Free lax stuff. First Stick Program: US Lacrosse’s Initiative for Affordable Youth Lacrosse

How does the First Stick Program support community organizations. What equipment is provided through the program. Who is eligible to apply for the First Stick Program. What are the benefits of receiving a First Stick Program grant.

Understanding the First Stick Program: US Lacrosse’s Commitment to Accessible Youth Lacrosse

The First Stick Program, an initiative by US Lacrosse, aims to make lacrosse more accessible and affordable for youth across the United States. This program provides free lacrosse equipment to community organizations interested in introducing or expanding lacrosse offerings for young players. By removing financial barriers, the First Stick Program helps foster the growth of lacrosse at the grassroots level.

What is the primary goal of the First Stick Program?

The main objective of the First Stick Program is to support community organizations in adding lacrosse to their youth sports offerings. By providing free equipment, the program enables these organizations to offer affordable and accessible lacrosse activities to young participants, thereby expanding the reach of the sport.

Types of Grants Available Through the First Stick Program

The First Stick Program offers three types of grants to eligible organizations:

1. Starter Kit Package
2. Youth Team Grant
3. High School Team Grant

What does the Starter Kit Package include?

The Starter Kit Package is designed for organizations looking to introduce lacrosse to new participants. It includes:

• 30 lacrosse sticks
• Two dozen soft practice balls
• Two 3’x3′ goals
• Complimentary US Lacrosse membership for up to 2 adult coaches and 30 new youth players

What equipment is provided in the Youth or High School Team Grant?

The Youth or High School Team Grant offers equipment for a complete team, including:

• Equipment for 20 field players
• Equipment for 1 goalie
• Complimentary US Lacrosse membership for up to 2 adult coaches and 20 new youth or high school players

Eligibility and Application Process for the First Stick Program

To be considered for the First Stick Program, organizations must submit a Proposal Form during the designated application period. While the 2020-21 Proposal Form is closed, interested organizations can stay informed about future grant cycles and deadlines by accessing the Interest Form on the US Lacrosse website.

Are there any specific requirements for organizations receiving Team Grants?

Yes, organizations that receive a Team Grant are required to participate in the US Lacrosse 100% Membership Program. This ensures that all players and coaches are registered members of US Lacrosse, providing them with additional benefits and resources.

Priority Focus of the First Stick Program

The First Stick Program places a particular emphasis on supporting certain types of lacrosse programs and initiatives.

Which programs are given priority in the First Stick Program?

Priority is given to:

• 14U programs (for players under 14 years old)
• Organizations seeking to balance participation equally between boys and girls

This focus helps ensure that the program supports the development of lacrosse at the youth level and promotes gender equality in the sport.

Impact and Success Stories of the First Stick Program

The First Stick Program has made a significant impact on numerous communities across the United States. By providing equipment and resources, it has enabled many organizations to start or expand their lacrosse programs, introducing the sport to a diverse range of young players who might not have had the opportunity otherwise.

How has the First Stick Program influenced the growth of lacrosse at the grassroots level?

The program has contributed to the growth of lacrosse by:

• Reducing financial barriers to entry
• Enabling community organizations to offer lacrosse programs
• Providing essential equipment to start new teams
• Supporting the development of coaches through complimentary US Lacrosse memberships

These factors combined have helped increase participation in lacrosse across various communities, fostering the sport’s growth at the grassroots level.

Support and Partnerships Behind the First Stick Program

The success of the First Stick Program is made possible through the support of various stakeholders in the lacrosse industry.

Who are the key supporters of the First Stick Program?

The program is supported by many of the leading manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of lacrosse equipment. This collaboration between US Lacrosse and industry partners demonstrates a collective commitment to growing the sport and making it more accessible to young players across the country.

Alternative Programs and Grants for Lacrosse Development

While the First Stick Program is a significant initiative, US Lacrosse offers other programs to support lacrosse development in various settings.

What options are available for schools wanting to introduce lacrosse in physical education classes?

For schools interested in incorporating lacrosse into their physical education curriculum, US Lacrosse offers a separate Physical Education Grant. This grant is specifically designed to support the introduction of lacrosse in school settings, providing the necessary equipment and resources for physical education teachers to effectively teach the sport.

Is there an alternative to the Starter Kit Package for organizations looking to introduce lacrosse?

Yes, US Lacrosse recommends considering the TryLaxâ„¢ Grant for organizations seeking a more integrated opportunity to introduce lacrosse. This grant provides a comprehensive package of equipment, resources, and support to help organizations run successful introductory lacrosse programs.

Long-term Benefits of the First Stick Program

The First Stick Program offers more than just immediate equipment support; it provides long-term benefits for the growth and development of lacrosse in communities across the United States.

How does the First Stick Program contribute to the sustainable growth of lacrosse?

The program contributes to sustainable growth by:

• Establishing new lacrosse programs in diverse communities
• Providing ongoing support through US Lacrosse memberships
• Encouraging the development of both boys’ and girls’ programs
• Fostering a new generation of lacrosse players and enthusiasts

By investing in grassroots development, the First Stick Program helps create a strong foundation for the sport’s future growth and popularity.

Challenges and Future Directions for the First Stick Program

While the First Stick Program has been successful in expanding access to lacrosse, there are ongoing challenges and opportunities for further development.

What are some potential areas for expansion or improvement in the First Stick Program?

Some areas for potential growth include:

• Increasing outreach to underserved communities
• Developing more comprehensive coach education programs
• Expanding support for ongoing program sustainability
• Enhancing partnerships with schools and community organizations
• Integrating technology and digital resources to support program participants

By addressing these areas, the First Stick Program can continue to evolve and maximize its impact on the growth of lacrosse across the United States.

The Role of Community Support in the Success of First Stick Programs

While the equipment and resources provided by the First Stick Program are crucial, the success of new lacrosse programs often depends on strong community support and engagement.

How can communities contribute to the success of First Stick Program initiatives?

Communities can support First Stick Program initiatives by:

• Volunteering as coaches or program administrators
• Providing field space for practices and games
• Organizing fundraising events to support ongoing program costs
• Promoting lacrosse programs to increase participation
• Partnering with local businesses for additional sponsorship and support

By fostering a supportive environment for lacrosse, communities can help ensure the long-term success and sustainability of programs initiated through the First Stick Program.

Measuring the Impact of the First Stick Program

To ensure the continued effectiveness of the First Stick Program, it’s important to measure its impact and track the progress of participating organizations.

What metrics are used to evaluate the success of the First Stick Program?

Some key metrics for evaluating the program’s success include:

• Number of new lacrosse programs established
• Increase in youth lacrosse participation rates
• Retention rates of players in First Stick-supported programs
• Development of players progressing to higher levels of play
• Growth of lacrosse in previously underserved areas

By tracking these metrics, US Lacrosse can assess the program’s effectiveness and make data-driven decisions to improve and expand its impact.

The First Stick Program’s Role in Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Lacrosse

One of the key objectives of the First Stick Program is to increase diversity and inclusion within the sport of lacrosse.

How does the First Stick Program contribute to making lacrosse more diverse and inclusive?

The program promotes diversity and inclusion by:

• Targeting underserved communities for program implementation
• Encouraging equal participation between boys and girls
• Providing resources in multiple languages to reach diverse populations
• Collaborating with organizations focused on minority youth development
• Offering culturally sensitive coaching and player development resources

Through these efforts, the First Stick Program aims to make lacrosse a more representative and inclusive sport, reflecting the diversity of communities across the United States.

Leveraging Technology to Enhance the First Stick Program

As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in sports development, there are opportunities to integrate digital solutions into the First Stick Program.

How can technology be used to enhance the First Stick Program experience?

Potential technological enhancements for the program include:

• Online coaching resources and training modules
• Virtual clinics and workshops for players and coaches
• Mobile apps for program management and player development tracking
• Social media platforms for community building and program promotion
• Video analysis tools for skill development and player assessment

By incorporating these technological elements, the First Stick Program can provide more comprehensive support to participating organizations and enhance the overall experience for players and coaches.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations in the First Stick Program

As environmental concerns become increasingly important, there’s an opportunity for the First Stick Program to incorporate sustainability initiatives into its operations.

How can the First Stick Program address environmental concerns?

Some potential sustainability initiatives for the program include:

• Partnering with equipment manufacturers to use eco-friendly materials
• Implementing equipment recycling or refurbishment programs
• Providing guidance on sustainable field maintenance practices
• Encouraging carpooling or public transportation use for team activities
• Incorporating environmental education into coaching and player development resources

By addressing these environmental considerations, the First Stick Program can not only support the growth of lacrosse but also promote responsible environmental stewardship within the sport.

Expanding the Reach: International Potential for the First Stick Program

While the First Stick Program currently focuses on communities within the United States, there may be potential for expanding its reach to support lacrosse development internationally.

What opportunities exist for expanding the First Stick Program globally?

Potential avenues for international expansion include:

• Partnering with national lacrosse organizations in other countries
• Adapting the program model to suit different cultural and economic contexts
• Collaborating with international sports development organizations
• Supporting lacrosse programs in developing countries
• Facilitating cultural exchange through international lacrosse initiatives

By exploring these international opportunities, the First Stick Program could contribute to the global growth and development of lacrosse, fostering a more diverse and interconnected lacrosse community worldwide.

First Stick Program | US Lacrosse

US Lacrosse is dedicated to assisting community organizations that are interested in adding lacrosse to their offerings for youth. Through the First Stick program, awarded organizations receive free lacrosse equipment so they can provide affordable and accessible youth lacrosse activities to their participants.

First Stick Program History

Learn More

Application

The 2020-21 Proposal Form is Closed

First Stick applicants must submit a Proposal Form in order to be eligible to receive an equipment grant for the 2021 grant cycle. Please follow the link below to learn more about the Grant Process and access the Interest Form to stay up to date on evolving grant cycles and deadlines.

How To Apply

Note: For schools that want to start lacrosse in physical education class, please apply to the US Lacrosse Physical Education Grant. Click here to learn more.

Benefits

Organizations can apply to receive a Starter Kit Package, Youth Team Grant, or High School Team Grant through the US Lacrosse First Stick Program.

• The Starter Kit Package provides 30 lacrosse sticks, two dozen soft practice balls, and two 3’x3’ goals to help organizations introduce the sport to new participants! Starter Kit grants also include complimentary US Lacrosse membership for up to 2 adult coaches and up to 30 new youth players. Before submitting a proposal, please consider the TryLax™ Grant for a more integrated opportunity.
• The Youth or High School Team Grant provides enough equipment for 20 field players and 1 goalie. Organizations that receive a Team Grant are required to be participants in the US Lacrosse 100% Membership Program. They will receive complimentary US Lacrosse membership for up to 2 adult coaches and up to 20 new youth or high school players. Priority is given to 14U programs and organizations looking to balance participation equally between boys and girls.

Testimonials

 

First Stick Program Supporters

The First Stick Program is a US Lacrosse initiative supported by many of the leading manufacturers, distributors and retailers of lacrosse equipment.

 

Free Stuff: LacrosseWear Gear Bag Giveaway!

We’ve got a top notch gear bag to give away from LacrosseWear down in Florida and we’re excited to be able to showcase their new product!  LacrosseWear has been in the Shorts, shooters and t-shirt game for a while now.  It all started in Bo Lamon’s apartment a number of years back, but if you go to his store in Coconut Creek, Florida and get a tour of the production area, you’d never know he started in such humble beginnings.  LW has started making Voyager team bags, and just like everything else, they do, the bags scream LAX!!!!  This is the kind of bag you can fit all your gear in and be prepared for anything.

The bags are 42″ long and offer the ability to be customized with different side panel colors available.  The side panels can also be screenprinted or embroidered.  The bags retail starting at $70, so this is already a great giveaway!

The bag and nothing but the bag.

They sent the bag to Connor Wilson to check it out first and now that he’s had his fill, we’re giving it away.  Of course, we’re not JUST giving away this excellent bag all on its own either… it will be stuffed with some other goodies as well (why else would you need a bag but for swag?) because we’re nice like that!

Curious about how big the bag is?  These photos should take care of that!

Now the bag is FULL of gear. Don’t believe us?Gear explosion! LacrosseWear bag held it all!That’s some sweet swag! The winner’s extra swag will be a surprise!

Connor fit 2 helemts, 2 pairs of gloves, 4 short sticks, a pair of cleats, a pair of turfs, 3 pairs of arm pads, shoulder pads, rib pads, a cup, two jerseys, two pairs of shorts, socks, and STILL had room for more.  If it can hold all of Connor’s gear, it can hold all of yours!

The bag features a separate stick compartment on the bottom, a LARGE shoe/cleat compartment at one end, a clear oval for team logos on the other end on top of a smaller end pocket, a BIG center compartment, and two long skinny pockets on either side.  The sticks fit in no problem and Connor said he probably could have thrown in another set of equipment.  Three sets in one bag?  That’s space right there.

Like we said above, the additional swag we include will be a total surprise, and the better the winning entry is, the better the swag will be!  Pretty simple, right?

Now how do you win this bag (and bag swag)?  Simple.  In the comments, tell us what YOU want to see in a gear bag!  LacrosseWear would love to hear your suggestions on how to make a product better so the best suggestion gets the bag, and all the goodies hidden inside.

Be creative, come up with as many recommendations as you can and stay positive!  The comment must be made at the bottom of this post and you have until the end of Friday to comment on the post!  You can also like a comment through our commenting system so if you can get your friends to “like” your comment on this page, that will only help!

LacrosseWear came to us because they know our readers are the most engaged and intelligent on the internet.  Prove to them that they made the right choice and get down with yo’ bad selves!

Call LacrosseWear for custom bags at 954.429.1091!!!!  Now get to commenting and WINNING.

NOTE: We are NOT giving away all of Connor’s gear in the pictures.  That would be TOO ridiculous.

How Much Does it Cost to Outfit a Lacrosse Goalie?

Last week I wrote a post for those thinking about making the switch the goalie.

One of the points is that you’re going to need different gear. Lacrosse goalies in both the women’s and men’s game require different equipment than the field players.

