And now, I’d like to share a few fun, lesser-known places and activities on the Macalester campus.

Did you know that Mac has an observatory with a huge telescope and fancy computing equipment to learn all of the wonders of the galaxies? Well, it’s true! And one evening a month, the Physics and Astronomy Club opens the observatory up to the public, and will explain all about what’s up there in the night sky. I went up a few weeks ago and had a great time. It’s on the 4^th floor of Olin-Rice (essentially, the roof), so while you’re up there, you can also catch a beautiful view of campus and even the Minneapolis skyline off in the distance. They also provide snacks! Who could ask for a better homework break?

Another lovely activity is cookie-baking in the Chapel basement.  The staff in the Center for Religious and Spiritual Life provides a different cookie recipe every month, and also provides all of the ingredients and tools necessary to bake! Walking into the Chapel basement and being greeted by the wafting smell of baking cookies is just delightful. (I was recently talking with a friend who works in the Chapel, and she says it takes all of her will power each night not to bake and eat an entire batch of cookies by herself. I commend her strength.)

For a relaxing spot on campus, try the Children’s Reading Room on the 2^nd floor of the Library. It’s full of favorite childhood books, tiny chairs, stuffed animals, and huge beanbags! And it has quickly become my new favorite on-campus napping spot.

So there you have it, folks, a few places and activities not regularly shown on the tours, but no less fun or interesting! If you’re on campus soon, you should check them out!