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The school year has come to an end. Some students are headed on a family vacation, others have a part-time summer job lined up, and others are attending college. But what happens to those of us who have no plans at all for the summer and are stuck here in Attleboro?

Fear not, because there is an abundance of activities in the Attleboro area for the summer. Whether you're a movie buff or a beach bum, there isn't a lack of things to do.

If the beach is on the agenda, but means to get to Newport, R.I. or the Cape are nonexistent, Falls Pond and Whitings Pond in North Attleboro could be your best bet. Both are within walking distance from North Attleboro's center. If you don't enjoy swimming and just like feeding geese or taking a relaxing walk by the water, South Attleboro's Lee's Pond, which is right off Route 1, is a great spot.

The Fourth of July is a time for cook-outs, fireworks and friends, but mainly fireworks. A popular place in Attleboro is Hayward Field, located on North Avenue which is right off West Street. They sell food, beverages, balloons, glow sticks and toys.

This is a great place to take children of any age because there's a playground and a few large fields, along with a swimming pool that is currently being renovated. It's not just for children though; teens and adults can also have a great time. To escape the heat of summer, the movie theater is a great place to go. Relaxing and watching a good movie in an air-conditioned theater can really make a difference. There's the popular Showcase Cinema on Route 1 in North Attleboro, where ticket prices are $9.50 for adults, $6.75 for seniors and children and $6.50 for a matinee. There's also Patriot Cinema 10 on Newport Avenue in East Providence. Ticket prices there are $1.99 for general admission every day except Tuesdays, when tickets are only $1! However, their movies are rather dated. The movies shown are usually at Showcase a month prior.

North Attleboro's Kid's Day is a seasonal treat. Don't be fooled by the name, this summer carnival is great for teens and adults, as well as children. It's is held at Mason Field next to Falls School in North Attleboro. Kid's Day usually falls during the second weekend of July and runs rain or shine.

On certain days, tickets are $1 and depending on the day, bracelets are either good for half of the day or all day.

Need to get some exercise or pick out new clothes for the upcoming school year? The air-conditioned Emerald Square mall is only minutes from the center of Attleboro. It is a large mall area-wise and can provide for great exercise along with plenty of stores to meet specific needs. There's also the Providence Place just 15 minutes down I-95 South if a little adventure is a goal.

The Comcast Center, formerly the Tweeter Center, in Mansfield is playing host this summer to performers such as the Dave Matthews Band, Snoop Dogg, R.E.M, Busta Rhymes, Toby Keith, and many more.

Pool time is a summer essential. If a public pool is the only option, then there's two right in the area. Lee's Pond in South Attleboro has a pool right behind the pond and next to the basketball courts. This pool features a slide and diving board.

North Attleboro's World War I Memorial Park Pool would be a better bet if the trip up Route 1 isn't hard to accomplish. They have multiple lifeguards, a park only seconds away, and above all, two pools. Although they do not have a slide like Lee's Pond pool, they do have a diving board. The scenery in front of the pool consists of a path to walk on and a shaded gazebo to relax in.

Attleboro even has its very own art museum, with monthly exhibits. Some coming ones include "Out of the Blue" and the second annual Craft Fair and Art Sale. They also hold summer art classes for children as well as adults.

Maybe nature is a better idea for a good time. There are plenty of parks in Attleboro, but the best one is Capron Park. Not only is it a huge playground, but it's also a zoo. A visit there could include a picnic under a tree, a trip to the playground, and a visit to the new white lion, who was recently named Ramses.

So don't be down. A summer stuck in Attleboro may seem lame but there is plenty to do within such a short distance. Just do some research and find a local event!