Perhaps you already have a full set of lacrosse goalie gear. This isn’t the post for you.

But if you’re just getting started as a goalie, how much should you expect to spend on all the required and optional gear to defend the cage?

Let’s take a look.

New Vs. Used Goalie Gear

The first decision to make when getting equipped with your lacrosse goalie gear is: new vs. used?

Used is obviously going to be cheaper but perhaps won’t last as long. Depends on the condition of the used item. Used gear will already be broken in but perhaps not to your liking.

One drawback of buying used gear online is that you typically have to pay for shipping. And shipping an awkward item like a full lacrosse goalie stick is not always cheap. So be sure to check the shipping charges.

If you can find used gear in a brick and mortar store then obviously shipping charges do not apply.

New gear will last longer and also typically comes with a warranty so if you break it within the first X days of use the company will replace it for free. Good luck trying that with something you bought off of eBay.

If you buy a new item and it doesn’t fit, its fairly easy these days to send it back and get the right size returned to you.

I don’t think there’s a right or wrong choice for deciding between new and used.

If you’re doubtful that your goalie will continue in the position for years to come perhaps you start with cheaper, used items and then upgrade them piece by piece to new goalie gear once they’ve dedicated themselves to the position.

Where to Find Used Lacrosse Goalie Equipment

If you’re going to go the used goalie gear route, the next logical question is where do I find used lacrosse goalie gear?

This question is especially relevant for those not living in lacrosse hotbeds. I imagine in those hotbed areas it wouldn’t be uncommon to see old lacrosse gear available at a garage sale.

Here are a few places to find used lacrosse goalie gear.

SidelineSwap – Advertised as “where athletes buy and sell gear”, there are a ton of available lacrosse items for sale by owners on this platform. I have used Sideline Swap to buy a few items and I’ve had a good experience with each.

eBay – Next we have eBay. Unlike Sideline Swap, eBay is not optimized to sell strictly sports gear however there are still a lot of used sporting good items in the lacrosse space available for sale.

Brick and Mortar Stores like Play It Again Sports – I’m not sure how widespread this chain is but in the Bay Area we have Play It Again sports which is a buy, sell, trade type of store dedicated to sports. There may exist other chains which offer the same thing but Play It Again Sports is what I’m familiar with.

Craigslist – Once the dominant place to go to buy anything online, you can still find plenty of people selling their used lacrosse gear on Craigslist. The cities where lacrosse is a popular sport will have more available used goalie gear.

Those are the four options that come to mind for finding used lacrosse goalie gear.

Assembling a Used Gear Package from Sideline Swap

Based on what is available on SidelineSwap.com at the time of this writing, let’s see how much it would be to assemble a full goalie package with used gear.

Edit: I wrote this post a while ago and all items on SidelineSwap are gone so I’ve removed the links.

This list of gear isn’t my recommended goalie gear, just cheap items I was able to find that would serve the goalie well.

Of course, by the time you read this post these items might already be gone however this is just to give you an idea of how much it costs for all goalie gear.

Also these prices are what the sellers are requesting. For most of these items you can make them an offer and usually get the item for cheaper.

Helmet – Cascade CPro – $15 + $9.71 shipping

Throat Guard – Bauer Goalie Throat Guard – $30 + $7.91 shipping

I couldn’t find any used Cascade Throat Guards, my preferred throat protector. A new one on Amazon is only $40 plus free shipping. So I’d go with that.

Strung Goalie Head – STX Eclipse – $40 + $8.25 shipping

Shaft – Warrior Krypto Ally – $5 + $8.25 shipping

Chest Protector – STX Agent Chest Protector – $40 + $15.88 shipping

Goalie Gloves – Warrior SuperFreak Goalie Gloves – $30 + $7.73 shipping

Goalie Jock – CCM 500 Goalie Jock – $40 + $8.25 shipping

There weren’t any used goalie jocks available and probably for good measure given where this item spends the majority of it’s time. I was able to find this new goalie jock on SidelineSwap.

Cleats – Nike Cleats – $6 + $11.54 shipping

Mouth Guard – UA ArmourShield Mouth Guard – $8 + $8.25 shipping

That’s the all the required gear (for the men’s game anyways).

Total Cost: $299.77

Again that price could probably be negotiated down with each item. Shipping charges are also to the west coast so I’d assume they’d be cheaper if you lived elsewhere.

Optional Lacrosse Goalie Gear

Goalie Pants – Gear Pro Tech Padding Pants – $25 + $8.25

Couldn’t find any traditional lacrosse goalie pants on Sideline Swap but these football style pads would do the trick.

Arm Guards – Warrior Arm Guards – $10 + $11.27 shipping

Shin Guards – STX Contour Shin Guards – $10 + $8.25 shipping

Total Cost: $72.77 for the additional protective items.

Grand Total for all this used gear: $372.54

Assembling a New Goalie Gear Package

Now let’s check the price of a similar package of lacrosse goalie gear items except this time we’ll choose from top of the line items.

For new lacrosse goalie gear your best bet is using either LacrosseMonkey.com or Amazon.com.

Helmet – Cascade S – $300

Throat Guard – Cascade TPC2 Clear Throat Guard – $40

Complete Stick – Under Armour Headline – $110

Chest Protector – Warrior Nemesis Pro – $160

Cleats – Nike Huarache 5 Cleats – $80

Goalie Jock – Warrior Toolbox Nutt Hut – $60

Mouth Guard – ShockDoctor Ultra – $26

So there is the brand new, elite package if you will.

Total Cost: $776

Optional Lacrosse Goalie Gear

Lacrosse Goalie Pants – Warrior Burn Goalie Pants – $60

Shin Guards – STX Contour – $25

Arm Guards – STX Cell 4 Arm Pads – $80

Additional Head Protection – Lexi Shield – $29.95 + $4.49 shipping

Total Cost of additional protective items: $199.44

Grand total for new elite gear package: $975. 44

Conclusion

How much does it cost to outfit a new lacrosse goalie is fairly common question for those interested in joining the elite ranks of this position.

There are some other things that belong in your lacrosse goalie bag and of course there is the price of the bag itself but this post should give you a good idea of how much the basics costs.

Like a lot of things in life, there’s a huge price range as you can go super cheap with old used gear or go super premium with new top-of-line equipment.

If you’re buying purely used gear, I’d expect to pay around $300 for the basics and then another $65 for the optional gear some of which is actually required for youth/female lacrosse goalies.

If you’re buying unused recently released items you can expect to spend $700 for all the basics and then another $200 for the optional goalie gear.

Or you can just borrow everything from your goalie friends for a total of price of nothing!

Until next time! Coach Damon

Any other questions about costs to outfit a lacrosse goalie? Leave me a comment down below.  

8 Things to do on a layover at Los Angeles Airport

Here are 8 Things to do on a layover at Los Angeles Airport.

1. Grab a bite to eat

While there are a number of dining options at LAX, the quality really runs the gamut depending on your terminal. Some terminals have more to-go and fast food options, with a couple sit-down bars or restaurants. Other terminals, like the International Terminal, have more in terms of quantity and quality. LA favorites include Shake Shack, Cole’s, Lemonade, and The Border Grill for Mexican fare, plus plenty of healthy juice and salad options. Unfortunately, no 24-hour options exist, so plan ahead if you’ll be there overnight.

2. Hang out in a lounge

Did you know that economy class travellers can actually use airport lounges? We’re used to lounges catering exclusively to First or Business Class passengers, but at LAX, several airline lines will allow access to any traveller – no matter the class of service flown. The entry fee may just be worth passing your layover in a more comfortable environment, with drinks, food, and other amenities included. Simply pay at the door, purchase a pass online or use a lounge membership program. For locations and amenities, see our Los Angeles Airport Guide.

3. Hit the shops

Like the dining options, the shops are sufficient but won’t particularly wow too many travellers. Browse common airport stores like bookstores, technology shops, and outposts of skin care, makeup, and travel luggage and good. This is LA, though, so you’ll also spot plenty of Hollywood-themed souvenir shops, plus some surf and sports stores. A few boutiques like Fred Segal, Hugo Boss, and Bulgari are located in the International Terminal, which is also home to plenty of Duty Free shops – it’s by far the best place for shopping inside LAX.

4. View some art

The LAX Art Program adds some creative flair to the terminals, and a good way to explore is to see how many installations you can spot. Look for permanent public art plus rotating exhibitions. There may even be some live music – from individual singers to bands and choirs playing.

5. Relax at a spa

Got a kink in your neck? Need your nails touched up? Two locations of XpresSpa and a Be Relax Spa offer salon services like mani/pedis and facials, plus massage and reflexology treatments.

6. Check out LA

Whatever you think of the facilities inside LAX, the nice thing is the airport’s proximity to the beach and many neighborhoods worth exploring. You’ll want to have at least 6 hours between flights to have enough time to check out an attraction or two without missing your flight.

First things first – exiting the airport. There are public bus routes that connect the airport to city spots, but LA is a sprawling city and non-stop traffic can make this a huge time suck. Shelling out the cash for a taxi or car-sharing service will likely get you more time away from the airport. Renting a car for the day – as long as you’re comfortable driving yourself around – could be the most cost effective way to get around and store your luggage.

There is no on-site storage for luggage, so pack lightly or check your bags. A nearby storage company can pick up your luggage while you’re on a layover.

Short Layover

If you’re short on time, head to Manhattan Beach, just south of LAX. Relax on the beach, soak in some sun (don’t forget the sunscreen), and dip your toes in. If it’s warm enough, chase the waves or rent a surfboard. El Segundo, just across from LAX, has a nice main street with good restaurants and shopping. Or, stay really close to the airport and watch the flights come and go from iconic burger joint In-n-Out – just be prepared for long lines.

Longer Layover

If you’ve got a longer layover, head to famous spots like Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Both offer great beach views plus excellent dining and shopping options, perfect for strolling. Off the beach, explore Beverly Hills or Hollywood – check out the Walk of Fame, just don’t be surprised by the hordes of tourists. Downtown LA (DTLA) is becoming a hip locale in its own right, with brand new entertainment, shops, and restaurants sprouting up around the Staples Center. There are plenty more neighborhoods and activities to explore.

With LA’s notorious traffic, leave plenty of time to get back to the airport and process through Security for your next flight.

7. Get Connected

Stay connected to friends and family, update your social media accounts or surf the internet during your layover. WiFi is free at the airport, but it does timeout after 45 minutes. Reconnect as many times as you want by watching a brief advertisement. Upgraded options are available for a fee.

8. Sleep

Sleeping here should be no problem, with travellers coming and going throughout the day and night. There’s a decent amount of seats and benches, though most have armrests. The floors near gates tend to be carpeted, so at the very least, you can spread out on the floor. Travellers have recommended a few sleep-friendly areas: Terminals 4 and 7 group chairs in triangle configurations, which creates some privacy, and Terminal 6’s Arrivals Hall has benches without armrests. Wherever you land for some shuteye, note that announcements and noise are common no matter the time, so bring along earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. If you’d rather spend some cash to ensure better quality sleep, several hotels are located within a few minutes’ drive of the airport. Most provide airport shuttle service and some offer day rooms. For locations, see our Los Angeles Airport Guide.

These are just a few things to do on a layover at Los Angeles Airport. Visit our Los Angeles Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.

LAX Official Site | Terminal 7 Information & Map

LAX Terminal 7 Information

What’s happening at Terminal 7

A $573 million renovation is underway and will include an expanded ticketing lobby, improved security screening checkpoints, enhanced seating with more charging stations and a new luxe United Club Terminal 7 Lounge.

For interactive 3D map click here.

Airlines at Terminal 7

• United Airlines
• United Express

• Construction at Terminal 7 is underway and will continue through approximately December 2017.
• Gate areas are intermittently undergoing construction. Some may even be closed for several months at a time.
• Improvements are underway in the baggage claim area, so pardon the barricades. Baggage carousels may also be impacted.

• If dropping off passengers at Terminal 7, as you enter the airport, stay in the far left lane and make a left turn across from Terminal 1 where signs point to United/United Express Terminal 7. On the Lower/Arrivals Level, the shortcut leads directly to Terminals 5, 6, 7 and 8. On the Upper/Departures Level, the shortcut leads to Terminals 6, 7 and 8. Both let you exit the airport.

• $573-million renovation/modernization that promises to deliver a superior, world-class passenger experience
• Expanded ticketing lobby, incorporating the latest self-service tools
• Improved security screening checkpoint
• Comfortable seating options and abundant charging stations

To optimize your shopping and dining experience, you are now leaving our LAX site and entering our partner site, URW LAX Shop & Dine.
Please come back soon!

20 things to do near LAX Airport

Have you been to Los Angeles before?

If yes, you might be aware that the airport LAX is the center of everything. Los Angeles has quite a few activities for everyone, but tourists and visitors are keen to hear from experienced locals when they need to find some places to visit around LAX. 

Luckily, our team at Airport Spectrum Parking is more than familiar with the area, and looks forward to telling you some of the best places to go. Today, we will share 20 things to do near LAX.

1. Flight Path Learning Center:

The first activity on this list doesn’t even require you to leave LAX airport. It is at the LAX Imperial terminal. It is the flight path museum and learning center.

If you’re a fan of the aviation industry, this is a museum that you should visit. It consists of aircraft models, photographs showing the history of the aviation sector, and other cool memorabilia. There is also a research library that has a large number of aviation and aerospace books. 

The cost of entry is just $5 per person, which means that you will not have to shell out a lot of money. It is open from Tuesday to Saturday from morning 9 AM to 3 PM.

2. Westchester Golf Course:

If you want to get out of LAX Airport, it is time to visit the Westchester golf course. The 18-hole golf course can keep you occupied throughout the day. It is a night and day time golf course, open until 10 PM daily. 

If your idea of recreation is playing a game of golf, this is the golf course that you should visit. You’ll get to enjoy the sunny California weather while doing one of your favorite activities.

3. In-N-Out burger:

Have you tried this burger chain? It’s one of the most hyped about in California, and many visitors to LA always put this on their list of places to go.

