By Fabio Barreto
25 October 2026
Campus can get boring and busy pretty quickly. With all of the classwork, studies, job, basketball, and other activities that take place, sometimes I just need to find myself a place to escape and take my mind off things. One realization that I have had since being in Defiance is that there are great locations around here in which this can be amazing.
One of my favorite places to visit is the river area close to Old Fort Defiance. This is where the Maumee and Auglaize rivers join and this is probably one of the most calm places in Defiance. I am able to go and walk around the Fort, sit by the river, and just relax in general.
Another example of a very smooth area that I find calming is Triangle Park. This park is located directly on Clinton Street and therefore is easy to visit when I happen to be downtown. A great walk, some places to sit and some different activities in warm weather make it a great location to hang out there, spend time talking with friends or simply relaxing.
Also, sometimes I do not have to leave the campus area to find a quiet place for myself. There are several locations on Defiance College campus, where I can spend my time sitting outside, listening to music, doing some homework and simply spending some time alone. Even on a nice day, being able to find a bench somewhere around the college campus is sufficient for me.
When I need to escape from the campus, the best choice would definitely be Independence Dam State Park. Located on the Maumee River, it provides several trails, picnic areas, fishing, boating, etc. I like such parks because it feels like I am really getting away from everything.
For me, to relax is not necessarily to do something unusual. All that is needed sometimes is a walk around or a hang out place. Defiance may not be very big, but it has its share of quiet spots. A simple walk, some music, or even spending time near the river is enough to bring things back into place and get back to being yourself.