’s Hamburger House (527 E 17th St) – A classic mom-and-pop joint but has the best milkshakes in town! Is it decently cheap and hits the spot if you just want a classic American meal.
Cancun (105 W 2nd St) – Probably the most popular Mexican restaurant for FHSU. Just down the street from campus, it is always a go-to for students.
Augustine’s Bakery (1305 Main St) – Voted the best bakery in Hays, Augustine’s Bakery not only has AMAZING pastries but, according to some students, killer breakfast burritos.
Big Smoke BBQ (804 Main St) – New to Hays, Big Smoke has classic barbeque and homemade sides and still has an old-school soda fountain.
Cerv’s (2701 Vine St & 2822 Hall St) – Home of the legendary Snowball, Cerv’s is no doubt one of the most known parts of Hays. Snowballs are better than any other slush, but you will have to try them for yourself.
The Fort Tavern & Patio Bar (109 W 7th St) – What was home to a country bar is now a family-friendly bar and hang-out spot. With axe throwing, duckpin bowling, and a brand new outdoor patio, The Fort is a great place to take the folks.
Sake2Me (803 Fort St) – If you enjoy sushi and Japanese food, Sake2Me might be a place you want to try out.
Taco Riendo Food Truck (1103 Vine St) – You can never go wrong with a street taco, especially if it is only $1 on Tuesdays. On any other day of the week, Taco Riendo is still a popular spot to grab a bite to eat.