You will not have to go that far, since there is an outlet near the airport. This nearby In-N-Out has an outdoor sitting area where you can enjoy a mouthwatering burger with animal fries while observing the jets nearby. It is not just a way to have some delicious burger, but also to spot the planes pass over your head.

Related: Frequently Asked Questions About Parking Near LAX

4. Venice Beach:

Venice Beach is quite close to LAX. The Venice boardwalk is a crowd favorite, where you can explore the local culture and meet various artists as well. 

The beach has a breathtaking view, so it’s advisable to bring a good camera to snap some scenic shots. Once you visit Venice Beach, you will surely be mesmerized by the laid-back vibe.

5. Dockweiler Beach:

Dockweiler State Beach is another bright spot that you can visit after you leave LAX airport. It is just 7 minutes away from the passenger terminal area. The entry to the beach is completely free, and it consists of a 3-mile long coastline, so get ready to experience a spacious spot to visit.

Along the coastline, you will find the concession stand, restrooms, picnic area, changing areas, and even outdoor showers. With that in mind, who says you can experience a leisurely day on the beach when you’re at LAX airport.

6. Manhattan Beach Pier:

Manhattan Beach Pier is a 10-minute cab ride away from LAX. It is one of the best places in California to catch some sun. With breathtaking views of the ocean, you are sure to get mesmerized by its beauty. 

There are also other attractions on the pier as well. You can explore the Roundhouse Aquarium. In addition to that, you can rent a cruiser bike to explore the coastline. The cost of the cruiser bike is around $10 per hour. 

Apart from natural beauty, there is plenty to see when you’re at the Manhattan Beach Pier.

Looking for a place to park when you go on your LA adventure? Check out Airport Spectrum Parking on West Century Blvd with free shuttle service to the airport!

7. Sand Dune Park:

The Sand Dune Park, as the name itself suggests, has enormous sand dunes. Some of them rise to as high as 100 feet. There is also a merry-go-round and a play area for kids. It is a preserved area, so everything you see is entirely natural. Birds and wildflowers can be seen in the park as well.

There are visitation slots, so you might have to wait for some time to gain entry. That is why it is better to get an online reservation done in advance. You only get to spend 60 min in the park. The fee is pretty affordable at $3.16 per person. With that in mind, if you want to see a natural attraction near LAX, this is a park to visit.

Related: Airport Spectrum Parking Free Shuttle Map

8. Automobile Driving Museum:

The Automobile Driving Museum is just 10 minutes away from LAX; they have 150 cars in total. There is no admission price, and you can donate any amount that you want for the maintenance of these antique cars. If you’re an automobile fan, or like vintage cars, this is the place that you should visit near LAX.

9. EL Segundo Beach:

EL Segundo Beach is a lesser-known beach among tourists, but it’s less than half an hour away from the airport.

During the weekdays, it is practically empty. Also, finding a parking spot is easy. It provides you with a lot of space and tranquility because only the locals know about it. 

It is rumored to be a haunted beach, so if you are a fan of the paranormal, then you should give this place a visit.

10. Whale Watching:

At Redondo Beach, you can go see some whales. The Redondo Beach Sportfishing & Whale Watching offers half-day trips, which allow you to explore the coastline. There are fishing trips with events lasting about 5-hours long. 

If you’re just interested in whale watching, there are dedicated tours for the same lasting 2.5 hours. There are also nature cruises which allow you to view sea lions as well as dolphins.  

With this place, you have plenty of options from whale watching to dolphin watching when you head over to the beach.

The spot which we are highlighting now is again one of the lesser-known places in Los Angeles. It is within a 10-mile radius of LAX. 

It consists of 5 different hiking trails, scenic views, and a beautiful lotus pond. It is open from 6 AM up to sunset. With that in mind, if you’re looking for a venue to relax outdoors or to embark on a trail, you should head over to this spot.

12. Explore the history of LA:

Centinela Adobe also known as La Casa de la Centinela, is a historical home near LAX built in the early 1800s that teaches you about the development of Los Angeles and the founding of Inglewood, CA. 

There are also quite a few special events held here throughout the year. It is open to visitors from 2-4pm on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. Large groups can make an appointment.

13. Shop at the Santa Monica Place:

Santa Monica Place is 20 minutes away from the airport. It has been recently renovated, and now boasts plenty of high-end shops and a dining deck to offer. 

You can visit the Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Park, which is one of the most famous amusement parks in the area. If you want to have fun and shop at the same time, this is the area that you should visit.

14. Getty Museum:

The Getty Museum is one of the most famous attractions in Los Angeles. The admission fee is around $15. It is approximately 30 minutes to 40 minutes away from LAX.

On the way back, there are quite a few activities that you can indulge in. The significant part is that admission to this museum is entirely free. However, the parking cost is $15. The exhibits change from time to time, so you should check on their website before heading over there.

Looking for cheap overnight LAX parking? Check out Airport Spectrum Parking LAX!

Even if you just stroll outdoors, you cannot help but admire its architecture and sculpture. That is why it is a museum which you should not miss out on if you’re in or around LAX.

15. Rodeo Drive:

Rodeo Drive is another destination you can head on to if you want to shop. It consists of many high-end boutiques, including Chanel, Valentino, and Salvatore Ferragamo. Since shopping can be very tiring, you can check out something sweet and delicious at any of the local patisseries.

With that in mind, you should definitely try the Sprinkles Cupcake ATM. The cupcakes are pretty tasty, and getting one from an ATM is a unique experience in itself. That is why; it is another destination which you can visit if you’re interested in shopping or have a sweet tooth.

16. Griffith Observatory:

The Griffith Observatory has a giant telescope at the Ahmanson Hall of the Sky and Wilder Hall of the Eye. It allows you to explore various aspects of space. Moreover, when you head over there, you can also catch on the stunning views of the city.  

There are plenty of trails around this observatory as well. If you prefer hiking, one of the trails can take you to the Hollywood sign so that you can cover another iconic spot. If you want to save time and explore more, then this is the place to visit.

17. Upright Citizens Brigade Theater:

Upright Citizens Brigade Theater is part of a school that has two theatres. There are various events scheduled in these theatres. If you book early, you might be able to get tickets for as low as $5.

If you want to have a good laugh and indulge in some humor, these theatres host a lot of comical performances that will knock you off your feet. 

In the vicinity, you will also be able to embark on a trail that will take you to the Hollywood sign. That is why; you can easily spend your entire time in this area when you are at LAX airport.

18. Museum of Jurassic Technology:

The Museum of Jurassic Technology is regarded as one of the strangest museums in the entire country. The museum amalgamates various topics like history, folk art, science, sculpture, and floral radiographs. 

While not all of them might be authentic, combining different niches to create something abstract is the forte of this museum. If you want to spark your imagination, this is the museum to jumpstart the day.

Related: Where to find cheap LAX parking 

19. Sony Picture Studios:

Sony Pictures Studios consists of the Walk of Fame and several other attractions. However, visiting this place is only possible when you’re on a long layover. 

There are also 2-hour guided tours that allow you to explore the entire vicinity of Hollywood and its fame. If you have a delay of 8 hours or more during the daytime, you should visit Sony Picture Studios for an unforgettable experience.

20. Abbot Kinney Boulevard – Venice:

Abbot Kinney Boulevard hosts some of the most famous restaurants in LA. It is about a mile long and allows you to explore the culture of Los Angeles along with a beautiful shopping and dining experience. It consists of many nightclubs, yoga studios, and art galleries. 

When you head over to this area, you wouldn’t have to worry about a shortage of things to do. If you’re looking for multiple activities in a single place, this Boulevard will be a perfect attraction. 

It will ensure that you remain entertained throughout the day, so waiting at the airport is no longer a pain.

Instead of just passing your time listlessly, you can follow our list above. We have carefully curated only the best activities which you can indulge in around LAX airport. You can cherry-pick between them according to your interests. 

Since the places are within the vicinity of the airport, going there and coming back is not a problem. You will never have to endure hours of boredom, you can utilize the time in Los Angeles with the help of our guide above.

If you need a place to park when you’re exploring LA, check out Airport Spectrum Parking. We offer valet services and around-the-clock security to keep your car safe and allow you to have fun.

Have questions about parking near LAX? Contact Airport Spectrum Parking today!

25 Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles

Los Angeles can be a pricey destination to visit, but there are plenty of free attractions in the city if you’re on a budget. Luckily for visitors, many of the most famous sights in the city do not charge admission. Once you add the city’s stunning free beaches, numerous public gardens, and the myriad of entertainment options, it’s easy to see how you can visit the City of Angels without spending a dime. 

Sometimes parking charges in L.A. are steep, so consider the Metro Day Pass to get you to some of these sights if funds are tight.

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See the Ferris Wheel at Santa Monica Pier

Verity E. Milligan / Getty Images

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Address

200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA

Phone

+1 310-458-8900

It may cost money to ride the attractions at Pacific Park, the amusement park on Santa Monica Pier, but visiting the pier is free of charge and worth visiting even if you don’t get on the rides. Santa Monica Pier is such an iconic piece of Los Angeles that you really can’t miss it—plus it’s within walking distance from other top attractions like downtown Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Not only is it a great place for people watching and photography, but Santa Monica Pier is also the western terminus for America’s most famous road trip, Route 66.

02
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Take a Drive Down Sunset Boulevard

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Address

9040 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069-1844, USA

Phone

+1 310-659-7368

Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or just want to traverse Los Angeles’ most famous thoroughfare, Sunset Boulevard is 22 miles of scenic road that stretches from the Pacific Palisades neighborhood along the coast all the way to Downtown L.A. However, it’s the stretch through Beverly Hills and West Hollywood that most people want to see, with the recognizable palm trees and Bel Air mansions. If you decide to take this scenic drive, it’s worth checking out traffic conditions first since Sunset Boulevard can quickly fill up with cars.

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Seek Out Celebrities at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

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Address

6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038, USA

Phone

+1 323-469-1181

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is the final resting place for many of the movie industry’s biggest stars, especially those from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Here you can see the tombs of stars like Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, Fay Wray, and George Harrison. There’s also a plaque commemorating the work of Oscar-winning “Gone With the Wind” star Hattie McDaniel, who requested to be buried in the cemetery but wasn’t allowed at that time due to segregation laws. In addition to visiting celebrity graves, the grounds are also used as a cultural center with a line-up of events throughout the summer.

04
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Fly a Kite at the Korean Bell of Friendship

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Address

3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731-6969, USA

Phone

+1 310-548-7705

The Korean Bell of Friendship sits in a picturesque pavilion overlooking the water in the San Pedro neighborhood of Los Angeles in Angels Gate Park. It’s a replica of a bell in Korea called the Emille Bell, which was cast in the year 771 and is still one of the largest bells in existence. The L.A. version was a gift from South Korea to the U.S. government and has been designated a Cultural-Historical Monument. The pavilion and surrounding park are great spots to have a picnic, fly a kite, or just enjoy a warm sunny day. If you happen to be around on the first Saturday of the month, be there at noon to hear them ring the bell.

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05
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Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

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Address

250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Phone

+1 213-626-6222

Two of California’s most important contemporary art museums are located across the street from each other, and both of them are free to enjoy. The original one is the Museum of Contemporary Art, or the MOCA, which has been a staple of the L. A. art world since 1979. The permanent collection focuses on paintings, photographs, and sculptures from the 1940s to the present, including big names such as Rothko, Pollock, and Basquiat.

06
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Visit the Broad Museum of Contemporary Art

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Address

221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Phone

+1 213-232-6250

The Broad, a museum of contemporary art, was created by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad to house their extensive collection and visiting exhibits. Located in downtown L.A. next to the Disney Concert Hall and across from the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), the Broad is completely free to visit. However, given its popularity, you may want to reserve your tickets in advance, especially if you want to see the museum’s most popular permanent exposition, The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. This Instagram-famous exhibit only permits a limited number of people per day, so try to arrive early to be sure you can enter.

07
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Hit the Beach

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

Spending a sunny day at the beach is perhaps the quintessential Southern California activity and one of the most popular free things that you can do in Los Angeles. There are over 70 miles of beaches in the L.A. area and thanks to the region’s year-round balmy weather, you’ll see people sitting out on the sand even in the middle of January.

While the beaches are always free, sometimes parking your car isn’t. Even if there is a free parking lot, you’ll need to arrive early to get a spot since many of them are full before noon, even on weekdays. Will Rogers State Beach and Point Dume State Beach both have free parking lots in addition to nearby paid lots—just in case you arrive and the free one is full. If you want to ditch the car altogether, L.A. public transit brings passengers directly to Downtown Santa Monica, which is within walking distance from the famous Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach.

08
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Head up to the Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA

Phone

+1 213-473-0800

The Griffith Observatory, located in Griffith Park, has a free astronomy museum and offers visitors a free glimpse at the cosmos through their super Zeiss telescope. Get in line before dark if you want a look at the night sky, especially in summer since they close the line at a certain number of people. Even if you aren’t particularly interested in the museum itself, Griffith Observatory is considered to be one of the best viewpoints in all of Los Angeles, offering a panorama of the entire city below. If you can time it right, arrive at sunset for an unbeatable view.

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09
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Stroll the Venice Beach Boardwalk

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

Take a stroll down the Venice Beach Boardwalk to check out the street performers, the hard bodies at Muscle Beach Gym, and the interesting characters wandering the strand during the summer and on weekends. Parking in the area ranges from $3 to $15 depending on the lot and the time of year, but some free street parking is available around the neighborhood if you have the patience to look for it. Even though the area is a bit touristy, it’s one of the most iconic places in all of Los Angeles and an obligatory stop for any first-time visitor.

10
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Watch a TV Show Taping

TripSavvy / Kayte Deioma

If you’ve ever dreamed of attending a live taping of your favorite sitcom, game show, talk show, or reality show, a trip to Los Angeles is a chance to make that dream a reality. Many of the most popular television shows are filmed in L.A. and virtually all of the tapings are free, as long as you’re able to acquire a ticket. The ticket process depends on the individual show, with some tickets released online up to 30 days in advance, while others are first-come-first-serve on the day of taping. Even if it’s a show you’ve never heard of, seeing the process of a real live taping and getting up close to celebrities is an Angeleno experience all in itself.

