Apart from seeing the archaeology of the ancient city, it is possible to explore the area, and to spend time in the Anuradhapura New Town. There are many shops in the New Town, as well as a market, and the interested visitor may wish to patronize some of these.
There are guided city tours offered by bicycle or on foot through local tour agencies, or ask at your hotel.
You can also swim in the Tissa Wewa with the locals. There are also swimming spots in the river near the Jetavanarama Dagoba.