The dictionary defines nostalgia as a longing or wistful feeling while looking back at the past. It normally occurs when thinking of a specific time period or a place with happy and personal memories. Everyone has at least one specific place or time that holds nostalgic memories. There remain numerous places that have a home in people’s hearts.
Parks -
When thinking of nostalgic places, many think of parks. Most people used to hang out in parks as kids, especially during recess, since students from middle school and high school no longer have those kinds of breaks. This makes it even more special and memorable. It became a place where friendships began and would last for years. Some even still hang out there from time to time; creating more memories. Parks come in different forms; neighborhood parks, community parks, school parks, etc. Many of them give the same effect despite their differences. Locations like Apex Nature Park and Kelly Road Park can bring nostalgia if brought there as a child or can create new ones when visiting. Remember to have fresh air once in a while after having a long day of work or school and go to a nearby park. Maybe it would bring back memories from the past when looking at a playground nearby.
Childhood Homes -
Homes from the younger days hold a great amount of memories. Some adults would have a sense of nostalgia when visiting a parent’s house, then go into the exact room that would hold so many memories. There might even be a few items lying around--or maybe a few old toys when looking in a box full of old junk that will cause them to say, “Hey, I remember this.” Plenty of students along with their parents have come from different places and might miss their previous homes. Having previous homes miles away could be one of the reasons why some go there during the holidays or vacations. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, visiting somewhere that takes miles would be risky to themselves and others. For the students who still live in their homes from childhood, consider when sitting around, find something from years ago and think about the memories and cherish them.
Skating Rinks -
People back in the day like parents of students would know this one the most. Skating rinks served as nightclubs for teens. This gave some of its popularity back in the late 1900s. Skating rinks had DJs with music, a ton of space for friend groups, and even allowed people to showcase their talent with skates. This gave little reason to hate them. It makes sense how there can be so much nostalgia when going to a skating rink. Nostalgia can occur with teens or young adults today since skating rinks never left. Sadly the nearest skating rink, Jellybeans, closed recently in February and will remain closed permanently. But not to worry, many other rinks can be found around Wake County like the United Skates of America, Cary Ice House, and more. People can still visit these places so give them a try with a friend if not already.
Arcades -
Who doesn’t like games? Many games can be found in arcades. Not only that, but arcades also sell food and prizes as well. One of the top places that held birthday parties for kids would most likely be arcades. There would be pizza parties, challenges on who gets the most points, and more. Some arcades today still contain older games such as Pacman, Donkey Kong, Centipede, and more, which makes them even more nostalgic for adults or anyone who grew up with those games. Arcades near Apex like Dave and Busters allow people to visit even with Covid-19 but wearing masks and temperature checks are required. Other than that, arcades like Dave and Busters still allow people and their friends to hang out.
Many other places can bring back memories from childhood; bringing nostalgia. These popular places like the ones mentioned made lots of people have nostalgic memories. Not to forget, people have personal and unique places too; which makes it more meaningful when going back.
Comments