11
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Wander the Hollywood Walk of Fame

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA

Meander along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to find the stars of your favorite celebrities. The Walk of Fame runs east to west on Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue and north to south on Vine Street, from Yucca Street to Sunset Boulevard. There are over 2,600 stars on the Walk of Fame so finding a specific celebrity can be a bit of a scavenger hunt. While you’re there, any diehard movie buffs must pop in the TCL Chinese Theater—formerly known as Grauman’s Chinese Theater—and the adjacent Dolby Theater for a history of all things related to the Oscars.

12
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See a Collection of Prehistoric Fossils

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036-4539, USA

Phone

+1 213-763-3499

The La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park next to the L. A. County Museum of Art is the most significant source of prehistoric fossils ever excavated. These fossils have made their way into museums around the world, but the largest collection is here at the Page Museum. It’s free to wander the park and look at the tar pits and outdoor exhibits, where you can see paleontologists actively working to uncover further discoveries. However, the museum itself does charge admission to enter.

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13
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Visit the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

125 Paseo De La Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Phone

+1 213-485-6855

Explore the Mexican marketplace at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument at Olvera Street. The entire block of historic buildings is like stepping into a Mexican town, but it’s the street market through the alleyway of Olvera Street that is the biggest draw for visitors and locals alike. Here you can pick up crafts and souvenir items from all over Mexico at the outdoor street stalls. Make sure you arrive hungry because it’s nearly impossible to resist the smell of grilled carne asada, Mexican-style corn on the cob, or freshly fried churros sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. To get a full overview of the history of Olvera Street and Mexican culture in Los Angeles, join a free walking tour to complement your visit.

14
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See World-Class Art at the Getty Center

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, USA

Phone

+1 310-440-7300

The Getty Center, a modern hilltop fortress in Brentwood that locals simply call “The Getty”, houses one of the finest art collections in the world and has manicured gardens with stunning views of the city below. The architecture of the building and panorama view of the city are worth a visit even if you’re not interested in the art. While the museum is free, parking can be expensive and costs up to $20 per vehicle, although the city bus stops at the gate if you’re arriving from downtown L.A.

15
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Tour the Getty Villa

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA

Phone

+1 310-440-7300

The Getty Villa is the permanent home of the J. Paul Getty Museum’s Greek and Roman art collection, housed in the Malibu mansion that was modeled after the partially excavated Villa dei Papiri in Italy. Located on Pacific Coast Highway north of Sunset Boulevard, the museum is free but advanced, timed tickets are required, and parking can cost as much as $20 per vehicle.

16
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California Science Center

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037, USA

Phone

+1 323-724-3623

Taking the kids to a museum while on vacation doesn’t always sound exciting, but the California Science Center is not just any museum. Located in Exposition Park, this preeminent science museum is fun and educational for all ages, but the interactive exhibits are especially geared toward younger guests. Kids will be able to touch, play with, and get involved with the items in the Science Center, rather than just strolling along or reading information cards. For outer space enthusiasts, the actual Endeavor Space Shuttle is on display in the museum.

General admission into the museum is free, but the IMAX theater and some special exhibitions do charge a fee. Weekday mornings are crowded with school groups, so afternoons and weekends are better to visit.

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17
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Tour Disney’s Incredible Concert Hall

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Phone

+1 323-850-2000

Performances at the Walt Disney Concert Hall may be on the pricey side, but the dreamy exterior of the building is just as impressive as the shows that are performed inside. Frank Gehry’s metallic masterpiece is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Los Angeles, and free walking tours let guests roam around the nooks and crannies that Gehry designed to be explored. You can schedule a guided tour or a self-guided audio tour to get a full view of the museum from inside and out. Don’t forget to climb up the stairways outside of the building for an above-ground perspective as well.

18
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See Art in an Old Trolley Station

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

2525 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA

Phone

+1 310-393-9653

Even though there are plenty of free art museums to visit around Los Angeles, there’s something uniquely appealing about visiting art galleries. Not only are they more intimate, but sometimes the artist themselves are on-premise to explain their work. Nowhere in L.A. is better for visiting art galleries than Bergamot Station, the former trolley turnaround station located in Santa Monica. Admission to all of the galleries is always free, and even the parking is free of charge. If you’re arriving by public transit, the galleries are adjacent to a modern-day light rail station as well, the 26th Street /Bergamot Station.

19
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Tour the Los Angeles City Hall

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

200 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Phone

+1 213-473-3231

One of the few classically Art Deco buildings on the West Coast, the Los Angeles City Hall is free to visit during regular business hours. In addition to the dome that you can see from the third and fourth floor, there’s a 27th-floor observation deck that’s also free to visit. The Bridge Gallery at City Hall showcases art created in various city-run programs or exhibits related to the city’s various Heritage Month Celebrations.

20
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See the Books at One of LA’s Libraries

 TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

Bookworms can’t miss a stop at the downtown Los Angeles Central Library, which is worth a visit for its architecture, public art, gallery shows, and special programs as much as it is for its books. But the main branch of the city library system isn’t the only worthwhile library around; the West Hollywood Library also has some interesting art, including a molded wood ceiling installation and numerous murals by well-known artists. They also have a full calendar of family programming, including literary events, music, staged readings, and theatrical performances. 

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21
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Hear a Free Concert at Amoeba Music

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

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Address

6200 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028-7307, USA

Phone

+1 323-245-6400

Amoeba Music in Hollywood, a mecca for fans wanting to actually buy music—from CDs to vinyl and cassettes—regularly hosts free in-store concerts. Space is limited, so it’s good to be there early. Even if you aren’t around to see a concert, Amoeba is a cultural icon in California and one of the few remaining record stores in the digital age of music. It’s easy to get lost in the store browsing through records and listening to songs at the kiosks.

22
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Visit One of L.A.’s Many Free Public Gardens

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

Many of the most beautiful gardens in Los Angeles charge a fee, but there are also lots of gardens you can visit for free. 

The Rose Garden at Exposition Park near Downtown L.A. is always free, as are the beautiful Greystone Mansion Gardens. These are owned by the City of Beverly Hills and are open to the public daily unless they’re booked for a private event.

The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden at UCLA is a teaching garden and free to visit. Free docent-led tours are offered the first Saturday of the month at 1 p.m., and there are also occasional events such as plant sketching workshops.

Additionally, the James Irvine Japanese Garden at the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC) in Little Tokyo is free to visit. The JACCC also has free exhibits that highlight Japanese and Japanese-American artists to complement your trip to the gardens.

23
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Get Your Laughs in at a Free Comedy Show

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

Lots of comedy clubs around L.A. have free comedy shows. Some, like The Comedy Store, still require a minimum drink purchase at free shows, but others, like the Upright Citizen’s Brigade or Westside Comedy Theater, don’t. If you get on their email lists or follow them on social media, especially Twitter, you’ll get announcements of free shows. Some have free advance tickets, but many are first come or lottery.

Even the comedy clubs that charge admission usually only cost about $5, unless you’re seeing a celebrity comedian. You can also check Goldstar for free comedy tickets, but there’s a processing fee that is sometimes more than the $5 admission charged at paid shows.

24
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Take a Free Art Walk All Over L.A.

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

There are galleries and art districts around L.A. that you can visit and explore for free any time, but during monthly and quarterly art walks, all the galleries have receptions at the same time, music and food are added to the mix, and crowds of people come out to enjoy. Laguna Beach host theirs monthly, on the first Thursday of each month, while others, like Abbot Kinney’s in Venice, are held on the first Friday.

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25
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Go for a Hike

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

With 4,000 acres of mountains and canyons right in the middle of the city, and a couple more mountain chains surrounding the Greater Los Angeles area, there is no shortage of places to hike in L.A.

If you don’t have a lot of time, the busy trails of Runyon Canyon are within walking distance of Hollywood Boulevard. The many trails in Griffith Park, including the Hike to the Hollywood Sign, are just a short drive from Hollywood or downtown L.A., and parking is free. 

Beyond the city, the Santa Monica Mountains and Angeles National Forest offer an abundance of terrains and trails for hiking, but unlike in Griffith Park, parking in the national forests and recreation areas is not free.

90,000 13 best free games on Steam

In addition to many well-known paid games, an abundance of free projects is available on the online platform Steam. Most of them are mediocre to say the least, but there are also very popular games with millions of gamers that are launched without a single penny. Of course, they are distributed according to the free-to-play model, which means they have an in-game store with paid items and other “goodies”, but you can often do without all this, and the games themselves do not get worse.Therefore, I have collected 13 of the best, in my opinion, free games on Steam, which are not inferior to their paid competitors, and sometimes even surpass them. If we have forgotten about some of your favorite projects, then feel free to write in the comments what you are playing for free on Steam, and what others should pay attention to.

Without Team Fortress 2, it’s hard to imagine at least one similar top free project. This classic of online shooters was released back in 2007 and still attracts the attention of a huge fanbase.There are several reasons for this: vivid, addictive battles, different hero classes, a lot of humor, a flexible map editor and cute cartoon graphics with minimal system requirements, thanks to which Team Fortress 2 runs even on ancient hardware.

Warframe is often called a clone of Destiny, and the developers do not deny anything and continue to make the highest quality free game, which is no longer inferior, and in many ways surpasses the paid competitor and progenitor.

Warframe has no loot boxes, and the world is huge and unique, it does not require an infusion of money to play, and good progress can be made on your own and not for +100500 hours of grinding. Of course, this game also has disadvantages, for example, requirements for system resources and an abundance of in-game nuances that no one explains to beginners. But there are clearly more positive aspects here, so Warframe can be called one of the best MMO shooters of our time.

Speaking of the first Destiny and Warframe, we cannot fail to mention Destiny 2, which recently also became free-to-play.There are many restrictions for a free game, but this is quite enough to understand whether you need to pay further and come here for a long time. And whatever one may say, this is an epic MMO-shooter with a well-developed plot, but not without sins in the donate store.

Released in 2012, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive for many replaced the dear heart of CS 1.6 and became a new generation game, breaking into millions of homes and computer clubs. True, the online shooter was not immediately free and became such relatively recently.But this did not prevent Counter-Strike: Global Offensive from becoming not only a mega-popular project, but also one of the most famous esports disciplines in the world. At the same time, CS: GO is far from an easy-to-learn shooter and requires good preparation from gamers. At the same time, the project is criticized for the abundance of schoolchildren, which is why sometimes playing with a random team can be unbearable. But they also often show the upper class and slightly improve the attitude of the adult community towards themselves.

Back at the start of release in 2013, Path of Exile was called exactly the game that Diablo 3 was supposed to be.And this is not at all strange, because the creators of Action RPG from the New Zealand studio Grinding Gear Games despaired of waiting for the continuation of the second Diablo from Blizzard, and then they were disappointed with the third part and decided to make their own version with a branded gloomy atmosphere, hardcore pumping and an incredibly huge skill tree. Bottom line – Path of Exile is one of the most popular free Action RPGs, which is constantly expanding, improving, and, of course, can give odds to the same Diablo 3.

Among the top free games on Steam, the global real time strategy Crusader Kings 2.The studio is responsible for its development, Paradox Interactive, the authors of many other strategies, including the Europa Universalis series and Hearts of Iron. Crusader Kings 2 invites you to plunge into the difficult political situation of the Middle Ages and make history in your own way. Judging by the rave reviews and a large fan community, gamers loved this case.

Released in 2014, Smite managed to climb to the top of the best MOBA games in a fairly short time, and this is not a classic game of the genre with a mixture of third-person action.Despite its unusual presentation and a lot of experimentation with modes, Smite has not only gained popularity around the world, but is also quoted as an esports discipline.

The gameplay of the free game Battlerite is also based on the MOBA genre, but they added action and made narrowly focused battles in arenas with a top view.

Battlerite is the spiritual successor to the once popular but closed Bloodline Champions. These games have the same creators, but in the new project, the developers slightly revised the mechanics and seriously worked on the bugs, thanks to which they were able to push Battlerite into the top free games on Steam.

After two not quite classic MOBAs, one cannot fail to mention the titan of this genre in the person of Dota 2 – one of the most popular esports disciplines with the maximum prize pools. Thanks to this, after the world championships, the winners become full-fledged dollar millionaires. And Dota 2 and its predecessor have an incredible history of creation, which every fan of this genre should definitely get acquainted with.

For their game, Trion Worlds decided to take the visual blocky style of Minecraft and mix it with MMO games.As a result, they released Trove – almost the most massive free-to-play game in the world. Like its progenitor, Trove consists of a main game with classes, leveling, dungeons and quests, and offers a convenient world builder where gamers are free to do whatever. This is why other popular games in different genres are waiting for you inside Trove. Most of Trove’s audience is schoolchildren, but there are plenty of older gamers as well.

Initially, “Gwent” was a game inside the third “Witcher”, but over time the developers realized that it was possible to make a full-fledged CCG out of it.In addition, this universe is already familiar to many thanks to books, games and films. Of course, the project has some drawbacks, but at the same time it attracts with its uniqueness, cheerful atmosphere and exciting card battles.

Eve Online is a unique game on the MMO market, almost not attracting new users, but developing thanks to loyal fans. Eve Online is a kind of mixture of space and online games, where the gamer takes on the role of a pilot and begins to live in a perfectly created space.Everything here is done by the hands of the players, the real economy is working and there are constant wars of alliances. And in especially dangerous zones, where even NPCs do not fly in, there are desperate people who, without the slightest hesitation, can rob you for thousands of real dollars and engage in other dark deeds.

Another multiplayer online game in our top, but not in space, but in the world of classic fantasy. Neverwinter is based on the popular board game of the same name and was written by Robert Salvatore, the author of many books on this universe.From the chips Neverwinter can be distinguished non-target combat system and imprisonment for PVE – battles with non-player characters, monsters and bosses. PVP – battles with real players, there are also battles here, then in Neverwinter they like to tell epic stories and take full part in them, and not shred a neighbor.

