They say it’s your birthday… you’re gonna have a good time. But celebrating in style doesn’t always seem easy in St. Louis. With the Gateway Arch as its major landmark, St. Louis may seem like it just doesn’t have much to offer the fun-loving crowd. After all, who really wants to celebrate another year by simply riding up and down in those little pod-like contraptions? But have no fear; there is a lot to do here to celebrate the big day with a bang.

1. The City Museum: Over the course of your Wash. U. days, you’ve probably ventured up that ten-story slide before. And yes, maybe you’ve even brought out your inner hamster while running on the hamster-wheel. But a birthday is the perfect way to rediscover your inner child, even if you have to venture a little farther from campus. With a reservation made ahead for groups of 15 or more, admission is a mere $8 per person, which any starved college student can afford for a birthday extravaganza. Don’t forget, the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but is open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays for late night fun.

2. Pin-Up Bowl: Remember all those elementary school birthday bowling parties? Well, check out Pin-Up Bowl on the Loop for a grown-up version of those good ol’ days, as knocking down pins never ceases to amuse. Renting shoes costs $3, and each lane costs $30 Mondays—Thursdays and $40 Fridays-Saturdays. If you’re not turning 21 or older on the big day, the place closes at 9 p.m. For everyone else, you can bowl your hearts out until the wee hour of 3 a.m.

3. St. Louis Zoo: There are penguins. And they aren’t even encased in glass. Though you may need to pinch your nose closed a few times, the zoo is a great and free place to celebrate your birthday. The St. Louis Zoo is ranked one of the top 10 zoos in America and features over 3000 animals. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and located a short walk from campus, the zoo is perfect for an all-day affair. You can even bring in picnic baskets and enjoy the sights and sounds of the zoo while saving money on lunch.

4. Hayrides in Forest Park: Do you have 20 friends? Does your birthday fall between the dates of Oct. 1 and Dec. 11? Then grab your posse and make a reservation for a Hayride through Forest Park for a grand total of $120 (a mere $6 per person). Celebrate the crisp fall weather, typical of your birthday season, with your closest friends in tow.

5. Steinberg Ice Skating Rink in Forest Park: If you’re a Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn or Aquarius, then ice-skating with your friends is a fun birthday treat. For $10 to gain admission and rent a pair of skates, you can glide across the ice (or stumble) with the cool winter air hitting your face.

6. The Fox Theatre: Though a little pricier and a little farther away, the Fox Theatre offers a wide selection of shows that you and your friends can attend for a fun night out. Birthdays are all about feeling special, and going to a show presents an extra excuse to get all dolled up. Tickets start at $30, and this year’s Broadway series includes South Pacific from Nov. 9-21; 9 to 5 from Feb. 8-20; Next to Normal from April 12-24; and Jersey Boys from May 11-29.

7. The Melting Pot: If you can’t get enough of fondue, take your friends out for a birthday party filled with dipping delight. If you’re gluten free, the restaurant even has a menu especially for you. For girls, Wednesday nights at this eatery are ladies nights and the “petite feast” is only $29, which can easily be shared with a small group. On Saturday nights, The Melting Pot also features live music. For a special birthday gift, when you sign up to become a member of The Melting Pot’s “Club Fondue” and order their comprehensive entrée, “Big Night Out,” you’ll receive a free chocolate treat!

8. Fitz’s: For great sandwiches and root beer, Fitz’s is your perfect birthday restaurant. An upstairs loft with pool tables, games, and a big screen TV can accommodate groups of up to 60, perfect for a big birthday bash. All you need to do is make a party reservation and you’re that much closer to a fun-filled celebration.