Taylor Corley, Campus Carrier arts and living editor
Mya Sedwick, Campus Carrier staff writer
There’s no need to empty your wallet just to have a good time in Rome. Whether you’re looking for fun things to do on the weekend or a place to grab a cheap dinner during the week, this list of 10 things under $10 to do in Rome has something free, or almost free, for everyone.
Swimming in Cave Springs
Between the months of May and September, families can escape the heat of the Georgia summer in the coolness of a natural limestone cave. More than just a fun site to see, the spring inside the cave produces two million gallons of crisp drinking water each day. Besides the cave, there are picnic pavilions and many historical buildings to be seen. Entry to the cave is only $1.
Dinner at Las Palmas
Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant, located on Riverside Parkway NE, serves tacos for $1 on Monday nights and burritos for $1 on Thursday nights. The menu offers a variety of sides, dips, meats and drinks. Every week, these deals are available to the Rome community, and many Berry students take advantage of them.
Site-seeing at Myrtle Hill Cemetery
Myrtle Hill Cemetery was established in 1857 and has had a rich history. Originally called Fort Stovall, the land played an important role in the siege of Rome during the Civil War. The cemetery sits atop a hill, providing visitors with a view of downtown Rome. Besides its historical significance and beauty, Myrtle Hill Cemetery draws in tourists by being home to over 35 species of trees. Entry is free.
Outdoor activities at Rocky Mountain Recreation
The Rocky Mountain Recreation and Public Fishing Area, located on Big Texas Valley Rd NW, offers an array of outdoor activities for free. The area consists of two lakes for fishing, swimming, boating and canoeing and 559 acres of land for archery, biking, camping, hiking, hunting and geocaching. The species in Antioch Lake and Heath Lake include largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish, crappie and walleye. Anglers can fish with a valid license and hunters can use firearms as long as they follow Georgia’s hunting regulations. The fishing docks, restrooms and parking lots are wheelchair accessible and parking is $5.
Sweet treats at the City Creamery
The City Creamery on Broad Street offers an array of sweet treats from 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. Monday – Sunday. Customers can buy coffee, tea, flavored sodas, miscellaneous candy, ice cream, soft serve ice cream or milkshakes. The price varies based on the weight of the purchase but usually ranges between $7 and $10. The creamery also has board games available for customers to play while they eat and a claw machine where you could win a rubber duck. The festive, carnival-like atmosphere is great for students, kids and families.
Meditation in the Labyrinth of Rome
The bricks of an amphitheater that was built in the 1930s were repurposed to create what is now known as the Labyrinth of Rome, located on Civic Center Drive. Walking the labyrinth is a form of meditation that is meant to lead you to your true self. The path is multi-leveled, making it unlike other labyrinths which are usually on even ground. Meditation in the labyrinth is free of charge.
Hiking on Heritage Trail System
Heritage Trail System is a paved, 13.5 mile path with entrances all around Rome including at Ridge Ferry Park and Myrtle Hill Cemetery. The system has trails that follow all three Rivers of Rome making for nice visuals during the course of selected trails. Heritage Trail System is used for more than biking and walking because it also offers stops along the way including many historical sites. Use of the paths is free.
Play at Ridge Ferry Park
Ridge Ferry Park provides visitors with the opportunity to walk trails, eat in picnic areas and spend time on a large playground. As of 2019, there are fenced in play areas for dogs of all sizes. The park hosts a variety of events including concerts and farmers markets. With clean grounds, a view of the Oostanaula River and a variety of activities, Ridge Ferry Park is a Rome favorite, free for all who visit.
Watch movies at Movies Mount Berry Square and Rome Cinemas
Students can ask the Students Activities Office for a movie vouchers from the desk in Kranert. Vouchers are $6 and can be used at both theaters to get a ticket to any movie. Students can pay with either cash or card and purchase a voucher more than once in order to see movies for under $10. Movies at Mount Berry Square is located on Martha Berry Highway, and Rome Cinemas is located on Shorter Avenue.
Get more bang for your buck at Ole Tymer BBQ
Ole Tymer BBQ, located at 1000 N Broad Street, offers a large selection of old fashioned, southern barbeque. The drive-up, picnic style restaurant offers breakfast, sandwiches, sides, salads, drinks and desserts, and the most expensive item on the menu is the ribs for $9.07. The restaurant is located 5 miles away from Berry’s campus and customers can either order at a drive-through window or order and eat outside. Ole Tymer BBQ also delivers through Dinner Delivered Rome.