Shooters for weak PCs – top online and single first person shooters for weak computers

The majority of players have developed a love and an irresistible craving for spectacular action since childhood.Chases on cool cars, brutal hand-to-hand fights and, of course, stirring up the blood of shootouts and extravaganza of explosions – all this caused a storm of delight and admiration in naive children’s souls and a desire to be in the place of their favorite movie heroes.

With the development of the video game industry, this dream has become a reality. Modern first-person shooters allow you to spend evenings in an unforgettable adventure, while being in very comfortable conditions and complete safety. But there is one serious obstacle that prevents many gamers from touching this dream: the fact is that FPS, being the top genre of computer games, often imposes high demands on the hardware.

But do not despair, because there are more than a dozen games that feel great on a PC of an average and even frankly weak configuration. Moreover, among them there are both relatively new shooters, and those that came out a long time ago, and are devoted to the unfair oblivion by the current generation of gamers. Here are the best ones and will be discussed in our material.

Online Shooters

Point Blank

One of the most dynamic and interesting online shooters distributed according to the Free-to-play principle.Point Blank features several factions, over ten game modes, and countless weapons divided into categories.

In addition, Point Blank has a character development system. For participating in battles, players receive experience that opens up new abilities, access to more powerful equipment and weapons, new tasks, and so on.

At the moment, Point Blank is so popular that it is even included as a discipline in various esports competitions.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core i5-760 or higher / AMD Phenom II X4 or higher
RAM	4 GB
Video card	512 MB
Disk space	20 GB free space

Play

Crossfire

South Korean tactical shooter with shareware distribution model.In many ways it is similar to Point Blank, both in gameplay and in terms of graphics. Has many character classes, game modes and an impressive arsenal of weapons. It also boasts its own tournament with a large prize pool.

To start playing Crossfire, you just need to register and download the client from the official site.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 1.5 Ghz
RAM	1 Gb
Video card	NVIDIA GeForce FX 5600 128 MB
Disk space	7.5 Gb

Play

Survarium

This project will definitely appeal to fans of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe. Initially, the game was developed as an ideological and spiritual heir to this post-apocalyptic project with an online bias. But later it grew into something else, with its own characteristics. Which doesn’t make her bad at all.

Vostok Games expanded the role-playing element, came up with their own factions, anomalies and artifacts, and also used a more modern engine (don’t be afraid, Survarium has quite wide settings, so you can run the game even on very weak machines).In general, they created their own post-apocalyptic setting (since they have no rights to S.T.A.L.K.E.R.).

It is worth noting that this online shooter for weak PCs is distributed on a shareware model.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core i3 or AMD Phenom II X4
RAM	4 GB (6 GB or more recommended)
Video card	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 / GT 1030 or AMD Radeon R7 250X
Disk space	16 GB on a disk with NTFS file system (and temporarily up to 32 GB for major updates)

Play

Team Fortress 2

A multiplayer shooter from the creators of Half-Life, released in 2007, but still very popular today.One of the longest and most successful online projects in general. There are several reasons for this success.

Firstly, the TF2 has a unique design with a clear bias towards 3D cartoons. The characters and surroundings here seem to have been transported from the Disney comics page.

Secondly, users are attracted by exciting battles involving heroes of various classes, each of which has not only a unique funny appearance, but also a set of useful gadgets and skills.

Thirdly, since 2011 the project has switched to a shareware format, so now anyone can download and play it.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 1.7 GHz / AMD Athlon XP 1700+
RAM	512 Mb
Video card	nVidia GeForce FX 5500 / ATI Radeon 9500 with 128 Mb memory
Disk space	15 Gb

Play

S4 League

An arcade online action game in anime style, battles in which are held with the use of cold weapons and firearms and are distinguished by high dynamism.Also, the characters have some fantastic abilities, such as the ability to run on walls and quickly move with the help of grappling hooks.

In essence, S4 League is an online shooter / slasher with a third-person view, very simplified combat mechanics and very unassuming graphics. Of the advantages in S4 League, one can single out the abundance of opportunities for customizing your character and an impressive number of different weapons.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium (Dual Core)
RAM	4GB
Video card	GeForce 8600
Disk space	14Gb

Play

Black Squad

Free online first-person shooter in the setting of modern battles between two factions: Viper Circle (“bad” international corporation) and Peacemaker (“good guys”, former fighters of the UN peacekeeping forces, an analogue of special forces in other games).

In many ways, Black Squad resembles Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. This applies to both gameplay mechanics and visual design. The player gets the opportunity to test their skills in competitive matches in 11 exciting modes on 45 huge maps. It offers more than 60 types of weapons and 10 characters that can be customized – more than 350 skins are available for weapons and fighters. Black Squad is currently in Early Access and receives regular updates.

System Requirements

CPU	CORE2 DUO 2.2GHZ / AMD Athlon 64 X2 2.66GHz
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	NVIDIA GEFORCE 8600 OR GT630 / RADEON HD 6750
Disk space	7 GB

Play

Counter-Strike

The coolest online shooter for weak PCs, which does not need excessive introduction, and so far does not give up its positions.Having raised more than one generation of gamers, he is still a welcome guest at almost any esports event.

And with all this, it is one of the most undemanding network command action games to hardware.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 3 @ 500 MHz
RAM	128 MB
Video card	16 MB
Disk space	400 MB free space

Buy

Point Blank is an online shooter that boasts a huge selection of weapons and tactics, as well as a variety of maps!

Day of Defeat: Source

Massively multiplayer first person shooter developed by Valve on the Source engine.The battles between players take place during the Second World War, and the maps represent the destroyed streets of European cities.

You can play either as an Allied soldier or as a Wehrmacht soldier, and there are several classes with unique features to choose from. Game modes in Day of Defeat: Source are represented by classics of competitive shooters: Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, Destroy the object, and so on.

System Requirements

CPU	1.7 GHz
RAM	512 MB
Video card	Video card with DirectX 8 support.1 (SSE support required)
Disk space	5 GB free space

Buy

Rules Of Survival

A third-person shooter that offers 300 players at the same time to face off in a fierce large-scale battle to the last survivor. That is, it is a traditional battle royale available on PC and mobile devices.

The action takes place on a large uninhabited island, whose safe zone is constantly decreasing in accordance with the rules of the genre.At the same time, weapons and vehicles are scattered throughout the island, as well as full of secluded corners in which the most cautious of the players can take refuge.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core I3-4160
RAM	2 GB RAM
Video card	Intel HD Graphics 4600
Disk space	2 GB

Buy

CRSED: F.O.A.D.

A humorous online shooter with hilarious gunfights and kitchen utensils used as armor. Despite its parody and overwhelming number of jokes, in terms of gameplay, the project will not hit its face in the mud in front of other online shooters. In addition, with very low system requirements, CRSED: F.O.A.D. boasts very beautiful graphics with vivid pictures and excellent performance.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core I3
RAM	8 GB RAM
Video card	Nvidia GeForce 560, AMD Radeon 77XX
Disk space	6 GB

Play

Warframe

Popular cooperative action game in a fantastic setting that will offer you to save the solar system from the evil that has spread over it.You will control space ninjas dressed in combat suits, complete hundreds of different missions, collect equipment and upgrade your characters. All this, by the way, is absolutely free.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core 2 Duo e6400 or AMD Athlon x64 4000+
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	Intel HD Graphics 4600
Disk space	35 GB

Play

Fortnite

Battle Royal, which has not been heard of except by the one who has spent the last couple of years in a cave.Fortnite is one of the most popular online shooters, a cultural phenomenon of our time, and a project whose success leaves publishers of other multiplayer action games gritting their teeth in impotent envy.

In addition, it is also a good game with gunfights and construction, a very low entry threshold and democratic system requirements.

System Requirements

CPU	Core i3 2.4GHz
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	Intel HD Graphics 4000
Disk space	10 GB

Play

Battlefield: Bad Company 2

A good shooter from the DICE studio, which, despite being years old, is still popular among fans of multiplayer entertainment – on the servers of the base game and the “Vietnamese” add-on, you can find dozens, if not hundreds, of opponents for online matches.All thanks to the excellent picture and optimization, debugged network code and perfect balance.

System Requirements

CPU	Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz
RAM	2 GB RAM
Video card	GeForce 7800 GT / ATI X1900
Disk space	15 GB

Buy

VALORANT

Despite its freshness, the shooter VALORANT from Riot Games received extremely low system requirements: for 30 frames per second, an old dual-core processor and integrated graphics are enough, and e-sports 144 fps can be achieved on an initial gaming system with Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti.In terms of content, we have an online shooter, each character with unique abilities, and the gameplay takes the best from Counter-Strike and Overwatch.

System Requirements

CPU	Core 2 Duo E8400
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	Intel HD 4000
Disk space	10 GB

Play

Left 4 Dead 2

Valve’s popular zombie action game remains relevant for many years since its release: the servers are full of players who fight zombies in cooperative mode and challenge each other in asymmetric PvP matches.Here, survivors are attacked by thousands of angry monsters, and each race on large-scale maps turns into an exciting adventure, where close interaction between team members becomes the key to survival.

System Requirements

CPU	Pentium 4 3.0GHz
RAM	2 GB RAM
Video card	ATI X800 / NVidia 6600
Disk space	13 GB

Buy

Quake Live

The legendary Quake III Arena still remains an object of admiration for gamers who spent sleepless nights in online battles.Quake Live is the return of the iconic “Arena” with furious gameplay, a wide range of modes and techniques familiar from the original game.

System Requirements

CPU	2 GHz Intel
RAM	1 GB RAM
Video card	GeForce 4 MX / Radeon 8500
Disk space	1 GB

Buy

Paladins

A heroic shooter set in a fantasy setting, pits players against various arenas, where they divide into teams and use the weapons and abilities of the characters to achieve their goals.Locations are stylishly designed, but not overloaded with details, and the effects from the use of heroes’ skills do not distract from the main thing – the exciting gameplay of Paladins. The game is available for free and its monetization model does not provide users with a gameplay advantage.

System Requirements

CPU	Core 2 Duo 2.4 GHz
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	GeForce 8800 GT
Disk space	30 GB

Play

STAR WARS Battlefront (classic)

The classic online shooter will send players to the battlefields of a galaxy far, far away, where they are waiting for exciting shootouts on earth, in the sky and even in space, with different character classes, a large selection of futuristic vehicles, various maps and impressive decorations based on the iconic Star Wars …In 2020, the game returned to multiplayer, so now you can play on the official servers.

System Requirements

CPU	1.8 GHz
RAM	1 GB RAM
Video card	C 256 MB VRAM
Disk space	3 GB

Buy

Unturned

Free zombie action in an open world with low poly graphics that offers survival in the post-apocalypse.The game is notable for a large number of mechanics, from elements of survival and crafting to building and creating factions. In addition, Unturned supports mods, which significantly increases its replayability. At the same time, the project works without problems on weak PCs, but requires a video card with DirectX 10 support.

System Requirements

CPU	2 GHz
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	C DirectX10
Disk space	4 GB

Play

Unreal Tournament 2004

Representative of the popular online shooter series dedicated to the gladiatorial battles of the future.Players will find ten modes with a variety of tasks, the use of weapons and vehicles, as well as an exciting gameplay. Considering that the project was released back in 2004, it will be launched on very ancient assemblies by modern standards.

System Requirements

CPU	1 GHz
RAM	128 MB RAM
Video card	C 32 MB VRAM
Disk space	5.5 GB

Buy

TOXIKK

TOXIKK is a shooter from developers who love timeless classics and want to play “like in 1999”.The game offers dynamic skirmishes without reloading and restoring health, a large selection of weapons, detailed character customization and very nice graphics with democratic system requirements. And the basic version of TOXIKK is absolutely free.

System Requirements

CPU	2 GHz
RAM	4 GB RAM
Video card	GeForce GTX 260
Disk space	4 GB

Play

Ironsight

Popular military shooter clearly inspired by the Call of Duty games.In Ironsight, regular troops and PMC mercenaries fight with each other, and the battles are fought with the use of modern and futuristic tools. The game looks bright and cute, but for the sake of optimization, the developers have simplified the environment, making the shooter feel great on an entry-level PC. But we recommend adding “RAM” just in case – the game needs 6 GB or more.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core 2 Duo E7500
RAM	6 GB RAM
Video card	NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GT
Disk space	8 GB

Play

Apex Legends

The super popular battle royale with impressive graphics puts quite low system requirements on computers.All thanks to the Source engine, which was used in the games of Valve, and also the shooter Titanfall 2, on which Apex Legends is based. And if you need to make the game even less “gluttonous”, on the Internet you will find a lot of guides on how to reduce its appetite.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core i3 6300
RAM	6 GB RAM
Video card	AMD Radeon HD 7730, NVIDIA GeForce GT 640
Disk space	56 GB

Play

Borderlands

Borderlands was released in 2009, and already then worked on medium and low-end PCs.Now this cooperative shooter will run on any office “machine”. And not only him: the sequel is also distinguished by democratic requirements for PC resources, and both games in the series at the same time give a lot of positive emotions due to the furious gameplay and the possibility of joint passage.

System Requirements

CPU	2.4 GHz
RAM	1 GB RAM
Video card	C 256 MB VRAM
Disk space	8 GB

Buy

Single Shooters

F.E.A.R.

The first F.E.A.R. shooter appears. became a big and joyful event for all FPS lovers. The game showed how interesting a combination of horror and science fiction can be.

The video game, in addition to a gripping plot full of frightening and mysterious events, had no less addictive gameplay, centered on shootouts with incredibly smart opponents. Their AI was a real breakthrough for video games of the time, and today the coordinated actions of super-clone soldiers (the main enemies in F.E.A.R.) pleasantly surprise.

And there is also a mesmerizing atmosphere, somewhat subtly reminiscent of Half-Life 2, although the settings of these video games are completely different, and the creators of F.E.A.R. in no case can one be accused of copying other people’s ideas.

In general, the project definitely deserves attention as a shooter for weak PCs. And the owners of powerful gaming machines, if they are not already familiar with the masterpiece from Monolith Productions, should try it out.

System Requirements

CPU	Pentium 4 1.7 GHz or Equivalent
RAM	1GB
Video card	GeForce 4 Ti or Radeon 9000 with 64 MB of video memory; 4: 3 aspect ratio monitor
Disk space	17GB

Buy

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.

