With the snowy winter weather already here it can be hard to find the motivation to leave your cozy apartment or dorm room. We’re all aware of the extreme winter weather Syracuse endures, but the cold weather should not stop us from exploring upstate New York! Here is a list of fun and unique winter activities to take part in this season while getting off campus!
Ice skating at Clinton Square
One of the most iconic winter activities in Syracuse! Make sure to grab a group of friends and head to Clinton Square for a day full of fun! For only $5, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an outdoor activity for a low price. The rink is open everyday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. all week long.
Sleigh rides at Highland Forest
Highland Forest’s winter weekends provide beautiful scenery and horse-drawn sleigh rides across the forest. Sleigh rides are available on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weather permitting, and last twenty minutes. Reservations are necessary and tickets cost $8 per person.
Ski, snowboard or tube down the mountains
Syracuse is fortunate to be surrounded by several hills and mountains, which provide excellent opportunities for winter sports. Try out Song or Labrador mountains if skiing or snowboarding is for you. At some places, season tickets and equipment rentals are offered. Four Seasons Golf & Ski Center in Fayetteville, for example, features a couple ski trails as well as additional lanes for snow tubing.
Want to stay indoors? Attend a show or concert.
The Landmark Theatre offers an array of different shows from stand-up comedy to musicals! If you’re looking for a great place to see live music, check out The Westcott Theatre. From popular EDM artists to low-key indie bands, this is a great late night event to attend with a group of friends.
Don’t want to venture off campus? We’ve got plenty of activities to do on campus during the winter!
Check out Orange After Dark for an array of different nighttime activities or Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion for plenty of ice sport options close to home. Visit Drumlins Country Club’s Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Center. Or, what better thing to do than to support our Syracuse University sports teams! Grab some nachos at the stadium and cheer on the Syracuse University men’s and women’s basketball teams!
Written by Haley Mykytka ’22, College of Visual and Performing Arts