If you’re one of the many people who are sticking close to home this spring break, don’t worry. That doesn’t mean you can’t still have a good time. There’s still plenty to do in the Lansing area to keep yourself entertained.

Experience a new culture
Even though you won’t be needing a passport this spring break, you still can experience a new culture from the comfort of your own familiar city.

Try testing out one of East Lansing’s many restaurants that serve ethnic food, such as Mumbai Fine Indian Dining, 340 Albert Ave.

Although you won’t get as much exposure to Indian culture as you would if you actually vacationed in India, you still will have a chance to try some of the country’s cuisine, such as chicken tandoori and Indian spice tea.

You also can sample various Ethiopian dishes at Altu’s Ethiopian Cuisine, 1312 Michigan Ave., such as spicy lentils and chicken stew.

If you’re not aware of all the dining options East Lansing has to offer, check out gogreenmenus.com, which lists restaurants in the area by category, such as Mexican, Chinese or sushi.

Visit an amusement park
Spring break is supposed to be all about fun and games, and even though you won’t be able to unwind with all your friends and celebrate your vacation island-style, you still can take part in some festivities.

Plan a day of playing miniature golf, hitting the batting cages and exploring an arcade filled with games and prizes at a local amusement park, such as FunTyme East, 3384 James Phillips Drive, in Okemos.

Parks such as these have a seemingly endless supply of activities to participate in that are sure to keep you entertained for hours.

Or, if it’s still too cold to be outside and you prefer someplace entirely indoors, head over to Pinball Pete’s, 220 Albert Ave., and test your skills at one of the many arcade games.

Take a mini road trip
Scheduling time to visit your fellow Spartan friends can be difficult enough to do between cramming for exams and working, let alone finding an opportunity to go see a friend who attends a different university due to the additional travel time required.

So while you have a week free from books and exams, take a day or weekend trip to another nearby university, such as the University of Michigan or Central Michigan University, to catch up with a friend or two who you haven’t seen in a while.

Since not all universities’ spring breaks occur during the same time, it’s likely you’ll be able to visit while school is in session and the city is vibrant and full of life, with classes — but also parties and extracurricular activities — in full swing.

Treat yourself
If you’ve been working particularly hard this semester and want to use your vacation to catch up on some much deserved rest and relaxation, consider treating yourself to a spa day.

Rejuvenate yourself after many stressful weeks filled with homework and exams by getting a body massage or a facial.

Bliss Salon & Spa, 5320 Ivan Drive, in Lansing, offers these services as well as manicures, pedicures and body wraps.

And if the spa you visit has any tanning beds or offers spray tans, you can take advantage of those options and get that golden glow all your friends are sure to come home with.