It’s hard to imagine a player not familiar with this project. And yet, talking about games for weak PCs, one cannot fail to mention the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, for that would be a criminal injustice.

A game from the developers of GSC Game World, which has earned worldwide recognition – one of the first domestic shooters with an open world, many game factions, dozens of additional tasks and a non-linear storyline (there were several different endings).

Since all the games in the series were released a long time ago (the last part, Call of Pripyat, was released in October 2009), today they can be easily run on weak computers.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 2 GHz / AMD XP 2200+
RAM	512 MB
Video card	128 MB DirectX 8 Compatible Video Memory.0 / nVIDIA GeForce 5700 / ATI Radeon 9600
Disk space	6 GB available space

Buy

TimeShift

An undeservedly forgotten sci-fi action game with a first-person view for weak computers (released in 2007), whose dashingly twisted plot can be compared in its grandeur even to the unforgettable Half-Life 2.

Developers from Saber Interactive managed to create a coherent, surprisingly believable world of the near future.And they managed to very successfully introduce several original ideas into the gameplay, for example, the ability to control time with the help of a chronosuit.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 2 GHz or equivalent
RAM	1 GB
Video card	NVIDIA GeForce 6600 with 128MB memory or better
Disk space	8 GB available space

Buy

Bulletstorm

An excellent video game from Polish developers from People Can Fly, saturated with black humor and full of unexpected plot twists.It runs easily not only on gaming PCs, but even on computers of the most budget configuration, while demonstrating cool visual effects and mind-blowing location designs. The developers obviously targeted a very wide audience of gamers from the very beginning, endowing Bulletstorm with extensive graphical settings.

Players will experience hurricane battles with bosses, hundreds of different types of enemies, an arsenal of powerful cannons and a unique system of skill shots.

The project is reminiscent of such famous shooter games as Serious Sam, Duke Nukem, Will Rock, Painkiller and Necrovision.By the way, they can also be recommended to owners of weak cars.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core 2 Duo / AMD Athlon X2 @ 1.6 GHz
RAM	1.5 GB
Video card	NVIDIA GeForce 7600 GS / ATI Radeon HD 2400 Pro with 256 MB
Disk space	9 GB free hard disk space

Buy

Duke Nukem Forever

Legendary unfinished construction, the exit of which became a real explosion.The game justified all 14 years of its development, reviving the concept of old-school shooters, at the same time successfully absorbing all the best ideas from the new (at that time) action games.

The gameplay of Duke Nukem Forever is incredibly varied (which only the developers from 3D Realms have not shoved there), but in all this there is harmony and balance.

Plus in the game there is a trademark humor of the series, familiar characters, places and enemies.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Core 2 Duo 2 GHz / AMD Athlon 64 X2 2 GHz
RAM	1 GB
Video card	Nvidia GeForce 7600 / ATI Radeon HD 2600 256 MB
Disk space	10 GB free hard disk space

Buy

Half-Life

The debut game from the modern giant of the gaming industry Valve, which is quite rightly considered one of the best of all fantastic PC shooters.Released in 1998, Half-Life is still a pleasure to play and is perfect for low-end PCs.

In addition to this, it has excellent multiplayer that will help prolong the fun of the game for those who have played it many times and know like the back of their hand. Finally, there are numerous official add-ons and custom mods that can keep the Half-Life universe alive for an incredibly long time.

System Requirements

CPU	500 MHz processor
RAM	96 MB
Video card	16 MB
Disk space	4.5 GB free space

Buy

BioShock

An excellent shooter with a fascinating storyline, unusual surroundings (the action takes place in a dystopian underwater city with crazy inhabitants) and interesting shootouts in which the player uses not only an arsenal of traditional firearms, but also supernatural abilities represented by plasmids.Both superpowers and weapons in BioShock can be improved, forming your own playstyle, which brings RPG elements to traditional FPS mechanics.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 2.4GHz
RAM	1 GB
Video card	128 MB
Disk space	8 GB free hard disk space

Buy

Metro 2033

The famous post-apocalyptic game based on the book.The plot carried over from the novel and the powerful atmosphere of horror from being constantly underground (after a nuclear war, life on the surface was impossible due to mutants and radiation) in Metro 2033 are ideally complemented by fierce gunfire with a variety of opponents. Moreover, the battles turned out to be very difficult and intense, so in some situations it is wiser to act silently and imperceptibly – since the stealth system in Metro 2033 is also present.

For owners of very weak PCs, we recommend playing the original, and for those who have a more powerful system, we suggest trying the updated version of Metro 2033 Redux, where, in addition to purely visual improvements, many other pleasant changes were added, including in the gameplay.

System Requirements

CPU	Dual-core processor (2.2+ GHz, dual-core processor or better)
RAM	2 GB RAM
Video card	DirectX 10 Shader Model 4 Compatible Graphics Cards (GeForce 8800 GT 512MB, GeForce GTS 250, etc.)
Disk space	10 GB

Buy

Painkiller

After a car accident, the main character of this meat shooter ends up in Purgatory, from where he is sent to war with hellish demons.

Dozens of unique locations, brutal weapons, an endless stream of various opponents and giant bosses – all this made Painkiller one of the best games of its time. The pleasant picture is complemented by a powerful soundtrack, the possibility of alternative and combined fire for each type of weapon and mysterious tarot cards that open for souls stolen from fallen enemies and endow the hero with all sorts of special abilities.

System Requirements

CPU	1GHz
RAM	256 MB RAM
Video card	DirextX 9.0 64MB Video Card
Disk space	3.4 GB

Buy

Quake 4

The fourth installment in the iconic series of fantastic shooters from id Software, which tells the story of the war between Strogs and humans. Go to the home planet of your enemies and try to destroy the civilization of biomechanical alien aggressors who use the bodies of earthlings to create their monstrous war machines.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 2 GHz or AMD Athlon XP 2000+ or ​​better
RAM	512 MB
Video card	Fully DirectX 9.0c Compliant with 64 MB VRAM and 3D Acceleration (found on all modern graphics cards)
Disk space	2.8 GB free space (+ 400 MB Windows paging file)

Buy

Far Cry

The Crytek game that launched the Far Cry series.In this shooter you will travel to a tropical island, where you will fight dangerous mercenaries and even more dangerous mutants. At one time, the project impressed players with an open world and freedom of action, and it is worth noting that even now it looks quite decent, only slightly losing to modern shooters.

System Requirements

CPU	AMD Athlon or Pentium III
RAM	256 MB
Video card	GeForce 4 / GeForce FX 5950; ATI Radeon 9500-9800 XT
Disk space	4 GB

Buy

Star Wars: Republic Commando

Fantastic shooter in the Star Wars universe – without the Jedi, but with a squad of clones under your command, at the head of which you will carry out various tasks in a distant, distant galaxy.Republic Commando features tactical gameplay, intense firefights and good AI opponents.

System Requirements

CPU	Pentium III or Athlon 1 GHz
RAM	256 MB
Video card	with 64 MB VRAM and support for Vertex Shader and Pixel Shader (VS / PS)
Disk space	2 GB available space

Buy

Call of Juarez: Gunslinger

An exciting story in the setting of the Wild West with locations corresponding to the setting, arsenal and gameplay moments like duels with the most notorious criminals.Two things are interesting in Call of Juarez: Gunslinger: the non-stop action game that will fill your blood with adrenaline, and the captivating plot, which very successfully uses the “unreliable storyteller” technique. The game flies by in one breath, and it will be memorable seven hours of your life.

System Requirements

CPU	2 GHz Intel Core2 Duo or 2 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2
RAM	2 GB
Video card	Fully DirectX 9 compliant.0c, with 512 MB VRAM
Disk space	5 GB available space

Buy

Doom 3

The representative of the cult line of shooters, which will offer you to fight the hellish demons – first on Mars, and then directly in Hell. In Doom 3, the gameplay was a little pumped up, which the developers decided to make more measured in comparison with the previous parts of the series, but the atmosphere and the plot are made at the highest level.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 1.5 GHz or AMD Athlon XP 1500+ or ​​better
RAM	512 MB
Video card	Fully DirectX 9.0c Compliant with 64 MB VRAM and 3D Acceleration (found on all modern graphics cards)
Disk space	2.2 GB free space (+ 400 MB Windows paging file)

Buy

Call of Duty Games

Nearly every installment in the Call of Duty series contains an immersive story campaign that will take you on an unforgettable adventure and witness heartbreaking scenes.However, these same games can be classified as online shooters, because they also have multiplayer modes, no less dynamic and exciting. And yet, many parts of the series – from the first to Modern Warfare 3 – will work great on weak PCs.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4 2.4 GHz / AMD (R) 64 (TM) 2800
RAM	512 MB
Video card	NVIDIA Geforce 6600 or better or ATI Radeon® 9800Pro or better
Disk space	8 GB available space

Buy

Wolfenstein

Series

Shooters about the Second World War with a touch of mysticism and fantasy will perfectly show themselves on weak PCs.Of course, the system requirements for games from the new line (starting with New Order) are far from low, but earlier releases of the series, up to Wolfenstein 2009, do not impose serious requirements on the PC configuration.

System Requirements

CPU	Pentium II
RAM	128 MB
Video card	with 16 MB VRAM
Disk space	1 GB available space

Buy

SWAT 4

SWAT 4 is pure tactics, an extremely serious SWAT shooter in which players complete missions to rescue hostages and neutralize terrorists on a variety of themed maps.The game is still popular today for its realistic, hardcore gameplay.

System Requirements

CPU	1.8 GHz
RAM	512 MB
Video card	Nvidia / AMD
Disk space	1 GB available space

Buy

Series Medal of Honor

Another line of games dedicated to the Second World War, however, unlike Wolfenstein, there is no mysticism, and the events are based on real historical operations, including, of course, the Normandy landing.From Allied Assault to Airborne, the Medal of Honor games are a good choice for players with weak PCs looking for a good military shooter.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel 2.8 GHz
RAM	1 GB
Video card	ATI Radeon X1300 Pro / NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT
Disk space	9 GB available space

Buy

Serious Sam Series

The legendary Sam Stone has been fighting aliens since the distant 2001.Serious Sam: The First Encounter is the first installment in the Serious Sam series, followed by an episode of The Second Encounter, as well as a sequel and triquel; due to low system requirements, each of the games will run with acceptable FPS even on office PCs that have never seen anything heavier than an office editor.

Another obvious advantage of the shooters of this line is the hurricane, incessant action with thousands of opponents and the possibility of cooperative passage.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4
RAM	1 GB
Video card	GeForce 7600 / Radeon X1600
Disk space	1 GB available space

Buy

Prey

The original 2006 Prey invites you to take on the role of Tommy, an Indian who finds himself on an alien ship during the invasion of Earth.Now the hero must free his home planet, having at his disposal an arsenal of various weapons. The game is notable for interesting puzzles using portals and gravity, as well as addictive gunfights with intelligent AI opponents.

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4
RAM	512 MB
Video card	NVIDIA Geforce 6600 / ATI Radeon 9800Pro or better
Disk space	2 GB available space

Game not available on official digital services

Ultimate Doom

Edition of the cult hit in the shooter genre, which includes original levels, as well as some new and several difficulty modes – including ones that will seriously challenge the player’s skills.Despite the outdated graphics, Doom is a project that remains relevant at all times, and if you are not familiar with the classics yet, fill this gap urgently!

System Requirements

CPU	Intel Pentium 4
RAM	512 MB
Video card	NVIDIA Geforce 6600 / ATI Radeon 9800Pro or better
Disk space	2 GB available space

Buy

Blood: Fresh Supply

Re-release of the 1997 shooter, which adapts the game to modern platforms, adds support for Vulkan, DirectX 11 and OpenGL 3.2, unlocked frame rate, anti-aliasing and other modern effects, while keeping system requirements low and stunningly atmospheric battles with mythical creatures.

System Requirements

CPU	2.0 GHz
RAM	1 GB
Video card	256 MB
Disk space	1 GB available space

Buy

Singularity

An underrated first-person action movie with time travel and a cranberry depiction of the USSR.The main character goes to an abandoned scientific base, where he receives an unusual device that allows him to “jump” between eras, and the non-linear ending allows not only to save the world, but also to seize control over it if desired.

System Requirements

CPU	2.8 GHz
RAM	2 GB
Video card	256 MB
Disk space	8 GB available space

Buy

The Darkness II

A dark action game based on the comic book series The Darkness tells the story of Jackie Estacado, a mobster who received the forces of Darkness.It allows you to deal with enemies and practically gain immortality, but for this Jackie will have to pay with increased attention to his person from cultists and other villains who are not averse to acquiring supernatural powers. The game attracts with dynamic gameplay with the ability to tear opponents apart with demonic snakes, as well as an unexpectedly dramatic story about love.

System Requirements

CPU	2GHz
RAM	1.5GB
Video card	256MB
Disk space	10 GB available space

Buy

XIII – Classic

A shooter with a gripping plot based on spy novels and films. The main character becomes a victim of a conspiracy, but does not remember anything. All he has is a mysterious tattoo and a key to the safe, and he has very little time to get to the bottom of the truth, because he is being hunted! The original XIII is a great action movie with very low system requirements.And despite its age, this game is better than the terrible remake that came out in 2020.

System Requirements

CPU	1.8 GHZ
RAM	1 GB
Video card	with DirectX 9.0c
Disk space	2 GB available space

Buy

Shadow Warrior Classic Redux

An updated version of the classic shooter that mixes modern Japan, firearms and demons.The main character is a mercenary working for one of the corporations, and he has to challenge the forces of evil. It’s a fast-paced, old-school and very funny shooter, and you can run it on any ancient computer.

