Fun Summer Activities for Students in BYU-I Housing
Welcome to summer in Rexburg, where long sunny days and warm evenings make it a great time to enjoy everything our community has to offer. Known for its surroundings and college-town feel, Rexburg is a place to relax and explore.
When staying at BYU-I housing during the warmer months, students get a one-of-a-kind summer experience. From campus events and local activities to outdoor recreation and nearby attractions, there are opportunities to create lasting memories.
For students spending the summer in student housing, this article highlights activities and experiences to try.
Campus Activities
Start your summer strong by attending one of BYU-Idaho’s campus activities. The spring semester is filled with events and activities, giving students plenty of ways to connect and enjoy campus life.
Campus events to participate in include:
Roller skating: Roller skating is a weekly favorite activity at BYU-I, giving students a fun way to unwind. Each week, students can roller skate in the Manwaring Center Grand Ballrooms at a discounted price with your student ID.
Laser tag: Laser tag is an easy way to add to your week. Every Friday night, students are invited to dive into friendly competition in the Manwaring Center Grand Ballrooms for fun, action-packed games of laser tag.
Game night: This weekly activity gives students chances to play games and socialize. Held every Thursday evening, game night features chess, switch games, board games, card games, and more.
Country dancing: Get your dancing boots on for this weekly event. Each week, students are invited to gather and participate in country dancing, whether you’re an experienced dancer or looking to try something new.
Mini dates: If you’re looking for a date night idea, BYU-I offers students a mini date where you can enjoy a variety of activities.
Your Local Adventure Map
Located off campus, you’ll find multiple spots to enjoy, from water parks to bowling alleys.
Local venues for off‑campus activities include:
Rexburg Rapids: This water park is a local hot spot for splash-filled summer fun, featuring two water slides, a splash park, a lazy river, and more to help you cool off on hot summer days.
Rexburg Re-Escape: Rexburg Re-Escape offers a one-of-a-kind escape room experience where you and your friends can team up and take on a challenge together.
FatCats: FatCats is a local entertainment center featuring movies, bowling, and arcade games.
Gravity Factory: Gravity Factory is a trampoline park packed with foam pits, basketball hoops, and other attractions.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Enjoy the outdoors this summer to create memories you won’t forget. Whether or not you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are countless adventures in the area to enjoy, from hiking to stargazing to floating local rivers.
Trails to Hike
Cress Creek: This nature trail leads hikers along a scenic 1‑mile loop with views of the Snake River.
Mesa Falls: This 2‑mile out‑and‑back path brings hikers to forested scenery and waterfall overlooks.
R Mountain: This 3‑mile trek climbs one of the region’s largest volcanic tuff cones, offering scenic views at the summit.
Spots to Stargaze
BYU-Idaho Observatory: This location allows for viewing the great outdoors from inside. Located on top of the Romney Building, the campus observatory gives students access to telescopes and views of the night sky. Admission is free.
Mesa Falls overlook: After you’ve hiked up the Mesa Falls trail, the overlook offers you wide-open, serene views of the night sky.
St. Anthony Sand Dunes: With minimal light pollution and wide, open terrain, the dunes are one of the best places in the area to stargaze.
Waterways to Float
Warm Slough: Warm Slough is recognized as offering a slow, lazy-river style float. Heading down this tributary may be a great way to relax with friends and soak up the sun.
Henry’s Fork: Floating the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River provides an opportunity to watch for wildlife in an area known for scenic views.
Nearby Summer Fun
Make your summer unforgettable by exploring a nearby attraction. There are many attractions near Rexburg where you and your friends can sightsee, explore, and create memories.
Here are a few favorites:
St. Anthony Sand Dunes: Only a short distance from Rexburg, the dunes offer fun, from off‑roading to camping under the stars, and more.
Yellowstone National Park: Watch active geysers erupt, look for wildlife, or spend the day outdoors hiking or whitewater rafting.
Grand Teton National Park: Just a short trip away, Grand Teton National Park offers classic outdoor adventures. From sightseeing to boating to spotting wildlife, this is a place for spending time in the summer.
Summer Socials
Summer is all about spending time with friends. Beyond campus activities and outdoor recreation, there are plenty of simple, fun things you can plan to make memories together.
Here are some ideas:
- Plan a picnic or BBQ
- Plan a movie night
- Join a ward activity
- Explore local parks
Tips for Making the Most of Your Summer While Staying in BYU-I Housing
While staying in BYU-I housing, take time to stay social, meet new people, and enjoy the summer vibes. Plan ahead so that juggling classes and activities feels less like a challenge and allows for a more fulfilling summer. Remember that as you make the most of your summer by trying new things, be mindful of local guidelines and safety measures for outdoor activities.
Create a Summer to Remember at NorthPoint Apartments
Create a summer you’ll never forget while living in BYU‑I housing. NorthPoint puts you close to campus, local favorites, and the best outdoor adventures in and around Rexburg.
Contact NorthPoint for more information about BYU-I housing.