System Requirements

CPU	1.5 GHz
RAM	512 MB
Video card	256MB
Disk space	650 MB free space

Buy

90,000 How to find the weakest point in your business? – Marketing on vc.ru

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90,000 Branislav Ivanovic: “Villarreal has weaknesses. We must use them “

The captain of the blue-white-blue – on the results of the first match of the 1/8 finals of the UEFA Europa League

– Branislav, what went wrong today?
– The first 25 minutes we controlled the game, then we conceded from a free kick.This is not the first time we have experienced problems with standards. You need to pay attention to this. Of course, zone play is a difficult thing, but if you work on it, it can bring good results. After a conceded goal, we lost the rhythm. Villarreal is a very serious team, confidently in possession of the ball, capable of punishing an opponent for mistakes at any moment. We made a lot of mistakes for a match of this level. Our pressure did not work. It was necessary to show more desire, more emotion. We still have chances, albeit small.It is necessary to use every moment in the game in Spain and believe.

– Did you expect the team in the relegation zone in the Spanish championship to show this kind of football?
– Last year Villarreal played at a very serious level, so they got into the Europa League. For the last 15 years the Spaniards have been playing very good football, possessing the ball very well. Yes, they are at the bottom of the table, but the quality of their play is the highest, which they showed today. Of course, they also have weaknesses that we must exploit.

– The second half started unexpectedly. The game was even in the first half, but after the break, Villarreal took the ball. Why did it happen?
– After 30-35 minutes of the game, it was difficult for us to do anything about their control of the ball. This shook our faith in ourselves, our system for this game. Everything has changed: if you watch the first 20 minutes of the match and the last, you will see two different Zeniths on the field.

– Can you say that after Ural you didn’t have enough strength for this match?
– We are a team that plays a lot of games on emotions.This is exactly what happened with our last two matches. We need greater consistency in the game, automatism in actions. And then you need to add this systematicity of emotions, and then everything will work out. Today we were not ready to play 90 minutes at a high level.

– Your friend from the Serbian national team Dusan Tadic tore Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. Can you repeat his feat at the Estadio de la Ceramica?
– Yes, miracles do happen, though not very often. We have to believe. The opponent made mistakes.We need to play the return match at the maximum of our capabilities. To act unmistakably ourselves, to punish Villarreal for every mistake they make.

– Ball possession is one of the strongest components in Villarreal’s game. Do you have an understanding of how to take the ball away from them in the return game?
– There is. We have to work all 90 minutes, analyze today’s match in moments. We create enough opportunities in every match. We need to play the perfect game, then we can hope for something.

– Three days after the match in Spain, Spartak is waiting for you. Will the Muscovites have strength?
– All our rivals are very serious teams. This is professional football, nothing out of the ordinary. We shouldn’t look for any excuses for ourselves. Of course, the game against Spartak is always more than just a match, so emotions are also needed there, a fight for every goal. But that’s how it should be in every game.

FAQ. Everything you wanted to know about drugs and drug addiction, but hesitated to ask

What are drugs?

Drugs – are substances that can cause a state of joyful intoxication – euphoria, and with the systematic use of – addiction and severe dependence.

What drugs are there?

Drugs are of natural origin, known since antiquity (marijuana, hashish, opium, hemp), and synthetic, that is, chemically obtained. Drugs of the psychotropic group are sometimes used as drugs.

What is addiction?

Drug addiction – is a state of chronic poisoning of the body, in which a person experiences an irresistible attraction to the drug.

What effect does a drug have on a person?

A person in a state of drug intoxication ceases to experience mental and physical pain, a feeling of lightness and comfort appears. The feeling of lightness leads to a loss of control over oneself and a loss of a sense of reality. There are times when a person begins to think that he can jump out of a window and fly through the air, etc. The state of narcotic intoxication continues only while the narcotic substance is present in the blood.

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse – is a type of drug addiction in which poisons that affect the nervous system and the brain are used as a drug. Usually these are organic solvents: glues, varnishes, gasoline. Substance abuse occurs even in young children, is characterized by a malignant course and the rapid development of dementia.

Are narcotic substances used in official medicine?

Yes.Drugs are used as a powerful pain reliever in limited quantities and under strict medical supervision.

What is drug withdrawal?

In the process of regular drug use, euphoria is replaced by severe physical dependence – people use drugs not so much for the sake of euphoria as for fear of being withdrawn – an extremely difficult and painful condition that accompanies the return of the body to normal activities.With a sudden withdrawal from the drug intake, anxiety, insomnia, depression, aches and pressure in the joints, very unpleasant, painful sensations in the muscles, there may be cramps in the limbs, etc. In such a state, a person is ready for any act, just to get money for a new dose of a narcotic substance. Because of this, drug addicts commit many crimes. Not everyone is able to withstand withdrawal, and therefore many choose to continue using the drug.

What is the drug mafia?

Drug mafia – is a form of organized crime associated with the manufacture, production and sale of drugs.

What income does the drug trade generate?

Revenues from the production and sale of drugs are estimated in billions of US dollars and are comparable to the state budgets of many countries. This money is not collected from ordinary drug dealers, but from the leaders, which turns them into an influential force. The drug mafia – is the largest of all existing forms of organized crime.

Is it true that there are soft, “safe” drugs to which addiction hardly develops?

There are drugs from which addiction develops later, there are drugs from which addiction can develop after a week of use.But this does not mean that drug addiction cannot develop from the so-called “soft” drugs – marijuana, cannabis, etc. (Almost everyone who became a drug addict started with them.)

“Soft” drugs almost do not cause physical dependence, i. E. the phenomena of abstinence (breakage) are expressed in a mild degree: mild sleep disorders, increased excitability, discomfort in the region of the heart, lack of appetite, drowsiness. However, there is a pronounced mental attraction, mental dependence in the form of an irresistible (or difficult to overcome) desire to live in an illusory world, that is, intoxicated, a person feels his power, supposedly an exacerbation of intellectual capabilities, can “on order” cause vivid illusions, hallucinations with a sense of bliss.

“Soft” drugs are dangerous, we are talking only about relatively longer periods of onset and less intensity of physical dependence, and the need to leave the unreal world, the desire for euphoria, ie. mental addiction with cooling to real life – are the same. The division of drugs into “soft” or “hard” is not scientific and does not correspond to the real state of affairs.

How does drug addiction develop in people who use “soft” drugs?

A person who constantly uses drugs gradually becomes less sensitive to them.This is a general pattern of pharmacology. After a while, the usual doses are no longer enough to achieve euphoria. The victim of drug addiction is forced to increase the dose. Subsequently, this is not enough, then there is a transition to a stronger narcotic substance. So gradually a person becomes involved in strong drugs, there is almost no getting rid of them. If in the beginning the use of the drug gives a “high”, then later the absence of it brings deep suffering.

Which drugs are more dangerous and which ones are less dangerous?

Drugs cannot be divided into more or less dangerous.

Where did the division into “soft” and “hard” drugs come from?

This is an advertising device for drug manufacturers and dealers. The drug mafia, in an attempt to increase the number of drug users, has introduced the false idea that “soft” drugs exist.

Why is it believed that drugs are primarily a problem for young people?

Indeed, the majority of drug users – are young people.There is a very simple explanation for this: drug addicts die very early and do not live up to adulthood. Young people have their own problems, in particular, age 13 – 19 years old – critical, crisis, when a teenager is mentally most vulnerable. Young people are generally inclined to search for something new, unusual, inclined to imitate when overestimating their capabilities. This leads to neurotization, throwing, rejection of reality. In the absence of a spiritual orientation, there is a desire to escape into the fantasy world (and drug addict friends so temptingly describe the state of “high”), people with an unstable psyche and an unformed system of values ​​quickly fall under their influence.

What harm, apart from addiction, do drugs bring to the body?

Absolutely all drugs by their nature are poisons that affect all systems of organs and tissues, but especially the central nervous system, brain, reproductive system, liver and kidneys. As a rule, people with the best health, with regular drug use, live no more than ten years. Most die earlier. It is very common for people who use drugs to die within the first year.Since drug addicts use non-sterile syringes, many diseases transmitted through the blood are common among them. – AIDS, hepatitis and others. They often die from these diseases before the drug poisoning of the body occurs.

How does drug addiction affect a person’s mental image?

At first, only an increasing cooling towards reality is noted, which seems uninteresting, gray, flat, completely joyless. Emotional devastation gradually increases, irritability, apathy, relaxation of the will arise, and dementia increases with the use of certain drugs.Outwardly, all this is manifested by lethargy, callousness, rudeness, selfishness, deceit, uncriticality. A person who uses drugs loses control over his life, is deeply reborn, becomes completely different. All interests of the victim of drug addiction revolve around drugs. The addict speaks and thinks only about the methods of obtaining drugs or money to buy them. Due to rudeness, selfishness, a person loses his friends. Old acquaintances are gradually lost and only those who are somehow connected with drugs remain.The victim degrades and completely loses personal freedom.

How does drug addiction affect the human sexual sphere?

A person suffering from drug addiction very quickly loses the ability to reproduce offspring. Children of drug addicts are usually born sick, often mentally retarded.

Why and how does a young person get involved in drugs?

For various reasons. Imitation of the leader, comrades, “for the company.”For many, the reason for drug addiction is lack of spirituality and a false system of values. – egoistic dispensation of the soul, in which “high”, personal pleasure become the meaning and purpose of life. Poor mental and physical health, weak will and easy suggestibility, defects in upbringing, selfishness, bad company are the circumstances that contribute to drug addiction. Heredity plays an important role. In addition, the drug mafia has a special methodology to involve as many young people as possible in drug use.One of the main ways is the free distribution of the first doses of drugs. There are times when the first doses are injected by force. Having become drug addicts, and therefore drug buyers, these unfortunate victims get a hundredfold return on the money spent on the first free doses.

How long does it take to turn a healthy person into a drug addict?

This is mostly unpredictable. Much depends on individual characteristics and heredity.For some, one injection is enough to turn into a complete addict.

How great is the danger for a young man if he just wants to try a drug, “indulge”, and then quit? Anyone who became a drug addict started with this thought. There are times when a person has tried a drug and did not become a drug addict, but this resembles a game of “Russian roulette”. If you have tried drugs at least once, no one can guarantee that it will end well for you.You cannot know in advance whether you have a predisposition to addiction or not. The most dangerous drugs are for those who experience a particularly strong voluptuousness when taking them.

Where is the line between a drug user and a drug addict?

Formally, a person who uses drugs differs from a drug addict in that he can refuse to take them, but a drug addict – cannot. But in fact, this line is blurred and, most importantly, – drugs dull a person’s sensitivity, and he is not aware of this line.Already addicted to a drug, he thinks he can quit. Awareness of what has happened comes only when the addiction has gone too far to stop on its own.

How is drug addiction treated?

First, the drug is removed from the body, then they try to relieve addiction and attraction with medications. This is followed by treatment of complications, since the patient is in a state of complete disorder of all body functions.Drug addiction treatment is possible only if the patient wishes.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Treatment of drug addiction is ineffective. The number of people who have returned to normal life is counted in units. Those who managed to break with drug addiction very slowly return to their old way of life. The consequences of drug abuse will last a lifetime, and the person will never be the same as he was before. In many ways, the changes are irreversible.The whole difficulty of treatment lies in the fact that the overwhelming majority of patients do not want to be treated at all. Just as a mouse, which irritates the pleasure center with an electric current, dies of hunger near the feeding trough, so drug addicts are ready to die, but not lose their “high”. They perceive a pronounced morbid mental attraction to the drug as their desire and actively strive to experience vivid images and feelings. Even with the desire for treatment and after the removal of bodily sensations and complications for a long time (up to two or more years), mental attraction remains, at times aggravated.

Why is drug addiction so poorly treated?

As mentioned above, drug addiction has social, spiritual, moral reasons and is also associated with a hereditary predisposition. Treatment of any disease begins with the elimination of the cause. But a doctor cannot make a person more moral, this is not in his competence. The doctor also cannot isolate the patient from his comrades, eliminate the defects of upbringing, change the system of human values. Hereditary predisposition cannot be changed at all.

What do drug addicts die from?

In most cases from overdose. In a few years, the addict will face complete destruction of the liver and the whole organism. But many do not live up to this moment and die from allergies, infectious and concomitant diseases, such as AIDS or hepatitis. Many commit suicide or die violent deaths, as drug addicts live in a criminal environment and are often associated with organized crime.

How should you behave in order not to become a drug addict?

In order not to become a drug addict, you need to avoid bad company, never communicate with those who already use drugs. Especially those people who offer to try drugs for free should be avoided. In no case should you try drugs at least once. Remember: you can get addicted to drugs even after one injection!

How long does it take for an addict to become a full-fledged member of society?

At least two years are needed, before full rehabilitation – several years.But if a person is already addicted to drugs, then the consequences will remain for life. The first year after stopping drug use is the most difficult. (Based on the materials of the information and analytical resource “No to drugs”).

Survival games, list of the best survival games

Survival games are interesting precisely because just sitting in a chair at home, you can wage an exciting struggle for survival. Most of these games are often met by an aggressive environment that forces the user to fight for his own life.Some projects are complemented by human factors. In order to survive in them, it will not be enough to simply make a fire and heat the stew – here it is necessary to take into account the fact that this stew can be taken away from you.

The main guests of survival games are all kinds of zombies, which come in various shapes and sizes. According to the idea of ​​the creators, the absence of honey. help, tools – these are not such serious problems. The gamer is not obliged to rummage around the areas and look for means of survival, he must get them in the battle with the undead.Today, this is exactly the menu available in zambi shooters.

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What is inherent in survival games

The presence of a crafting system is a distinctive feature of survival simulators. Traditionally, the crafting system in such games makes it possible to do quite interesting things: a bow from a piece of log, one powerful hammer from a couple of small ones, and many other incredible things.In the daytime, realism with fire is difficult to find, but there are some games in this genre, for example, Survarium, which are extremely serious in this matter and cannot afford such actions.

Survival Games

Quite an acclaimed survival game Stranded. It is a completely free and free playground where the gamer finds himself in an unknown world on an island where there is not a single living soul. The goal is to survive. The character is obliged to eat, drink, make buildings and much more.Everything seems to be perfect, but everything needs to be done alone. The audience began to admire the game, so its modifications only went up. Soon the second part of the game was released. And already in 2012, the developers announced that the third part was being prepared. Today, the competition is pretty high, so the creators need to work hard to surprise their fans.

In 2012, Arma II began to evolve. Developed this action alone by Dean Hall. According to the creator, the simulator was developed for the purpose of a multiplayer game.But in the future, the game has undergone impressive changes. It was just necessary to transfer gamers to a desert island, as well as add some zombies and creatures – and we end up with an incredibly addicting simulator, which has become a topic of conversation in many well-known publications.

After a certain time, the same developer released a new game State of Decay. The player is allowed to take the survivors at his own disposal. You can take vehicles, improve your place of residence.You can upgrade your hero.

7 Days To Die has a completely composed world of zombies, blocks and crafting. This simulator is multiplayer and also has several game modes and maps. To date, the development of the game has not been completed, but it is already allowed to play. There is nothing unusual in the project, but the game is worth special attention, because it can be compared with DayZ and Minecraft, and these games have achieved considerable success during their existence.

You can find the best and newest games about survival by visiting the site mmo13, where a selection of the most interesting game projects is compiled.

Motor neuron disease (MND) | Stavropol Regional Clinical Hospital

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The gradual death of cells in the nervous system leads to a steadily increasing muscle weakness that affects all muscle groups.

The neurons of the brain that are responsible for movement (upper motor neurons) are located in the cerebral cortex.Their processes (axons) descend into the spinal cord, where contact with a neuron in the spinal cord occurs. This contact is called a synapse. In the area of ​​the synapse, a neuron in the brain secretes a chemical substance (transmitter) from its process, which transmits a signal to a neuron in the spinal cord.

Neurons of the spinal cord (lower motor neurons) are located in the lower regions of the brain (bulbar region), as well as in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions of the spinal cord, depending on which muscles they send their signals to.These signals, along the processes of the neurons of the spinal cord (axons), reach the muscles and control their contractions. Bulbar neurons are responsible for muscle contraction associated with speech, chewing and swallowing; cervical spine – for contraction of the diaphragm, hand movements; thoracic region – for body movements; lumbar spine – for leg movements.

Manifestations of damage to motor neurons

When neurons of the spinal cord are damaged, muscle weakness increases, muscles lose weight (atrophy), involuntary twitching (fasciculations) appear in them.Fasciculations don’t just feel like twitching, they can also be seen. This is similar to subcutaneous muscle flutter.

If the neurons of the brain are affected, the muscles become weak, but stiffness (spasticity) appears, that is, the tone of the muscles increases, it becomes difficult to relax them.

When the neurons of the brain and spinal cord are simultaneously affected, these signs can occur in different combinations. That is, muscle weakness can be accompanied by fasciculations and muscle loss, as well as stiffness.

Depending on which parts of the brain and spinal cord are affected, these signs can appear in the muscles responsible for the movements of the arms, legs, breathing or swallowing.

Different types of motor neuron disease ALS

This is the most common form of the disease, when motor neurons of both the brain and spinal cord are involved in the pathological process.
ALS is characterized by weakness and extreme tiredness in the limbs. Some people report weakness in their legs when walking and such weakness in their hands that they cannot hold things and drop them.

Muscle twitching (fasciculations)

What’s going on? Twitching and muscle twitching sensations under the skin (fasciculations) are often the first and most annoying symptoms of ALS. In some people, they are localized in individual muscles, but they can spread over time.

What can be done? For medication relief of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor. In many cases, the twitching will go away on its own over time.

Muscle weakness and joint stiffness

What’s going on? As the number of signals from motor neurons to muscles decreases, the latter are used less and less and lose mass over time. This leads to a feeling of weakness and can cause imbalance and gait, which increases the risk of falling.

What can be done? The decrease in muscle mass cannot be stopped by physical exercises, since the disease progresses irreversibly.However, exercise can help maintain flexibility and mobility in the joints, which helps maintain muscle function, balance, and body position. You need to see your doctor to help you set up a suitable exercise program. A nutritionist can also help with advice on how to eat properly to maintain body weight and further slow down the rate of muscle loss.

Muscle cramps and spasms

What’s going on? Muscle tension or spasms develops due to impairment in signal transmission from motor neurons.This leads to impaired motor activity and coordination of movements, as well as an increased risk of falls. Sudden muscle cramps can be extremely painful.

What can be done? To eliminate this symptom, as a rule, it is sufficient to change the position of the body while resting in a bed or chair. Exercise is part of the problem. In addition, your doctor may prescribe medications to help you relax.

Fatigue

What’s going on? Decreased physical functionality of muscles requires high energy expenditures to maintain daily activity.Other causes of fatigue include breathing problems, shortness of breath, decreased food intake, and dehydration.

What can be done? Make a plan for the day. This will help maintain a balance between being active and getting adequate rest. It is also important to consult with a dietitian about increasing food calories and fluid intake.

Pain

What’s going on? ALS does not directly cause pain or discomfort.But they can be the result of a number of other reasons. For example, pain occurs as a result of muscle spasms, general spasticity, muscle tension, skin pressure, or constipation. Therefore, it is important to find out the cause of the symptom.

What can be done? There are guidelines for optimal body positions, support, prevention of local compression, and drug therapy. In case of prolonged pain, you must contact a medical institution. Your doctor can find the right pain reliever.

Problems with swallowing

What’s going on? If the muscles of the face, mouth and larynx are affected, swallowing is difficult. Disruption of the normal process of eating and swallowing is called dysphagia. As a result, a person receives less nutrients and fluids, which can lead to a decrease in body weight.

What can be done? It is necessary to contact a speech therapist and nutritionist who will assess the degree of swallowing impairment and change in body weight, as well as talk about possible solutions to the problem.Including, in order to increase the intake of proteins and carbohydrates with food, you need to adjust the diet. There are also alternative methods that can support or completely replace the diet.

Saliva and phlegm

What’s going on? If swallowing is impaired, excess saliva accumulates in the oral cavity, which leads to drooling and associated discomfort. The consistency of the secretion can be either watery or thick. Increased viscosity is associated with a decrease in the amount of fluid entering the body.In this case, saliva is removed with great difficulty. Dry mouth can also develop from medication, dehydration, breathing through the mouth, or mucosal candidiasis.

What can be done? Among the options for solving this problem are nutritional adjustments, drug therapy and the use of aspiration devices for cleaning the oral cavity (suction).

Cough and suffocation

What’s going on? These phenomena can occur as a result of ingestion of food or saliva into the respiratory tract.

What can be done? Currently, there are effective techniques that help to deal with these problems. The attending physician will tell you about this.

Breathing problems

What’s going on? In ALS, the respiratory muscles are affected sooner or later. As the disease progresses – especially in the later stages – breathing problems develop. When this happens, the patient will need breathing equipment and specialist advice.

What can be done? If a person experiences shortness of breath, weakness, sleep disturbances, morning headaches, or drowsiness during the day, their doctor may refer them to a pulmonologist. Methods for correcting the problem may include breathing and exercise, advice on creating a comfortable posture, effective coughing techniques, drug therapy, and special ventilation equipment.

Speech and communication problems

What’s going on? As the muscles of the face and larynx weaken, and the ventilation of the lungs further decreases, it becomes more difficult for a person to speak.This difficulty in speaking is called dysarthria.

What can be done? The attending physician will help to assess the problem and choose the techniques for its solution. We also recommend consulting a physiotherapist who will advise on equipment or aids, depending on what kind of manipulation the person with ALS is capable of. Means for speech and communication (they are also called “means of alternative and auxiliary communication”) include both simple techniques (gestures, writing, alphabet tables, etc.)) and technically more complex (using a computer).

Emotional lability (pseudobulbar effect)

What’s going on? Some people with ALS have bouts of uncontrollable laughing and / or crying that are difficult to control. These reactions do not occur in all patients, and they are involuntary.

What can be done? Drug therapy may be considered to relieve symptoms. Such reactions can cause some concern in others, but if they know that these manifestations are part of the symptoms of ALS, it will be easier for them to cope with it.

Emotional reactions

What’s going on? Some people with ALS experience a range of emotional states, including anxiety, fear, anger, sadness, depression, and denial. These reactions are normal.

What can be done? Being aware of your emotional states is the first step to solving problems associated with experiences. If these conditions are too pronounced and persist for a long time, we strongly recommend that you seek help from a doctor.In some cases, drug therapy and / or psychotherapy is effective.

Violation of higher mental functions

What to do? Problems with memory, learning, finding words, or decreased concentration are known as higher mental functions. According to some reports, these conditions occur in 35% of patients with ALS, but they proceed rather unnoticed. Only in a few are they extremely pronounced. In this case, they speak of frontotemporal dementia, which is accompanied by a pronounced impairment of cognitive functions.

What can be done? A multidisciplinary team of specialists is required, including psychologists and psychiatrists.

What is not affected by ALS?

Taste, sight, touch, tactile sensations and hearing.

As a rule, with ALS, there are no noticeable changes in the listed systems and sense organs. However, the course of the disease is individual for each person. If you suspect, be sure to consult your doctor.

In most cases, these senses are not affected by ALS, however, some sufferers experience changes in taste, skin hypersensitivity or problems with thermoregulation.

Bowel dysfunctions and incontinence

Disorders of bowel and urinary bladder functions do not usually occur in ALS, however, impairment of physical activity contributes to additional difficulties in using the toilet. Constipation may occur with dietary changes, dehydration, anxiety, drug therapy, or decreased mobility.Persistent constipation can be followed by diarrhea. Any changes in bladder and bowel function should be monitored as they may be symptoms of other conditions.

Sexual function

ALS, as a rule, does not affect sexual function, however, the patient’s perception of his own sexuality may change. Physical changes can leave an imprint on all stages of the intimate process. Discussing emerging issues with your partner and doctors openly will help maintain an intimate relationship.

Eye muscles

The movements of the eyeballs are preserved in most people with ALS. If the muscles in the neck are damaged, using appropriate support will help.

Heart muscle

ALS does not directly affect the heart.

ALS Treatment

To date, no ways have been developed to defeat the disease itself. Therefore, the existing treatment solves two problems: prolonging life and improving its quality. The first area includes the use of the drug riluzole, respiratory support and nutritional support.The second is focused on minimizing excessive salivation, muscle cramps and spasticity, emotional instability, and pain.

Riluzole

Riluzole is the only drug registered in the USA and Europe for slowing down the course of ALS. The drug is not registered in the Russian Federation and therefore is not officially available for ALS patients.

Riluzole helps to reduce the amount of glutamate (a chemical transmitter in the central nervous system), which is released during transmission of a nerve impulse.Excess glutamate has been observed to damage neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The results of clinical trials show that those who took riluzole had a two to three month increase in life expectancy compared with those who took a placebo.

Data on the effectiveness of the drug were obtained during studies that lasted 18 months. Unfortunately, there is no reliable information about the effectiveness of the drug in the more distant stages of the disease. In addition, it must be remembered that the drug has contraindications for use and a number of side effects.

Riluzole is available in tablet form and is taken twice a day.

Masitinib (masivet) for ALS

Information about masitinib available on the Internet offers hope for a cure for many people with ALS. Since the drug is available in Russia, some are already taking it on their own and under their own responsibility. However, masitinib is currently not approved for use in ALS patients. It is used to treat cancer in animals and it is for these purposes that it is commercially available.

Therapy for breathing disorders

There are a number of therapies and medications available for those with breathing problems. For recommendations on this matter, you should contact a pulmonologist.
There are usually two options:

1. non-invasive ventilation of the lungs (NIV), in which a special apparatus pumps air into a face mask, which helps the patient to breathe on their own;
2. invasive ventilation of the lungs (tracheostomy, mechanical ventilation), in which an airway is installed through a tracheostomy cannula.

Gastrostomy

Gastrostomy feeding is the preferred method for ALS patients. This is the only way to feed people as long as they want, in the right amount and without discomfort for the person himself.

During gastrostomy, a feeding tube is inserted into the stomach through the anterior abdominal wall. The tube is compact, as thick as a ballpoint pen, and is very flexible. It is not visible under the clothes.

There are two ways to place a gastrostomy tube: percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and X-ray gastrostomy (RG).In our country, the experience of gastrostomy installation by the PEG method has been gained.

Complementary therapy

Complementary therapies relieve symptoms and reduce stress in some people with ALS. But it should be remembered that these methods are not a treatment for the disease.
Complementary therapy is not part of conventional medicine, but it does improve the effectiveness of standard treatment.

The methods of complementary therapy for ALS include massage, acupuncture, aromatherapy and reflexology.

Nutritional support (ensuring adequate nutrition)

As the disease progresses, the muscles of a person responsible for chewing and swallowing become slow, sluggish and weak. As a result, the process of eating can be very stretched, a person begins to choke. If swallowing is difficult, then to reduce their own discomfort, the patient often begins to reduce the diet. In turn, lack of water and food leads to dehydration, weight loss, and decreased immunity.

Special therapeutic food can compensate for the lack of calories. In Russia, you can buy food from three main manufacturers – Nutricia, Nestle and Fresenius. When the amount of food consumed decreases as a result of decreased appetite or swallowing problems, it is highly desirable to add such foods to the diet every day. With certain types of ALS, there may be restrictions on one or another form of nutrition, so it is necessary to consult a neurologist.

Timely provision of food access to the body by installing a nasogastric tube or gastrostomy tube allows you to feed and water a person who loses the ability to swallow on their own as the disease progresses.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are a class of nutrients that help the body prevent free radicals from damaging cells.

It is believed that people with ALS may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of free radicals, and research is underway to determine the beneficial effects of antioxidant-rich supplements on the body.

Some products containing antioxidants that have already undergone clinical trials to determine the effect on ALS have not been proven to be effective.

Alternative Treatment

Currently, the only drugs that slow the progression of ALS are riluzole and edaravone. The effectiveness of expensive drugs is low, so it is understandable why people with ALS want to try other therapies.

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are cells that have not yet formed in order to perform specific functions. They can self-renew and give rise to various types of cells such as, for example, blood cells, muscle and nerve cells.

The media attention and general interest in stem cells are related to the fact that in the future they can be used to restore or replace normal cells that have died due to some kind of disease.